Our accelerated pathways to the MSOT and OTD degrees provide you with a BS in Health Sciences after 4 years of full-time study.
If you chose the MSOT pathway, you will receive your MS degree after an additional 9 months of full-time, post-baccalaureate study.
If you chose the OTD pathway, you will receive your OTD after an additional 19 months of full-time, post-baccalaureate study. Students who pursue the OTD program do not earn a Master's Degree.
All freshmen admitted to Duquesne University's Occupational Therapy program enter the Master's of Occupational Therapy degree tract. In the Fall of the 4th year, students are given the option to declare their intent to earn an Occupational Therapy Doctorate. No additional application to enter the professional phase for either degree is required for students who have declared occupational therapy as their major. Students in the accelerated programs who achieve a 'C' or better in all courses and a 3.0 cumulative GPA in the math and science courses by the end of the pre-professional phase are guaranteed a place in the professional phase of the occupational therapy curriculum beginning in January of the third year of study.
This graphic reflects the progression through our program for a freshman.
View the Occupational Therapy Professional Phase Handbook.
Admission Requirements
Admission into the Occupational Therapy program at the freshman level is highly-competitive and will require the following to be considered for admission:
- a minimum GPA of at least a 3.0
- a composite math and verbal SAT score of at least 1,170; or a composite ACT score of at least 24 (admitted freshman usually have test scores higher than the minimum)
- a minimum of seven units of math and science
- evidence of extracurricular activity during high school
- knowledge of the profession.
Health Requirements & Clearances
All students ADMITTED to our program must complete a variety of health screenings,
vaccinations, background clearances, and certifications required by clinical and community
education sites. A full list of these clearances are made available after entry to
the program.
Technical Standards/Performance Indicators
To assure the health and safety of the Occupational therapy students and patients
with whom they work, all applicants and students (freshman, transfer, and graduate)
are required to meet the RSHS Technical Standards/Performance Indicators to ensure that they have sufficient abilities to meet the rigorous work expectations
of a student studying Occupational Therapy.
Freshmen Admission Process
To apply as a freshman, please visit the Admissions page.