Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapists work in a variety of settings including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, school systems, private practices, community health centers, client’s homes, and industry. An occupational therapist assumes many roles, such as a practitioner, scholar, administrator, educator, advocate, and researcher. Many also consult with organizations and industries to promote health and wellness for individuals and populations.

Employment of occupational therapists is projected to grow 14 percent from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations. According to the 2021 U.S. News and World Report ranking of the top 100 jobs, occupational therapy ranks 19th.

According to the 2021 Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) report, the median annual earnings for occupational therapists were $85,570.

The increasing elderly population and the need for integrated services for school-age children with disabilities are two major factors driving growth in the OT profession.

Graduates of the OTD program will find employment in various practice areas. These include traditional medical and rehabilitation settings, skilled nursing facilities, outpatient practices, school systems, community health programs, private practice, and work and industry. Changes in the healthcare environment, coupled with AOTA's Centennial Vision for the profession, have led to emerging practice areas in health and wellness, productive aging, and disability and participation.

Furthermore, being doctorally trained, you will be well-positioned to define and shape the future of occupational therapy practice.

For more information about occupational therapy careers, please visit the job outlook section on the AOTA website.

Occupational therapists are a vital part of the healthcare team. As a graduate of the Institute’s OTD program, your skills will be in high demand.

Graduates of the EL-OTD program will be eligible to sit for the National Certification Examination for the Occupational Therapist administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). Learn more about NBCOT.

To practice as an occupational therapist you must also be licensed in the state where you intend to practice. Requirements vary from state to state, however, state licensure is usually based on the results of the NBCOT certification exam.

The Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) is a professional (or clinical) doctorate – the highest level of academic preparation that an entry-level occupational therapist can obtain.

Preparation at the doctoral entry level goes well beyond that of the entry-level master’s degree. OTD students complete additional preparation in leadership, policy analysis, advocacy, theory, and research, as well as an additional mentored advanced doctoral experience.

With an OTD you are better prepared to address the challenges of today's complex and ever-changing healthcare and education settings.