Our Programs
The Department offers two programs:
- Master of Science in Occupational Therapy
- Interdisciplinary Ph.D. in Education and Human Resources – Occupational Therapy emphasis
The Master of Science degree in Occupational Therapy (MSOT) serves professional and post-professional students. The two-track graduate program addresses students’ educational needs whether they have a bachelor’s degree in OT or another discipline. Students with a B.S. in a discipline outside of OT will follow a standard program of study. Students with a B.S. in OT will be allowed to create an individualized program of study with their adviser that will include components of the standard program as well as post-professional electives.
The Interdisciplinary PhD degree in Educational and Human Resources Studies with an Occupational Therapy emphasis serves occupational therapists who are interested in expanding their education beyond a master’s degree. This program gives occupational therapy students the opportunity to integrate educational concepts into the practice of occupational therapy. Each student in this program completes the core doctoral courses and specialization courses within the School of Education as well as completes courses for their concentration in the Occupational Therapy Department.
Character Requirements for CSU Fieldwork & NBCOT Certification
Students must pass criminal background checks, drug screening and health/immunization requirements in order to be eligible to enroll in Level I OT Fieldwork and Level II Fieldwork and complete the MSOT program. Contact the fieldwork office at dmichna@cahs.colostate.edu if you have questions about the criminal background check process to meet fieldwork requirements. Students must also pass similar requirements imposed by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy ( NBCOT ) in order to sit for the NBCOT exam.
Students are encouraged to participate in NBCOT's Early Determination Character Review prior to applying to the program. Students who have additional questions or would like additional information, may contact the Regulatory Affairs Department at NBCOT, located at 800 S. Frederick Avenue, Suite 200, Gaithersburg, Maryland 20877 .
Requirements for OTR Certification
To practice occupational therapy, students must pass NBCOT's national certification exam. After successful completion, the individual will be an Occupational Therapist, Registered (OTR). Many states require licensure to practice; however, state licenses are usually based on the results of the NBCOT Certification Exam and continuing education requirements that are unique from state to state.
Additional information about occupational therapy can be obtained by contacting the American Occupational Therapy Association at 4720 Montgomery Lane, PO Box 31220 , Bethesda , MD 20824-1220 , phone (301)652-2682 or the AOTA web site.
Accreditation
The Occupational Therapy Program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE), 4720 Montgomery Lane, PO Box 31220 , Bethesda , MD 20824-1220 , (301)652-2682. Visit www.aota.org for additional information. The National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) is the credentialing agency responsible for the development and implementation of the certification process for OT practioners.
