With the right professional support, many people with disabilities live independently or with a great degree of independence. Occupational therapists play a vital role in assisting people with disabilities. This guide outlines the best occupational therapist programs and career pathways after graduation. Explore your options today for this exciting and rewarding career.
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Why Enroll in an Occupational Therapist Program?
Occupational therapist jobs are projected to grow at a faster-than-average rate — 12% from 2022-2032 — according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). At $93,180, the median annual salary is considerably higher than the national median salary for all occupations of $46,310.
If you want a helping career that makes a measurable difference, attending an occupational therapist program might offer an ideal pathway. In most states, you can practice as an occupational therapist with a master's degree.
Graduate Occupational Therapist Programs
See Our Rankings Methodology
#1 The Best Occupational Therapy Master’s Degrees
Brenau University
- Gainesville, GA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost:
On campus | $16,790 per semester
Hybrid | $13,104 per semester
Credits to Graduate: 85
Brenau University features a master of science in occupational therapy. Students can choose a six-semester, on-campus option in Gainesville, Georgia, or a seven-semester weekend program in North Atlanta with hybrid delivery. Along with a group thesis project, the curriculum includes fieldwork in the court system, local nonprofit organizations, and Brenau's Center for Productive Living.
Admission requires a bachelor's degree from an accredited school, a 3.0 GPA, and prerequisite coursework in medical terminology, psychology, sociology, and statistics. Enrollees can apply for federal financial aid.
Percent Online Enrollment
70%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 The Best Occupational Therapy Master’s Degrees
Springfield College
- Springfield, MA
- 4 years
- Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit: $1,178
Credits to Graduate: 85
The master of science in occupational therapy at Massachusetts' Springfield College prepares graduates for state licensure and national certification. The program includes classroom, lab, and fieldwork requirements. Coursework develops skills such as clinical reasoning, evaluation and treatment techniques, and research and teaching. Students can enroll full time or part time.
Each applicant needs a bachelor's degree and prerequisite coursework in areas like natural science, abnormal psychology, lifespan development/developmental psychology, and English. Springfield offers associateships, fellowships, scholarships, and awards.
Percent Online Enrollment
3%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#3 The Best Occupational Therapy Master’s Degrees
University of New England
- Biddeford, ME
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Program Cost: $91,345
Credits to Graduate: 73
University of New England awards a master of science in occupational therapy upon completion of its two-year on-campus program in Portland, Maine. Coursework and field experiences emphasize practice areas such as adult, geriatric, and pediatric counseling, along with collaboration with other healthcare professionals.
Admission requirements include a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, a 3.0 GPA, and prerequisite courses in anatomy, human development, psychology, social sciences, and statistics. Occupational therapy students can apply for scholarships and other funding options.
Percent Online Enrollment
48%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#4 The Best Occupational Therapy Master’s Degrees
Seton Hall University
- South Orange, NJ
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit: $1,520
Credits to Graduate: 84-87
Seton Hall University, in South Orange, New Jersey, offers a master of science in occupational therapy. Students can graduate in three years and take the national certification exams. The curriculum includes foundational classes, clinicals, and fieldwork, along with core courses in prevention, health promotion, and wellness.
Admission requires a bachelor's degree from an accredited program, a 3.2 GPA, 50 observation hours with a registered occupational therapist, and specified prerequisite coursework. Students can apply for scholarships, graduate assistantships, and federal funding sources.
Percent Online Enrollment
87%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#5 The Best Occupational Therapy Master’s Degrees
University of Oklahoma-Health Sciences Center
- Oklahoma City, OK
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Year:
In-State | $10,984
Out-of-State | $26,076
Credits to Graduate: 80
Students can earn a master of occupational therapy at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center in Tulsa or Oklahoma City. The three-year curriculum includes on-campus coursework, on-site fieldwork, and research projects. Courses explore assistive technology, clinical processes, interprofessional case management, and neuroscience.
Each applicant submits transcripts for evaluation, GRE scores, a personal/career goal statement, and three letters of recommendation. Financial aid options include a Sooner Heritage Scholarship and Student Loan Debt Relief Plan.
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
71%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#6 The Best Occupational Therapy Master’s Degrees
Lewis University
- Romeoville, IL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Program Cost: $69,745
Credits to Graduate: 76
The master of science in occupational therapy program at the Catholic-based Lewis University combines full-time day courses at its Romeoville, Illinois, campus with community-based learning during the evening or on Saturdays. Students can complete the program in seven consecutive semesters over 28 months.
Admission requires a bachelor's degree from an accredited school, a 3.25 GPA, specified prerequisites, and 20 hours of occupational therapy observation (or alternative activities). Occupational therapist program enrollees can apply for grants and scholarships, and 98% of Lewis students receive financial aid.
Percent Online Enrollment
89%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#7 The Best Occupational Therapy Master’s Degrees
AdventHealth University
- Orlando, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Program Cost: $81,715
Credits to Graduate: 78
Founded by Seventh-day Adventists, AdventHealth University (AHU) offers a master of science in occupational therapy focusing on meeting clients' emotional, physical, and spiritual needs. Classes meet twice weekly at the Orlando, Florida, campus over seven trimesters, and students complete fieldwork and research projects.
Admission requirements include a bachelor's degree with a 3.0 GPA from an accredited institution, along with prerequisite courses in anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, psychology, and sociology/anthropology. Federal and state financial aid is available.
Percent Online Enrollment
64%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#8 The Best Occupational Therapy Master’s Degrees
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- Chapel Hill, NC
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $1,002
Out-of-State | $2,039
Credits to Graduate: 63
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill's master of science in occupational therapy is a full-time, two-year program that prepares graduates for licensure and certification. The curriculum includes didactic coursework, applied research, and fieldwork. Core concepts include context and community, human capacity for action, leadership and collaboration, and therapeutic processes.
Requirements for admission include prerequisite courses, a reflective essay, three recommendation letters, and a record of occupational therapy experience. All accepted students receive information about scholarships and awards.
Percent Online Enrollment
91%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#9 The Best Occupational Therapy Master’s Degrees
Utica College
- Utica, NY
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit: $1,303
Credits to Graduate: 69
Occupational therapist programs at New York's Utica University include a graduate track leading to a master of science. The curriculum's concentrations feature analysis for evidence-based practice, cultural responsiveness, and ethical behavior. Students complete fieldwork and culminating research projects. Day and weekend study options span five semesters.
Each candidate needs to possess a bachelor's degree with a 3.2 GPA and have completed prerequisite coursework. Utica awards financial aid to 95% of students and reduced its tuition by 42% in 2016.
Percent Online Enrollment
90%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#10 The Best Occupational Therapy Master’s Degrees
Duquesne University
- Pittsburgh, PA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit: $1,750
Credits to Graduate: 78
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania-based Duquesne University offers a post-baccalaureate master of science in occupational therapy. Enrollees complete fieldwork, research projects, and coursework in two years. Course topics include humans, groups, and occupations; biomechanical functions; and community and population planning.
In addition to a bachelor's degree, each applicant must hold a 3.0 GPA and provide documentation of basic life support certification. The department requires completion of prerequisites in math and sciences, statistics, and medical terminology. Students are encouraged to schedule a financial aid planning session.
Percent Online Enrollment
82%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
What Does an Occupational Therapist Program Require?
Occupational therapist programs typically take 2-3 years and comprise 70-80 credit hours. The curriculum includes courses in anatomy, psychology, counseling, and leadership.
Most occupational therapist programs accept students with any bachelor's degree, provided that they have coursework in biology, psychology, anatomy, and communication. Many programs have specific courses that you must have completed independently or in your undergraduate program before entering the master's program.
Common Courses in Occupational Therapist Programs
The coursework in occupational therapist programs prepares you to understand the physical and psychological aspects of disabilities and injuries, identify the most helpful exercises, and help clients make necessary adaptations for independent living. These degrees also require fieldwork — first observing a licensed occupational therapist at work and then performing tasks under supervision.
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Theory of Occupational Therapy
As one of the earliest courses in most occupational therapist programs, this course covers the philosophy of occupational therapy and its role in clients' lives.
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Physical Therapy Practice
This part of an occupational therapist program teaches you how to apply theory to client needs. It includes an overview of different types of exercise and related interventions and basic skills in assessment, goal setting, and logistics, such as documentation and working in different settings.
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Human Anatomy
This course covers human body functions, physiological structures, and the impact of injuries and accidents. This part of your occupational therapist program builds the groundwork for specific exercises and interventions in the classroom and fieldwork.
Career and Salary Outlook for Occupational Therapist Program Graduates
Graduates of occupational therapy programs often enjoy strong career prospects. The median annual salary for occupational therapists is $93,180, with a faster-than-average projected growth rate of 12% from 2022-2023, according to the BLS. In most states, you can earn an occupational therapist license with a master's degree. Check your state's board for specific requirements.
Occupational Therapy Workplaces
Occupational therapists can work in many settings, providing expert support to people with disabilities and assisting with developing independent living skills.
- Hospitals: In hospitals, occupational therapists collaborate with medical professionals to decide the best approaches to occupational therapy. They may work with patients before and after discharge.
- School Systems: Occupational therapists in these settings help students continue their learning after serious injuries or illnesses. They typically work within large teams of teachers, social workers, counselors, and family members.
- Nursing Homes: In nursing homes, occupational therapists work with residents, typically older adults, to be as physically active as possible and rehabilitate from accidents or illnesses.
- Home Health Agencies: These companies often hire occupational therapists to visit patients' homes on a short-term basis to advise on home adaptations (such as ramps or moving doorknobs within reach) or provide at-home treatment.
- Private Practice: Occupational therapists also work independently in private practice. They may pursue a particular specialty or act as generalists.
Frequently Asked Questions About Occupational Therapist Careers
What is the difference between an occupational therapist and a physical therapist?
Occupational therapists focus on improving a client's ability to live and function independently by performing daily living activities. In contrast, a physical therapist works on all aspects of physical performance, including reducing pain. A physical therapist also must possess a doctoral degree.
Do occupational therapists need a master's or doctoral degree?
In most states, occupational therapists must have a degree from a master's occupational therapist program rather than a doctoral degree. Other requirements vary by state, so check your local jurisdiction for details.
What skills do you need to be an occupational therapist?
Occupational therapists must have a range of skills, including both professional knowledge, such as anatomy, and interpersonal skills, such as communication. Because many patients experience psychological distress, occupational therapists must be exceptionally patient, supportive, and empathetic.
How long does it take to become an occupational therapist?
It takes about 6-7 years of education to become an occupational therapist. Most occupational therapist programs take two or three years, depending on the pace and your full-time vs. part-time enrollment status. You must have a bachelor's degree to apply, which typically takes four years.
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