If you envision yourself in a leadership role within occupational therapy or aspire to run your own OT practice, the Doctor of Occupational Therapy program at USAHS may be the best program for you. You will complete the same curriculum as the MOT, then continue for two additional terms focused on leadership, advocacy, and policymaking. You will also engage in a capstone project, in which you will choose your own area of interest within OT and investigate it deeply.
Earning a doctoral degree is helpful for future occupational therapy practitioners who seek roles in practice leadership, on boards of professional associations, in patient advocacy, and in rehabilitation science research.
In the Residential OTD, you will watch lectures online and participate in on-campus clinical lab classes on weekdays. Or, if you work, have family obligations, or live a distance from campus, the Flex OTD is a path for you to earn your doctorate in occupational therapy on an expanded timetable.
At USAHS, we offer two formats for the OTD: Residential and Flex.
Residential OTD
Online coursework + in-person labs on weekdays
117 credit hours over 8 trimesters*
2.7 years
Sept., Jan. & May start dates
Two trimesters of fieldwork experiences
Capstone project
Flex OTD
Online coursework + in-person labs on weekends
117 credit hours over 11 trimesters*
3.7 years
Sept. & May start dates
Two trimesters of fieldwork experiences
Capstone project
*Time to completion may vary by student, depending on individual progress, credits transferred and other factors.
How Our OTD Program Stands Apart
We put students first.
USAHS' Doctor of Occupational Therapy degree program is rooted in our student-FIRST philosophy: Everything we do is focused on student success. We strive to offer the best academic experience and career preparation through our learning model, support services, and special events.
Our blended learning model gives you the best of both worlds: the convenience of online lectures, plus the engagement of hands-on practice. You'll watch lectures online in advance. Then when you come to campus, you’ll be ready to participate in meaningful hands-on class activities with faculty and other students.
From your very first week of classes, you'll get experience working in our state-of-the-art simulation labs, featuring real medical equipment and leading EdTech tools. You'll engage in realistic scenarios with your classmates to help mock patients manage their activities of daily living. The OTD degree program also includes two trimesters of fieldwork experiences, where you will get real-world occupational therapy practice.
Our EdTech tools include 3D printers for creating adaptive equipment, BTE Primus machines for measuring client movement, driving simulators for improving client driving skills, Anatomage Tables for virtual dissection, Double robots for remote patient consultation, and more. You’ll practice using this state-of-the-art technology so you’ll be ready to provide the best patient care.
Through immersive lab sessions, you’ll gain hands-on experience in a simulated clinical setting. You’ll also complete two trimesters of real-world fieldwork, preparing you for the rigors and rewards of OT practice.
Students in the program earn a total of 117 credits, including 79 credits of core courses with virtual didactic coursework, 22 credits of fieldwork, and 16 credits representing the doctoral capstone experience. Upon successful completion of the OTD program, you’ll be eligible to take the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) certification examination.
Residential OTD Curriculum
Core Courses
Credit Hours
Trimester I
HSC 5136 Evidence - Informed Practice I: Research Fundamentals
2
OCT 5130C Skills and Techniques for Client Care Management
3
OCT 5135C Anatomy Applied to Occupation
5
OCT 5140 Domain of Occupational Therapy
3
OCT 5146 Occupational Engagement and Theories of Practice
3
Total Credit Hours
16
Trimester II
OCT 5225C Process of Occupational Therapy
4
OCT 5230C Conditions Impacting Occupational Performance
4
OCT 5210 Scholarly Design
2
OCT 5217C Human Movement for Occupational Performance
3
OCT 5232C Clinical Neuroscience
4
Total Credit Hours
17
Trimester III
OCT 5340 Scholarly Implementation and Dissemination
2
OCT 5335C Clinical Applications of Occupational Therapy in Psychosocial and Community Settings
5
OCT 5410C Clinical Applications in Adulthood
5
OCT 5330C OT Methods I: Assistive Technology
3
OCT 5365 Wellness and Health Promotion
3
OCT 6310 OTD Seminar 1
1
Total Credit Hours
19
Trimester IV
OCT 5355C Clinical Applications of Occupational Therapy in Pediatrics/Adolescence
5
OCT 5425C Clinical Applications in Older Adults
5
OCT 5445C OT Methods II: Orthotics, Prosthetics and Modalities
3
OCT 5470 Administration & Management in Occupational Therapy
3
OCT 6420 OTD Seminar 2
1
Total Credit Hours
17
Trimester V
OCT 5550 Fieldwork IIA (min 12 weeks)
11
OCT 6530 OTD Seminar 3
1
Total Credit Hours
12
Trimester VI
OCT 5660 Fieldwork IIB (min 12 weeks)
11
OCT 6640 OTD Seminar 4
1
Total Credit Hours
12
Trimester VII
OCT 6700 Capstone Project
2
OCT 6745 Scholarship of Practice
3
OCT 6720 Leadership & Advocacy
3
OCT 6731 Capstone Experience 1 (last 4 weeks)
4
Total Credit Hours
12
Trimester VIII
OCT 6832 Capstone Experience 2
12
Total Credit Hours
12
Total OTD Program Credit Hours
117
Flex OTD Curriculum
Core Courses
Credit Hours
Trimester I
OCT 5135C Anatomy Applied to Occupation
5
OCT 5140 Domain of Occupational Therapy
3
OCT 5146 Occupational Engagement and Theories of Practice
3
Total Credit Hours
11
Trimester II
HSC 5136 Evidence - Informed Practice I: Research Fundamentals
2
OCT 5130C Skills and Techniques for Client Care Management
3
OCT 5225C Process of Occupational Therapy
4
Total Credit Hours
9
Trimester III
OCT 5210 Scholarly Design
2
OCT 5217C Human Movement for Occupational Performance
3
OCT 5230C Conditions Impacting Occupational Performance
4
Total Credit Hours
9
Trimester IV
OCT 5232C Clinical Neuroscience
4
OCT 5335C Clinical Applications of Occupational Therapy in Psychosocial and Community Settings
5
Total Credit Hours
9
Trimester V
OCT 5365 Wellness and Health Promotion
3
OCT 5340 Scholarly Implementation and Dissemination
2
OCT 5355C Clinical Applications of Occupational Therapy in Pediatrics/Adolescence
5
OCT 6310 OTD Seminar 1
1
Total Credit Hours
11
Trimester VI
OCT 5470 Administration & Management in Occupational Therapy
3
OCT 5330C OT Methods I: Assistive Technology
3
OCT 5410C Clinical Applications in Adulthood
5
Total Credit Hours
11
Trimester VII
OCT 5425C Clinical Applications in Older Adults
5
OCT 6420 OTD Seminar 2
1
OCT 5445C OT Methods II: Orthotics, Prosthetics and Modalities
3
Total Credit Hours
9
Trimester VIII
OCT 5550 Fieldwork IIA
11
OCT 6530 OTD Seminar 3
1
Total Credit Hours
12
Trimester IX
OCT 5660 Fieldwork IIB
11
OCT 6640 OTD Seminar 4
1
Total Credit Hours
12
Trimester X
OCT 6720 Leadership & Advocacy
3
OCT 6745 Scholarship of Practice
3
OCT 6700 Capstone Project
2
OCT 6731 Capstone Experience 1
4
Total Credit Hours
12
Trimester XI
OCT 6832 Capstone Experience 2
12
Total Credit Hours
12
Total OTD Program Credit Hours
117
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OTD Admission Requirements
Candidates must meet the following admission requirements in order to be considered for the occupational therapy doctorate program.
Requirements Starting Fall 2022
Bachelor’s Degree: Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher. You can apply while you are still enrolled in an undergraduate degree program or while you are completing prerequisite coursework. You should submit a plan of study with your application that indicates all remaining courses that will be completed prior to program enrollment.
GRE: The GRE is no longer required for admission to USAHS Occupational Therapy Program.
Resume: Include a current resume with your application.
Statement of Purpose: Include a short statement of why you wish to pursue occupational therapy as a career and what attracts you to the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences.
OT Supplemental Questions: Provide five short answers to help us learn more about you.
An Occupational Therapist enables people to engage in occupations they want to do, need to do, or are expected to do. What is an occupation you enjoy engaging in, and what positive impact does this have on you? (200 words max)
Occupational Therapists enable people to do what they want to do. Can you explain when you have enabled others through occupation? (200 words max)
Please share how you have participated in volunteerism to be a force for good in your community. (200 words max)
List two attributes you have which you consider crucial to being an effective Occupational Therapist. (200 words max)
How would your former professors describe you? (200 words max)
Letters of Recommendation: Applicants are required to submit two recommendations. While it is advised that at least one comes from an OT clinician, it is acceptable to have both from college and university instructors. Only recommendations meeting the requirements will count towards the total required confirmed number.
Observation Hours: The Occupational Therapy department does not require observation hours to apply for our graduate programs, however, it is highly recommended that all applicants observe occupational therapy in at least two areas of practice. This will not only support your submission essays; it will also help to ensure that you are well suited for this field of study.
OTD Essay: Please select one the topics listed below and write a succinct (800-1000 word, double spaced) essay that exhibits your understanding of the issue and its potential impact on occupational therapy practice. Be sure to support your assertions and show your sources of information (use at least 3 sources) using in-text citations and include a reference list of cited sources. The essay will be evaluated by the faculty admissions committee to assess preparedness for graduate studies and to identify the assistance needed for success in the program.
Essay topic options (select one)
Working with marginalized populations in healthcare
Working with other professions as an occupational therapist
Telehealth and occupational therapy
The rising cost of healthcare and access to occupational therapy
Healthcare disparities and access to occupational therapy
Diversity, equity, and inclusion in healthcare
Ethical dilemmas in the rehabilitation fields
US health trends that will impact occupation in the future
Addressing the needs of vulnerable populations in occupational therapy
The use of technologies in the delivery of occupational therapy
Prerequisites: Admissions recommends that all prerequisite coursework be no more than 5 years old. This is a recommendation and is preferred, it is not a requirement to apply. You will be asked to provide official transcripts during the application process.
All prerequisite courses must be completed with a grade of “C” (2.0) or better. You can find our OTD prerequisite form here. Evidence of successful completion of the following prerequisites is required:
Required Prerequisite Courses
Semester Hours
Quarter Hours
Anatomy and Physiology with Lab Acceptable course titles to fulfill this requirement include:
Human Anatomy and Physiology I & II-Topics covered are: cell physiology, histology, integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous and sensory systems. Emphasis is on the interaction of structure and function and the mechanisms which maintain homeostasis in the human body.
General Human Anatomy-In its broadest sense, anatomy is the study of the structure of an object, in this case the human body. Human anatomy deals with the way the parts of humans, from molecules to bones, interact to form a functional unit. The study of anatomy is distinct from the study of physiology, although the two are often paired
General Human Physiology- is the study of how the human body functions. This includes the mechanical, physical, bioelectrical, and biochemical functions of humans in good health, from organs to the cells of which they are composed Not Acceptable: Animal Physiology (must be human), Exercise Physiology, or Clinical Physiology
8
12
Sociology or Anthropology Acceptable course titles to fulfill this requirement include:
Sociology - Sociology is the study of human social relationships and institutions. Sociology’s subject matter is diverse, ranging from crime to religion, from the family to the state, from the divisions of race and social class to the shared beliefs of a common culture, and from social stability to radical change in whole societies. Unifying the study of these diverse subjects is sociology’s purpose of understanding how human action and consciousness both shape and are shaped by surrounding cultural and social structures.
Anthropology - Anthropology is the systematic study of humanity, with the goal of understanding our evolutionary origins, our distinctiveness as a species, and the great diversity in our forms of social existence across the world and through time. The focus of Anthropology is on understanding both our shared humanity and diversity and engaging with diverse ways of being in the world. Anthropology is divided into three subfields: sociocultural, biological, and archaeology. USAHS will accept sociocultural and biological anthropology subjects in fulfillment of their pre-requisite, but not archeology.
Sociocultural Anthropology - Sociocultural anthropologists interpret the content of particular cultures, explain variation among cultures, and study processes of cultural change and social transformation. Common topics include human ecology; gender relations; culture and ideology; demography and family systems; race, class and gender inequality; resistance movements; colonialism, neocolonialism, and development; and cultural politics.
Biological Anthropology - Biological anthropologists study a variety of aspects of human evolutionary biology. Some examine fossils and apply their observations to understanding human evolution; others compare morphological, biochemical, genetic, and physiological adaptations of living humans to their environments; still others observe behavior of human and nonhuman primates (monkeys and apes) to understand the roots of human behavior.
3
4.5
Human Growth and Development Across the Lifespan - This course focuses on theories and perspectives of the human organism’s growth from birth to death. It examines the development of physical, biological, cognitive, linguistic, social, and emotional aspects, as well as personality traits, in people of all ages.
Not acceptable: Courses that cover only psychological/mental aspects (must include physical and social aspects). Courses that cover only growth (must include development as well). Must encompass the entire lifespan.
3
4.5
Abnormal Psychology Abnormal psychology is a branch of psychology that studies unusual patterns of behavior, emotion and thought, which could possibly be understood as a mental disorder. It involves the study, assessment, treatment, and prevention of maladaptive behavior.
3
4.5
Statistics Statistics is the study of the collection, analysis, interpretation, presentation, and organization of data. This course includes measures of central tendency and variability, probability, random variables, normal and binomial distributions, confidence intervals, tests of hypotheses, correlation and simple linear regression, descriptive and inferential techniques and concepts which apply to sample data which has been gathered from a population.
3
4.5
Medical Terminology Medical terminology is language used to precisely describe the human body including its components, processes, conditions affecting it, and procedures performed upon it. Medical terminology is used in the field of medicine and other health professions. Applicants may complete this requirement one of three ways – (1) standard credit-bearing course with submission of an official transcript, (2) CEU course with submission of a certificate of completion or official transcript or (3) USAHS non-credit course with evidence of successful completion. Option #3 is only available to deposited MOT, Flex MOT, OTD, & Flex OTD incoming students and is offered online free of charge. Deposited students electing to take the USAHS non-credit medical terminology course must successfully complete the experience at least one week before new student orientation.
N/A
N/A
Misrepresentation of Academic Credentials
Misrepresentation of academic credentials includes presenting information known as false and with the intent of obtaining employment or admission to an educational program at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences. Statements made and documents supplied by the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences’ applicants and students must be complete and accurate. The University will not tolerate any misrepresentation by a student or applicant of past or current academic programs, degrees, or professional accomplishments. If unexplained discrepancies appear between statements or documents provided to the University of St. Augustine and information obtained otherwise, except in the case of misspellings and other such inadvertent errors, applicants may be rejected for admission and enrolled students may be dismissed.
Additional Information
A comprehensive background check requiring fingerprints and drug screen will be administered after acceptance into the program and at the applicant’s expense. A felony charge and or conviction may affect a graduate’s ability to sit for the NBCOT certification examination or to attain state licensure.
This is a hybrid program requiring both virtual (distance education) and face-to-face class participation. Online learners need access to/use of a computer/word processor and basic technical skills to succeed. These skills include the ability to create new documents, use a word processing program, navigate the Internet, and download software. Attendance requirements are enforced.
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OTD Tuition & Fees
Tuition
The 117-credit-hour OTD program can be completed in 2 years and 8 months. Total program tuition and fees for the 2022-2023 academic year are as follows. Tuition estimates are based on the assumption that a student goes straight through the program, without breaks or repeating academic work.
Choose your program and the campus you are interested in attending to see the tuition and fee estimates. All tuition and fee numbers are subject to change.
Residential OTD
San Marcos, CA Campus
Tuition is approximately $13,737 per trimester for OTD students who attend our San Marcos, CA campus.
Tuition and Fees
School Expenses
Tuition
$109,893.00
Program Fees
$2,000.00
Books & Associated School Expenses
$4,200.00
Total Program Direct Expenses
$116,093.00
Students whose address on record is in California at the time tuition is first charged and/or who attend the California campus will be responsible for paying a one-time Student Tuition Recovery Fund non-refundable fee, pursuant to California Code of Regulations §76120.
St. Augustine, FL Campus
Tuition is approximately $13,737 per trimester for students who attend our St. Augustine, FL campus.
Tuition and Fees
School Expenses
Tuition - 117 credit hours
$109,893.00
Program Fees
$2,000.00
Books & Associated School Expenses
$4,200.00
Total Program Direct Expenses
$116,093.00
Miami, FL Campus
Tuition is approximately $13,737 per trimester for students who attend our Miami, FL campus.
Tuition and Fees
School Expenses
Tuition - 117 credit hours
$109,893.00
Program Fees
$2,000.00
Books & Associated School Expenses
$4,200.00
Total Program Direct Expenses
$116,093.00
Austin, TX Campus
Tuition is approximately $13,737 per trimester for students who attend our Austin, TX campus.
Tuition and Fees
School Expenses
Tuition - 117 credit hours
$109,893.00
Program Fees
$2,000.00
Books & Associated School Expenses
$4,200.00
Total Program Direct Expenses
$116,093.00
Dallas, TX Campus
Tuition is approximately $13,737 per trimester for students who attend our Dallas, TX campus.
Tuition and Fees
School Expenses
Tuition - 117 credit hours
$109,893.00
Program Fees
$2,000.00
Books & Associated School Expenses
$4,200.00
Total Program Direct Expenses
$116,093.00
Students whose address on record is in California at the time tuition is first charged and/or who attend the California campus will be responsible for paying a one-time Student Tuition Recovery Fund non-refundable fee, pursuant to California Code of Regulations §76120.
Flex OTD
Dallas, TX Campus
Tuition is approximately $9,641 per trimester for OTD students who attend our Dallas, TX campus.
Tuition and Fees
School Expenses
Tuition - 117 credit hours
$106,049.00
Program Fees
$2,200.00
Books & Associated School Expenses
$4,200.00
Total Program Direct Expenses
$112,449.00
Students whose address on record is in California at the time tuition is first charged and/or who attend the California campus will be responsible for paying a one-time Student Tuition Recovery Fund non-refundable fee, pursuant to California Code of Regulations §76120.
Financial Aid
Student loans may be available to assist with funding your program. USAHS has financial aid counselors who are available to explain your options.
Financial aid counselors can be reached by email, phone, or on campus. Regular office hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday in each time zone. If you are unable to meet during regular office hours, after-hours appointments are available by request.
The University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences offers scholarships to all new students enrolling in the following entry-level campus-based and Flex programs: Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT) and, Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD). These scholarship funds are applied to tuition and fees only. We encourage you to review the eligibility requirements and apply for a scholarship.
*Fall 2023 scholarship application deadline is July 31, 2023. *Only scholarship applications where a student has started and/or completed their application will be considered.
We are currently accepting applications for the following Fall2023 scholarships:
OTD Accreditation & State Approvals/Post-Graduation Licensure
OTD Program Accreditation Status
San Marcos Campus
The entry-level occupational therapy doctoral degree (OTD) program at the San Marcos, California campus is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA), located at 6116 Executive Boulevard, Suite 200, North Bethesda, MD 20852-4929. ACOTE’s telephone number c/o AOTA is (301) 652-AOTA and its Web address is www.acoteonline.org. Graduates of the program will be eligible to sit for the national certification examination for the occupational therapist administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). After successful completion of this exam, the individual will be an Occupational Therapist, Registered (OTR). In addition, all states require licensure in order to practice; however, state licenses are usually based on the results of the NBCOT Certification Examination. Note that a felony conviction may affect a graduate’s ability to sit for the NBCOT certification examination or attain state licensure.
Students must complete 24 weeks of Level II fieldwork within 24 months following completion of all prior didactic portions of the program. Students must complete an individual 14-week capstone experience within 18 months following completion of the remaining didactic portion of the program. The doctoral capstone experience must be started after completion of all coursework and Level II fieldwork as well as completion of preparatory activities defined in 2018 ACOTE OTD Standard D.1.3.
For more information about the occupational therapy accreditation process, contact the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE), 6116 Executive Boulevard, Suite 200, North Bethesda, MD 20852-4929, 301-652-AOTA or visit www.acoteonline.org.
Complaints about the program that cannot be resolved after following the University’s procedures must be submitted electronically to the ACOTE Chairperson, c/o the AOTA Accreditation Department. The complaint must be submitted as an attachment to an e-mail addressed to [email protected] and must include a signed complaint form, “Complaint Against a Program Subject to ACOTE Accreditation”.
St. Augustine Campus
The entry-level occupational therapy doctoral (OTD) degree program at the St. Augustine, Florida campus is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA), located at 6116 Executive Boulevard, Suite 200, North Bethesda, MD 20852-4929. ACOTE’s telephone number c/o AOTA is (301) 652-AOTA and its Web address is www.acoteonline.org. Graduates of the program will be eligible to sit for the national certification examination for the occupational therapist administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). After successful completion of this exam, the individual will be an Occupational Therapist, Registered (OTR). In addition, all states require licensure in order to practice; however, state licenses are usually based on the results of the NBCOT Certification Examination. Note that a felony conviction may affect a graduate’s ability to sit for the NBCOT certification examination or attain state licensure.
Students must complete 24 weeks of Level II fieldwork within 24 months following completion of all prior didactic portions of the program. Students must complete an individual 14-week capstone experience 18 months following completion of the remaining didactic portion of the program. The doctoral capstone experience must be started after completion of all coursework and Level II fieldwork as well as completion of preparatory activities defined in 2018 ACOTE OTD Standard D.1.3.
For more information about the occupational therapy accreditation process, contact the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE), 6116 Executive Boulevard, Suite 200, North Bethesda, MD 20852-4929, 301-652-AOTA or visit www.acoteonline.org.
Complaints about the program that cannot be resolved after following the University’s procedures must be submitted electronically to the ACOTE Chairperson, c/o the AOTA Accreditation Department. The complaint must be submitted as an attachment to an email addressed to [email protected] and must include a signed complaint form, “Complaint Against a Program Subject to ACOTE Accreditation”.
Miami Campus
The entry-level occupational therapy doctoral degree (OTD) program at the Miami, Florida campus is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA), located at 6116 Executive Boulevard, Suite 200, North Bethesda, MD 20852-4929. ACOTE’s telephone number c/o AOTA is (301) 652-AOTA and its Web address is www.acoteonline.org. Graduates of the program will be eligible to sit for the national certification examination for the occupational therapist administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). After successful completion of this exam, the individual will be an Occupational Therapist, Registered (OTR). In addition, all states require licensure in order to practice; however, state licenses are usually based on the results of the NBCOT Certification Examination. Note that a felony conviction may affect a graduate’s ability to sit for the NBCOT certification examination or attain state licensure.
Students must complete 24 weeks of Level II fieldwork within 24 months following completion of all prior didactic portions of the program. Students must complete an individual 14-week capstone experience within 18 months following completion of the remaining didactic portion of the program. The doctoral capstone experience must be started after completion of all coursework and Level II fieldwork as well as completion of preparatory activities defined in 2018 ACOTE OTD Standard D.1.3.
For more information about the occupational therapy accreditation process, contact the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE), 6116 Executive Boulevard, Suite 200, North Bethesda, MD 20852-4929, 301-652-AOTA or visit www.acoteonline.org.
Complaints about the program that cannot be resolved after following the University’s procedures must be submitted electronically to the ACOTE Chairperson, c/o the AOTA Accreditation Department. The complaint must be submitted as an attachment to an e-mail addressed to [email protected] and must include a signed complaint form, “Complaint Against a Program Subject to ACOTE Accreditation”.
Austin Campus
The entry-level program at the Austin, Texas campus is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA), located at 6116 Executive Boulevard, Suite 200, North Bethesda, MD 20852-4929. ACOTE’s telephone number c/o AOTA is (301) 652-AOTA and its Web address is www.acoteonline.org. Graduates of the program will be eligible to sit for the national certification examination for the occupational therapist administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). After successful completion of this exam, the individual will be an Occupational Therapist, Registered (OTR). In addition, all states require licensure in order to practice; however, state licenses are usually based on the results of the NBCOT Certification Examination. Note that a felony conviction may affect a graduate’s ability to sit for the NBCOT certification examination or attain state licensure.
Students must complete 24 weeks of Level II fieldwork within 24 months following completion of all prior didactic portions of the program. Students must complete an individual 14-week capstone experience within 18 months following completion of the remaining didactic portion of the program. The doctoral capstone experience must be started after completion of all coursework and Level II fieldwork as well as completion of preparatory activities defined in 2018 ACOTE OTD Standard D.1.3.
For more information about the occupational therapy accreditation process, contact the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE), 6116 Executive Boulevard, Suite 200, North Bethesda, MD 20852-4929, 301-652-AOTA or visit www.acoteonline.org.
Complaints about the program that cannot be resolved after following the University’s procedures must be submitted electronically to the ACOTE Chairperson, c/o the AOTA Accreditation Department. The complaint must be submitted as an attachment to an e-mail addressed to [email protected] and must include a signed complaint form, “Complaint Against a Program Subject to ACOTE Accreditation”.
Dallas Campus
The entry-level occupational therapy doctoral degree (OTD) program at the Dallas, Texas campus is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA), located at 6116 Executive Boulevard, Suite 200, North Bethesda, MD 20852-4929. ACOTE’s telephone number c/o AOTA is (301) 652-AOTA and its Web address is www.acoteonline.org. Graduates of the program will be eligible to sit for the national certification examination for the occupational therapist administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). After successful completion of this exam, the individual will be an Occupational Therapist, Registered (OTR). In addition, all states require licensure in order to practice; however, state licenses are usually based on the results of the NBCOT Certification Examination. Note that a felony conviction may affect a graduate’s ability to sit for the NBCOT certification examination or attain state licensure.
Students must complete 24 weeks of Level II fieldwork within 24 months following completion of all prior didactic portions of the program. Students must complete an individual 14-week capstone experience within 18 months following completion of the remaining didactic portion of the program. The doctoral capstone experience must be started after completion of all coursework and Level II fieldwork as well as completion of preparatory activities defined in 2018 ACOTE OTD Standard D.1.3.
For more information about the occupational therapy accreditation process, contact the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE), 6116 Executive Boulevard, Suite 200, North Bethesda, MD 20852-4929, 301-652-AOTA or visit www.acoteonline.org.
Complaints about the program that cannot be resolved after following the University’s procedures must be submitted electronically to the ACOTE Chairperson, c/o the AOTA Accreditation Department. The complaint must be submitted as an attachment to an e-mail addressed to [email protected] and must include a signed complaint form, “Complaint Against a Program Subject to ACOTE Accreditation”.
State Approvals
Flex Doctor of Occupational Therapy (Dallas)
USAHS currently is accepting applications for enrollment in the Flex Doctor of Occupational Therapy for residents of the following states: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, Nevada, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Vermont, West Virginia, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
USAHS is not accepting applications from prospective students residing in states where the institution does not have state authorization. However, prospective students are encouraged to check back in the near future as the program may be offered in additional states. Current and admitted students are also advised to monitor this page for any updates prior to relocating to another state, as this can have an impact on continued enrollment in the program and the ability to be placed for clinical field experiences. Additionally, for states denoted with clinical field experience restrictions, USAHS does not have the necessary state authorization approvals to offer on-the-ground activities of this kind in those states at this time.
Post-Graduation Licensure
For states denoted with clinical field experience restrictions, USAHS does not have the necessary state authorization approvals to offer on-the-ground activities of this kind in those states at this time. However, these restrictions should not impact a graduates’ eligibility for professional licensure in his/her state, provided all other requirements are met. The OTD program prepares students for licensure in all 50 states.
USAHS has not made a determination that its curriculum meets the educational requirements for licensure or certification in the following locations: American Samoa, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, Guam, the Virgin Islands, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, and the Republic of Palau.
It remains the student’s responsibility to understand, evaluate, and comply with all requirements relating to field education experiences, licensing or certification, authorization or endorsement for the state in which she or he resides.
OTD (Austin, Dallas, Miami, St Augustine, and San Marcos)
USAHS currently is accepting applications for enrollment in the Doctor of Occupational Therapy (Austin, Dallas, Miami, St. Augustine, and San Marcos campuses) for residents of the following states: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
USAHS is not accepting applications from prospective students residing in states where the institution does not have state authorization. However, prospective students are encouraged to check back in the near future as the program may be offered in additional states. Current and admitted students are also advised to monitor this page for any updates prior to relocating to another state, as this can have an impact on continued enrollment in the program and the ability to be placed for clinical field experiences.
For states denoted with clinical field experience restrictions, USAHS does not have the necessary state authorization approvals to offer on-the-ground activities of this kind in those states at this time.
Post-Graduation Licensure
For states denoted with clinical field experience restrictions, USAHS does not have the necessary state authorization approvals to offer on-the-ground activities of this kind in those states at this time. However, these restrictions should not impact a graduates’ eligibility for professional licensure in his/her state, provided all other requirements are met. As such, the OTD program prepares students for licensure in all 50 states.
USAHS has not made a determination that its curriculum meets the educational requirements for licensure or certification in the following locations: American Samoa, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, Guam, the Virgin Islands, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, and the Republic of Palau.
It remains the student’s responsibility to understand, evaluate, and comply with all requirements relating to field education experiences, licensing or certification, authorization or endorsement for the state in which she or he resides.
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OTD Student Outcomes
OTD Student Outcomes
Graduation Rate
The entry-level Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) program graduation rate for the San Marcos, CA, St. Augustine, FL, Miami, FL, and Austin, TX campuses is the percentage of students in a cohort who graduated within 150% of the expected completion time. The 2021 graduation rate for the St. Augustine, FL campus is from the initial cohort. The 2022 graduation rate for the Miami, FL campus is from the initial cohort.
The 150% graduation rate, which includes students who are delayed but still expected to graduate within the reported time frame, for the initial cohort of the Dallas, TX campus will be available in 2023.
San Marcos, CA
Year
Students Entering
Students Graduating
Graduation Rate
2020
7
7
100%
2021
32
31
97%
2022
68
64
94%
Total
107
102
95%
St. Augustine, FL
Year
Students Entering
Students Graduating
Graduation Rate
2021
25
24
96%
2022
22
22
100%
Total
47
46
98%
Miami, FL
Year
Students Entering
Students Graduating
Graduation Rate
2022
25
23
92%
Austin, TX
Year
Students Entering
Students Graduating
Graduation Rate
2020
6
5
83%
2021
30
28
93%
2022
46
43
93%
Total
82
76
93%
NBCOT Exam Pass Rate
Graduates of the accredited University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences’ Doctor of Occupational Therapy programs are eligible to take the certification examination administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy.
Upon completion of the Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) program, graduates will be able to:
Design strategies consistent with being a reflective practitioner when developing personal and professional goals.
Integrate competencies in effective interprofessional, intraprofessional, and community stakeholder collaborations.
Design and implement programs and interventions that address occupational barriers through effective clinical reasoning.
Demonstrate effective verbal and written communication of occupational therapy services and in dissemination of Doctoral Capstone project.
Model principles of inclusive, ethical, and professional behaviors.
Demonstrate leadership skills needed for effective advocacy and for the advancement of the profession.
Produce evidence-based information that contributes to the advancement of occupational therapy.
Synthesize information including multiple models and theories to determine appropriate assessment and intervention strategies for individuals and populations.
Apply knowledge from theory and practice in the planning and implementation of occupational therapy services in current and emerging areas of practice.
Integrate global perspectives of occupational therapy in intervention approaches.
Disseminate scholarly findings to impact the future practice of occupational therapy.
See more OT programs
Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT)
Become an occupational therapy practitioner with your master’s in OT. Help people of all ages overcome physical and cognitive barriers and improve their quality of life. We offer the MOT program in two formats: Residential and Flex.
Post-Professional Doctor of Occupational Therapy (PPOTD)
Are you an experienced OT practitioner who wants to advance your credentials to the doctoral level? In our online PPOTD program, you can update your skills within clinical practice, research, and more. The PPOTD is not subject to accreditation by ACOTE.