Academic Preparation
The Master of Occupational Therapy and Master of Science in Occupational Therapy Degrees
The Occupational Therapy Program offered by the School of Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy is a post-baccalaureate, graduate, professional entry-level program, leading either to a Master of Occupational Therapy degree (MOT) or a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy degree (MSOT).
Any undergraduate major may lead to the successful study of occupational therapy. In fact, the department seeks a diversity of educational backgrounds among its students. A liberal education is a vital component in the preparation of today's health care practitioner.
Specific prerequisite courses also must be completed before enrollment in the Occupational Therapy Program:
- One semester introductory statistics (MATH 160 or equivalent)
- Two semesters human anatomy and physiology, preferably with lab (EXSC 221/222 or equivalent)
(Please note that at Puget Sound EXSC 221 carries a prerequisite of BIOL 111 or equivalent.) - Three semesters human development/human behavior (PSYCH 220/221 lifespan development or equivalent is required plus upper division human behavior course work to total three courses)
Although most students enter the Occupational Therapy Program having already earned a bachelor's degree, the MOT or MSOT can be completed as a 3-2 program. With careful planning, it is possible for a Puget Sound student to interlock the final year of an undergraduate program with the first year of the master's program. Students at Puget Sound who are planning a 3-2 program should work closely with an undergraduate advisor in their major as well as a graduate advisor in the Occupational Therapy Program. During their first year of study in the Occupational Therapy Program, such students retain their status as undergraduates for financial aid, housing, and other purposes. At the time of bestowal of the bachelor's degree they acquire graduate standing in the Occupational Therapy Program.
Please note that in most years more applications are received for the incoming class than there are spaces available, and that admission to the University of Puget Sound does not guarantee admission to the Occupational Therapy Program. Applicants who have been or will be granted an undergraduate degree from Puget Sound, however, and who are competitive within the applicant pool, are offered admission prior to transfer students.
For information concerning application procedures and acceptance to degree candidacy, see the Occupational Therapy Program presentation folder (available in the Office of Admission and from the School of Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy). For information on completion of degree requirements for the graduate program in Occupational Therapy see the Graduate Programs Bulletin. The course sequence and course descriptions for the MOT and MSOT degrees are contained in both publications.
