Occupational Therapy
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Know the Field
According to the American Occupational Therapy Association, helps people across the lifespan to do the things they want and need to do through the therapeutic use of daily activities (occupations). Occupational therapy practitioners enable people of all ages to live life to its fullest by helping them promote health and prevent – or live better with – injury, illness or disability.
A master's degree in occupational therapy or a doctoral degree is now required for all entry-level positions
Career Exploration
Common occupational therapy interventions include helping children with disabilities to participate fully in school and social situations, helping people recovering from injury to regain skills and providing supports for older adults experiencing physical and cognitive changes.
Applying to Occupational Therapy programs
You are not required to select a particular undergraduate major in order to be eligible for admission to a OT program. Common undergraduate majors include biology, kinesiology, psychology, sociology, anthropology, liberal arts, and anatomy. Students should ensure prerequisite courses and other application requirements are met.
Many OT Programs utilize a centralized application service called The Occupational Therapy Centralized Application Service.
Many OT programs have multiple deadline dates (i.e., preferred, priority, or early decision) or operate on a rolling admissions process.
Prerequisite Completion
Many of your required pre-requisites for your pre-health path can be completed right here at UofL in conjunction with your current academic program plan. Meet with your academic advisor for more information. In addition, consult the specific program you are applying to for pre-requisite requirements.
- Many programs require applicants to have a certain number of volunteer or paid experiences working with patients under the supervision of a licensed occupational therapist.
Entrance Exam
Many OT programs will require the GRE. Check exact requirement listed on specific program website.
Getting Involved
UofL Student Involvement Recognized Student Organizations (RSO’s):
- Multicultural Association of Pre-Health Students
- Allied Health Club
You can find all active student organizations by visiting engage.
National Organizations & Resources
