Online Post-Professional Clinical Doctorate of Occupational Therapy
The online post-professional clinical doctorate of occupational therapy (PP-OTD) degree is for experienced occupational therapists who want to impact the profession through innovative leadership and education.
The PP-OTD advances the learner’s knowledge and skills to meet their career goals in their current practice, in emerging practice and leadership areas, and in higher education. The PP-OTD is part of Washington University’s innovative and interdisciplinary university and medical center environment, which allows for the personal and professional growth of the students. Being connected to the WashU OT community provides advantages in networking and name recognition as the graduates seek to move their career and practice forward.
- Innovate and lead both within and outside the profession
- Apply evidence and theory to current and future practice
- Teach effectively in higher education and other settings
- Incorporate anti-racist and Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Justice principles into practice
- Successfully create, implement, and evaluate programs and plans
- Build a professional network to support future success and career advancement
Curriculum
Many occupational therapy practitioners seek to further their learning and career opportunities while simultaneously working full-time and attending to family and other obligations. Our PP-OTD is designed with this in mind; courses are delivered through high-quality, synchronous and asynchronous virtual learning.
The curriculum focuses on developing skills in leadership, program development and evaluation, teaching, and advocacy. It consists of five semesters of coursework (6-7 credits per semester) for a total of 34 credits. Click here for PP-OTD curriculum grid.
The curriculum includes six core courses (3 credits each) that provide advanced training in communication, evidence-based practice, theory and other areas. Four capstone sequence courses (1 credit each) help guide students through the creation, implementation and evaluation of a student-driven doctoral project and compilation of a culminating portfolio. Four specialty track courses (3 credits each) provide additional education to help students meet future goals.
Candidate Selection and Admission Criteria
The admission requirements are as follows:
- Two letters of recommendation (professional references)
- Current license to practice occupational therapy within a state in the U.S.
- Successful completion of a master’s degree (doesn’t need to be in occupational therapy) with a 3.2 GPA
- Successful completion of a college level writing course with a B- or better or demonstration of academic writing ability through writing sample submission
- A personal essay that speaks to how the OTD degree will allow the student to meet their own goals and advance the profession
- Completion of an informational interview with the PP-OTD Program Director
- Completion of two years of practice experience (half-time employment or higher)
Estimated Cost of Attendance
The total cost of the program is $33,830. Tuition is $995 per credit hour. Loans may be available as part of an overall financial package through an application with the Office of Student Financial Planning at the School of Medicine. You may contact this office at 314-362-6845 or by visiting their website at http://finaid.med.wustl.edu.
Tuition |
Student Fees |
Books and Supplies |
Loan Fees |
Distance Ed Fees |
Total Cost of Program |
$995 per credit hour |
$0 | TBD |
1.059% (Unsub) and 4.236% (GP) | $0 | $33,830 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Click on the plus sign for answers.
How many hours of coursework will this require each week?
Generally, there will be around 21 hours of coursework each week. Most of the content is delivered asynchronously, meaning you can access and complete the coursework on your own schedule.
Is the program available to those with a bachelor’s degree?
Not at this time. We require the completion of a master’s degree prior to admission. The master’s degree does not need to be in occupational therapy.
Are students with an entry-level OTD eligible to enroll?
No. This program is for practitioners without an OTD degree
Can international students enroll?
This program is not open to international students at this time.
Are students able to enroll immediately after graduating from an occupational therapy master’s program?
Students must have two years of practice as a licensed occupational therapist prior to applying for admission to the PP-OTD program.
What is the difference between an entry-level OTD and a post-professional OTD?
Both programs result in the OTD degree. However, entry-level OTD programs are designed to teach foundational occupational therapy skills and qualify the student for the NBCOT exam and licensure as an occupational therapist. The post-professional OTD degree program provides additional training to occupational therapy practitioners who are already licensed.
How might the OTD degree benefit me?
Earning an OTD degree from WashU will provide you with skills and knowledge that will allow you to propel both yourself and the profession forward. It will prepare you to take on additional roles in leadership, management, innovative practice areas and higher education. While the curriculum is broad, it is also customized to help you meet your own goals!
I haven’t been a student for a long time. What supports are available to me?
There are supports for ALL our students to meet your academic needs! You will have direct mentorship, supportive faculty, and access to librarians, information technology, and writing tutors to ensure you have the tools you need for success.
I have additional questions that aren’t answered here. Who should I contact for more information?
Please feel free to reach out to the PP-OTD program director, Dr. Mandy Mack. We would love to connect with you and help you find the information you need!
How to Apply
The application process is as follows:
- Apply online at gradadmit.wustl.edu
- Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until each cohort is full and are reviewed in the order in which they are received. Students who apply after a cohort is full will be placed on the waitlist for that cohort and also assigned a slot in the following cohort.
- Once the application is submitted, the student will be asked to schedule an informational meeting with the program director. Following the meeting, a committee of occupational therapy faculty members will holistically review applications and offer or deny admission to the PP-OTD program.
Applicants must submit all of the following:
- A completed online application
- Two letters of recommendation (professional references)
- A personal essay that speaks to how the OTD degree will allow you to meet your goals and advance the profession
- Short description of practice experience
Upon acceptance, applicants must provide the following:
- Transcript from completion of master’s program with 3.2 GPA or better
- Proof of license to practice occupational therapy in a U.S. state
- Evidence of completion of a college-level writing course with a B- or better, or demonstration of academic writing ability through writing sample submission (contact program for additional information)
- $500 deposit
Washington University encourages and gives full consideration to all applicants for admission, financial aid and employment.
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The School of Medicine is committed to recruiting, enrolling and educating a diverse student body.