Frequently Asked Questions
We hope to answer all your questions about the Occupational Therapy Program, but if we miss something, contact us!
- What is the difference between an entry-level masters degree and an entry-level doctorate degree in OT?
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Both are entry-level degrees into the field of occupational therapy. For new graduates, the vast majority of employment opportunities are offering the same salary regardless of the entry-level occupational therapy degree. We encourage gaining an entry-level master’s degree and begin practicing as an occupational therapist sooner with less debt. Then re-evaluate after practicing for awhile to discern if a doctoral degree meets your professional long-term goals and identify a post-professional doctoral program that best aligns with meeting your professional goals.
- What makes AHU's MOT program different from other entry-level OT programs in the state?
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Our program offers students fieldwork/clinical experiences each didactic trimester (the first 5 trimesters) in the program. This allows students to observe and apply what they are learning in classes with real clients in a variety of practice settings. Students also participate in individual therapy at our Hope Clinic (free, interdisciplinary clinic) and facilitate group activities at the Wayne Densch center during their first 3 trimesters.
- How long is the MOT program?
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Our programs is 7 trimesters, equivalent to 27 months. The last 2 trimesters are spent in full-time fieldwork experiences, completion of the Scholarship project and 1-week seminar class at the end of the Fieldwork II experiences.
- Will I be able to take classes and work?
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The MOT program is rigorous; therefore, students that choose to work are advised to work less than 20 hours per week to ensure success in completing the program.
- Will classes be online?
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The majority of courses are held on-campus in face-to-face format. All fieldwork experiences are conducted at clinical sites.
- Is this a bridge program for Occupational Therapy Assistants?
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No; OTA's are encouraged to apply, but this is a full-time entry-level master's degree.
- Will there be fieldwork experiences?
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There are 5 fieldwork level I experiences; each are a week long and there is a level 1 fieldwork experience during the first 5 trimesters of the curriculum. The last 2 trimesters of the program are fieldwork level 2 experiences, which are full-time experiences. Each fieldwork level II experience is 12 weeks in length.
- Will I be able to do my fieldwork outside of Orlando?
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Fieldwork can either occur in Central Florida or elsewhere. AHU has over 300 contracts in and out of state. Students who wish to complete out-of-town rotations will work with the Academic Field Work Coordinator to arrange these experiences.
- Is this a program for Practitioners who have a bachelor's degree in Occupational Therapy?
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No, this is not a post-professional degree program.
- What type of bachelor's degree is required?
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Students with a bachelor's degree in any field may apply to the program. Please refer to the admissions criteria and listed prerequisites.