Undergraduate Major
COTA-to-MSOT Bridge Program
Are you a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) ready to take your career to the next level? Alvernia University’s COTA-to-MSOT Bridge Program provides a seamless pathway from your Associate Degree to a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT) through the Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Science. This bridge program is designed specifically for licensed OTAs who want to become occupational therapists.
Program Benefits
Maximize your credits
Transfer up to 90 credits from your associate degree toward your bachelor’s degree.
Flexible course options
Balance your education with work and personal commitments.
Build on your experience
Strengthen your advocacy, communication and leadership abilities.
Seamless transition
Directly progress into Alvernia’s MSOT program upon completion of the bachelor’s degree.
Learn More About Each Program
Healthcare Science
Alvernia's online Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Science degree teaches students how to advocate for individuals and communities that are underserved or under-informed on issues related to health and wellness, health-system policies and health management.
Occupational Therapy
Alvernia's post-baccalaureate Master of Science in Occupational Therapy program prepares students for entry-level practice in traditional and role-emerging settings, and with clients across the lifespan.
- Application Instructions
Through a rolling admission process, prospective undergraduate students — including first-year, transfer, and international students — may apply via the Alvernia web portal or The Common Application. To learn more about how to complete your application, please visit our application page.
- Financing Your Education
There are options to assist in financing your education and making the tuition affordable. Visit our Student Financial Services page for a detailed overview of the process, including a link to complete the FAFSA application, as well as more information about tuition, the tuition payment plan and the tuition deferment program we offer. Alvernia’s Title IV code for the FAFSA is 003233. The Office of Student Financial Services is available to help with any questions you may have. Call 610-796-8201 or email sfs@alvernia.edu.
- Comprehensive Coursework for Career Advancement
The Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Science includes essential courses that prepare you for advancing your career in healthcare:
- Health and Wellness over the Lifespan
- Healthcare Science and Cultural Competency
- Healthcare Literacy and Advocacy
- Kinesiology
- Healthcare Ethics & Policy
- Leadership in Healthcare
- Healthcare Informatics
- Population Health and Epidemiology
- Healthcare Systems and Policy
- Student Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the COTA-to-MSOT Bridge Program will:
- Demonstrate understanding of the healthcare system
- Develop effective communication and leadership skills
- Promote health equity and social responsibility
- Utilize evidence-based decision making
- Encourage lifelong learning and professional growth
This bridge program is your gateway to greater career opportunities, higher earning potential, and expanded professional impact.
OT Program Offers Pro-bono Clinic
Students provide services free of charge to persons who cannot afford traditional services, have exhausted their insurance or would like help with their daily living skills.
