Occupational therapists use holistic health science and modern research practices to assist patients recovering from physical or mental illness to perform activities in their daily lives. This practice is utilized with individuals of all ages, and is a crucial field within the health industry, as it helps people embrace their own inner strength and ability. Acquiring a Doctorate in OT will allow students to have a more in-depth expertise, enter into leadership and management roles, and move to higher pay scales.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics lists the job outlook for these professionals at around 18% over the next 8 years, which is much faster than average. Yearly salaries average $80,000-$121,000/yr.
quick links
- Best Online Schools for Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)
- CREIGHTON UNIVERSITY
- CHATHAM UNIVERSITY
- QUINNIPIAC UNIVERSITY
- A.T. STILL UNIVERSITY OF HEALTH SCIENCES
- CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY WISCONSIN
- EASTERN KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY
- UNIVERSITY OF UTAH
- MOUNT MARY UNIVERSITY
- GEORGE WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY
- BOSTON UNIVERSITY
- UNIVERSITY OF KANSAS
- LOMA LINDA UNIVERSITY
- MISERICORDIA UNIVERSITY
- TEXAS WOMAN’S UNIVERSITY
- UNIVERSITY OF ST. AUGUSTINE FOR HEALTH SCIENCES
- SALUS UNIVERSITY
- NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY
- JEFFERSON
- TEMPLE UNIVERSITY
- TOWSON UNIVERSITY
Are you interested in earning a DPT degree? If so, check this out: Top 5 Online Doctor of Physical Therapy Degree Programs
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Best Online Schools for Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)
METHODOLOGY: To up your game in the field of Occupational Therapy, additional training is more than beneficial. It will help you learn advanced techniques, as well as increase your paycheck. To learn more, check out our selections (listed in random order), for the 20 Best Online Schools for Doctor of Occupational Therapy or OTD programs. The following offerings were considered:
- Most programs prepare graduates to sit for the National Certification Examination for the Occupation Therapist (please check the website for requirements),
- Offers 100% Online and/or Hybrid class programs,
- Allows for Financial Aid opportunities,
- Prepares graduates for leadership or management positions in Occupational Therapy,
- Offers ideal class formats for working adults already established in the industry,
- Enhances existing skills in assessment, evaluation, and health recommendations,
- Provides extensive networking opportunities,
- Prepares graduates for jobs in rehab centers, nursing homes, hospitals, clinics, and other community agencies,
- Allows for evidence-based research practices contributing to the field of Occupational Therapy.
To learn more, take a look at our Methodology page.
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CREIGHTON UNIVERSITY
ONLINE DOCTOR OF OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY DEGREE PROGRAM

Program Standouts:
Creighton University is an incredibly popular online school that takes great care of its students, which can be seen reflected in their outstanding student retention rate below. According to their website, Creighton boasts the nation’s first entry-level doctor of Occupational Therapy, and the curriculum is rooted in the Jesuit Christian tradition.
Campus Location: Omaha, NE
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: 72%
Retention Rate: 89%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official transcripts from an accredited graduate institution, three letters of recommendation, proof of observation in an OT setting. TOEFL scores from students who use a second language. Applicants must complete an admissions interview.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Occupations and Occupational Therapy
- Occupation and Health: Population Perspectives
- Neuroanatomy
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates of this program are well-prepared to sit for the National Certification Examination for the Occupation Therapist and prepared to work in every state throughout the country. Creighton maintains a 95.3% job placement rate for graduates of this program, which is outstanding.
LEARN MORE ABOUT CREIGHTON UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE DOCTOR OF OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY DEGREE PROGRAM
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CHATHAM UNIVERSITY
ONLINE PROFESSIONAL Odt DEGREE PROGRAM

Program Standouts:
Chatham University’s online Professional Doctorate of Occupational Therapy is recognized as one of the best of its kind in the country. The curriculum is designed for occupational therapy clinicians and/or academicians who want to enhance their careers and advance to professional leadership.
Campus Location: Pittsburgh, PA
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Acceptance Rate: 54.5%
Retention Rate: 85%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended, a current résumé, a personal essay, and a copy of OT license.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Evidence-Based Practice
- Occupational Therapist as Entrepreneur
- Education Theory and Technology
Degree Outcomes:
The intention of this degree program is for graduates to become self-directed, evidence-based learners through the ability to access and critically evaluate the reliability of electronic databases and web resources. Graduates can design, implement, and evaluate the effectiveness of innovative occupation-based programs.
LEARN MORE ABOUT CHATHAM UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE PROFESSIONAL DOCTORATE OF OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY (OTD) DEGREE PROGRAM
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QUINNIPIAC UNIVERSITY
ONLINE OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY DOCTORATE DEGREE PROGRAM

Program Standouts:
This online school offers an Occupational Therapy Doctorate that prepares students for the role of a leader who is committed to the development of others and is designed for registered occupational therapists. Coursework is based on the foundations set forth by the American Occupational Therapy Association’s “Centennial Vision.”
Campus Location: Hamden, CT
Accreditation: New England Association of Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: 73.9%
Retention Rate: 86%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended, proof of initial certification by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy, a current résumé representing at least 3 years of relevant experience, proof of licensure to practice, two professional references, proof of current membership to the American Occupational Therapy Association, a personal essay, and a background check. TOEFL scores from students who use English as a second language.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Application of Theory and Exploration of Occupation
- Innovations and Emerging Issues in Children and Youth
- Leadership in Program Development/Business
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates are prepared to take on positions of leadership and management that include high levels of responsibility. The coursework is also designed to be immediately applicable to any individual’s current position of employment and is well-suited to individuals who are seeking to climb the ladder within their organization.
LEARN MORE ABOUT QUINNIPIAC UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY DOCTORATE DEGREE PROGRAM
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A.T. STILL UNIVERSITY OF HEALTH SCIENCES
ODT DEGREE PROGRAM distance learning degree

Program Standouts:
This online school is an incredibly prestigious and highly competitive academic institution. The online Post-Professional Occupational Therapy Doctorate Online is designed for those already holding an entry-level, professional degree in this field. Dedicated faculty members all bring decades of experience to the online classroom and are some of the top minds in this field.
Campus Location: Kirksville, MO
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: 73.9%
Retention Rate: Unavailable
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official transcripts from an accredited graduate institution representing a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher, proof of initial certification as an occupational therapist, a current résumé, a letter of intent, two letters of recommendation, and TOEFL scores from students who use English as a second language.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Fundamentals of Service Provision Across the Continua of Care
- Maintaining Health and Wellbeing: Chronic Disease Management
- Pathophysiology and Conditions
Degree Outcomes:
This post-professional doctorate is meant to enhance skills in program development and evaluation, leadership, advocacy, and health promotion and wellness, as well as to enable occupational therapists to develop roles and skills beyond that of the therapist-clinician.
LEARN MORE ABOUT A.T. STILL UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE DOCTOR OF OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY (ODT) DEGREE PROGRAM
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CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY WISCONSIN
ONLINE OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY DOCTORAL DEGREE PROGRAM

Program Standouts:
Concordia University Wisconsin offers three unique concentration options so that students can customize your degree and open opportunities in a diverse group of settings. Students learn from an outstanding array of faculty members who bring worlds of holistic experience to the online classroom.
Campus Location: Mequon, WI
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: 63.2%
Retention Rate: 82%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended with a minimum 3.0 GPA in an occupational therapy degree, three letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a current résumé representing at least 3 years of experience in the field.
Program Options:
- Hand and Upper Extremity Rehabilitation
- Teaching in Higher Education
- Pediatric
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates from this distinctive online degree program have gone on to work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, hospices, community agencies, mental health agencies, and wellness clinics. CUW provides generous support to students and alumni throughout their academic and professional careers.
LEARN MORE ABOUT CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY DOCTORAL DEGREE PROGRAM
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EASTERN KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY
ONLINE DOCTORATE IN OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY DEGREE PROGRAM

Program Standouts:
Eastern Kentucky University has been included on many different lists of the best online programs in the nation and offers two superb options through which students can gain their Occupational Therapy Doctorate. Whether students are undergraduate or graduate students, there is a pathway that will suit everyone’s needs that does not sacrifice any excellence along the way.
Campus Location: Richmond, KY
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: 87.4%
Retention Rate: 73%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, official high school transcripts (Bachelor’s to OTD) as well as those from all accredited colleges and universities attended representing an exemplary GPA, ACT and/or SAT scores (Bachelor’s to OTD), and GRE scores representing at least a 147 or higher (Master’s to OTD).
Program Options:
- Bachelor’s to OTD Program
- Master’s to OTD Program
Degree Outcomes:
Through either option, students exit their program with an incredibly in-depth understanding of current methods and theories in this discipline. Through academic and professional preparation, students complete challenging, yet highly diverse and rewarding, classwork that makes them experts in the field.
LEARN MORE ABOUT EASTERN KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE DOCTORATE IN OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY DEGREE PROGRAM
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UNIVERSITY OF UTAH
ONLINE OTD DEGREE PROGRAM

Program Standouts:
The University of Utah is an incredibly popular and successful online school, which can be seen in the data below. The Occupational Therapy Doctorate is well-accredited and highly connected throughout mid-America and the Western United States. Students are guaranteed high-quality coursework from internationally acclaimed faculty members.
Campus Location: Salt Lake City, UT
Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities; Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education
Acceptance Rate: 66.2%
Retention Rate: 90%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended, a current résumé or CV representing relevant experience, a statement of purpose, a copy of initial certification from the NBCOT, a copy of current occupational therapy license, three letters of recommendation, and TOEFL scores from students who use English as a second language.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Contemporary Theories and Models in OT Practice
- Evidence-Bused Practice and Research
- Culture and Occupation
Degree Outcomes:
As it is well-worded on the UOU program website, “the focus of this degree program is to provide clinicians with a stronger, more up-to-date theoretical base, advance their leadership skills, and provide them with knowledge and skills in evidence-based research related to their chosen area of emphasis.”
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF UTAH’S ONLINE OTD DEGREE PROGRAM
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MOUNT MARY UNIVERSITY
ONLINE OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY DOCTORATE DEGREE PROGRAM

Program Standouts:
Mount Mary University offers an online Post-Professional Occupational Therapy Doctorate Program that emphasizes gerontology, physical rehabilitation, pediatrics, and mental health. The coursework is based on criteria set forth by the American Occupational Therapy Association.
Campus Location: Milwaukee, WI
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools; American Occupational Therapy Association
Acceptance Rate: 56%
Retention Rate: 79%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official transcripts from all colleges and universities, a copy of current licensure, verification of identity. Applicants must also complete an interview with the program director.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Occupational Justice, Advocacy, and Leadership
- Professional Doctorate Portfolio
- Advancement of Occupational Therapy Practice
Degree Outcomes:
This degree program is designed for individuals who are currently working professionals to engage in advanced education in which they discover problems, explore solutions, expand knowledge, and develop skill well-beyond their current levels. Upon completing the coursework, graduates exhibit a high level of expertise.
LEARN MORE ABOUT MOUNT MARY UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY DOCTORATE DEGREE PROGRAM
Recommended Schools
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GEORGE WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY
ONLINE ADVANCED PRACTICE OTD DEGREE PROGRAM

Program Standouts:
The George Washington University is one of the finest educational institutions in the country and offers a superb online Occupational Therapy Doctorate that is designed for individuals seeking to advance their leadership, clinical reasoning, practice, and research skills. Students at GWU have access to state-of-the-art resources.
Campus Location: Washington, D.C.
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Acceptance Rate: 41%
Retention Rate: 91%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official transcripts from all accredited colleges and universities attended representing a degree in occupational therapy, a statement of purpose, and two letters of recommendation. TOEFL scores from students who use English as a second language.
Program Options:
- Teaching Strategies in the Health Professions
- Quality Improvement Through Translational Practices
- Measurement of Human Function and Learning
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates have a strong understanding of trans-disciplinary practice and research, scholarship in occupational therapy, and advanced concepts in function and learning. These professionals employ a holistic perspective when advising clients and have great skill in designing environments to meet individual needs.
LEARN MORE ABOUT GEORGE WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE ADVANCED PRACTICE OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY DOCTORAL DEGREE PROGRAM
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BOSTON UNIVERSITY
POST-PROFESSIONAL DOCTOR OF OCCUPATIOINAL THERAPY distance learning degree program

Program Standouts:
Boston University is a well-recognized online school throughout America that provides the highest level of quality education with a focus on flexibility and a strong mentorship model. Students in this program are paired one-on-one with faculty members who provide them with personalized attention and guidance throughout the program.
Campus Location: Boston, MA
Accreditation: New England Association of Schools and Colleges; Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education
Acceptance Rate: 25.1%
Retention Rate: 93%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended representing GPA’s of 3.0 or higher, two professional references, three completed essay prompts, GRE scores, and documentation of NBCOT certification and state licensure. TOEFL scores from students who use English as a second language.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Educational Theory and Practice
- Evaluating Clinical Theory and Research
- Health Care Management
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates of this fine online program demonstrate the ability to critically evaluate theory and evidence in their area of practice, identify gaps or shortcomings in current intervention methods and programs, and design innovative responses to fill those unmet needs. Student testimonials praise Boston University for its unending professionalism and support.
LEARN MORE ABOUT BOSTON UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE POST-PROFESSIONAL DOCTOR OF OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY DEGREE PROGRAM
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UNIVERSITY OF KANSAS
ONLINE DOCTOR OF OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY (OTD) DEGREE PROGRAM

Program Standouts:
The University of Kansas Medical Center offers an Occupational Therapy Doctorate that is directed at therapists already in practice and who wish to drastically enhance the knowledge and skill level in the field. The coursework focuses on specialization and professional leadership in practice.
Campus Location: Lawrence, KS
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: 93.2%
Retention Rate: 86.2%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official transcripts from all accredited colleges and universities attended, proof of current OT licensure, a statement of career goals, a current résumé or CV representing relevant experience and leadership contributions, and three references. TOEFL scores are required from students who use English as a second language.
Program Options:
- Occupation-Based Practice
- Quantitative Evidence
- Professional Development
Degree Outcomes:
This curriculum is broken down into four key components: Evidence-Based Practice, Professional Leadership, Specialty Practice, and Teaching. Individuals gain an in-depth understanding of each area. Specialization opportunities have been integrated into the over-all coursework so that students gain a wide perspective within the discipline.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF KANSAS’S ONLINE DOCTOR OF OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY (OTD) DEGREE PROGRAM
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LOMA LINDA UNIVERSITY
OTD distance learning DEGREE PROGRAM

Program Standouts:
Loma Linda University is an incredibly competitive university because it offers the kind of outstanding coursework that all students cherish. The world-renowned health sciences institution offers an online Doctor of Occupational Therapy Program that embraces people-centered interventions that include both traditional and emerging practice settings.
Campus Location: Loma Linda, CA
Accreditation: Western Association of Colleges and Schools; Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education
Acceptance Rate: Unavailable
Retention Rate: 85.1%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended representing a minimum GPA of 3.0, letters of recommendation, an essay, and a current résumé or CV representing relevant work experience.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Critical Analysis of Scientific Literature
- Occupational Science and Health Promotion
- Health, Society, and Participation
Degree Outcomes:
This unique coursework emphasizes spirituality, diversity, critical reasoning, advocacy, participation, education, and research. Graduates have a mastery of each area and can apply such skill to current positions of employment, or new career goals. Graduates express their creativity in powerful ways throughout their professional and academic lives.
LEARN MORE ABOUT LOMA LINDA UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE DOCTORATE OTD DEGREE PROGRAM
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MISERICORDIA UNIVERSITY
ONLINE OTD DEGREE PROGRAM

Program Standouts:
The Post-Professional Occupational Therapy Doctorate at Misericordia University provides quality education through high academic standards, with an emphasis on understanding human occupation, as well as on evidence-based practice. The curriculum is intended for students with a current career in the industry who are seeking to enhance their education and skill.
Campus Location: Dallas, PA
Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education
Acceptance Rate: 78.8%
Retention Rate: 85%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official transcripts from all accredited colleges and universities attended representing a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher, a current résumé or CV representing relevant work experience, proof of current licensure, and three letters of recommendation. TOEFL scores from students who use English as a second language. Applicants must also complete an interview with an admissions professional.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Advanced Application of Theory
- Designing, Implementing and Evaluating Quality Programs
- Supporting Practice through Public Policy and Advocacy
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates of Misericordia have a 100% pass rate for the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy, which is absolutely outstanding. The coursework is so well-rounded and exact that it gives students exactly what they need to become infinitely successful throughout the rest of their careers.
LEARN MORE ABOUT MISERICORDIA UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE DOCTORAL IN OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY (OTD) DEGREE PROGRAM
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TEXAS WOMAN’S UNIVERSITY
ONLINE DOCTORATE IN OTD DEGREE PROGRAM

Program Standouts:
Texas Woman’s University is well-known for its strong online programs, and provides a Doctor of Occupational Therapy degree that consists of two components: core coursework and individually mentored professional development in an area of specialization.
Campus Location: Denton, TX
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: 85.7%
Retention Rate: 78%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, and official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended representing a cumulative GPA of 3.2 or higher in master level work. Applicants must also complete an interview with a faculty member.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Appraising Occupational Therapy Evidence
- Clinical Neuroscience for Occupational Therapy
- Professional Paper in Occupational Therapy
Degree Outcomes:
Coursework engages practicing occupational therapists in leadership for advanced roles as master practitioners, advocates for clients and populations, and occupational therapy educators. Students build professional and specialized skills in occupational therapy and establish excellent networking connections with faculty and colleagues.
LEARN MORE ABOUT TEXAS WOMAN’S UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE DOCTORATE IN OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY (OTD) DEGREE PROGRAM
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UNIVERSITY OF ST. AUGUSTINE FOR HEALTH SCIENCES
ONLINE DOCTOR OF OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY DEGREE PROGRAM

Program Standouts:
The University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences offers an online Doctor of Occupational Therapy program that is an entry-level program designed fro either bachelor or master-degree holders who are seeking OT licensure. The curriculum utilizes hands-on learning techniques to give students relevant experience. This online school also offers a Post-Professional OTD.
Campus Location: St. Augustine, FL
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: Unavailable
Retention Rate: 94%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended representing GPA’s of 3.0 or higher, GRE scores, a current résumé or CV, a statement of purpose, two references, proof of at least 80 hours of volunteer or observation experience, and proof of prerequisite completion.
Program Options:
- Doctor of Occupational Therapy
- Post-Professional Doctor of Occupational Therapy
Degree Outcomes:
This coursework gives students all of the necessary knowledge and skill to pass any and all federal and state certification examinations, such as the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy. Graduates contribute to their profession and to a global society through their competence, ethical standards, and professionalism.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF ST. AUGUSTINE’S ONLINE DOCTOR OF OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY DEGREE PROGRAM
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SALUS UNIVERSITY
ONLINE POST-PROFESSIONAL DOCTORATE IN OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY DEGREE PROGRAM

Program Standouts:
Salus University is an incredibly successful and popular school which is seen reflected in their absolutely outstanding retention rate listed below. The Doctor of Occupational Therapy has an emphasis on inter-professional collaboration, and students have the opportunity to pick a specialty track that meets individual needs and interests.
Campus Location: Elkins Park, PA
Accreditation: Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: Unavailable
Retention Rate: Unavailable
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official transcripts from all accredited colleges and universities attended, copies of OT licensure and NBCOT certification, an educational résumé or CV, and letters of recommendation.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Remedial Vision Rehabilitation
- Low Vision Rehabilitation
- Health and Wellness
Degree Outcomes:
Depending on the area of concentration a student chooses, it can lead them in various directions within the industry. Students have the options concerning the length of the program which can be completed in either 16 or 27 months, both using a flexible distance format.
LEARN MORE ABOUT SALUS UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE POST-PROFESSIONAL DOCTORATE IN OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY DEGREE PROGRAM
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NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY
DISTANCE EDUCATION DOCTOR OF OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY (DROT) DEGREE PROGRAM

Program Standouts:
The mission of Nova Southeastern University’s online Doctor or Ph.D. of Occupational therapy degree is to prepare working occupational therapists that possess previous knowledge and skills to become leaders in research and practice throughout the industry as a whole. Depending on a students program of choice, they will be immersed in either theory or practice.
Campus Location: Fort Lauderdale, FL
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: 58.2%
Retention Rate: 79%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, and official transcripts from all accredited colleges and universities institution representing an exemplary GPA.
Program Options:
- Doctor of Occupational Therapy
- Ph.D. Occupational Therapy
Degree Outcomes:
Both of these online programs are designed to fit the needs of working professionals, and perfectly integrates into current practice, enhancing areas of both strength and weakness. Upon exiting this degree program, graduates have the stature, skill, and understanding to take on high-level positions of employment that require more responsibility.
LEARN MORE ABOUT NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY’S DISTANCE EDUCATION DOCTOR OF OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY (DROT) DEGREE PROGRAM
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JEFFERSON
ONLINE POST-PROFESSIONAL DOCTORATE (PPOTD) DEGREE PROGRAM

Program Standouts:
This unique collaboration between Thomas Jefferson University and Philadelphia University brings the best aspects of each online school to the virtual classroom. Jefferson offers a Post-Professional Doctorate in Occupational Therapy that provides students with advanced skills and knowledge to enhance their current practice.
Campus Location: Philadelphia, PA
Accreditation: Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools; American Occupational Therapy Association
Acceptance Rate: 59.7%
Retention Rate: 82%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official transcripts from all accredited colleges and universities attended, a current résumé or CV, proof of OT licensure, GRE scores, a professional summary statement, letters of recommendation, and a successfully completed background check. TOEFL scores from students who use English as a second language.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Advanced Level Evidence-Based Practice
- Leadership: Moving Beyond Traditional Roles
- Visionary Practice Development and Evaluation
Degree Outcomes:
This fascinating degree program trains students to be innovators in traditional and emerging areas of occupational therapy. Students also have the opportunity to develop or refine their expertise through in-depth study. Graduates are poised to serve as leaders in the clinical community and assume leadership positions in clinics and practices all across the country.
LEARN MORE ABOUT JEFFERSON’S ONLINE POST-PROFESSIONAL DOCTORATE (PPOTD) DEGREE PROGRAM
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TEMPLE UNIVERSITY
ONLINE CLINICAL OTD DEGREE PROGRAM

Program Standouts:
One of the finest academic institutions in America, Temple University’s online Post-Professional Clinical Doctorate in Occupational Therapy is designed for currently practicing professionals. The curriculum can be tailored to fit individual needs and interests in both traditional and emerging areas.
Campus Location: Philadelphia, PA
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education; Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education
Acceptance Rate: 56.7%
Retention Rate: 90%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended, a statement of goals, two professional/academic letters of recommendation, a professional writing sample, a current résumé with relevant work experience, a copy of current state OT licensure, and GRE scores.
Program Options:
- Current and Emerging Issues in Public Health and Health Professions
- Evidence-Based Practice and Clinical Research
- Occupational Based Theories and Participation
Degree Outcomes:
As the structure is geared toward busy working professionals, the coursework is perfectly suited to enhance current understandings and practices in the industry and to climb up the ladder of leadership and responsibility in numerous work environments. The curriculum involves local field experience in which students can instantly apply what they learn.
LEARN MORE ABOUT TEMPLE UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE CLINICAL DOCTORATE IN OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY (OTD) DEGREE PROGRAM
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TOWSON UNIVERSITY
ONLINE DOCTOR OF OCCUPATIONAL SCIENCE (SC.D.) DEGREE PROGRAM

Program Standouts:
Towson University is a popular online school that offers a distinctive Doctor of Occupational Science degree program that is designed for students with experience in OT as well as other fields. According to their website, “Towson’s program is among a small number of academic programs in occupational science worldwide.”
Campus Location: Towson, MD
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education; Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education
Acceptance Rate: 77.3%
Retention Rate: 85%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended representing a master’s degree with at least a 3.25 GPA, proof of licensure if possessed, and three letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose. TOEFL scores from students who use English as a second language. Applicants must also complete an interview with an admissions professional.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Origins and Evolution of Occupational Science
- Participation and Quality of Life of People in their Context
- Participation and Quality of Life in Communities and Populations
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates of this esteemed online program demonstrate the ability to examine and produce knowledge related to the application of occupations to support the participation of people in their everyday lives. Alumni have the aptitude and tenacity to effect positive changes for individual clients, as well as practices overall.
LEARN MORE ABOUT TOWSON UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE DOCTOR OF OCCUPATIONAL SCIENCE (SC.D.) DEGREE PROGRAM
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