Occupational Therapy Doctorate, Xavier University

Cincinnati, Ohio

42 Months

Check Eligibility

About this course

The Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) at Xavier University is a program designed to prepare students to become skilled practitioners, leaders, advocates, and scholars in the field of occupational therapy. It is ranked the #2 Occupational Therapy Program in Ohio and #41 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report for 2024. The program combines hands-on practice in Cincinnati’s diverse healthcare scenes—hospital, rehabilitation, educational, mental health, skilled nursing, and community settings—with a focus on ethics, community engagement, leadership, advocacy, and research. Students have opportunities for international or immersive fieldwork aligned with Xavier’s mission to prepare students for a diverse and interconnected world. The curriculum includes community-based capstone projects, certificates in various specialized areas, state-of-the-art labs, and experiential learning through fieldwork and capstone experiences.

Why this course is highly recommended

This program is highly recommended because of its strong ranking, comprehensive curriculum, and real-world practice opportunities in Cincinnati’s rich healthcare environment. It emphasizes community engagement, leadership, and advocacy, preparing students for diverse settings worldwide. The inclusion of international fieldwork and state-of-the-art facilities, along with certification opportunities, ensures graduates are well-equipped to become competent, caring professionals and leaders in occupational therapy.

Specialisation

The program offers specialisation through diverse fieldwork experiences in areas like pediatrics, geriatrics, mental health, and community-based practice. Students also complete targeted coursework including occupational justice, assistive technology, leadership, advocacy, and evidence-based practice, designed to equip them with comprehensive expertise across multiple aspects of occupational therapy.

Course fees

Application fees

1st year tuition fees

26.63L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Applicants need a minimum of a bachelor’s degree with a preferred GPA of 3.2 on a 4.0 scale, all pre-requisite courses completed, and documentation of two volunteer experiences along with three letters of recommendation. GRE scores are waived for Fall 2024 entry. The application is submitted via OTCAS, with rolling admission until slots are filled, and there's a potential for a direct admit pathway for Xavier freshmen and rising sophomores.

English language test

IELTS

6.5

PTE

DUOLINGO

TOEFL

Career prospects

Graduates of Xavier’s OTD program will be prepared to become practicing occupational therapists, leaders, advocates, educators, managers, and researchers. The program’s emphasis on ethical practice and community engagement creates opportunities for impactful work in hospitals, clinics, educational and community settings, and policy development, making for a fulfilling, versatile career.

FAQs

What are the application requirements for the OTD program?

Applicants should have a bachelor’s degree with a GPA of 3.2, complete all pre-requisites, submit two volunteer experiences, three recommendation letters, and meet the application deadlines via OTCAS. GRE scores are waived for fall 2024.

Are international or immersive fieldwork experiences available?

Yes, students have the opportunity to participate in international or immersive fieldwork aligned with Xavier’s mission to prepare students for a diverse global landscape.