Post-Professional Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) Online

The Post-Professional Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) is an advanced practice doctorate degree designed for registered occupational therapists (OTRs) to gain the highest level of knowledge and evidence-based practice as expertise in their area of specialization.

Yes. The OTD is an advanced clinical practice doctorate degree with a focus on evidence-based practice and research. It is the highest practice degree offered in the profession of occupational therapy and requires the completion of a capstone project. The PhD is a research degree that prepares individuals to be researchers and academicians in their subject areas. The PhD requires the completion of a dissertation

Howard University is uniquely privileged to be among few providers of occupational therapy doctorate students in the nation’s capital. The occupational therapy (OT) program at Howard has a rich history of excellence in leadership, graduating highly sought-after therapists, and developing national and international health professionals. Our program is Nationally known for its commitment to diversity and underserved populations by promoting the role of occupation in the solution to human and social problems. The program prepares OTRs in advanced practice areas such as, pediatrics, physical rehabilitation, and aging to become global leaders and entrepreneurs in diversity, minority health, occupational and social justice and grant- writing. Students who enroll in this program can also elect to complete advanced elective courses in the Graduate School at Howard to meet their programmatic needs.

At Howard University, we have distinguished faculty who are committed to personally helping students achieve their goals to become leaders in health care. This online program allows completion of the doctorate degree while at home or as students continue to work, with a time frame for completion of 12-14 months for full-time students. As part of the Howard University family, we are dedicated to our students and embrace the core values of Excellence in Leadership, Research, and Service.

Yes. You can work full or part-time while completing the online OTD program at Howard.

No. Fieldwork experience is not required for the post-professional OTD program. However, students enrolled in the program might elect to apply for a clinical residency. A clinical residency is optional and not required for completion of the OTD program.

The timeframe for completion of the post-professional OTD degree is 12-14 months for full-time students, but may vary depending on the student’s degree upon entry, part time or full time status.

Yes. However, students entering the OTD program with a BS in OT must take 8 additional prerequisite credit hours before beginning their doctorate-level core courses. Please check with an academic advisor for more information.

The cost for an OTD at Howard will vary each semester depending on if you enroll full-time or part-time. Information on tuition can be found at https://gs.howard.edu/tuition-fees