91ÖÆƬ³§

When studying in the accelerated occupational therapy program at 91ÖÆƬ³§, you will:

• Obtain a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) or Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree at the end of your fourth year of study; a Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT) at the end of your fifth year of study
• Develop strong professional networks in the field through clinical experiences
• Qualify for the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy Exam and Licensure in all 50 states. 
• Learn from intentional, creative, hands-on faculty that still practice in the field. 
• Participate in community-engaged learning opportunities that allow you to practice what you are learning in the classroom while tangibly serving the community. 
• Enjoy individualized fieldwork placements. 
• Receive a comprehensive education that prepares you to work in any practice setting across the lifespan.
• Collaborate with physical therapy, nursing, social work, dietetics, athletic training and special education programs. 

Students enrolled in the accelerated occupational therapy program at 91ÖÆƬ³§ are eligible to sit for the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam after graduating with their master’s degree. After passing the exam, you are eligible to apply for state licensure as an occupational therapist. 

The NBCOT pass rate for 91ÖÆƬ³§ graduates is 98%

Employment opportunities are available in the following areas:

• Schools 
• Hospitals
• Skilled nursing facilities
• Outpatient clinics
• Academia
• Early intervention
• Mental and behavioral health 
• Community settings

For more information on career planning for occupational therapy, visit the .

You will choose one of three bachelor’s degrees to complete the occupational therapy accelerated program.

Applied health science (with a pre-occupational therapy concentration): This major is most appropriate if you enjoy studying the human body, basic science courses and how the body responds to both physical activity and disease. The pre-occupational therapy concentration provides a multi-dimensional approach to studying health and offers coursework in anatomy, exercise physiology, biomechanics, chronic disease, health promotion, exercise psychology and nutrition. Prerequisite psychology courses will be incorporated in the curriculum to prepare you for the integration of the mental and physical components of occupational therapy.

Human development and family science: This major is ideal for students who are passionate about understanding and supporting individuals and families across the lifespan. With an interdisciplinary approach—including psychology, sociology and gerontology—it provides a strong foundation for occupational therapy. Coursework in lifespan development and family dynamics prepares you to work effectively with diverse populations in a healthcare setting.

Psychology: This major is most appropriate if you enjoy studying human behavior, the motivations behind behavior and mental processes. You will study a wide-range of foundational psychology courses in lifespan development, abnormal psychology, experimental psychology, and sensation and perceptions. Prerequisite science courses will be incorporated in the curriculum to prepare you to understand the biological basis of behavior required for the field of occupational therapy. 

The 5-year, accelerated B.S./MOT program will admit no more than 22 total new students each fall. New admits will be accepted directly from high school.
   
First year students who are eligible for admission to the University are eligible for the Accelerated MOT program. You can review the undergraduate admissions process and criteria on our website. 

Questions regarding the occupational therapy accelerated program may be directed to gradot@messiah.edu.