Occupational Therapy (DrOT)

About Program

The mission of this distance practice doctorate track for the Doctor of Occupational Therapy degree is to prepare occupational therapists that possess the knowledge and skills to become leaders in the practice of occupational therapy using evidence-based practice. Graduates will direct occupational therapy and rehabilitation services in traditional arenas; develop and lead innovative programs and services in the community; establish private practices; serve as consultants to business and industry and the judicial, educational, or health care systems; and move into position to influence public policy decisions as they impact individual and societal engagement in occupation.

This program is designed to fit the lifestyle of working professionals who are looking for scheduling flexibility to take their education to the next level and advance their careers.  Our Dr.OT students range from goal-oriented individuals who have just completed their Masters, to very experienced clinicians who share their knowledge in the dynamic online learning environments.

The benefits of an advanced practice doctorate are many and include:

• gain a professional edge
• develop an ability to engage in clinical research
• advance in clinical practice
• make unique contributions to the occupational therapy profession
• participate in creating and using evidence-based literature

You can be on the cutting edge of making a difference for your own professional development, as well as contribute to the profession's advancement in so many ways. In addition, the leadership and practice knowledge and skills you gain will enhance your ability to meet the diverse occupational needs in our society.

The Dr.OT program is offered through NSU's online learning management systems, a distance learning course format. Students complete two courses per semester traveling to campus once a year for two to three days of intensive coursework. The rest of the semester's work will be completed from the student's home through readings, writing, community experiences, online assignments, and discussions, with the professor as facilitator.

All Dr.OT students must successfully complete the required core courses and select their remaining courses, in consultation with the Dr.OT Program Director, based upon their professional interests and goals. Through your practice experience and coursework and by working closely with a faculty mentor you will develop and complete a capstone project that will add value to your organization, the community, and the occupational therapy profession as a whole.  Your capstone will also be facilitated by a residency experience with experts in your area of interest.