Occupational therapists help people
across the lifespan perform tasks at home, work, and school. The demand for occupational therapists with graduate level training is expected to grow by 17%, much faster than average, through 2030. Occupational therapists use therapeutic methods to help patients with injuries, illnesses, or disabilities. They can help individuals with disabilities or those returning to work after an injury or illness make adjustments and accommodations to do their job safely and effectively. Occupational
therapists work as a team with other professionals including doctors, organizational psychologists, and human resources. A master’s in occupational therapy is considered the entry point to becoming an occupational therapist. While the mean average wage is over $86,000, earning a master’s in occupational therapy can lead to a lucrative career. To be considered for our list of the most affordable master’s in occupational therapy, programs must be accredited by the Accreditation Council for
Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE). Occupational therapists need to be licensed. In order for students to sit for the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy exam, students need to have completed their degree from an ACOTE-accredited OT program. We further narrowed our focus to include schools offering an OT Master’s Degree Level Program, considered the entry level degree for occupational therapists. We then ranked each school by their average graduate tuition rate published
by the National Center for Education Statistics through the U.S. Department of Education. Your actual program costs may vary since occupational therapy is a specialized degree, so we encourage you to contact the school directly to help determine your specific cost. The program takes 27 months to complete. Graduates have the competencies needed
for entry-level practitioners. Lenoir-Rhyne graduates had a 98% pass rate on the NBCOT exam in 2020. Unique courses are offered in areas like: Students can earn a micro-credential in early intervention while earning their degree. The program has had a 100% graduate rate for the last three years. SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University graduates had a 100% NBCOT pass rate in 2020. During the fourth and fifth years of the program, students complete three months of full-time
supervised clinical fieldwork experience. The University at Buffalo graduates had a 95% pass rate on the NBCOT exam in 2020. Students are mentored by diverse and dedicated faculty throughout their time in the program. The program is offered at both Stony Brook and Stony Brook at Southampton. Admission to the program is competitive. Stony Brook graduates had a 100% pass rate on the
NBCOT exam in 2020. Admission to the program is competitive and is open to students with a bachelor’s degree in any major. New students are accepted to the program at the start of the summer semester. JMU graduates had a a 100% pass rate on the NBCOT exam in 2020. Students experience a mix of book work with real-life experience to get ready to graduate and pass their licensure exam. Cox College graduates had a 91% pass rate on the NBCOT exam in 2020. The
program is very competitive. In 2021, there were almost 300 qualified applicants and offers went out to 32 students. The three-year graduation rate is 96%. The University of Wisconsin graduates had a 96% pass rate on the NBCOT exam in 2020. The curriculum prepares students to become generalists in the field of OT. Graduates are prepared to work in a variety of settings including: Students can gain specialized skills through focused study and practice. The
average graduation rate for the past three years was 97%. The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill graduates had a 96% pass rate on the NBCOT exam in 2020. Students in the
master’s OT program complete six to nine months of full-time internships in a variety of settings, gaining valuable clinical experience. Shawnee State University graduates had a 100% pass rate on the NBCOT exam in 2020.40. Lenoir-Rhyne University – Hickory, North Carolina
Master of Science in Occupational Therapy
Website
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $11,700/year
The occupational therapy MS from Lenoir-Rhyne
University is comprehensive, cohort program offered in both Hickory, NC and Columbia, NC. Students will gain the skills needed to become reflective practitioners who are able to respond to the needs of individuals, community, and society. Required coursework includes:39. State University of New York Downstate Health Sciences University – Brooklyn, New York
Occupational Therapy Program
Website
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $11,310/year in-state and $23,100/year
out-of-state
The School of Health Professions at SUNY Downstate offers an occupational therapy master’s program that prepares students to enter the OT profession. The innovative curriculum includes:38. University at Buffalo, SUNY – Buffalo, New York
Occupational Therapy BS/MS
Website
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $11,310/year in-state and $23,100/year
out-of-state
The University at Buffalo offers a joint occupational therapy BS/MS through their Department of Rehabilitation Science. Students can earn two degrees in just five years, working alongside experienced faculty who are actively engaged in research and scholarly work. Coursework includes:37. Stony Brook University – Stony Brook, New York
Occupational Therapy Program
Website
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $11,310/year in-state and $23,100/year out-of-state
The School of Health Technology and Management at Stony Brook features a high-quality occupational therapy master’s program accredited by ACOTE. This three-year program prepares
students to sit for the national certification exam for occupational therapists. Course offerings include:36. James Madison University – Harrisonburg, Virginia
Master of Occupational Therapy
Website
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $10,848/year in-state and $27,888/year out-of-state
James Madison University features an affordable Master of Occupational Therapy through their Department of Health Professions. The 30-credit hour program prepares students for entry level positions in occupational therapy. Course offerings include:35. Cox College – Springfield, Missouri
Master of Science in Occupational Therapy
Website
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $10,800/year
The Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from Cox College is an 80-credit hour program with a 96% job placement rate. The program uses a multimodal approach to curriculum delivery to prepare students for success in diverse healthcare environments. Course offerings cover areas like:34. University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee – Milwaukee, Wisconsin
MS Occupational Therapy
Website
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $10,701/year in-state and $24,132/year
out-of-state
The College of Health Sciences at the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee is one of the largest OT programs in the state. The urban location provides students with variety in choosing their fieldwork experience. Optional specializations are available in assistive technology and accessible design. Elective course offerings allow students to add specialized skills. These include:33. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill – Chapel Hill, North Carolina
MS Occupational Therapy
Website
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $10,552/year in-state and $28,278/year out-of-state
The Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy at the UNC School of Medicine offers a high-quality master’s in occupational therapy for students with a bachelor’s degree in an area other than OT. This 63-credit hour program takes
two years of full-time study to complete. Courses cover themes like:32. Shawnee State University – Portsmouth, Ohio
Occupational Therapy Master’s Degree
Website
Average Graduate Student Tuition:
$10,156/year in-state and $18,256/year out-of-state
Shawnee State University features a budget friendly occupational therapy master’s degree. Students with a bachelor’s degree can earn their master’s in OT. They also offer a specialty 3+2 degree for undergrad students planning to pursue advanced training in OT. Courses include:
31. West Virginia University – Morgantown, West Virginia
Master of Occupational Therapy
Website
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $10,134/year in-state and $26,154/year out-of-state
The West Virginia School of Medicine offers a high-value master’s in occupational with a unique curriculum. The master’s program is offered in a 2+3 format that allows students to complete both their bachelor’s and master’s in five years. Students benefit from hands-on classroom
training and clinical experiences that develop professional competency. Inter-professional learning activities include an anatomy lab cadaver dissection and time in a cutting-edge acute care simulation lab. Admission to the program is competitive and new students begin the program in May. The average graduation rate for the past three years is 96.7%.
West Virginia University had a 100% pass rate on the NBCOT exam in 2020.
30. Tennessee State University – Nashville, Tennessee
Occupational Therapy Master’s
Website
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $9,276/year in-state and $19,752/year out-of-state
Tennessee State University offers a low-priced master’s in occupational therapy that follows five main threads. These threads include:
- Foundations
- Self-Reflection
- Clinical Reasoning
- Skill Competencies
- Clinical Practice
Students learn to implement client-centered and occupational-based OT evaluations in a variety of practice settings. Two different organizations are available on-campus that promote professional development in the field. The Coalition of Occupational Therapy Advocates promotes diversity and inclusion in the workforce. The Student Occupational Therapy Association promotes professional and educational growth. The program’s three-year graduation rate is 94%.
Tennessee State University had a 96% pass rate on the NBCOT exam in 2020.
29. Radford University – Radford, Virginia
Master of Occupational Therapy
Website
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $8,915/year in-state and $17,441/year out-of-state
The Waldron College of Health and Human Services at Radford University offers three different occupational therapy programs. The Occupational Therapy Assistant and Master of Occupational Therapy programs are entry level programs for students at the associate or
master’s degree level. New students are admitted to a master’s cohort each fall. Students benefit from interprofessional collaboration opportunities across the universities. Hands-on training is offered in a variety of settings, including primary care clinics and correctional centers. Radford also offers an online Post-Professional Doctor of Occupational Therapy for current practitioners interested in pursuing doctoral study.
Radford University graduates had a 93% pass rate on the NBCOT exam in 2020.
28. Florida International University – Miami, Florida
Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MS-OT)
Website
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $8,912/year in-state and $21,393/year out-of-state
The Nicole Wertheim College of Nursing and Health Sciences at Florida International University offers an entry-level MS in occupational therapy that emphasizes evidence-based practice.
Students are engaged in interdisciplinary collaborative learning that includes fieldwork. Faculty are nationally and internationally known for their education and research efforts. Clinical site offerings include emerging practice areas that may be unavailable at other schools. The program is open to students with a BA or BS in any area.
Florida International University graduates had a 100% pass rate on the NBCOT exam in 2020.
27. Milligan College – Milligan College, Tennessee
Master of Science in Occupational Therapy
Website
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $8,755/year
Milligan University is a Christ-centered liberal arts university offering a budget friendly Master of Science in Occupational Therapy that prepares students to serve the local and global community. The holistic program teaches from a Christian world view that encourages students to serve others.
Students are engaged in hands-on learning experiences in the classroom. The program typically takes two-and-a-half-years to complete. Coursework features three essential components, including:
- Basic Skills
- Occupational Therapy Process
- Capstone Experiences
The overall graduation rate for the past three years was 96%. Graduates are eligible to sit for the NBCOT national certification examination in occupational therapy.
Milligan University graduates had a 96% pass rate on the NBCOT exam in 2020.
26. University of Wisconsin – Lacrosse, Wisconsin
Master of Science in Occupational Therapy
Website
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $8,651/year in-state and $18,637/year out-of-state
The University of Wisconsin at La Crosse offers a low-cost master’s in occupational therapy that includes two years of coursework followed by six months of fieldwork. The program emphasizes the importance of hands-on learning. They require
fieldwork experience in every semester to expose students to a variety of individuals and settings. At the end of the program, students complete two fieldwork experiences in clinical settings. Students can join the Student Occupational Therapy Association, gaining access to valuable professional development opportunities that can help boost a resume!
The University of Wisconsin La Crosse graduates had a 100% pass rate on the NBCOT exam in 2020.
25. Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University – Tallahassee, Florida
Master of Science Occupational Therapy
Website
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $8,019/year in-state and $22,108/year out-of-state
Florida A&M University features an affordable occupational therapy master’s program that prepares students to work in a variety of settings. The program is a two-and-a-half-year professional program and includes fieldwork
education. Course offerings include:
- Human Gross Anatomy
- Neuroanatomy for Occupational Therapy
- Functional Human Motion
Students develop the skills necessary to serve individuals of all ages and abilities. Coursework covers current trends in clinical practice. Graduates are eligible to sit for NBCOT national examination.
Florida A&M University graduates had a 79% pass rate on the NBCOT exam in 2020.
24. Idaho State University – Pocatello, Idaho
Master of Occupational Therapy
Website
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $7,982/year in-state and $24,604/year out-of-state
Idaho State University offers a low-cost Master of Occupational Therapy at their Pocatello and Meridian locations. Students currently working on their bachelor’s degree at ISU can earn their MOT through the Pre-OT Accelerated
Concentration program. This program allows students in their senior year to enter the OT program, shaving one year off the time to complete both degrees. Class size for the MOT program is kept small to support individualized attention. The curriculum is grounded in the basic sciences. Graduates are in high demand with 100% employed within six months of graduation!
Idaho State University graduates had a 100% pass rate on the NBCOT exam in 2020.
23. Murray State University – Paducah, Kentucky
Master of Science in Occupational Therapy
Website
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $7,981/year in-state and $13,500/year out-of-state
The inexpensive master’s in occupational therapy from Murray State University is offered through the School of Nursing and Health Professions. The
unique curriculum allows students to study current research, gain clinical experience, and engage in interprofessional collaboration with other professionals at Murray. The 24-month, year-round program includes both didactic and clinical education. Students complete fieldwork during their last two semesters in the program. Murray State Exercise Science students are eligible for an accelerated, 3+2 option that allows them to earn their bachelor’s and master’s degrees in just 5 years.
Murray State University graduates had a 100% pass rate on the NBCOT exam in 2020.
22. University of South Alabama – Mobile, Alabama
Master of Science degree in Occupational Therapy
Website
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $7,956/year in-state and $15,912/year out-of-state
The Department of Occupational Therapy at the University of South Alabama offers an affordable master’s in OT that prepares students for entry-level occupational therapy practice. Courses are taught
by faculty who know the latest research and best practices in the field. The curriculum includes 95 semester hours of professional course work. Course offerings include:
- OT of the Young Child
- School Based OT
- Neuroscience
Applicants can have a bachelor’s degree in any area and must submit GRE scores to be considered for admission. The average graduation rate for the past three years was 96.8%.
University of South Alabama graduates had a 100% pass rate on the NBCOT exam in 2020.
21. Towson University – Towson, Maryland
Occupational Therapy M.S.
Website
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $7,902/year in-state and $16,344/year out-of-state
The Department of Occupational Therapy and Occupational Science at Towson University offers Maryland’s only ACOTE accredited OT master’s program. Courses are taught by industry experts who serve in leadership roles with the American Occupational Therapy Association and the
Maryland Occupational Therapy Association. Students have a variety of fieldwork experiences that prepares them to work in different OT settings. Towson’s Institute for Well-Being Occupational Therapy Center gives students the opportunity to demonstrate their professional abilities under the supervision of qualified OT professionals.
Towson University graduates had a 95% pass rate on the NBCOT exam in 2020.
20. University of Southern Maine – Portland, Maine
Master of Occupational Therapy
Website
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $7,776/year in-state and $21,348/year out-of-state
The University of Southern Maine uses a holistic and integrative training approach in their affordable master’s in occupational therapy. This entry level, ACOTE accredited program is for students with a bachelor’s in any field. Students can complete their degree in
seven semesters of coursework and six months of full-time fieldwork. Required courses include:
- Reflective Practitioner
- Fundamentals of Human Anatomy and Movement
- Impact of Mental Health on Occupational Performance
Courses must be taken in order since they are integrative by design. Students complete their fieldwork in a variety of settings. When they graduate, they have the knowledge and skills needed to work in different OT environments.
University of Southern Maine graduates had a 94% pass rate on the NBCOT exam in 2020.
19. Indiana State University – Terre Haute, Indiana
Master of Occupational Therapy
Website
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $7,668/year in-state and $15,066/year out-of-state
The College of Health and Human Services at Indiana State University offers a budget-friendly occupational therapy master’s degree designed around three curricular themes. These themes include:
- Interprofessional Education
- Professional Responsibility
- Excellence in Practice
New students begin their studies in mid-May and can complete their degree in eight semesters. Coursework includes:
- Assistance Technology
- Applied Neuroscience
- OT with Children and Youth
Admission to the program is competitive. Applicants must submit transcripts, GRE scores, summary of relevant experience, and references to be considered for acceptance. The three year graduation average is 93.3%.
Indiana State University graduates had a 92% pass rate on the NBCOT exam in 2020.
18. Alabama State University – Montgomery, Alabama
Occupational Therapy Program
Website
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $7,416/year in-state and $14,832/year out-of-state
The top occupational therapy master’s degree program at Alabama State University features a rigorous curriculum that is delivered in a logical and developmental sequence. The
seven-semester program includes courses in:
- Assistive Technology in Rehabilitation
- Patient Care Concepts
- Ethics and Professional Development
Students are heavily involved in fieldwork, developing their professional skills that will lead them to successful careers. Graduates are prepared as entry-level therapists with competency in evidence-based clinical practice. The three-year graduation rate for OT students is 94%.
Alabama State University graduates had a 95% pass rate on the NBCOT exam in 2020.
17. California State University, Dominguez Hills – Carson, California
Occupational Therapy Master’s Program
Website
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $7,176/year in-state and $16,680/year out-of-state
The Department of Occupational Therapy at California State University, Dominguez Hills began offering an ACOTE accredited Master of Science in Occupational Therapy in 2006. This full-time cohort program is comprised of seven consecutive semesters
that include didactic coursework and clinical rotations. Students must also pass a comprehensive exam. Course offerings include:
- Interactive Reasoning and Group Leadership
- Activities Across the Lifespan
- Occupation-Based Interventions
Graduates are prepared for entry-level roles as clinical practitioners.
California State University-Dominguez Hills graduates had a 100% pass rate on the NBCOT exam in 2020.
16. San Jose State University – San Jose, California
Master’s in Occupational Therapy
Website
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $7,176/year in-state and $16,680/year out-of-state
The Department of Occupational Therapy in the College of Health and Human Sciences at San Jose State University offers a cutting-edge Master of Science in OT program. Courses are taken on the San Jose
State University while fieldwork and practicum experiences take place off campus. Students move through the program as a cohort, developing professional relationships with their peers and instructors. Students will gain experience working in both traditional and emerging areas of OT, enabling them to be more competitive in the job market. All students complete an international experience to gain cross-cultural and cross-national insight into the field outside of the US.
San Jose State University graduates had a 97% pass rate on the NBCOT exam in 2020.
15. Florida Gulf Coast University – Fort Myers, Florida
Occupational Therapy Program MS
Website
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $6,974/year in-state and $28,170/year out-of-state
Florida Gulf Coast University offers a top value MS in occupational therapy accredited by the ACOTE. The program is comprised of four academic semesters and 24 weeks of fieldwork. Students are prepared to work as
generalists in the field. Course offerings include:
- Occupational Performance Issues
- Occupational Therapy Intervention
- Management and Supervision in OT
Students will gain clinical reasoning skills that enable them to appropriately respond to challenges in clinical settings. Applicants should have a bachelor’s degree and must submit GRE scores and documentation showing their volunteer/shadowing hours to be considered for admission.
Florida Gulf Coast University graduates had a 100% pass rate on the NBCOT exam in 2020.
14. University of Utah – Salt Lake City, Utah
Master of Occupational Therapy
Website
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $6,666/year in-state and $23,537/year out-of-state
The affordable master’s in occupational therapy from the Department of Occupational and Recreational Therapies prepares students for an exciting career in OT. The program offers both in-class and hands-on education that fosters collaboration in:
- education
- research
- clinical practice
Course offerings include:
- Culture and Therapeutic Relating
- Neuroanatomy
- Leadership and Management
The curriculum was redesigned for fall of 2021. New students are admitted for the fall semester.
University of Utah graduates had a 100% pass rate on the NBCOT exam in 2020.
13. University of Louisiana – Monroe, Louisiana
OTA to Master of Occupational Therapy Bridge Program
Website
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $6,490/year in-state and $18,590/year out-of-state
The occupational therapy program at the University of Louisiana at Monroe is a bridge program from the Occupational Therapy Assistant to MOT. The bridge program is a two-and-a-half-year hybrid program for certified OTA’s who have earned their
bachelor’s degree. Courses have online and onsite components. Course offerings include:
- Management and Administration
- Special Topics and Current Trends
- Applied Reasoning and Theory
Students will complete didactic coursework and field experiences that prepare them for a generalist role in OT. The average graduation rate for the past three years is 98%.
University of Louisiana at Monroe graduates had a 94% pass rate on the NBCOT exam in 2020.
12. Governors State University – University Park, Illinois
Master of Occupational Therapy
Website
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $6,354/year in-state and $12,708/year out-of-state
The Department of Occupational Therapy at Governors State University in Chicago’s Southland offers a high-quality master’s in occupational therapy. It’s considered one of the best in the country by Forbes and Glassdoor.
Students develop a strong foundation in the sciences and skills that help their clients restore function and adapt after experiencing life-altering events.
The program emphasizes advocacy, communication and critical reasoning skills that empower students to become life-long learners. The curriculum is sequential. During the first and second year, students complete coursework and several clinical experiences. During the final year, students are focused primarily on fieldwork that helps students transition their knowledge from the classroom to the workplace. New students are admitted for the fall semester.
Governors State University graduates had a 100% pass rate on the NBCOT exam in 2020.
11. University of New Mexico – Albuquerque, New Mexico
Occupational Therapy Graduate Program
Website
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $5,920/year in-state and $18,489/year
out-of-state
The School of Medicine at the University of New Mexico features a budget friendly Master of Occupational Therapy for students who want to help children and adults regain independence. Course offerings include:
- Occupation Across the Life Span
- Advocacy, Communication and Leadership
- Organization and Administration
This two-and-a-half-year program offers a variety of unique learning experiences including international fieldwork programs and interdisciplinary education programs. Students can choose elective courses which allow them to serve individuals in the local community.
The University of New Mexico graduates had a 100% pass rate on the NBCOT exam in 2020.
10. Chicago State University – Chicago, Illinois
Master of Occupational Therapy
Website
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $5,850/year in-state and $11,340/year
out-of-state
The Department of Occupational Therapy at Chicago State University offers a high-quality master’s in occupational therapy that has been continually accredited by the ACOTE since 1984. CSU offers both an entry level MOT and a combined Bachelor of Science in Health Science/Masters of Occupational Therapy. Courses are taught by faculty with strong backgrounds in:
- academics
- clinical practice
- professional service
Fieldwork experiences are included in every semester. Students are prepared to work in traditional settings as well as in innovative community-based programs.
Chicago State University graduates had a 92% pass rate on the NBCOT exam in 2020.
9. Augusta University – Augusta, Georgia
Masters of Health Science in Occupational Therapy
Website
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $5,504/year in-state and $18,772/year
out-of-state
The two-year Master’s of Health Science in Occupational Therapy from Augusta University seeks to develop OTs who will change the world through:
- innovative practice
- exemplary service
- excellence in scholarship
The program is comprised of six semesters and includes six one-week fieldwork rotations and two 12-week rotations. Coursework includes:
- Applied Kinesiology
- Older Adult Evaluation and Intervention
- Development of Lifespan Occupations
The average three-year graduation rate for OT students at Augusta is 98%. Graduates are eligible to sit for the NBCOT examination.
Augusta University graduates had a 100% pass rate on the NBCOT exam in 2020.
8. Missouri State University – Springfield, Missouri
Master of Science in Occupational Therapy
Website
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $5,436/year in-state and $10,944/year out-of-state
The Department of Occupational Therapy at Missouri State University offers an entry-level master’s in OT accredited by the ACOTE. The program is housed in the O’Reilly Clinical Health Science Center, a state-of-the-art facility that allows students to learn in simulated
real-world settings. Students have access to high fidelity mannequins and a rehabilitation courtyard. Courses are taught by expert faculty members with experience working with individuals across the lifespan. Course offerings include:
- Occupational Development Through the Lifespan
- Clinical Reasoning and Documentation
- Psychosocial Perspectives in Occupational Therapy Practice
Graduates are eligible to sit for the occupational therapist exam administered by the NBCOT.
Missouri State University graduates had a 100% pass rate on the NBCOT exam in 2020.
7. Delaware State University – Dover, Delaware
Master of Science in Occupational Therapy
Website
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $5,160/year in-state and
$11,376/year out-of-state
Delaware State University offers a low-cost master’s in occupational therapy that prepares students to become generalists within the OT field. To develop their professional skills, students are engaged in:
- interdisciplinary programs
- field experiences
- pro bono work
Following the didactic portion of the program, students complete 24 weeks of fieldwork. Students can complete their degree in two-and-a-half-years of study. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Applicants should have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university and submit a resume to be considered for admission.
6. University of Oklahoma – Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Master of Science in Occupational Therapy
Website
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $5,119/year in-state and $19,778/year out-of-state
The College of Allied Health at The University of Oklahoma has been educating occupational therapy students for over 45 years. They offer an innovative ACOTE accredited Master of Occupational Therapy that
prepares students to be generalists in the field. Course offerings include:
- Clinical Process
- Concepts in Rehabilitation Sciences
- Evidence-Based Practice
This three-year program includes both didactic coursework and fieldwork that prepares students to sit for their licensing exam. Programs are offered in Tulsa and Oklahoma City. Lectures are broadcast between both campuses, allowing students to learn from regional field experts.
The University of Oklahoma graduates had a 100% pass rate on the NBCOT exam in 2020.
5. East Carolina University – Greenville, North Carolina
Masters Degree in Occupational Therapy
Website
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $4,749/year in-state and $17,898/year out-of-state
East Carolina University offers a professional entry-level master’s degree for students who plan to practice in a complex healthcare environment. Students interact with diverse individuals in different settings to develop their professional skills. Hands-on training opportunities are
offered in addition to traditional fieldwork experiences. Didactic coursework and fieldwork experiences prepare students to sit for the national licensing exam. Students develop leadership skills which will help them grow with their profession and advance their career.
East Carolina University graduates had a 100% pass rate on the NBCOT exam in 2020.
4. Northeastern State University – Tahlequah, Oklahoma
Master of Science in Occupational Therapy
Website
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $4,500/year in-state and $9,999/year out-of-state
Northeastern State University offers a 30-month occupational therapy master’s degree program for students planning to work in the rural region of Eastern Oklahoma. Courses are taught by faculty members who serve as graduate advisors. Class size is
kept small, allowing students to develop meaningful relationships with faculty and peers. Students will develop professional competencies that promote professional growth and life-long learning. New students begin the program in January.
Northeastern State University graduates had a 100% pass rate on the NBCOT exam in 2020.
3. Winston Salem State University – Winston-Salem, North Carolina
MS Occupational Therapy
Website
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $3,872/year in-state and $13,987/year out-of-state
The Department of Occupational Therapy at Winston-Salem State University offers an innovative master’s in occupational therapy with an integrated curriculum that emphasizes hands-on training. Courses
keep students engaged while stimulating creativity and critical reasoning skills. Students have access to the latest technology, including virtual cadaver software and patient simulation. The program seeks to attract a diverse student body. It creates immersive experiences with different ethnic groups and those of diverse cultures. An optional mental health concentration is available for students to want to build competencies for practice in mental health while earning their OT degree.
Winston-Salem State University graduates had a 100% pass rate on the NBCOT exam in 2020.
2. Worcester State University – Worcester, Massachusetts
Master of Occupational Therapy
School Profile
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $3,042/year
The best-value master’s in occupational
therapy from Worcester State University is a full-time day program that takes three years to complete. Students complete didactic coursework followed by two, full-time 12-week fieldwork sessions. Students will work alongside registered occupational therapists in a variety of settings including mental health facilities and hospitals. Course offerings include:
- Kinesiology
- Psychosocial Therapeutic Approaches
- Occupational Therapy Theories
Graduates have gone on to work as registered OTRs in settings like acute care hospitals and public schools.
Worcester State University graduates had a 100% pass rate on the NBCOT exam in 2020.
1. Salem State University – Salem, Massachusetts
Direct-Entry MS program in Occupational Therapy
School Profile
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $2,520/year in-state and $4,140/year out-of-state
Salem State University offers a low-cost occupational therapy master’s degree for adult learners. Students with their associate degree in occupational therapy should consider the BS/MS bridge program. Those with a bachelor’s degree in
another field can apply to the direct-entry MS program. Both programs are offered part-time, during the evening hours to accommodate working professionals. Course offerings include:
- Conditions and Healthcare Environments
- Introduction to Professional Reasoning and Occupational-based Treatment Planning across the Lifespan
- Therapeutic Occupations and Activities
The three year average graduation rate for OT students at Salem State is 87.5%.
Salem State University graduates had a 92% pass rate on the NBCOT exam in 2020.
Related Resources:
- 5 Great Podcasts for Occupational Therapists
- 5 Common Courses in an Occupational Therapy Degree Program
- What Does an Occupational Therapist Do?
- What Are Psychomotor Skills?