Aug 22, 2025  
2025 -2026 Catalog 
    
2025 -2026 Catalog

Occupational Therapy, O.T.D.


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Program Chair: Sibla

Degree Type: Doctor of Occupational Therapy

Overview

Occupational therapy makes it possible for people to achieve independence and to enjoy life to its fullest. The Occupational Therapy program at the University of Mary prepares students to be competent, caring, ethical, compassionate occupational therapy practitioners who can meet the diverse occupational needs of individuals, groups, and communities. Graduates of the occupational therapy program will have the skills and training necessary to practice in a variety of professional roles and settings.

The University of Mary offers an entry level master’s degree or doctoral degree. Students can learn more about both degrees during the first two semesters of the program to determine which is best for them. Upon successful completion of your occupational therapy degree, you will be eligible to take the certification examination for the occupational therapist, administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). We deliver both programs in person on our main campus in Bismarck, ND, as well as through hybrid on-site (2-3 days/week) instruction and hybrid model interactive video conferencing at the Fargo Butler Center and the University of Mary - Billings. Each of our locations houses a student-run pro bono clinic and serves as a venue for a wide range of experiential learning opportunities, including face-to-face labs.

Students may apply to the Occupational Therapy Program during their senior year of high school through the Early Assurance process, during their junior year of college through the priority admissions process, or during or after their senior year through the traditional application process. The University of Mary also offers a unique approach by allowing students to begin the Occupational Therapy Program during their senior year of college. These students are eligible to receive a bachelor’s degree in occupational performance  upon completion of required coursework. This allows students to complete an occupational therapy master’s degree in as little as 5 years or a doctorate degree in 6 years. See the Department of Occupational Therapy  page for more information.

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Program Requirements


Total: 99 Semester Credits


Program length: 2.3 years / 7 semesters / 110 weeks

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