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A career in occupational therapy (OT) is rewarding and impactful, offering the chance to help people of all ages overcome challenges and lead more independent lives. If you’re considering this career, you might wonder what undergraduate degree you need. Alvernia University offers several pathways to prepare you for advanced studies in occupational therapy. Discover what it takes to turn this rewarding career into your reality: 
 

Is Occupational Therapy Right for You?

Occupational therapists address physical, mental, or developmental challenges that interfere with daily activities. They design personalized treatment plans to help individuals regain or develop skills, adapt to their environments, and enhance their well-being. This may involve therapeutic exercises, assistive technology, or environmental modifications to overcome barriers and support recovery.

OT is an ideal career for compassionate, patient people who enjoy helping others. It also appeals to creative problem-solvers who value variety and want a rewarding healthcare career that blends science, psychology, and one-on-one interaction.
 

How to Become an Occupational Therapist

Becoming a licensed occupational therapist involves several steps. Here’s a typical pathway:

  1. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree

While no specific major is required, degrees in Health Science, Psychology, Biology, or Kinesiology are common. Ensure your coursework covers the necessary prerequisites for graduate OT programs, including:

  • Anatomy and Physiology
  • Psychology (General, Developmental, and Abnormal Psychology)
  • Biology
  • Statistics
  • Medical Terminology

If your undergraduate degree is in an unrelated field, you can still pursue occupational therapy by completing prerequisite courses through a post-baccalaureate program before applying to graduate school.
 

  1. Complete a Graduate Program in Occupational Therapy

To practice as an OT, you must earn a Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT) or Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) degree from an accredited program. These programs typically take 2–3 years to complete. 
 

  1. Gain Hands-On Clinical Experience

During your graduate program, you’ll complete Level I and Level II fieldwork, gaining practical training under licensed occupational therapists and developing the skills needed for various practice areas, such as pediatrics, geriatrics, or mental health.
 

  1. Pass the NBCOT Certification Exam

After earning your degree, you must pass the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy exam, which tests your knowledge and clinical reasoning skills. Once you pass, you earn the Occupational Therapist, Registered (OTR) title.
 

  1. Obtain State Licensure

Licensure is required to practice as an OT in every state. Requirements vary by state, but they generally include passing the NBCOT exam and periodically completing continuing education credits.
 

Find Your Path at Alvernia

The five-year Bachelor of Science in Health Science to Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (BSHS-MSOT) program at Alvernia University offers a streamlined path for students to earn both degrees efficiently. 

Students build a strong foundation in health science during their undergraduate studies and transition seamlessly into the occupational therapy graduate program. With hands-on clinical experiences, expert faculty, and a curriculum focused on real-world application, the BSHS-MSOT program prepares graduates to become skilled and compassionate occupational therapists. 

While the BSHS-MSOT program provides a direct path, Alvernia also offers several undergraduate degree programs that align with the prerequisites for graduate programs, including: 

These programs provide foundational knowledge in anatomy, human behavior, and social dynamics, making them excellent alternatives for students seeking broader academic options.

Ultimately, the answer to "What Undergraduate Degree Do You Need For Occupational Therapy?" depends on finding a program that aligns with your interests and strengths while meeting the prerequisite requirements for graduate programs. For guidance on the best path forward, contact Alvernia University Admissions at 1-888-ALVERNIA or admissions@alvernia.edu.


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