Program Overview
NOTE: This program is exclusively online.
The Post-Professional Doctor of Occupational Therapy (PP-OTD) degree program is for registered/licensed occupational therapists who already have a master’s degree and now want to earn a clinical doctorate.
The program builds on the experience occupational therapists already have, while providing the knowledge and skills needed to advance beyond therapist-clinician into areas such as occupational therapy education, clinical research, clinical practice, leadership or advocacy.
The 36-credit-hour, part-time, Post-Professional Doctor of Occupational Therapy program uses a distance-learning format, with classes held in the late afternoons and evenings. Students attend online courses at specific times, but complete assignments and participate in discussion boards at their convenience.
The program is designed to be completed in five continuous semesters; semesters are composed of two 7-week sessions.
Degrees Offered
- OTD in Doctor of Occupational Therapy (online)
Internships, Research Opportunities and More
Students in the Post-Professional Doctor of Occupational Therapy program will complete a culminating scholarly project known as the doctoral capstone. This is an individualized project that includes a final version of the student’s capstone proposal that is suitable for professional dissemination about the findings from the student's scholarly work, relating theory to practice and demonstrating synthesis of advanced knowledge. The doctoral capstone is intended to promote the value of occupational therapy for individuals, communities and society by providing an in-depth exposure to one or more of the following: clinical practice skills, research skills, administration, leadership, program and policy development, advocacy, education and theory development.
After You Graduate
OTD degrees are gaining popularity as the profession evolves and occupational therapists advance their careers. While not required to practice, a post-professional doctor of occupational therapy degree offers occupational therapists greater career flexibility and opportunity. With an OTD, occupational therapists are prepared for teaching positions in higher education and leadership roles throughout the healthcare industry.
Admission Requirements
For more information, visit the Occupational Therapy, Post-Professional website.
