Doctoral

Occupational Therapy

Post-Professional Degree for Practicing Occupational Therapists

Through this practitioner-focused advanced degree, you will enhance your clinical and analytical skills, apply evidence to practice, and explore a clinical area of special interest through integrated core courses, electives, and the creation of an evidence-based professional electronic portfolio (ePortfolio).

Building the ePortfolio involves three steps:

1. You will complete an analysis of your current practices to determine career goals consistent with an area of specialization and develop a professional development plan.

2. You will use your academic coursework and clinical experience to collect, catalog, and reflect on “artifacts” that demonstrate the knowledge and skills gained through academic and clinical work throughout the degree.

3. The chair of the committee and content member review the ePortfolio based on its consistency with evidence-based knowledge in the area of exploration and your professional development. You will then present and defend the portfolio in a public presentation.

With an OTD, you will be well-positioned for a range of careers, including becoming a faculty member for an occupational therapy program, a researcher, a practitioner or supervisor in a health facility, or a health planner or policy maker in government and public service agencies.

Advanced clinical degrees are increasingly recognized as an important health care credential in occupational therapy and other professions. As a result, you may qualify for more advanced positions in practice and administration with an OTD.