Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD)

Occupational therapists help people do the things they want to do, improving their sense of satisfaction and contributing to their subsequent well-being. 

The School of Occupational Therapy offers a professional, entry-level Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) program for applicants who have completed a bachelor’s degree and prerequisites. There is high demand for qualified occupational therapists and a growing number of career opportunities.

Location. Pacific University's three-year accredited OTD program includes two years on a health professions-focused campus in Hillsboro, Ore, providing opportunities for interprofessional education and collaboration. The third year is distance-based.

Curriculum. This is a clinical doctorate program focused on advanced clinical development (no dissertation required). Designed as a full-time cohort model, the occupational therapy curriculum consists of academic, laboratory and distance-based learning experiences integrated with both part-time and full-time professional fieldwork. Integrated fieldwork opportunities offer local, national, or international experience.

Certification & Licensure. After successful completion of all degree requirements, graduates are eligible to take the National Board of Certification for Occupational Therapists (NBCOT) certification examination. Upon successful completion of this examination, the examinee becomes a nationally registered occupational therapist, certified for practice and eligible for state licensure.

In 2019, 100 percent of new Pacific University graduates passed the NBCOT exam. View program results from the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT).

Admissions. Applicants must have completed a bachelor's degree and meet additional admissions prerequisites to be considered for admission. Entrance to the program is fall semester only. Inquire today.

Accreditation. The School of Occupational Therapy at Pacific University is a professional entry-level occupational therapy program and is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA). Accreditation has been granted for the entry-level doctorate in 2014/15 through 2022/23. 

Questions regarding accreditation by ACOTE should be directed through their website or to their administrative office at the following: 

6116 Executive Boulevard, Suite 200
North Bethesda, MD 20852-4929
301-652-6611 | acoteonline.org

Cost of Attendance. Table based on a 3.5% increase annually, however tuition and fees are subject to change. Students may be eligible for financial aid. 

*Total Cost of the 3-year Program, 2021-2023
**Clinical expenses include: required immunizations, background checks, CPR/First Aid certification, site specific fieldwork expenses, capstone expenses, and student AOTA membership.
***Cost of University Health Insurance is waived with proof of coverage.

Graduation Rates. The Occupational Therapy program at Pacific University has a record of student success.