Doctor of Occupational Therapy (entry-level) in Boston United States | Boston University

The entry-level Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) program equips students holding bachelor's degrees from various fields to become certified occupational therapists. This comprehensive program features four on-campus semesters, summer online courses, fieldwork placements, and a capstone project. The curriculum delivers exceptional training for future practitioners, preparing them for both conventional occupational therapy roles and innovative practice areas.

Spanning three years, the OTD program comprises two years (four terms) of campus-based study with integrated Level I Fieldwork, two summer sessions of online learning, two intensive 12-week clinical rotations (Level II Fieldwork), and a doctoral capstone involving a 14-week practical experience with a related project. Campus instruction occurs full-time during weekdays, while summers involve completing two online courses. Students undertake Level II Fieldwork after their initial two years, followed by the doctoral practicum and capstone. The program exclusively starts each fall with a fixed course sequence, offering no spring admissions or part-time options.

Clinical instruction emphasizes real-world case studies analyzed through a life course lens. This innovative approach replaces traditional categorization by diagnosis (like mental health or physical disabilities) or age groups (such as pediatrics or geriatrics), instead presenting assessment methods, interventions, and systemic considerations as they naturally occur throughout different life stages.

Program Objectives
Graduates will:

Develop entry-level occupational therapy proficiency by delivering personalized, theory-informed, evidence-based care grounded in occupational principles for diverse clients (individuals, groups, and communities).
Exhibit outstanding professional conduct.
Acquire specialized expertise in a chosen concentration (advanced clinical work, research, program/policy development, advocacy, or education).
Drive innovation in service delivery systems within both established and emerging occupational therapy fields.