PhD in Occupational Therapy/Therapist (PhD)

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis; tuition is A maximum of 20 students are admitted each year. Completed applications are reviewed on a rolling basis..

This programme is designed for practicing occupational therapists with a master's degree who want to earn a doctorate while continuing to work. Students focus on their chosen area of practice through coursework and a capstone project. The curriculum emphasizes leadership, interprofessional collaboration, and evidence-based program design. Graduates develop skills to create and implement programs that meet community and organizational needs.

Focus areas include Leadership development, Population services, Interprofessional collaboration, Program design and implementation, Evidence-based practice, Occupational therapy advocacy.

The programme requires 20 credits beyond a master's degree, with 10 credits transferred. It includes coursework in leadership, population services, research methods, and a specialty practice project. The capstone involves a portfolio defense and a grant proposal for a population-based program.

Graduates work as leaders in occupational therapy, designing and implementing programs in healthcare, community, or organizational settings.

Applicants must have a master's degree in occupational therapy, a minimum 3.2 GPA, one year of professional experience as an OT, a current state license, and a government-issued photo ID. Official transcripts and license copies are required.

The programme totals about 20 credit hours. 100% online, part-time, completed in 12 months. For international students, tuition is below the median for US programmes. The institution admits about 93% of applicants.

Mount Mary University offers more than 40 undergraduate programs across areas such as nursing, business, fashion design, computer science, cybersecurity, social work, art therapy, interior architecture and design, public health, and web design and development. Its liberal arts foundation supports a career-focused education shaped by creativity, social justice, leadership, and hands-on learning. Undergraduate students who identify as women study in a women-centered environment, while graduate programs are open to everyone.

Graduate options include master's degrees in occupational therapy, professional counseling, art therapy, nutrition and dietetics, social work, education, and business administration. Doctoral study is available in counselor education and supervision and occupational therapy. The Institute for Women and Children's Advancement supports research, advocacy, and innovation through four centers. Reduced Credit Programs provide streamlined routes to graduation in selected fields.

The campus is located at 2900 Menomonee River Parkway in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Students learn in a close community with small classes and personal support from faculty, staff, and classmates. Campus life includes activities, internships, jobs, study-abroad opportunities, and connections with professors. International students are encouraged to begin applying at least six months before their intended semester, allow time to gather documents and attend required appointments, and prepare their financial arrangements early.