The Department of Occupational Therapy is currently transitioning its entry-level Master of Science degree to an entry-level Clinical Doctorate in Occupational Therapy (OTD) degree. We have received full approval for this transition from the School of Health Professions, UAB, and the Alabama Commission on Higher Education.

The first entry-level clinical doctorate in occupational therapy (OTD) students began coursework in summer 2021 and will graduate in December 2023. Two additional cohorts have been admitted to the program and are progressing in their coursework.

Watch: The Transition from MSOT to OTD

Accreditation Status: Pre-accreditation

The UAB entry-level occupational therapy doctoral degree (OTD) program has applied for accreditation and has been granted Pre-accreditation Status by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA).

Pre-accreditation Status indicates the proposed program appears to meet ACOTE standards if fully implemented in accordance with the plans of the sponsoring institution. An on-site evaluation will be conducted before the first class completes the academic curriculum.

ACOTE® is recognized as the accrediting agency for occupational therapy education by both the United States Department of Education (USDE) and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). ACOTE® is also an active member of the Association of Specialized and Professional Accreditors (ASPA).

Click here to read the full accreditation statement.

Admissions/Graduation Data

The total number of students entering UAB’s entry-level clinical doctorate in occupational therapy (OTD) program during the 3-year period of 2020-2023 was 178.

UAB Entry-Level Clinical Doctorate in Occupational Therapy (OTD)