Doctor of Occupational Therapy (entry-level)

The entry-level Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) program prepares students with baccalaureate degrees earned in a range of disciplines to become qualified occupational therapists. The program includes four on-campus terms, online courses during the summer months, fieldwork, and capstone components. The curriculum is designed to provide an excellent education for students planning for professional roles as occupational therapy practitioners in traditional settings, as well as in emerging areas of practice.

The three-year OTD program includes two years (four terms) of on-campus academic work, Level I Fieldwork integrated into all terms of on-campus courses, two summer terms of online coursework, completion of two full-time, 12-week clinical experiences (Level II Fieldwork), and the doctoral capstone, which includes a 14-week experience and associated project. The on-campus component is full time and consists of daytime and weekday classes. Two online courses are completed each summer. Level II Fieldwork experiences are completed after the first two years of the program, and the doctoral practicum and capstone begin after Level II Fieldwork is completed. The OTD program begins in the fall term, and courses are sequential. Therefore, we offer no options for spring entrance into the program or for part-time study.

Clinical courses make extensive use of case examples that are presented from a life course perspective. This life course approach differs from the traditional divisions by diagnosis (mental health, physical disabilities) or age group (pediatrics, geriatrics) and guides the introduction of relevant assessment, intervention, and systems factors as they would typically occur in relation to each part of the life course.

Learning Outcomes
The graduate will:

Achieve competence for entry-level occupational therapy practice by consistently providing client-centered, theory-driven, evidence- and occupation-based assessment, and intervention for all clients (individuals, groups, and populations).
Demonstrate exemplary professionalism.
Demonstrate advanced knowledge in a selected area of focus (advanced clinical practice, research, program and policy development, advocacy, education).
Be an agent of change in the delivery models and systems used in current and emerging occupational therapy practice areas.

Official transcript(s) showing evidence of completion of (or intention to complete) a baccalaureate degree. The program does not require a particular undergraduate concentration, and we encourage applicants with a diversity of backgrounds. A cumulative grade point average (GPA) of at least 3.0 in undergraduate coursework is required. Prerequisite courses taken after completion of a baccalaureate degree are not counted toward the GPA.
Scores on the aptitude portion of the GRE General Test. GREs must be taken within the past five years.
Three letters of reference, to be submitted electronically or in paper form directly to OTCAS. One should be from a person who can address your intellectual and academic abilities.

TOEFL iBT - 90 (With a Minimum 20 in each section)
A total/overall score of 7 or higher on IELTS will also satisfy BU's English Language proficiency requirement for all programs.