If you are a Licensed Occupational Therapist (OT) and are exploring the different places where occupational therapists can work, you may be wondering how to take your occupational therapy career to the next level. yeah.
A Professional Physician in Occupational Therapy (PPOTD) is a viable and attractive option. This degree program prepares graduates to improve patient lives and work towards improving and expanding the field of OT.1
Read on to learn more about our post-professional occupational therapist program so you can decide if it aligns with your personal and professional goals.
What is Post-Professional OTD?
PPOTD is the final degree. In other words, it is the highest level of education available in the field of occupational therapy.2
A rigorous PPOTD curriculum provides licensed OTs with the following additional training:2
- education
- clinical leadership
- research
Depending on the degree program chosen, PPOTD usually culminates in a PhD capstone project.2
What are the benefits of taking a post-professional OTD?
PPOTD practitioners are at the top of their field.2 PPOTD candidates typically choose this route for:
- advance Occupational therapy areas within local and state levels and professional organizations.3
- expansion their educational options.2
- Fulfill role of executive leadership.3
- cooperate Effectively with leaders in various professions.3
How is PPOTD different from OTD?
Occupational Therapist (OTD) is an advanced degree program that typically requires two additional semesters after completing a master’s degree in Occupational Therapist (MOT). 4 However, unlike PPOTD, OTD is not a final degree.2 The program also has slightly different objectives for some candidates.2
- PPOTD candidates are typically seeking higher education or a role in management.
- OTD candidates may seek leadership positions or open an occupational therapy practice.Four
The PPOTD program is an ideal choice if OTD is for career advancement whereas OTD is considered an entry level degree.2
What are the entry requirements for a Post Professional Doctor of Occupational Therapy (PPOTD)?
OT school requirements for post-professional OTD programs vary. The following requirements generally apply:
- Undergraduate and/or graduate degrees – To be eligible for the PPOTD program, you must have a Bachelor’s degree in OT or an MOT from an accredited university.3
- official transcript – Official transcripts from the institution where you obtained your degree are an important part of the admissions process. Transcripts must be submitted directly from the academic institution.3
- Recommended by professionals – Most post-professional OTD programs require a professional letter of recommendation.3 These are typically requested by OT colleagues.
- resume – A resume provides important details about your chosen university career trajectory.3 PPOTD candidates are typically licensed occupational therapists with work experience, or individuals who qualify for certification.3
What does the Post-Professional OTD Program require?
By the time PPOTD applicants enroll in their chosen occupational therapy program, they already have a comprehensive understanding of occupational therapy and most have experience as an OT.3 The PPOTD program is designed to expand your OT expertise by increasing your knowledge and experience as an instructor, practitioner, advocate, researcher, and executive leader.
Each PPOTD program has a unique path. However, post-professional OTD programs typically include:3
- online course3
- Opportunity to learn from expert faculty members across multiple disciplines3
- Optional immersion session3
Occupational therapy education courses can run a wide range, depending on the stage of your educational journey and your chosen specialization. Here are some examples:
- Basic theory of education3
- Teaching methods in higher education3
- Fundamentals of medical administration3
If you are interested in teaching in an occupational therapy academic program, some PPOTD programs offer bridge programs to further this goal.3
How long does it take to complete a post-professional OTD degree?
The time it takes to complete the PPOTD program varies. This depends on your level of participation in the PPOTD program and your pace of work.3
- Bachelor’s degree – If you enter the PPOTD program with a Bachelor of OT degree, you may attend school for 2 to 4 years or more.
- masters – If you have a master’s degree, 1 to 3 years is enough.
You can also accelerate your PPOTD program. This depends on how much time you have to devote to your program, work, family and other obligations. Fortunately, many of his PPOTD programs allow most, if not all, coursework to be completed online.
Boost your career with a post-professional OTD degree
Many occupational therapists enjoy a challenging role and help improve the lives of their patients. PPOTD gives graduates the opportunity to make a big impact in this field as well.
St. Augustine University Health Sciences (USAHS) provides student-first education to develop medical professionals in many disciplines and levels. Our Professional Therapist (PPOTD) program was created with the modern student in mind. Through distance learning and optional immersion sessions, this program allows students to study at their own pace and in a location that fits their lifestyle and schedule.
Earn your PhD in Health Sciences from St. Augustine University and experience the life-changing impact of cutting-edge medicine.
Request information about our OT program and apply today to start your rewarding OT career.
sauce:
- American Occupational Therapy Association, “What is Occupational Therapy?” Mr. Aota Last updated in 2023,
- K Hoyt and S Lyon, “Which OT degree? (OT, OTD, PPOTD, etc!),” OT Potential/Occupational Therapy Resources, Last updated: August 2022,
- St. Augustine University Health Service, “Post-Specialist in Occupational Therapy,” education, Last updated in 2023,
- St. Augustine University Health Sciences, “Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) Degree,” Last Revised 2023,
