MS in Occupational Therapy (Entry-Level Degree)

The final MS class will enroll in Fall 2021. The MS degree will be replaced in Fall 2022 by the Doctor of Occupational Therapy: Entry-level. Applications for the entry-level OTD program are now being accepted. The entry-level OTD degree is for students who have a  bachelor's degree in another subject. This program prepares students to be eligible for a national certification examination and for practice as an occupational therapist. 

An occupational therapy program must be accredited by ACOTE® prior to students’ graduation for its students to be eligible to sit for the national certification examination offered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). After successful completion of the NBCOT certification exam, the graduate will be an occupational therapist, registered (OTR). In addition, all states require licensure to practice, however state licenses are usually based on the results of the NBCOT certification examination. A felony conviction may affect a graduate’s ability to sit for the NBCOT certification examination or attain state licensure.

The entry-level OTD program at UIC includes eight terms (33 months) of didactic and clinical education that includes lecture-discussion courses, laboratory-discussion classes, seminars, six fieldwork experiences, a capstone experience and a capstone project. All graduation requirements, including Level II fieldwork and the doctoral capstone must be completed within six years.