Postprofessional Programs in OT - Doctoral Level Programs
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California
LOMA LINDA UNIVERSITY
Department of Occupational Therapy
School of Allied Health Professions
Nichol Hall A901
Loma Linda, CA 92350-0001
Phone: (909) 558-4628; Fax: (909) 558-0239
E-mail: mmercado@llu.edu
Web site: http://www.llu.edu/allied-health/sahp/otd/index.page
Contact person: Heather Javaherian, OTD, OTR/L, Program Director, Postprofessional Doctor of OT Program, hjavaherian@llu.edu
Degree(s) Offered: Doctor of Occupational Therapy
Area(s) of Concentration: The professional rotation is developed by the student to allow for creativity and innovative programming and research.
Distance Learning Options: Program is fully online.
Admissions: Master's degree from an accredited institution, 6 months of professional experience, current license in occupational therapy.
Financial Aid: Some financial support is available. Contact us for more information.
Institutional Accreditor: Western Association of Schools and Colleges; http://www.wascweb.org/
UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy
1540 Alcazar, CHP-133
Los Angeles, CA 90003
Phone: (323) 442-2850 or (866) 385-4250; Fax: (323) 442-1540
E-mail: otdept@usc.edu
Web site: www.usc.edu/ot/
Contact Person: Sarah Kelly, OT/L, Director of Admissions
Degree(s) Offered: Doctorate of Occupational Therapy (OTD); PhD in Occupational Science
Major Area(s) of Study: Occupational Science; Occupational Therapy
Area(s) of Concentration: Research - qualitative and quantitative research approaches, gerontology, development, neuroscience, Lifestyle Redesignâ.
Distance Learning Options: Not available at this time.
Admission Requirements: GRE Aptitude Test (verbal and quantitative) 1,100 minimum for PhD; 1,000 minimum for OTD; evidence of completion of a baccalaureate degree; GPA of 3.0 or greater.
Special Features: OTD: With a multitude of paths from which to choose, OTD graduates will develop new occupational therapy interventions based on studies in occupational science, design and oversee occupational therapy programs that focus on the health-giving features of occupation, influence public policy with knowledge of how occupation impacts health, or become clinical faculty members in occupational therapy education programs.
Financial Aid: Traineeships, salaried employment in community teaching assistantships, research assistantships, scholarships, student loan.
Institutional Accreditor: Western Association of Schools and Colleges; http://www.wascweb.org/
Colorado
COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY
Department of Occupational Therapy
219 Occupational Therapy Building
Fort Collins, CO 80523-1573
Phone: (970) 491-3810; Fax: (970) 491-6290
E-mail: sample@cahs.colostate.edu
Web site: http://www.ot.cahs.colostate.edu/
Contact Person: Pat Sample, PhD, Director of Doctoral Studies
Degree(s) Offered: PhD
Major Area(s) of Study: An interdisciplinary studies program through the School of Education allows students the opportunity to earn a PhD in Education and Human Resources with a concentration in Educational Leadership with an emphasis in Occupational Therapy.
Area(s) of Concentration: Education, Administration, Research, Other Occupational Therapy
Distance Learning Options: Not Available
Admission Requirements: GRE Aptitude Test; Master's degree from an accredited institution (minimum 3.0 GPA); Three letters of recommendation; 3 years relevant professional experience; Baccalaureate or Master's degree in OT. In order to be admitted into the interdisciplinary specialization, prospective students must have a tentative doctoral program of study approved by two faculty members within the School of Education and major advisor from the OT department.
Special Features: Students will complete a highly individualized program of 15 credits in OT Theory and Practice decided upon by the student and his or her graduate committee. Each student will be closely mentored by his or her major advisor. Major advisors will be faculty members of the OT departmental faculty besides the major advisor. The focus of the student's dissertation will be related to that of the major advisor.
Financial Aid: Fellowships, scholarships, graduate teaching and research assistantships are available on a competitive basis.
Institutional Accreditor: The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association; http://www.ncahigherlearningcommission.org/
Florida
NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY
Department of Occupational Therapy
College of Health Care Science, Health Professions Division
3200 South University Drive
Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33328-2018
Phone: (954) 262-1227; Fax: (954) 262-2290
Web site: www.nova.edu/ot
Contact Person:
DrOT: Cathy Peirce, PhD, OTR/L, Assistant Professor; cpeirce@nova.edu
PhD: Kristin Winston, PhD, OTR/L, Assistant Professor; kriswins@nova.edu
Degree(s) Offered: DrOT and PhD
Major Area(s) of Study:
Advance your career with a distance post-professional Doctor of Occupational Therapy (DrOT) degree. The DrOT program will help prepare occupational therapists to become more effective leaders in the practice of occupational therapy. Graduates will be able to direct occupational therapy and rehabilitation programs, conduct evidence-based practice and outcomes research, develop and lead innovative programs and services in the community, teach, serve as consultants, and provide leadership or influence public and/or institutional policy decisions.
Or become a scholar and researcher with a distance research doctorate (PhD in OT). The PhD in OT program is designed to prepare OT’s to become researchers, scholars, and leaders in advancing the OT practice base of knowledge. Graduates of this program will be able to conduct independent research, be a scholar, serve as faculty, and become leaders in health care.
Area(s) of Concentration:
DrOT: advanced practice, health policy, and/or leadership. Students are required to complete all core courses, elective courses, a capstone project and paper, and 90-hour clinical residency.
PhD: The PhD degree is a research degree. There are dissertation study, dissertation, and research residency requirements.
Distance Learning Options: Both the DrOT and PhD in OT doctoral programs are offered primarily by distance education; however, there are some on-campus requirements. Students travel to the Ft. Lauderdale campus for a 4-day weekend each trimester (for most terms) to start and end each course with their classmates and faculty. Coursework continues online (e.g., readings, writing assignments, team projects, practicum experiences, online discussion boards, live voice chats, or other web-based communication technologies). PhD students, in addition, have an on-campus summer research institute.
Admission Requirements:
DrOT: Minimum GPA of 3.0, the GRE combined score of 800 and an analytical writing of 4.0.
PhD: Minimum GPA of 3.5, GRE combined score of 900, and an analytical writing of 4.5. PhD applicants must have a master's degree. Students must submit three letters of recommendation from professional sources, an application form, a letter indicating their reasons for wanting to enter this program, transcripts, and GRE scores. GRE scores must be less than 5 years old and be in all three areas. In addition, students whose first language is not English, must take all parts of the TOEFL exam.
Special Features: Occupational therapists may enter the DrOT program with a bachelor's degree in OT and a master's degree or 30 credits toward a master's degree or with a master's degree in OT. A DrOT student with a master's degree can complete their doctorate in just over 2 years, part-time.
The PhD degree program requires a master’s degree for admission, and a minimum of 61 credit hours are required for the PhD degree. Certain PhD core courses are multidisciplinary and will be taken with students from other PhD programs in the Health Professions Division to encourage and enhance future interdisciplinary collaboration and research.
Those who are unsure about distance learning may opt to take a couple of doctoral courses as a non-matriculating student. Non-matriculating students can complete up to 2 courses for credit without completing all of the admissions requirements. A non-matriculating student application will need to be completed, but the GRE, transcripts, and references are exempt for this application.
Our campus is minutes from the famous beaches of south Florida.
Financial Aid: Doctoral students taking at least 3 credit hours are eligible to apply for financial aid, usually in the form of student loans.
Institutional Accreditor: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools; http://www.sacscoc.org/
UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA
Rehabilitation Science Doctoral Program
College of Public Health and Health Professions
PO Box 100164
Gainesville, FL 32611
Phone: (352) 273-6883 or 6098; Fax: (352) 273-6042
Web site: http://rehabsci.phhp.ufl.edu/
Contact Person:
William C. Mann, PhD, OTR/L, Program Director, wmann@phhp.ufl.edu
Margaret Odom, Program Assistant; modom@phhp.ufl.edu
Degree(s) Offered: PhD in Rehabilitation Sciences
Major Area(s) of Study: Movement Science, Disability Science
Area(s) of Concentration: Prepares rehabilitation scholars, including skills in research, teaching, and interdisciplinary team work in rehabilitation sciences. Students design their own specialty area within the broad categories of: 1) movement science and 2) disability science.
Distance Learning Options: None at this time.
Admission Requirements: See full details on our Web site.
Special Features: The Rehabilitation Science Program is an interdisciplinary program within the College of Public Health and Health Professions, which also offers programs in:
Clinical and Health Psychology
Health Services Research, Management and Policy
Rehabilitation Counseling
Communicative Disorders
Physical Therapy
Occupational Therapy
Financial Aid: Financial aid support may be available through the following: Grinter Fellowships, Charlotte Liberty Scholarship, Research Experience Program, Research Assistantships, and/or College Research Support. Please see our Web site and contact us for more information.
Institutional Accreditor: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools; http://www.sacscoc.org/
UNIVERSITY OF ST. AUGUSTINE FOR HEALTH SCIENCES
Institute of Occupational Therapy
1 University Boulevard
St. Augustine, FL 32086-5783
Phone: (800) 241-1027 or (904) 826-0084; Fax: (904) 827-0069
E-mail: admissions@usa.edu
Web site: http://www.usa.edu/
Contact Person: Cindy Mathena, PhD, OTR/L, Dean, Post-Professional Studies
Degree(s) Offered: Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD), Doctor of Education (EdD), Doctor of Health Sciences (DHSc)
Major Area(s) of Study: cs, Gerontology, Orthopedics, Academia
Distance Learning Options: Many course are offered in an online format.
Admission Requirements:
OTD Program: All students must be licensed and practicing in OT. For students graduating from the University of St. Augustine's MOT Program: an application and previous GPA of 3.0. For students with MOT degrees from other institutions: an application, completion of prerequisite coursework, four recommendations (three professional, one personal), 3.0 GPA.
EdD Program: Admission is open to health care providers who have a master's degree or a clinical doctoral degree, are currently licensed and/or practicing in their profession, and have a minimum of three years of clinical experience. Submit application along with current resume or CV, copy of your professional license, if applicable, two references from professional colleagues, and writing assessment.
DHSc Program: Admission is open to occupational and physical therapists that have a master's degree or a clinical doctoral degree, are currently licensed and/or practicing in their profession, and have a minimum of three years of clinical experience. Submit application along with current resume or CV, copy of your professional license, if applicable, two references from professional colleagues, and writing assessment.
Special Features: Many courses are offered in a weekend seminar format, full and part-time options available, customized course of study, and distance study.
Financial Aid: Some financial support is available.
Institutional Accreditor: Distance Education and Training Council; http://www.detc.org/
Illinois
GOVERNORS STATE UNIVERSITY
1 University Parkway
University Parkway, IL 60484-0975
Phone: (708) 534-7290; Fax: (708) 534-1647
E-mail: DrOT@govst.edu
Web site: http://www.govst.edu/drot
Contact Person: Melanie T. Ellexson, DHSc, MBA, OTR/L, FAOTA, Associate Professor and DrOT Program Coordinator; mellexson@govst.edu
Degree(s) Offered: Doctor of Occupational Therapy (DrOT)
Major Area(s) of Study: The DrOT is a post-professional, advanced practice clinical degree that provides occupational therapists with skills and knowledge to enhance current practice. The program prepares students to be innovators in traditional and emerging areas of occupational therapy. The student will also have the opportunity to develop and/or refine academic and clinical teachings skills. The sequence of courses provides the DrOT graduate with skills to assume leadership in meeting the healthcare needs of clients in a variety of settings and areas of health and human service.
The DrOT will educate occupational therapists for leadership roles in advanced occupational therapy practice as master clinicians, clinical researchers, advocates, managers, and educators. Program graduates will strengthen occupational therapy practice in regional health and human service organizations and promote the evidence-based practice of occupational therapy.
Area(s) of Concentration: A major strength of this program is the student's flexibility to choose their own area of concentration. Students study and develop evidence-based practice models in their particular area of interest.
Distance Learning Options: Courses are offered in a hybrid format with on-campus meetings one Saturday per month. Options for allowing distance participation in the on-campus classes via technology are in development.
Admission Requirements: Applicants with either an entry-level master's of occupational therapy degree or a bachelor's degree in occupational therapy plus an earned master's degree in any field OR applicants with a baccalaureate degree in occupational therapy who have not earned a master's degree*. All applicants must meet the following admission requirements:
1. Graduation from an occupational therapy program accredited by ACOTE. International students must have graduated from a World Federation of Occupational Therapy (WFOT) program and have received certification from the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT).
2. A minimum graduate GPA of 3.0, on a 4.0 point scale.
3. Evidence of current certification from NBCOT. Exceptions will be considered for therapists applying who hold a degree from a program outside of the U. S. if the program meets NBCOT approval.
4. Evidence of current state occupational therapy license. Exceptions will be considered for therapists applying who hold a degree from a program outside of the U. S. if the program meets NBCOT approval.
5. Evidence of successful completion (3.0 on a 4.0 scale) of a statistic course or research methods course within the past five years. Alternatively, one may be taken concurrently with the first semester of graduate coursework.
6. Basic computer competency including word processing and use of the Internet.
7. Application essay.
8. Curriculum vita or resume.
9. Three letters of recommendation.
10. A personal interview with a graduate program faculty advisor/mentor. This may be conducted by phone for applicants living a distance from the campus.
11. Application Fee.
* Students accepted without a master’s degree must complete a transition sequence.
Special Features: This program offers open admission allowing students to enter the program at the beginning of the fall, spring, and summer semesters. Each student is assigned a research advisor/mentor early in the program to guide the student's course of study. Each of the core courses has been designed to build on the student's particular area of concentration allowing the student to build knowledge and evidence for their capstone research throughout the program.
Financial Aid: Financial aid is available for students. It is recommended that students complete a FAFSA with the university upon enrollment to be eligible for both financial aid and grants/scholarships.
Institutional Accreditor: The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association; http://www.ncahigherlearningcommission.org/
UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS AT CHICAGO
Department of Occupational Therapy
College of Applied Health Sciences
1919 West Taylor Street, M/C 811
Chicago, IL 60612-7250
Phone: (312) 996-3412; Fax: (312) 413-0256
Web site: http://www.ahs.uic.edu/ot
Contact Person:
OTD: Marcia Finlayson, PhD, Director of Graduate Studies; marciaf@uic.edu
PhD in Kinesiology, Nutrition and Rehabilitation Science:
Renee Taylor, PhD (rtaylor@uic.edu) or Ziaul Hasan, PhD (zhasan@uic.edu), Co-Directors of Graduate Studies
PhD in Disability Studies: Carrie Sandahl, PhD, Director of Graduate Studies; csandahl@uic.edu
Degree(s) Offered: Doctorate of Occupational Therapy (OTD); PhD in Kinesiology, Nutrition and Rehabilitation Science; PhD in Disability Studies
Major Area(s) of Study:
OTD: Advanced practice, Education, and Leadership
PhD in Kinesiology, Nutrition and Rehabiliation: Rehabilitation Sciences (including Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy); Motor Control and Musculoskeletal Biomechanics; Integrative Pathophysiology, Nutrition and Health Promotion
PhD in Disability Studies
Area(s) of Concentration:
OTD: The OTD program prepares ‘leader scholars’ who are prepared to assume leadership roles in the profession in advanced practice, education and management. The objectives of the OTD program are to prepare individuals who can: (1) develop, implement, and evaluate programs that apply and integrate theory, research, and best practices; (2) function in leadership roles within the profession and the broader communities in which they work; and (3) fulfill roles as clinical faculty, peer and consumer educators.
PhD in Kinesiology, Nutrition and Rehabilitation: Prepares researchers, educators, and scientist-practitioners to conduct applied and/or translational research in a wide range of rehabilitation-oriented settings. The focus for occupational therapy is on occupation-focused, client-centered practice, cultural diversity in healthcare, illness self-management, community-based participatory research, and gerontology. Motor Control and Musculoskeletal Biomechanics Designed to educate students to have a successful career studying and teaching principles of human movement as it applies to both health and disease. Integrative Pathophysiology, Nutrition and Health Promotion Prepares students for successful careers in the inter-related fields of nutrition, metabolism, obesity, exercise, and inflammation.
PhD in Disability Studies: Although there are no formal concentrations, the emphasis on strong mentorship in our program has resulted in the emergence of natural clusters around faculty expertise. For example, faculty/student interest clusters have emerged in aging and intellectual disability, international disability policy, disability ethics, health promotion and disability, disability identity, race and disability, disability and the arts, access to higher education, etc. Regarding methods, faculty members specialize in participatory action research, community-based evaluation, secondary data analysis of population-based surveys, literary criticism, intervention studies, and qualitative research methods. To date, these informal interest clusters have worked well, engendering groups of students who work under the same mentor as well as groups of faculty who collaborate on particular prelim and dissertation committees.
Distance Learning Options:
OTD: Most courses are available in blended format (combination of online and in person).
PhD in Kinesiology, Nutrition and Rehabilitation: Not available at this time.
PhD in Disability Studies: One online course is currently available (DHD 440: Introduction to Assistive Technology-Principles and Practices).
Admission Requirements:
OTD: The OTD degree requires 90 credit hours past the baccalaureate. Students must have a degree in occupational therapy (bachelor’s or master’s level) or currently be enrolled in the MS program at UIC. To be admitted to the program, applicants must have a grade point average of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (B average) for last 60 semester hours earned for the baccalaureate degree and graduate coursework. A combined score of at least 1000 on the GRE verbal and quantitative tests is also required, with a minimum verbal subtest score of 400. A minimum of 4.0 out of 6.0 is expected on the writing assessment. The OTD program is based on a strong mentoring model, and therefore students must identify a member of faculty with whom they would like to work in their application package. Further details are provided on the OTD program website (http://www.ahs.uic.edu/ot/programs/otd.php). The OTD program can be taken full or part time. Students who are full-time will be expected to maintain a course load of at least 12 hours per semester.
PhD in Kinesiology, Nutrition and Rehabilitation: The PhD in Kinesiology, Nutrition and Rehabilitation degree requires 96 hours past the baccalaureate. In many cases, applicants to the doctoral program already possess a Master of Science degree in a related area. When this occurs, the PhD Program in Kinesiology, Nutrition and Rehabilitation will often accept that degree as 32 of the hours required for the PhD degree. The decision to accept some or all of the 32 hours is made at the time of admission by the Director of Graduate Studies in consultation with the potential advisor of the applicant. A minimum of 64 hours beyond the master's level must be completed at UIC. At least 24 credit hours of 400- and 500-level courses are required. A minimum of 9 credit hours of 500-level courses must be letter-graded courses (A to F), not project, thesis, or independent study, or seminar courses that are graded Satisfactory (S) or Unsatisfactory (U). Students must earn at least 32 hours using a 599 rubric (PhD Thesis Research). Each student will have an advisor chosen from the faculty of the program who will serve as chair for the dissertation committee.
The PhD program is designed primarily as a full-time course of study. Students who are full-time will be expected to maintain a course load of at least 12 hours per semester. Students must complete the program within 9 years from their date of entry for post-baccalaureate students and 7 years for students entering with a master's degree.
Application Procedures:
The deadline for all materials is January 1st of each year. Please visit: http://www.uic.edu/depts/oar/grad/apply_grad_degree.html to initiate the application process.
1. The application, application fee, and transcripts for all previous coursework should be directed to the UIC Office of Graduate Admissions, P.O. Box 7994, Chicago, IL, 60680-7994. Transcripts must be sent directly to UIC by the registrars of the institutions providing them.
2. The letters of recommendation, personal statement, specification of track and potential advisor, and GRE scores should be directed to: Ms. Joelle Livermore-Lantz, Administration, UIC College of Applied Health Sciences, 808 S. Wood St. 167 CMET, MC 518, Chicago, IL 60612.
Prior Degrees: No restrictions outside of a bachelor’s degree in a related area. Certain prerequisites may be required by some mentors/advisors depending upon the student’s area of specialization. Additionally, a master's degree in a related area or any other prior graduate work will be looked upon favorably. Transfer of graduate credits from another institution will be handled on a course-by-course basis. The complete prior credits transfer process is described on the Graduate College web page at http://grad.uic.edu/cms/?pid=1000055.
Grade Point Average: At least 3.0 (A=4.0) for the final 60 semester (90 quarter) hours of undergraduate study, and at least 3.5 (A=4.0) for any previous graduate work.
Tests Required: GRE general test with a minimum combined score of 1100 on the verbal and quantitative sections. GRE scores must be dated within five years of your application. For international applicants or others whose primary language of choice is not English, TOEFL scores will also be requested. A Minimum TOEFL Score: 550 (paper-based); 213 (computer-based); 80, with subscores of Reading 19, Listening 17, Speaking 20, and Writing 21 (new Internet-based TOEFL). TOEFL scores must be dated within two years of your application.
Letters of Recommendation: Three required from individuals who can assess the candidate’s aptitude and potential to complete doctoral work.
Personal Statement: One to two pages describing your rationale for doctoral study and its place within your educational and professional goals.
3. The administrative staff person will receive the applications and review them in terms of their completeness. If any aspect of the application is missing, and the missing information has been discovered before the application deadline, the applicant will be contacted once by the administrator and notified of the missing information. If the missing information is received before the application deadline, then the application will be treated as complete and forwarded to the admissions committee.
4. Once an application has been deemed complete, the administrator will notify all members of the PhD program faculty in writing of the names of all received applicants, their desired mentors/advisors, and summarized credentials via a spreadsheet that is maintained by the administrator. Then the admissions committee will meet. The admissions committee will compare each of the applicants in terms of these criteria and determine if the applicant should be recommended for acceptance.
5. If an applicant is recommended for acceptance, then the named mentor/advisor will be consulted and it will be determined whether an interview with the named mentor/advisor will be granted, and/or whether any more information is needed. Because this program follows a mentoring model, it is important that the student identify and contact at least one desired mentor/advisor in who is working in his or her desired specialty area in advance of making his or her application.
6. In circumstances where no mentor/advisor had been named, the admissions committee will then consult with its graduate faculty to determine who will serve as the mentor/advisor for the candidate, and whether and how the applicant will be funded through the course of the program. For more information about funding availability, please contact the Director of Graduate Studies for the program, Dr. Renee Taylor.
7. The committee will then make the final decision based on the proposed mentor/advisor’s input.
PhD in Disability Studies: Applicants will be considered on an individual basis by the Admission Committee for the doctoral program in Disability Studies. Individuals who fail to meet one or more criteria for admission may be admitted conditionally if their applications are otherwise strong and the applicant agrees to work with her/his mentor to address these gaps through courses and other recommended work. To establish a mentor relationship, all applicants for the program are strongly encouraged to meet one or more faculty members whose research interests most closely match those of the student. The coordinator of the PhD program will arrange such meetings for applicants upon request.
In addition to the Graduate College minimum requirements, PhD in Disability Studies applicants must meet the following program requirements:
• Baccalaureate Field: No restrictions.
• Prior Degrees: A master’s degree is not required but is recommended for admission to the program.
• Grade Point Average: At least 3.00/4.00 for the final 60 semester hours (90 quarter hours) of undergraduate study and a minimum of 3.00/4.00 for all work beyond the baccalaureate level.
• Tests Required: GRE General with a combined score of at least 1000 for the verbal and quantitative sections.
• Minimum English Competency Test Score:
- TOEFL 550 (paper-based); 213 (computer-based); 80, with subscores of Reading 19, Listening 17, Speaking 20, and Writing 21 (iBT Internet-based TOEFL), OR,
- IELTS 6.5, with subscores of 6.0 for all four subscores.
• Letters of Recommendation: Three required.
• Personal Statement: Required.
• Deadlines: The application deadline is January 1.
Special Features: OTD: Students often have opportunities to contribute to currently funded research projects.
Financial Aid:
OTD: Research assistantships and traineeships are available. Contact Marcia Finlayson for more information.
PhD: Some financial support may be available. Contact Renée Taylor for more information in association with the PhD in Kinesiology, Nutrition and Rehabilitation. Contact Carrie Sandahl for more information in association with the PhD in Disability Studies.
Institutional Accreditor: The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association; http://www.ncahigherlearningcommission.org/
Indiana
UNIVERSITY OF INDIANAPOLIS
School of Occupational Therapy
1400 E. Hanna Avenue
Indianapolis, IN 46227-3697
Phone: (317) 788-3495; Fax: (317) 788-3542
E-mail: ot@uindy.edu
Web site: http://ot.uindy.edu/postprofessional/
Contact Person(s): Anne Hardwick, MS, Director of Marketing and Admission; ahardwick@uindy.edu
Degree(s) Offered: Doctor of Health Science in Occupational Therapy
Major Area(s) of Study: Master's students select from 3 different degree tracks-neuroscience, orthopedic, and administrative. Currently progress is being made on implementing an education track and interdisciplinary track on health promotion and wellness. All students must complete required core courses, including clinical reasoning, research methodology (quantitative and qualitative), cultural aspects of occupation basics of writing and research. Students fill in the rest of their requirements with focused core and focused electives.
Area(s) of Concentration: Physical Dysfunction Orthopedic and neuroscience track, each offers courses specializing in the most current assessment and intervention practices, Administration Courses focus on various aspects of administration, including management, program development and evaluation, grant writing, small business development, and entrepreneurism.
Distance Learning Options: Our program offers a combination of online, self-directed learning, and didactic instruction. The courses that have didactic instruction require students to be on campus for only one weekend.
Admission Requirements: Bachelor's or master's degree from an accredited professional or postprofessional occupational therapy program or WFOT-approved education program; cumulative GPA of 3.3 on a 4.0 scale; currently in practice as an occupational therapist or have obtained at least 1,000 hours of practice in the last 5 years; current state license/certification in the U.S. jurisdiction as a registered occupational therapist or NBCOT certification.
Special Features: Offerings in the postprofessional doctoral program is unique in its part-time format, allowing occupational therapists to reach their educational goals while still working full-time. Each course offers a blend of self-study and didactic learning experiences, often with national recognized clinicians, making it convenient for occupational therapists located throughout the country to attend classes. Some online courses are also available.
Financial Aid: Opportunity for financial aid may be available in 2012 for full-time students completing 18 credit hours over one year.
Institutional Accreditor: The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association; http://www.ncahigherlearningcommission.org/
Kansas
UNIVERSITY OF KANSAS MEDICAL CENTER
Department of Occupational Therapy
MS 2003 - 3033 Robinson
3901 Rainbow Blvd.
Kansas City, KS 66160-7602
Phone: (913) 588-7195; Fax: (913) 588-4568
E-mail: OTprogram@kumc.edu
Web site: http://www.ot.kumc.edu/
Contact Person: Dr. Jeff Radel, Director of Graduate Studies
Degree(s) offered: OTD in Occupational Therapy (post-professional doctorate); PhD in Therapeutic Science (research-based doctorate)
Major Area(s) of Study: OTD advanced clinical practice; TS PhD interdisciplinary research
Admission Requirements:
OTD: Graduate School Application/w fee; degree from WFOT-approved, entry-level occupational therapy program; practicing occupational therapist experience; three letters of recommendation; statement of career goals. TOEFL for international students. GRE is required.
TS PhD: Graduate School Application/w fee; application statement; statement of interest; Professional Profile; official copy of transcript(s); three letters of recommendation. TOEFL for international students.
Special Features: Each program has been designed to provide professionals with training and academic experience beyond that provided by entry-level programs, and to accommodate individual interests and course of study.
Financial Aid: Research assistantships, scholarships, student loans.
Institutional Accreditor: The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association; http://www.ncahigherlearningcommission.org/
Kentucky
EASTERN KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY
Department of Occupational Therapy
521 Lancaster Avenue
Dizney 103
Richmond, KY 40475-3135
Phone: (859) 622-3300; Fax: (859) 622-1601
E-mail: christine.myers@eku.edu
Web site: www.ot.eku.edu
Contact Person: Christine Myers, PhD, OTR/L, Coordinator, Doctor of Occupational Therapy Program
Degree(s) Offered: Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)
Major Area(s) of Study: Occupation-Based Practice, Diversity, Leadership, and Reasoning
Area(s) of Concentration: Professional development seminars allow students to focus on their own area of concentration in preparation for a practicum experience and capstone project.
Distance Learning Options: The program is fully online with 1 or 2 two-day visits to campus each year.
Admission Requirements: A degree from an entry-level occupational therapy program that is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE), certification by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT), a master's degree in any field, graduate research methods course, GRE Aptitude Test (the GRE will be waived if the applicant has earned a graduate degree from a regionally accredited institution), three letters of recommendation for applicants who do not have an MS in Occupational Therapy from Eastern Kentucky University, a one-to-two page statement of professional goals, a resume and/or professional portfolio, transcripts of undergraduate and graduate coursework, online graduate application, admission interview.
Special Features: Practicum experiences are designed to apply knowledge related to expanding fields of practice, leadership roles, and advanced clinical practice.
Financial Aid: Financial aid information available at http://finaid.eku.edu/.
Institutional Accreditor: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools; http://www.sacscoc.org/
UNIVERSITY OF KENTUCKY
(in collaboration with Eastern Kentucky University, Western Kentucky University and Murray State University)
Rehabilitation Sciences Doctoral Program
College of Health Sciences
Wethington Building, Room 210E
900 South Limestone Street
Lexington, KY 40536-0200
Phone: (859) 323-1100 x80860; Fax: (859) 323-6003
E-mail: carlmat@uky.edu
Web site: www.mc.uky.edu/rehabsciences/
Contact Persons:
Carl G. Mattacola, PhD, ATC, FNATA, Director of Rehabilitation Sciences Doctoral Program
Anne D. Olson, PhD, CCC/A, Director of Graduate Studies
Degree(s) Offered: PhD
Major Area(s) of Study: Occupational Therapy, Athletic Training, Physical Therapy and Communication Sciences
Distance Learning Options: Distance technologies may be used to deliver some portions of the program.
Admission Requirements: For more information please see http://www.mc.uky.edu/rehabsciences/
Financial Aid: Assistantships available on a competitive basis.
Institutional Accreditor: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools; http://www.sacscoc.org/
Maryland
TOWSON UNIVERSITY
Department of Occupational Therapy and Occupational Science
8000 York Road
Towson, MD 21252-0001
Phone: (410) 704-2762; Fax: (410) 704-2322
E-mail: jdelany@towson.edu
Web site: http://grad.towson.edu/program/doctoral/osc-scd/
Contact Person: Janet V. DeLany, DEd, OTR/L, FAOTA, Director, Doctoral Program
Degree(s) Offered: ScD
Major Area(s) of Study: Occupation
Area(s) of Concentration: Physical Dysfunction, Mental, Pediatrics, Gerontology, Education, Administration, Research, Other: Science of Human Occupation track, Occupation in Practice track.
Distance Learning Options: Not available at this time.
Admission Requirements:
1) A master's degree from an accredited college or university with an overall GPA of 3.25 in graduate course work; conditional admission with an overall GPA of 3.00.
2) Degree or certificate in occupational therapy from a professional occupational therapy program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education or by the World Federation of Occupational Therapists. A select number of students from other relevant disciplines who do not hold professional certification may apply for admission.
3) Proof of completion of prerequisite coursework.
4) If applicant is an occupational therapist, they must be elegible for licensure to practice occupational therapy to select the Occupation in Practice track.
5) Graduate Record Examination (minimum of 900 combined math and verbal score) or Miller Analogies Test (minimum 50th percentile).
6) Interview by the doctoral admissions committee.
7) International student must have TOEFL scores of at least 600.
8) Three letters of recommendation.
9) Letter of Intent describing professional goals in seeking the degree and area(s) of interest/specialization.
Special Features: The mission of the Department of Occupational Therapy and Occupational Science is to promote education, research, and services that address occupational engagement as well as social and occupational justice that supports health and well-being of persons, organizations, and populations. Students tailor meet their dissertation interests. Courses can be completed on a full or part-time basis.
Financial Aid: Contact http://grad.towson.edu
Institutional Accreditor: Middle States Association of Schools and Colleges; http://www.msche.org/
Massachusetts
BOSTON UNIVERSITY
College of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences (Sargent College)
Department of Occupational Therapy
635 Commonwealth Avenue
Boston, MA 02215-1605
Program Contacts:
OTD: Wendy Coster, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA, Chair, Department of Occupational Therapy
Karen Jacobs, EdD, OTR/L, CPE, FAOTA, Program Director, Postprofessional Distance Education Occupational Therapy Programs, kjacobs@bu.edu
Phone: (617) 353-7516; Fax: (617) 353-2926
Web site: http://www.otdegree.com/
ScD: Robert Wagenaar, PhD, Program Director, Doctor of Science in Rehabilitation Sciences Program, wagenaar@bu.edu
Phone: (617) 353-7533
Web site: http://www.bu.edu/sargent/academics/programs/occupational-therapy/doctor-of-science-in-rehabilitation-sciences
Degree(s) Offered: Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD); Doctor of Science in Rehabilitation Sciences (ScD)
Major Area(s) of Study:
OTD: The postprofessional OTD program consists of 33 credits, or 10 courses. The student takes one course at a time, while concurrently working on the doctoral project. Each course is seven weeks and students can begin the program at one of three entry points within the year: fall, spring, or summer. The OTD program can be completed in 20 months if no foundation courses are required. Students come on campus to Boston for two stimulating days at the beginning of the program and two days at the end of the program for their Capstone presentation.
ScD: Occupational therapy faculty participate in an interdisciplinary doctoral program along with colleagues from other departments at Boston University including physical therapy, public health, and medicine. Areas of study are centered around faculty mentors' research and expertise and currently include the design and evaluation of measures of activity, participation, and environment; family, community, and mental health; life skills training for persons with psychiatric disabilities at risk for homelessness; and adaptation and development.
Distance Learning Options:
OTD: All courses are offered in a distance education format.
ScD: The program is designed for full-time, on-campus study. There are no components offered in a distance education format.
Admission Requirements:
OTD: http://otdegree.com/program/requirements.asp
ScD: Completion of an undergraduate degree in a field related to the identified area of specialization; GRE scores of 500 minimum in each of 3 areas (verbal, quantitative, analytical); exam taken within the previous 5 years; 3 letters of reference. Students must also identify a potential faculty research mentor at time of application and admission is contingent on match between student research interests and goals and an available mentor.
Special Features:
OTD: World renowned faculty; convenient and flexible coursework; unique peer mentorship model.
ScD: Strong interdisciplinary theory and research focus. The program is built on a mentorship model to develop skills for independent research and teaching, including grant writing, academic presentations, and publication. Academic coursework includes a set of core interdisciplinary seminars, preparation in both quantitative and qualitative research methods, and an individualized program of study related to the student's research focus. Opportunities to participate in multi-disciplinary large scale research programs within the college as well as across Boston University and the larger Boston area academic community.
Financial Aid:
OTD: http://www.otd-degree.com/admissions/financial_aid.asp
ScD: Tuition support and research assistantships may be provided through faculty research funding; additional support may be available through the University.
Institutional Accreditor: New England Association of Schools and Colleges; http://www.neasc.org/
TUFTS UNIVERSITY
Deparatment of Occupational Therapy
26 Winthrop Street
Medford, MA 02155-7084
Phone: (617) 627-5720 Fax: (617) 627-6259
E-mail: bsot@tufts.edu
Web site: http://ase.tufts.edu/bsot/
Contact Person: Elizabeth Owen, Administrative Assistant; elizabeth_owen@tufts.edu
Degree(s) Offered: Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD)
Major Area(s) of Study: Varied
Area(s) of Concentration: Physical Dysfunction, Mental Health, Gerontology, Education, Administration, Research, Technology, Upper-Extremity Rehabilitation
Distance Learning Options: Not available.
Admission Requirements: Prerequisite coursework, GRE scores (refer to the Web site for specifics).
Special Features: Certificate programs offered.
Financial Aid: Offered.
Institutional Accreditor: New England Association of Schools and Colleges; http://www.neasc.org/
Minnesota
ST. CATHERINE UNIVERSITY
2004 Randolph Avenue
St. Paul, MN 55105-1794
Phone: (651) 690-8767; Fax: (651) 690-4599
E-mail: kbarrett@stkate.edu
Web site: www.stkate.edu/otd
Contact Person: Kate Barrett, OTD, OTR/L, Associate Professor and OTD Program Director
Degree(s) Offered: Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)
Major Area(s) of Study: The OTD program prepares occupational therapists to best meet emerging challenges in the complex and rapidly changing healthcare environment. Grounded in evidence, students learn to lead and influence systemic change, advocate for occupational justice, and develop expertise in a specialty practice area. The program is 35 credits in length, or 9 courses.
Area(s) of Concentration: The program cultivates ethical, visionary leaders who are prepared to transform occupational therapy practice. Each student will specialize in an area of his or her choosing. Practical applications of course content, personalized guidance from a mentor with expertise in that area, and self-directed study all contribute to a rich educational experience.
Distance Learning Options: Program is fully online.
Admission Requirements: Master's degree from an accredited institution, hold a current state license or international equivalent as a registered occupational therapist.
Special Features: Students identify a specialty area of practice upon admission to the program. Students will further develop and sharpen their focus within the specialty practice area through course work and collaboration with their doctoral advisor. The OTD emphasizes "doing". In the majority of the courses, there is a practical application piece in which students apply the learned material in a project related to his or her specialty practice area of interest.
The doctoral project is an applied culminating project in your chosen specialized area based on evidence and integration of all your post-professional OTD courses. The project will demonstrate theory driven application that will meet a defined need and will advance occupational therapy practice. The outcome of this course is a completed doctoral project including implementation, evaluation, and dissemination.
Financial Aid: Student loans.
Institutional Accreditor: The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association; http://www.ncahigherlearningcommission.org/
UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA
Rehabilitation Science Program
Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
420 Delaware Street, SE, MMC 388
Minneapolis, MN 55455-0392
Phone: (612) 626-3966; Fax: (612) 625-7192
E-mail: adamc002@umn.edu or mathi003@umn.edu
Web site: www.med.umn.edu/rehabsci/home.html
Contact Person: Rich Adamczak, DGS Assistant or Virgil Mathiowetz, PhD, OTR/L, Graduate Faculty
Degree(s) Offered: PhD
Major Area(s) of Study: Rehabilitation Science.
Area(s) of Concentration: Outcomes of Therapeutic Interventions, Stroke Recovery and Neuroplasticity, Postural Control, and Muscle Adaptation.
Admission Requirements: Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree or graduate degree in a discipline related to rehabilitation, such as biomedical engineering, medicine, occupational therapy, physical therapy, or speech/audiology. International students must hold a comparable degree from an accredited program. Depending on the educational background of the applicant, admission may be contingent upon completion of selected prerequisite course work.
Special Application Requirements: Applicants must include the following: graduate school application and fee; GRE general test scores; transcripts; three letters of reference; TOEFL or IELTS test scores for international students; minimum of 3.0 GPA; agreement from a Rehabilitation Science faculty member to serve as an advisor*.
*Advisor: As part of the application process, each prospective student should contact Rehabilitation Science faculty to arrange for an advisor. Compatibility of research interests is a major determinant in the mutual selection of an advisor by the student and of the student by the advisor. Since some advisors may already be at capacity with graduate student advisees, availability of faculty is another determinant. Selection of, and consent from, and advisor is necessary to complete the application process.
Special Features: The program is tailored to meet your interests and needs, including flexibility in course requirements; your choice of coursework throughout the university; experience research advisors; mentored research experience that will train you to research independently, which is essential for success in most academic settings (clinical doctorates do not have this necessary research experience); and the opportunity to study with a diverse group of students from across the globe and from a variety of majors.
Financial Aid: Full-time students may apply for a limited number of fellowships and graduate student assistantships. The deadline for fellowship applications is January.
Institutional Accreditor: The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association; http://www.ncahigherlearningcommission.org/
Missouri
WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY
Program in Occupational Therapy
School of Medicine
4444 Forest Park Avenue
Campus Box 8505
St. Louis, MO 63108
Phone: (314) 286-1600; Fax: (314) 286-1601
E-Mail: WUOTinfo@wusm.wustl.edu
Web site: www.ot.wustl.edu/
Contact Person:
OTD: Martha Lawson, Coordinator of Admissions and Special Programs; lawsonm@wusm.wustl.edu
PhD: Rachael Wagner, Administrative Coordinator, PhD Program; wagnerr@wusm.wustl.edu
Degree(s) Offered: OTD (post-professional clinical doctorate); PhD in Rehabilitation and Participation Science
Major Area(s) of Study: Occupational Therapy; Rehabilitation and Participation Science
OTD: Students who want to focus on a specialty area can continue for two additional semesters and an additional four months of mentored apprenticeship. Students will graduate with an OTD, a professional clinical doctorate degree. Students who choose the OTD may choose from multiple concentrations including: aging, pediatrics, participation, or work and industry. OTD graduates are building exciting careers in teaching, research, consultation, clinical services, and management and policy, in their chosen area of expertise.
PhD: This is a four-year interdisciplinary program designed to prepare students to be productive in research and to pursue a career in academia. The program offers training to investigators who seek to answer questions about rehabilitation and participation. The program is organized around three core content areas: neurorehabilitation, performance, and community participation. These cores are derived from such basic or social sciences as neuroscience, psychology, engineering, computer science and environmental science, public health, and clinical sciences including neurology, plastic surgery, otolaryngology, and occupational health.
Area(s) of Concentration:
Neurorehabilitation focuses on biomedical, cognitive behavioral, and environmental strategies that aid in recovery and/or management of neurological deficits in persons with acute and chronic conditions.
Performance focuses on purposeful actions and activities of persons with acute and chronic disorders, how body function and structure affect actions and activities, and how actions and activities affect participation in daily life.
Community Participation focuses on person-environment interactions and examines the physical, sociocultural, and policy aspects of the environment that impact participation of persons with or at risk for chronic illness.
Distance Learning Options: Not available
Admission Requirements:
OTD: This degree is intended for students who already have a bachelor's degree or master's degree in occupational therapy. Post-professional students enrolling in the OTD degree must complete a minimum 72 credit hours of graduate coursework and a 16 week, full-time apprenticeship experience and an additional field work experience. Please visit our website for an application.
PhD: Applicants must hold a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university. Students holding a degree relevant to Rehabilitation and Participation Science will be encouraged to apply to the RAPS program. These may include occupational therapy, medicine, physical therapy, engineering, public health, social work, and speech language pathology. It is possible that students will want to apply from psychology, biology, or other biological or social sciences.
To be considered for all possible scholarships, applications should be submitted by January 15. However, applications will be accepted through May 1 until all positions are filled. Applications to the Rehabilitation and Performance Science curriculum must be submitted to the University's Graduate School of Arts and Sciences. To apply on-line, please visit our website.
Applicants must submit all of the following:
• A completed Graduate School of Arts & Sciences Application form
• $55 application fee
• Typewritten statement of objectives
• Sample of professional writing
• Official transcripts of all post-secondary academic work
• 3 letters of recommendation
• Official Graduate Record Exam (GRE) scores for an exam taken within the past 5 years
• For international candidates whose native language is not English, the tests below must have been taken within 12 months of the date on the application:
• Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) scores; Minimum acceptable score = 600 (250 for computer-based test and 100 for iBT)
• Test of Written English (TWE) scores; Minimum acceptable score = 5
• Applicants holding transcripts from institutions outside the United States are required to have the transcripts evaluated by a credentialing agency (names of agencies may be obtained by contacting the Program in Physical Therapy). The evaluation must include course names, grades and credits in American terms. No international transcripts will be accepted without an evaluation from a credentialing agency.
Special Features:
OTD: Designed specifically for the professional who is already working in the field of occupational therapy. Individually customized to address each individual's educational background, clinical experience, and area of interest. Students benefit from the 1:1 relationship with a faculty mentor for their chosen concentration area. This is a “hands on” program and students work with an individual faculty mentor in a specific area of expertise. Classes are held during regular business hours, but many of our students work while completing their degree.
Every student is unique and brings his or her own life experiences and abilities to the program so an individual plan of study is developed for each student. Some credits may be waived depending on the student’s background, education, and experience. A master’s degree is not required. General guidelines stipulate completing a minimum of 72 credit hours of graduate coursework. Master’s degree coursework will count up to 36 hours.
PhD: The PhD in Rehabilitation and Participation Science is offered within the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences at Washington University in St. Louis and administered through the top-ranked Program in Occupational Therapy at Washington University School of Medicine. The degree is designed to train scientists within the areas of occupational science, neuroscience, environmental science, and engineering, and provides a scientific basis in rehabilitation research and will lead to a career in academia.
Financial Aid: All post-professional students will be given the opportunity to work as a teaching assistant which will provide some funding to the student. Financial aid is available and U.S. students may be eligible for federally subsidized student loans.
Available through Office of Student Financial Aid: money@msnotes.wustl.edu
Institutional Accreditor: The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association; http://www.ncahigherlearningcommission.org/
Nebraska
CREIGHTON UNIVERSITY
Department of Occupational Therapy
School of Pharmacy and Health Professions
2500 California Plaza
Omaha, NE 68178-0259
Phone: (402) 280-5667; Fax: (402) 280-5692
E-mail: joydoll@creighton.edu
Web site: http://spahp2.creighton.edu/offices/occupationaltherapy/Post%20Professional%20Distance%20OTD%20Program.aspx
Contact Person: Joy D. Doll, OTD, OTR/L, Director of the Post Professional OTD Program
Degree(s) Offered: OTD
Major Area(s) of Study: Leadership, ethics, healthcare policy, community, neuro-occupation, management, research, evidence-based practice, historical perspectives of occupation, instructional methods, etc.
Area(s) of Concentration: Emphasis on critical analysis, innovation, reflection, application of theory. Professional rotations are an opportunity for individual professional development and advancement tailored to personal and professional goals. Electives offered in specialty areas.
Distance Learning Options: Offered online except for a foundational introductory course and a one-time research intensive. Students are required to come to campus 3 times during the program total, including orientation, research training, and graduation. All students are issued a laptop computer upon entering this distance-based program to ensure technological parity among students. Training in the use of distance technology is provided during the introductory course.
Admission Requirements: A bachelor's or entry-level master's degree in occupational therapy at an ACOTE-accredited institution and have successfully completed the NBCOT certification examination. International students or students who received their OT education in another country are welcome to apply if they have completed their OT education at a WFOT-accredited institution and can show evidence of NBCOT certification. Students with a master's degree in any area of study are eligible to apply for course waivers for up to 15% of the curriculum. For more information see http://spahp2.creighton.edu/admission/OT/OT_Post.htm.
Special Features: The post professional program is 63 credits and is offered completely online except for a foundational introductory course introducing skills to achieve a successful clinical doctoral experience and a research proposal course to plan a research project of the student's choice. Both the foundational course and the research proposal courses each consist of 3 days on campus. The foundational course is offered in both the fall and spring semesters (typically September and February). The research proposal course is offered during the summer semester (typically July). Professional rotations, the self-directed professional development aspect of the curriculum, can be completed where you live.
Electives such as special topics in pediatrics, grant writing, advanced skills for a career in academia, spirituality, neuro-technology, complementary and alternative medicine, holistic stress management, gerontology, infant mental health, physical agent modalities, pharmacotherapeutics, and critical perspectives of disability. Electives providing opportunities for international service learning in China or the Dominican Republic are also available.
Financial Aid: For specific information, contact the SPAHP Admissions Office at 1-800-325-2830 or visit http://spahp2.creighton.edu/admission/FinancialPPOTD.htm.
Institutional Accreditor: The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association; http://www.ncahigherlearningcommission.org/
New York
COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY
Programs in Occupational Therapy
Neurological Institute, 8th Floor
710 West 168th Street
New York, NY 10032-2603
Phone: (212) 305-5267; Fax: (212) 305-4569
E-Mail: gg50@columbia.edu
Web site: http://www.columbiaot.org/
Contact Person: Glen Gillen, EdD, OTR, FAOTA, Associate Director, Programs in Occupational Therapy
Degree(s) Offered: Doctor of Education (EdD)
Major Area(s) of Study: Movement Science with a specialization in Occupational Therapy
Area(s) of Concentration: Research Broad areas of research fall under the following categories: 1) How movement and posture support participation in daily living; 2) Movement impairment and its impact on functional daily living skills; 3) Development and testing of real world/ecologically valid assessments of motor function; 4) Development and testing of occupation-based practice guidelines.
Current and potential areas of specific research foci include: 1) The role of perception, motor, and cognition in the context of daily living; 2) How mental imagery and practice affects recovery after central nervous system dysfunction; 3) Vestibular, sensory, and motor impairment as manifested in patients with psychiatric disorders, and its impact on participation in daily living.
Other: Motor control and motor learning within an occupational therapy context.
Distance Learning Options: Not available.
Admission Requirements: Masters degree in occupational therapy or a related field; NBCOT certification as an occupational therapist; interview; references; personal essay reflecting research interests; transcript with minimum GPA of 3.0; research capability; commitment to graduate study; and potential for professional contribution. Applicants for whom English is not a primary language must take the TOEFL.
Special Features: This program is a collaboration between two of Columbia University's renowned colleges: Teachers College (TC) and the College of Physicians and Surgeons, Programs in Occupational Therapy. Half the coursework is taken at TC, and half on the health science campus. Dissertation is carried out through the Programs in Occupational Therapy. Entire university resources are available to students, including world class libraries, research laboratories, and clinical settings.
Financial Aid: University and governmental financial aid; dissertation research assistance
Institutional Accreditor: Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools; http://www.msche.org/
NEW YORK UNIVERSITY
Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development
Department of Occupational Therapy
35 West 4th Street, 11th floor
New York, NY 10012-1172
Phone: (212) 998-5825; Fax: (212) 995-4044
E-mail: occupational.therapy@nyu.edu
Web site: http://steinhardt.nyu.edu/ot/
Contact Person: Jane Bear-Lehman, PhD, OTR, FAOTA, Director of Doctoral Programs
Degree(s) Offered: Doctor of Professional Studies (DPS) in Occupational Therapy, Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Occupational Therapy
Major Area(s) of Study:
DPS: clinically focused evidence-based practice, critical analysis, ethics, theory
PhD: theory and philosophy of occupational therapy, applied scientific inquiry, research
Area(s) of Concentration:
DPS: pediatrics and upper quadrant care
PhD: research, knowledge, and skills necessary to work in the profession as scholars and educators
Distance Learning Options: Not available.
Admission Requirements: GRE test, transcript with GPA of 3.0 or greater, basic statistics, graduation from a professional occupational therapy program approved by the World Federation of Occupational Therapists, evidence of completion of a master’s degree or equivalent, references, personal interview, autobiographical sketch, learning goals.
Special Features: NYU is the nation’s largest private university; Department has a close relationship with the University’s 15 schools, colleges and divisions; graduate programs are interprofessional with a student–faculty ratio of 6:1; preeminent open stack research library; clinical and research facilities; evening and summer courses; ergonomics, biomechanics, and kinesiology research laboratory; diverse graduate student group provides peer/professional network in NYU/metropolitan New York occupational therapy community; doctoral students take courses in the Department of Occupational Therapy and in other departments of the School and University.
Financial Aid: Teaching fellowships, University and governmental financial aid.
Institutional Accreditor: Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools; http://www.msche.org/
UNIVERSITY AT BUFFALO, STATE UNIVERSITY OF NEW YORK
Program in Occupational Therapy
Department of Rehabilitation Science
515 Stockton Kimball Tower, 3435 Main Street
Buffalo, NY 14214-3079
Phone: (716) 829-3141; Fax: (716) 829-3217
E-Mail: rfb@buffalo.edu
Web site: http://sphhp.buffalo.edu/rs/ot/phd/index.php
Contact Person: Robert Burkard, PhD, PhD Program Director; (716) 829-6720
Degree(s) Offered: PhD
Major Area(s) of Study: Rehabilitation Science; Aging and Disability
Area(s) of Concentration: Rehabilitation across the lifespan, specific research varies with faculty mentor, but includes numerous areas, some related to occupational and physical therapy, assistive technology, aging, vestibular/balance function, school/occupational transition, disability, muscle physiology, exercise, cardiovascular physiology/pathophysiology.
Distance Learning Options: Limited.
Admission Requirements: Based on competitive GPA, GREs, TOEFL (for international students), personal statements (including research interests), and letters of recommendation.
Special Features: A pre-dissertation research project, teaching experience, grant-writing experience, public health minor.
Financial Aid: Teaching assistantships and limited research assistantships.
Institutional Accreditor: Middle States Commission on Higher Education; http://www.msche.org/
North Carolina
UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA at CHAPEL HILL
School of Medicine, Department of Allied Health Sciences
Division of Occupational Science
CB #7120
Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7122
Phone: (919) 966-2451; Fax: (919) 966-9007
E-mail: rhumphry@med.unc.edu
Web site: http://www.med.unc.edu/ahs/ocsci/
Contact Person: Ruth Humphry, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA, Coordinator of Doctoral Program
Degree(s) Offered: PhD
Major Area(s) of Study: Occupational Science
Area(s) of Concentration: Education (Occupation based curriculum); Research (Qualitative, quantitative and mixed designs); Other (Occupations of children and families, older adults and geographies of occupation, philosophical bases of occupational science, occupational complexities, sensory experiences affecting occupational engagement in children with autism, and translating occupational science to evidence-based practice).
Distance Learning Options: Not available.
Admission Requirements: Completed master's degree in occupational therapy, relevant social and behavioral sciences, or related health fields and career goals consistent with existing programs of research and scholarly work of the faculty. GRE (within last 5 years), TOEFL results (if applicable), and academic record consistent with doctoral studies.
Special Features: A closely mentored learning environment that will include extensive interdisciplinary study at one of the leading state funded research universities.
Financial Aid: Research assistantships, scholarships for competitive students, and other student aid.
Institutional Accreditor: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools; http://www.sacscoc.org/
Ohio
THE OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY
Occupational Therapy Division
School of Allied Medical Professions
406 Atwell Hall, 453 West Tenth Avenue
Columbus, OH 43210-1234
Phone: (614) 292-5824; Fax: (614) 292-0210
E-Mail: jane.case-smith@osumc.edu
Web site: www.amp.osu.edu/; www.gradadmissions.osu.edu
Contact Person: Jane Case-Smith, EdD, OTR/L, FAOTA, Division Director
Degree(s) Offered: PhD in Health and Rehabilitation Sciences
Major Area(s) of Study: Students select area of emphasis.
Area(s) of Concentration: Interdisciplinary studies with emphasis on university teaching and research.
Distance Learning Options: Not Available.
Admission Requirements: GRE, 3.0 or higher, recommended 3.5 or higher, a master's degree. International applicants and applicants who have held U.S. asylee, refugee or permanent resident status for less than one year must also provide a 550 on the paper based TOEFL test, 79 on the Internet based TOEFL or 7 on the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) exam.
Financial Aid: Loans and assistantships are available. Contact student Financial Aid (614) 292-0300 for loans. Contact Division for Information on traineeships which are available at certain times.
Institutional Accreditor: The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association; http://www.ncahigherlearningcommission.org/
Oregon
PACIFIC UNIVERSITY
School of Occupational Therapy
190 SE 8th Avenue, Suite 360
Hillsboro, OR 97123-4126
Phone: (503) 352-7268; Fax: (503) 352-7360
E-Mail: ot@pacificu.edu
Web site: www.pacificu.edu/ot/
Contact Person: Jon-Erik Larsen, Director of Graduate and Professional Admissions; larsenj@pacificu.edu; (503) 352-7221 or (800) 932-9308
Degree(s) Offered: Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD)
Major Area(s) of Study: Occupational Therapy
Area(s) of Concentration: Advances in OT practice, community-based practice, management, leadership, advocacy, ethics, scholarship, and evidence-based practice with specialty tracks in gerontology, academic teaching, global practice, and healthcare management/administration.
Distance Learning Options: The post-professional occupational therapy degree program is extensively online with 1 week on-campus courses for orientation and presentation of capstone project and graduation.
Admission Requirements: The detailed listing of pre-requisite requirements for the post-professional OTD program can be found at www.pacificu.edu/catalog.
The post-professional online OTD program requires:
• Master’s degree in OT from an accredited institution and 6 months of professional experience within the last 10 years.
• OT program completion with a 3.0 or higher GPA
• Current Occupational Therapy License
• AOTA membership upon enrollment
• Initial Certification documentation from NBCOT or AOTCB
• Resume or Curriculum Vitae
Special Features: Occupational therapy program features can be found at www.pacificu.edu/ot/program/OTD.cfm.
Pacific University recognizes that working professionals need a flexible schedule to advance their career. Students will be individually mentored and advised by an occupational therapy faculty member to reach their educational goals. The post-professional program is a distance-based program designed to allow the student to graduate in as little as 17-24 months.
Financial Aid: Please contact financialaid@pacificu.edu or call (503) 352-2222.
Institutional Accreditor: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). http://www.nwccu.org
Pennsylvania
CHATHAM UNIVERSITY
College for Continuing and Professional Studies and OT Program
Woodland Road
Pittsburgh, PA 15232-2826
Phone: (866) 815-2050; Fax: (412) 365-1720
E-mail: ccps@chatham.edu
Web site: www.chatham.edu/ot
Contact Person: David Vey, Admission Support Specialist dvey@chatham.edu; Joyce Salls, OTD, OTR/L, Program Director salls@chatham.edu
Degree(s) Offered: Professional Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)
Major Area(s) of Study: Occupational Therapy
Area(s) of Concentration: Evidence-based practice, advanced practice, and leadership.
Distance Learning Options: Chatham University's OTD program is an online degree program. There are two short (3-4 day) residencies in Pittsburgh during the program.
Admission Requirements: The student will need to submit an application, official transcripts, evidence of completion of a master's degree (either master's or bachelor's must be in OT), personal statement of 300-500 words, GPA of 3.0 or greater, and OT licence/certification number. Students with a bachelor's degree in OT only complete the BS to OTD bridge courses prior to beginning the OTD courses. GRE scores are not required. Additional information can be found at http://www.chatham.edu/ccps/OT/.
Special Features: Each course is intricately connected to the professional student's practice focus. Students complete an evidence-based capstone project, which includes developing, implementing, and evaluating the effectiveness of an occupation-based program in their chosen area of interest and work setting.
The program is almost exclusively online with two short residencies, enabling convenient learning. Chatham University's fully accredited program provides a flexible experience allowing students to study when and where their schedule permits, interact online with a diverse group of students, share ideas, ask questions, and exchange information.
Financial Aid: Available. Additional information can be found at http://www.chatham.edu/ccps/tuition.cfm
Institutional Accreditor: Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools; www.msche.org
DUQUESNE UNIVERSITY
John G. Rangos School of Health Sciences
Pittsburgh, PA 15282
Phone: (412) 396-5545
E-mail: carcia@duq.edu
Web site: http://www.duq.edu/academics/schools/health-sciences/academic-programs/rehabilitation-science
Contact person: Christopher R. Carcia, PhD, PT, SCS, OCS, Program Director of PhD Program in Rehabilitation Science
Degree(s) offered: PhD in Rehabilitation Science
Major Area(s) Of Study: The PhD Program in Rehabilitation Science is a specialized curriculum in orthopedics and clincial biomechanics. The curriculum is an interdisciplinary endeavor of the departments of Athletic Training, Physical and Occupational Therapy. The mission of the PhD Program in Rehabilitation Science is to prepare outstanding orthopedic/sports medicine rehabilitation practitioners to become leaders in their respective fields as educators and scholars who are capable of completing and communicating unique independent research that contributes to the advancement of their profession. Graduates of the program will be prepared to initate a career in academia.
Area(s) of Concentration: Orthopedic topics related to the areas of expertise/research agendas of the graduate program faculty.
Distance Learning Options: Not available.
Admissions Requirements: Applicant eligibility (subject to discretion of the program director): An entry-level doctor of physical therapy degree or a master's degree in athletic training, physical therapy, occupational therapy, or related field (e.g., physician assistant). Recommended to have a license to practice physical therapy, athletic training or respective discipline (e.g., occupational therapy; physician assistant) in Pennsylvania or be eligible for a license to practice in Pennsylvania. Two years of professional experience.
Additional Requirements: Submission of a professional statement that details the applicant's educational and career goals. Prospective students must identify a graduate program faculty member with whom they wish to serve as their faculty advisor. Prior communication with the potential advisor/faculty member is encouraged. Three letters of recommendation detailing qualifications to enter advanced graduate education, qualifications as a clinician, and your abilities/potential for research. A minimum combined score of 1000 on Math and Verbal sections of the GRE. Official copies of all undergraduate and graduate college transcripts sent directly from the institution(s) to Duquesne University. If English is a foreign language for the applicant, the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is required, and the student must score a minimum of 550 on the examination which has been taken within one year of application.
Special Features: The program is a research intensive endeavor focusing in select areas of orthopedics and clinical biomechanics commensurate with faculty expertise and training. The Rangos School of Health Sciences is home of the Kristen L. McMaster's Biomechanics Laboratory which houses state-of-the-art instrumentation to aid students and faculty with their research projects.
Financial Aid: Graduate education and assistantships are provided as funds allow.
Institutional Accreditor: Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools; http://www.msche.org/
MISERICORDIA UNIVERSITY
Occupational Therapy Program
Division of Health Sciences
301 Lake Street
Dallas, PA 18612-1098
Phone: (570) 674-6399; Fax: (570) 674-3052
E-Mail: emclaugh@misericordia.edu
Web site: http://www.misericordia.edu/
Contact Person(s): Ellen McLaughlin; EdD, OTR/L, OTD Program Coordinator
Degree(s) Offered: OTD
Major Areas of Study: The OTD program goals are focused on areas of research, advanced practice, leadership, and administration.
Major Area(s) of Concentration: Other Pediatric or Adult/Geriatric
Distance Learning Options: Classes meet a maximum of 2 weekends per semester on campus (at the beginning and end of each semester) with 11 weeks of distance education between on-campus meetings.
Admission Requirements: Minimum of a bachelor’s degree in occupational therapy; Minimum of 1 year practicing as a licensed occupational therapist; copy of current state license/certification in a U.S. jurisdiction; current résumé; official transcripts from all colleges/universities attended, with an overall grade point average of at least 3.0 and a college-level course in basic statistics; official scores from the Graduate Record Exam (GRE); Official Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), if applicable; a 500-word statement of professional goals and how matriculation in the occupational therapy doctorate degree program can contribute to those goals; three (3) letters of reference using the forms provided. Please submit at least one employer, one licensed occupational therapist, and one academic reference, providing names, complete addresses, phone numbers, and relationships of persons who will return your forms; interview; $60 application fee.
Special Features: The program is designed to be completed part-time (two classes per semester) over a 2 year tri-semester period; convenient location 2 hours from Philadelphia and NYC in a safe, comfortable setting. Small class size with personalized attention, reasonable fees, and class schedules designed for working therapists to allow for continued full-time employment.
Financial Aid: Professional students can pay for their tuition through tuition reimbursement, deferred payment, or student loans. Deferred tuition allows the student to make an initial payment of 20% down by the first day of class, with final payment due prior to the last day of class. Tuition reimbursement through an employer allows the student to defer tuition until 30 days after final grades are issued.
There are several loan options available to professional students, including Stafford Loans, Graduate Plus Loans, and Alternative Loans. Students must complete the Free Application for Student Aid and submit a loan request form to Student Financial Services.
Institutional Accreditor: Middle States Commission on Higher Education; www.msche.org
TEMPLE UNIVERSITY
Department of Rehabilitation Sciences
College of Health Professions and Social Work
3307 North Broad Street
Philadelphia, PA 19140-5101
Phone: (215) 707-4813; Fax: (215) 707-7656
E-Mail: bpfeiffe@temple.edu
Web site: www.temple.edu/OT
Contact Person: Beth Pfeiffer, PhD, OTR/L, BCP, Coordinator of Post-professional Occupational Therapy Programs
Degree Offered: Doctorate of Occupational Therapy
Major Area(s) of Study: Leadership, Clinical Teaching, and Clinical Research and Evidence-Based Practice
Area(s) of Concentration: Clinical specialty areas include but are not limited to: Early Intervention and School-Based Practice, Sensory Integration, Mental Health, Gerontology, and Entrepreneurship in Health Professions.
Distance Learning Options: Online distance education format with three on-campus weekends required per year.
Admission Requirements: Applicants must be certified as occupational therapists via the procedures specified by NBCOT or their country's accrediting agency and have a master's degree in occupational therapy or another field. Applicants are expected to have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 in graduate work and/or a GRE score of 50% or higher. GRE scores are not required for the application process if you have successfully completed graduate work with a GPA of 3.0 or above.
Special Features: The program is offered in a flexible format for working professionals and can be completed over 5 semesters. Students develop a professional development plan at the beginning of the program to guide them through the curriculum and to develop a professional portfolio based on experiences throughout the program. Students complete a clinical specialty field study and a capstone project directed by the professional development plan. This is all integrated into the required course work.
Financial Aid: Student loans and tuition reimbursement from employers are often available; graduate extern and research assistantships are available on a limited basis.
Institutional Accreditor: Middle States Commission on Higher Education; http://www.msche.org/
THOMAS JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY
Department of Occupational Therapy
Jefferson School of Health Professions
Edison Building, Room 810, 130 South 9th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19107-5233
Phone: (215) 503-9610; Fax: (215) 503-3499
E-mail: susan.toth-cohen@jefferson.edu
Web site: PhD Program
Contact Person: Susan Toth-Cohen, PhD, OTR/L, Director of Occupational Therapy Doctoral Program
Degree Offered: Postprofessional OTD
Major Area(s) of Study: Children and Their Families in Context (includes early intervention and school practice, consultation and collaboration, and sensory integration treatment and clinical research); Health and Community Participation (includes healthy aging, public health, community mental health, community participation with chronic conditions); Rehabilitation and Disability Studies (includes neuroscience, hand therapy).
Area(s) of Concentration: Physical Dysfunction; Mental Health; Gerontology; Education; Administration; Research; Other: Sensory Integration
Distance Learning Options: All courses are offered via an online learning format. Students travel to the Center City Philadelphia campus twice each semester to take classes on a weekend day (Saturday or Sunday).
Admission Requirements: 3.0 GPA in master’s program, statement of goals for the OTD, NBCOT certification (in states without licensure), license (in states with licensure)
Special Features: In this flexible, highly individualized program, students take a series of core and advanced practice courses. The core courses are designed to prepare students to be advanced evidence-based practitioners, develop and evaluate innovative practice, and move beyond traditional roles as occupational therapy leaders. Students take a doctoral seminar course each semester they are enrolled, to integrate their professional development and clinical experience with the advanced knowledge and skills they gain in the doctoral courses. The advanced practice course cluster includes teaching and electives offered each semester. With assistance from their mentor(s), students design a clinical fellowship program that includes outcome goals and an implementation plan. The final capstone course provides an opportunity to synthesize and apply the knowledge gained through the fellowship and the program.
Financial Aid: Graduate research assistantships provided through a federal work study program for full-time students who qualify for financial aid.
Institutional Accreditor: Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools; http://www.msche.org/
UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH
Department of Occupational Therapy
School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences
5014 Forbes Tower
Pittsburgh, PA 15260
Phone: (412) 647-6621; Fax: (412) 647-6613
E-mail: jcr@pitt.edu
Web site: www.shrs.pitt.edu/OT/
Contact Person: Joan C. Rogers, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA, Chairperson
Degree(s) Offered: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Major Area(s) of Study: Rehabilitation Science
Area(s) of Concentration: Assistive Technology, Biomechanics, Evidence-based Practice, Policy and Management, Psychosocial aspects of disability, Health Information systems, ICF: Activities, Participation, and Environmental Factors, Sports Medicine, Neural basis of sensory and motor function and dysfuntion
Distance Learning Options: Not Available
Admission Requirements: 3.0 GPA/4.0; GRE of 1500 minimum for V.Q. & A sections combined; essay; resume; 3 references.
Special Features: Carnegie Level I Research University and member of the prestigious Association of American Universities. Internationally-renowned academic medical center. Numerous clinical and research opportunities. Part-time and full-time graduate education.
Financial Aid: Graduate Student Assistantships available. Salaried employment in community-based facilities.
Institutional Accreditor: Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools; http://www.msche.org/
Texas
TEXAS WOMAN'S UNIVERSITY
School of Occupational Therapy
304 Administration Drive
Denton, TX 75231
Phone: (214) 706-2308
E-Mail: sschultz@twu.edu
Web site: www.twu.edu/ot
Contact Person: Sally Schultz, PhD, OTR, LPC-S, Coordinator of Doctoral Programs
Degree(s) Offered: PhD in Occupational Therapy
Major Area(s) of Study: Available areas of research are defined by the individual doctoral teaching faculty. Applicants must identify one of the doctoral teaching faculty members as a Research Mentor prior to acceptance in the program. See the TWU PhD/OT Web site for information on faculty lines of research. Contact the PhD Coordinator directly to discuss the program.
Area(s) of Concentration: The program has an emphasis on the use of occupation to promote adaptation. The curriculum prepares researchers with demonstrated competencies in studying occupational therapy and the effect of such interventions. Practicum experiences are included in the curriculum for the student to develop expertise in preparation for academic and other leadership roles.
Distance Learning Options: The PhD program (estab. 1993) has been offered primarily online since 2008. The courses are taught in a blended format with approximately 75% of the learning experiences provided via distance learning and the remainder in a 2.5 day workshop near the beginning and end of each semester. Fall and Summer Workshops occur at the Dallas Campus, while the Spring Workshops occur at the TWU Houston Campus.
Admission Requirements: Master's degree in occupational therapy or related field, initial certification as an occupational therapist by NBCOT, 3.20 GPA in previous graduate work, satisfactory GRE scores, essay on motivation to acquire a PhD in OT, three letters of recommendation related to academic abilities/research potential, and a telephone interview with the PhD/OT Doctoral Admissions Committee. A maximum of 10 students are admitted each fall.
Special Features: The PhD program has always been designed to be compatible with the needs of the part-time student. Students progress through the common knowledge-base courses as a cohort. They are expected to enroll in 6 credit hours (two courses) each semester of the first two years. The common courses are complemented by individualized study and completion of a dissertation under the direction of the student's Research Mentor. Over 35 graduates of the program are currently working as faculty, consultants, and advanced level practitioners. The program attracts students from all over the U.S. and other countries such as India, Canada, Colombia, Jordan, and Kuwait. The average time for graduation is 4.25 years from the student's first doctoral-level course.
Financial Aid: Graduate teaching/research assistantships; scholarships.
Institutional Accreditor: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools; http://www.sacscoc.org/
US ARMY - BAYLOR UNIVERSITY
San Antonio Military Medical Center
MCHE-DOR-OT (DScOT)
3551 Roger Brooke Drive
Fort Sam Houston, TX 78234-6200
Phone: (210) 808-2231; Fax: (210) 808-2235
E-Mail: yvette.woods.mil@mail.mil
Web site: www.baylor.edu/graduate/index.php?id=74398
Contact Person: Yvette Woods, PhD, OTR/L, Program Director, US Army-Baylor Doctor of Science in Occupational Therapy
Degree(s) Offered: Doctor of Science (DSc) in Occupational Therapy
Major Area(s) of Study: The DScOT program is a post-professional, 18-month advanced practice clinical degree designed to prepare Army OTs to meet the following goals: to design and implement occupational therapy assessment and interventions that analyze, specify, and improve occupational performance outcomes at all health care delivery levels; to operationalize relevant evidence-based care delivery in the assessment and treatment of complex injuries and illnesses associated with combat operations; to demonstrate advanced clinical reasoning and the ability to apply research in occupational therapy practice for evaluating, diagnosing, and treating clients experiencing poly-trauma sustained in all phases of combat operations; to demonstrate competency in the critical review, analysis, design, and production of research that establish occupational therapist as technically and tactically proficient clinical scientists who are vital to the Military Health Care System; and to apply operationally effective and situationally relevant advanced leadership skills to influence health care delivery and policy from the battlefield to the boardroom.
Area(s) of Concentration: Behavioral Health; Warrior Rehabilitation; Research; and Advanced Practice
Distance Learning Options: Not available.
Admission Requirements: Registered and licensed occupational therapist; U.S. citizen; at least 21 years of age; possess a bachelor's or master's degree in occupational therapy with a cumulative undergraduate and graduate GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale); must have completed the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) with a minimum cumulative score of 1000/297; and must meet the U.S. Army medical and physical fitness standards. (If applicant possesses a bachelor's degree in OT, applicant must have earned at least 9 post-professional clinical hours (post OT degree)
Obligations:
• 60 months on active duty in the US Army which includes training time and
• 36 months in the Individual Ready Reserve (inactive reserves).
Special Features: Students will complete a program which emphasizes warrior rehabilitation with 8 clinical residencies in the following special treatment areas: Behavioral/Mental Health, Post Traumatic Stress, Combat Operational Stress Control, Warrior Transition Units, Amputee Rehabilitation, Burn and Trauma, Traumatic Brain Injury, and Upper Extremity Conditions. The program is conducted at the San Antonio Military Medical Center, Fort Sam Houston (San Antonio), TX.
Financial Aid: Fully funded.
Institutional Accreditor: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools; http://www.sacscoc.org/
Utah
ROCKY MOUNTAIN UNIVERSITY OF HEALTH PROFESSIONS
561 East 1860 South
Provo, UT 84606-7312
Phone: (801) 375-5125 or (866) 780-4107 (Toll Free); Fax: (801) 375-2125
E-mail: info@rmuohp.edu
Web site: http://www.rmuohp.edu/
Contact Person(s): Bryce Greenberg, Director of Admissions
Degrees Offered: OTD, PhD
Major Area(s) of Study:
OTD - The transitional Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) program is designed to provide meaningful, obtainable, and affordable post-professional education and facilitate the development of the 21st century occupational therapist practitioner. The goal of Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions is to address the public's need for high quality occupational therapy service by providing practicing clinicians with opportunities to develop knowledge, skills, and behaviors commensurate with contemporary practice and education standards. The OTD program will broaden the student's perspective to include current topics such as occupation-centered theory and practice, evidence-based practice, and occupational science. In addition, the program will highlight the areas of marketing and administration, educational techniques, and applied research to ensure excellence in the field of occupational therapy.
PhD - The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree is comprised of a post-professional curriculum that includes 18-24 months of didactic classroom and independent study; a practicum (for some programs) experience designed to augment the didactic portion of the curriculum and to provide opportunities to achieve community-based, student-specific learning goals; and a culminating dissertation. The PhD offers a combination of clinical and academic components, which is ideal for healthcare professionals. RMUoHP also includes a specialty component to contribute to the depth of learning. Specialties include Health Promotion and Wellness and Pediatric Therapy.
Area(s) of Concentration: The transitional OTD program is designed to be relevant and applicable for OTs in any area of concentration. Additionally, RMUoHP offers annual elective tracks in hand therapy and pediatric therapy. The PhD is available to OTs in the field of pediatrics or health promotion and wellness.
Distance Learning Options: All RMUoHP programs follow a limited-residency academic model that allows students to manage their home and professional demands while pursuing their advanced degree. No relocation is required. For the 22-credit OTD program, students need only be on campus for a total of two weeks over a one-year period (one week every six months). Students complete all coursework from home, as related to the courses taken on-site, as well as a directed independent study project. For the on-site sessions, RMUoHP brings in diverse, expert faculty from around the United States. For the 75-credit PhD programs, students complete seven four-five month semesters, each of which includes a week-long session. Students complete their dissertation from home. The average PhD student completes the degree in approximately four-to-five years.
Admission Requirements: For all degree programs, students must submit the following: application form, $150 application fee, two letters of recommendation, statement of professional goals (essay), copy of professional licensure, curriculum vitae, and evidence of professional liability coverage. In addition, foreign-educated students must submit degree credential evaluations and take the TOEFL exam (for those of whom English is not an official native language). Students must have a laptop computer and be proficient with e-mail, Internet, and word processing.
Applicants to the OTD or PhD programs must have current US occupational therapy licenses. OTD applicants may have either a bachelor's or master's degree; PhD applicants must have either a master's degree or doctorate.
Special Features: RMUoHP's limited-residency model provides an ideal blend of traditional face-to-face learning with the flexibility of a distance program.
Financial Aid: Deferred tuition payment programs are available; e-mail businessoffice@rmuohp.edu for details.
Institutional Accreditor: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). http://www.nwccu.org/
UNIVERSITY OF UTAH
Division of Occupational Therapy
520 Wakara Way
Salt Lake City, UT 84108-1209
Phone: (801)581-9135; Fax: (801) 585-1001
E-mail: donna.costa@hsc.utah.edu
Web site: http://www.health.utah.edu/ot/OTD/index.html
Contact Person(s): Donna Costa, DHS, OTR/L, FAOTA, Director of OTD Program
Degrees Offered: OTD
Major Area(s) of Study: The OTD program at the University of Utah focuses on: providing clinicians with a stronger, more up-to-date theoretical base, advancing their leadership skills, as well as providing them with knowledge and skills in evidence-based research related to their chosen area of emphasis. The purpose of the OTD program is to provide a professional doctorate curriculum to practicing occupational therapists with the goal in mind of expanding their knowledge, skills and experience to enable them to become clinical scholars who will continue to autonomously function as occupational therapists within their scope of practice, contribute to the evidence-based literature that drives practice, and become leaders in the profession.
Area(s) of Concentration: Students may select from one of the following areas of specialization: Contemporary Trends in Practice with Children and Youth, Occupational Justice, Disability Studies, Excellence in Teaching, Program and Policy Development and Advocacy, and Optimal Aging
Distance Learning Options: This program is fully online, offering a combination of synchronous and asynchronous learning. There are no on-campus residency requirements.
Admission Requirements: Applicant students must submit the following: application forms to the Graduate School and to the OTD program, $75 application fee, three letters of recommendation, statement of professional goals (essay), copy of state licensure, copy of initial or current NBCOT certification, and curriculum vitae or resume. In addition, foreign-educated students must submit degree credential evaluations and take the TOEFL exam (when English is not an official native language). Students must have a laptop computer and be proficient with email, Internet, and word processing.
Applicants to the OTD program must have a current state-issued occupational therapy license and initial certification from NBCOT or AOTCB. OTD applicants may have either a bachelor's or master's degree
Special Features: The University of Utah’s OTD program is fully online, designed for the busy practitioner who wants to advance his or her education on a part-time basis. The OTD program is an approved program in the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE)-Western Regional Graduate Program (WRGP), which provides a mechanism for students in 15 Western states to be eligible for in-state tuition.
Financial Aid: Students seeking financial aid should obtain more information from the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships at: http://www.sa.utah.edu/finance/
Institutional Accreditor: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). http://www.nwccu.org
Virginia
VIRGINIA COMMONWEALTH UNIVERSITY
Department of Occupational Therapy
PO Box 980008
730 E. Broad Street
Richmond, VA 23298-0008
Phone: (804) 828-2289; Fax: (804) 828-0782
E-mail: sjlane@vcu.edu
Web site:www.sahp.vcu.edu/occu/
Contact Person: Shelly J. Lane, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA, Director, Post-Professional Education
Degree(s) Offered:: Post-Professional Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD); Interdisciplinary PhD in Health Related Sciences with Occupational Therapy Concentration
Major Area(s) of Study:
OTD: Emphasizes professional leadership with a focus on advocacy, proposal writing, advanced critical thinking, and the promotion of evidence bases for practice. The program culminates in a Capstone Leadership Project that builds on individual interests and foundational knowledge from current practice, as well as knowledge gained through coursework in the program.
PhD HRS: This program is administered by the School of Allied Health, with an OT concentration. Structured as a 4-year course of study, it is intended to meet the critical need for doctorally prepared allied health professionals across the nation in the areas of teaching, research, and administration. Students need to match their areas of interest to those of the faculty. Research interests are listed on the VCU OT Web page.
Area(s) of Concentration: Physical Dysfunction (focus on research and program development in neurorehabilitation, assistive technology, low vision, gerontology, and other related areas); Education (OTD: Opportunities to build both classroom and clinical teaching skills; PhD HRS: coursework on developing a course and teach in the area of interdisciplinary health care); Administration (OTD: Leadership courses and capstone project enhance administrative skills; PhD HRS: coursework examines changes in the allied health disciplines from an interdisciplinary administrative perspective); Research (PhD HRS: emphasis on building research skills that culminate in a dissertation. Faculty research topics include sensory processing and integration, cognitive prosthetics, low-vision rehabilitation, the teaching-learning process, caregiver respite, mother-child interaction.); Technology (Both: opportunities to build advanced skills in use of contemporary technologies for use with adults and children for low vision rehabilitation, neurorehabilitation, and school-based interventions); and Other (Both: opportunities to collaborate with faculty in Gerontology, Health Administration, Nurse Anesthesia, Occupational Therapy, Patient Counseling, Physical Therapy, Radiation Sciences, and Rehabilitation Counseling).
Distance Learning Options: All courses in the programs are available in distance education format, with some on-campus time. The amount and timing of on-campus activities varies with the semester and the specific program. Please contact the department for specifics.
Admission Requirements:
OTD-BS or MS degree in occupational therapy; cumulative GPA of at least a 3.0; Graduate Record Examination (GRE) taken within the last 5 years; completion of VCU Graduate School Application; completion of supplemental applications for OTD (leadership interests); 3 letters of recommendation; and transcripts indicating completion of degrees from accredited college or university. Supplemental application materials required. Please visit the department Web site for further details.
PhD HRS-Includes all of above and a written essay that discusses career goals and the manner in which this doctoral program will enhance those goals, and what the applicant expects to contribute to this program; curriculum vitae.
Special Features:
OTD: leadership focus, capstone project required.
PhD HRS: interdisciplinary faculty and classes, research has OT focus, mentorship available, dissertation required.
Financial Aid: Faculty grant funding may support student research. Graduate student loans are available. Students interested in receiving information on financial aid should contact:
VCU Director of Financial Aid
MCV Campus
Box 980244
Richmond, VA 23298-0244
(804) 828-9800
FAFSA
Federal Student Aid
Institutional Accreditor: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools; http://www.sacscoc.org/
Washington
UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON
Department of Rehabilitation Medicine
1959 NE Pacific Street, Box 356490
Seattle, WA 98195-6490
Phone: (206) 598-5338; Fax: (206) 685-3244
E-Mail: rehabphd@u.washington.edu
Web site: http://depts.washington.edu/rehab/phd/index.html
Contact Person:
Deborah Kartin, PhD, Director, PhD Program in Rehabilitation Science and Graduate Program Coordinator, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine
Victoria Corrin, MAT, Academic Counselor, PhD Program in Rehabilitation Science
Degree(s) Offered: PhD in Rehabilitation Science
Major Area(s) of Study: Rehabilitation Science is an interdisciplinary field focusing on human function and disability. Basic and applied research from health sciences, social sciences, engineering, and related fields are directed toward (1) enhancing physical and psychosocial functioning, participation in life situations, and quality of life of people with disabilities; and (2) informing relevant social and health care policy. The nationally recognized Department of Rehabilitation Medicine at the University of Washington offers a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Rehabilitation Science Degree Program.
Area(s) of Concentration: Education Required course in teaching and teaching practicum; Research Required 18 course credits in research design and statistics; Technology Core course series includes a course on Technology and Disability, numerous opportunities for collaboration with computer science and engineering and other technology resources on campus; Other Each student develops 3 cognates (areas of focus) based on their interests, which may include any of the areas listed.
Distance Learning Options: Not available.
Admission Requirements: The program targets students from rehabilitation-related fields including occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech and language pathology, rehab counseling, medicine, nursing, prosthetics and orthotic, and engineering. The program is committed to expanding the diversity of rehabilitation scientists to meet the needs of the increasingly diverse population. Interested individuals from underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply.
Previous background, including work experience (preferred) and licensure and/or certification to practice (as appropriate), in occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech and language pathology, rehabilitation counseling, prosthetics and orthotics, medicine, nursing, engineering, or other rehabilitation science-related field. Applicants with bachelor's, master's, and clinical doctoral degrees will be considered. Undergraduate and/or graduate minimum GPA of 3.0 in field of study. GRE scores within the last five years. Letters of reference from both academic and clinical settings as appropriate. Evidence of certification and licensure to practice as appropriate.
Special Features: This interdisciplinary PhD program provides a strong foundation in rehabilitation science and research. At the same time the program fosters individual development, allowing the student to individualize his/her PhD program according to specific content and disciplinary interests.
The goal of the PhD Program in Rehabilitation Science is to prepare researchers, educators, and leaders in the area of rehabilitation science to contribute to the development of rehabilitation practice, research, and policy. It is expected that graduates of the PhD Program in Rehabilitation Science will be prepared as researchers, educators, and leaders in the field of rehabilitation science, who will work in academic institutions, service delivery systems (e.g., hospitals, public schools), government agencies, and the private sector. These individuals will be prepared to address research, education, service delivery, and policy challenges requiring an interdisciplinary perspective. The following are three overarching outcomes for graduates of the PhD Program in Rehabilitation Science:
1. Demonstrate advanced knowledge and productivity in rehabilitation science specific to research, education, service delivery, and/or policy.
2. Demonstrate leadership in interdisciplinary collaboration for the purpose of optimizing research, education, service delivery, and/or policy.
3. Generate and extend knowledge that is innovative and rigorously tested within a focused area of rehabilitation science.
Students will complete a 7-quarter core course series and extensive coursework in research methods. In addition, students develop three cognates (areas of focus) to complete their individualized course of study.
Financial Aid: Although the program cannot guarantee financial assistance in the form of graduate student appointments, every effort is made to find opportunities within the Department’s ongoing research and training grants and projects. The program will also facilitate funding opportunities through other campus departments when appropriate. Information on financial assistance and scholarships may be obtained from the University of Washington Office of Financial Aid (http://www.washington.edu/students/osfa/ ; (206) 543-6101). Students should apply for financial aid as soon as possible, and prior to potential admission to the program.
Institutional Accreditor: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). http://www.nwccu.org/
Wisconsin
UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON
Occupational Therapy Program, Department of Kinesiology
1001 Gymnasium-Natatorium
2000 Observatory Drive
Madison, WI 53706
Web site: www.education.wisc.edu/kinesiology/OT
Contact Person:
John Hageman, Graduate Secretary
Phone: (608) 262-8730; Fax: (608) 262-1656
E-mail: hageman@education.wisc.edu
Mary Schneider, PhD, OTR, Graduate Coordinator
1300 University Avenue, Rm 2120 MSC
Madison, WI 53706-1532
Phone: (608) 265-5118
E-mail: schneider@education.wisc.edu
Degree(s) Offered: PhD in Kinesiology with Specialization in Therapeutic Science
Major Area(s) of Study: Therapeutic Science
Area(s) of Concentration: Faculty mentor model with faculty expertise in the following:
Schneider: Neurobiology of social attachment, prenatal stress, alcohol-related neurodevelopmental effects in a primate model of sensory modulation deficits.
Benedict: Epidemiology of functional limitations, therapy and support service needs, and impact of interventions among children with special needs.
Edwards: Independence and community participation among elders with Alzheimer's disease and stroke, effects on families and caregivers, health disparities and minority recruitment.
Larson: Well-being, cross-cultural differences, and daily occupations among mothers of children with disabilities; qualitative and mixed method, experience sampling and survey methodoligies.
Wilbarger: Affective and sensory processing among individuals with neuro-developmental disorders, neuro- and psychopsychological methodology.
Distance Learning Options: Online course in Assistive Technology; other courses under development.
Admission Requirements:
1) Graduate Record Examination (GRE) General Test (Verbal, Quantitative, and Analytical sections);
2) Satisfaction of University of Wisconsin-Madison Graduate School and Department of Kinesiology graduate admission requirements. Graduate from an approved program of basic professional education in occupational therapy. Completion of a Master's degree is required (may be completed within the Therapeutic Science Program). If the Master's degree was awarded without a thesis, then evidence of scholarly writing is required.
Special Features: The University of Wisconsin-Madison ranks as one of the most prolific research universities in the world, placing second among American public universities for research expenditures. Recently, the OT faculty has received over $7.3 million in federal research grants from the National Institute of Health. In 2008, the OT Program was ranked 12th by the U.S. News & World Report among programs training occupational therapists at the master's level.
Financial Aid: Caroline Thompson Fellowships, Project, Research and Teaching Assistantships, Maternal and Child Health Bureau Funded Traineeships through the Waisman Center LEND Program.
Institutional Accreditor: The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association; http://www.ncahigherlearningcommission.org/
