Boston University notes on its website that its occupational therapy program welcomes applicants with science, arts and humanities backgrounds. The master's program boasts a pass rate of 97 to 100 percent on the certifying examination. Students complete coursework during the first two years, followed by six months of full-time fieldwork. Degree candidates must maintain a grade-point average of 3.0 while in the program, and applicants are encouraged to shadow an occupational therapist prior to entering the program. Prospective students need an undergraduate of GPA and must also submit an essay, GRE scores and three references. The curriculum includes courses in neuroanatomy, functional movement and health care management. Field experiences are available at rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, hospitals and homeless shelters.
Boston University
One Silber Way
Boston, MA 02215
617-353-2000
bu.edu
The master of science in occupational therapy program at Washington University in St. Louis takes 27 months to complete. Students can select from concentration areas including pediatrics, aging, work and industry and social participation. Applicants need a bachelor's degree and 30 observation, volunteer or work hours in an occupational therapy setting. They also submit three recommendations and should complete prerequisite courses including psychology, physiology and statistics. Coursework covers topics such as assistive technology, chronic health conditions, and applied skills for daily living. Fieldwork is completed at the end of the second year.
Washington University in St. Louis
Program in Occupational Therapy
4444 Forest Park Ave.
St. Louis, MO 63108
314-286-1613
ot.wustl.edu
The University of Southern California is home to the nation's first master's program in physical therapy, which was established in 1962. USC offers a two-year master's program suitable for those who seek to enter the field of occupational therapy. Applicants submit undergraduate transcripts, three recommendations, an essay and GRE scores. Applicants also need to complete prerequisite natural and social science courses before entering the program. Students in the two-year program take core courses in science, occupational therapy assessments and interventions, along with completing two fieldwork assignments. During the second year, degree candidates take more core courses along with electives in a selected specialty area, such as pediatrics, aging, or mental health. Students can choose to submit a master's thesis or take a comprehensive examination as part of the graduation requirements.
University of Southern California
Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy
1540 Alcazar St.
CHP 133
Los Angeles, CA 90089-9003
ot.usc.edu
The two-year master of science program at the University of Illinois at Chicago prepares students to take the certifying exam and enter practice as occupational therapists. Prospective students must complete prerequisite courses in social science, statistics, anatomy and physiology with a grade of "C" or better. The program curriculum includes coursework that covers topics including occupational therapy practice, medical conditions, and assistive technology. Fieldwork opportunities are available at locations throughout the greater Chicago area. Admissions is based on a review of undergraduate grades, GRE scores, recommendations and work or volunteer experience. Applicants are encouraged to complete at least 40 hours of such experience before applying to the occupational therapy master's program.
University of Illinois at Chicago
Department of Occupational Therapy
1919 West Taylor St.
MC 811
Chicago, IL 60612-7249
312-996-6901
ahs.uic.edu