Department of Occupational Therapy
The Department of Occupational Therapy at Saint Joseph’s University strives to impart the knowledge and skill set needed to make a meaningful impact on patient care. Through innovative teaching, we prepare you to work in a variety of medical and community settings and become a leader in this flourishing field.
Occupational therapy at Saint Joseph’s University consistently delivers a solid, well-rounded and fully encompassed curriculum resulting in well-trained, competent and professional graduates who are employed in their practice setting of choice. We were third in the nation to attain occupational therapy accreditation for entry-level doctoral education and the first of its kind on the East Coast.
Our department has adapted to the ever-changing demands of the healthcare industry and remains an outstanding program of success evidenced by our exemplary National Board Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) board student pass rates. Join us and learn how to support those in need with one of our three accredited OT programs.
OT Programs
Accelerated Doctor of Occupational Therapy
Accelerated Doctor of Occupational Therapy
Enter as a first-year or transfer student and earn a BS in health sciences and a Doctor of Occupational Therapy (DrOT) in just six years.
Doctor of Occupational Therapy
Doctor of Occupational Therapy
A pathway for those who have already earned a bachelor’s degree and satisfied all prerequisite courses to earn a DrOT in three years.
Master of Occupational Therapy
Master of Occupational Therapy
A pathway for those who have already earned a bachelor's degree and satisfied all prerequisite courses to earn an MOT degree in just 2 years.
Dive into Research
At Saint Joseph’s, OT students conduct research aligned with their interests and get involved in grant-funded projects with our nationally-recognized faculty. Research opportunities include:
- Generation2Generation: OT students investigating the transition experience of older adults relocation to independent living facilities
- The Mothering Role: Support groups for parents of children with disabilities. iPad Technology use by children and older adults
- A Community-based camp experience for female cancer survivors
- Aging in place projects
- Transition planning for individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities
All of our professors are truly invested in our learning. The OT program is challenging, but their involvement and support is incredibly helpful.”
![Vidhi Dalal, an occupational therapy student at saint joseph's university]()
Vidhi Dalal '24, DrOT
Accreditation
The Occupational Therapy program is fully accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA). ACOTE is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
More information can be obtained at:
ACOTE
c/o Accreditation Department
American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA)
7501 Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 510E
Bethesda, MD 20814
301-652-AOTA
www.acoteonline.org