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7 new students standing in front of the panther statue

Incoming class of MS in OT students in fall 2022

Pitt OT openly welcomes many internationally-trained occupational therapists to our Master of Science (MS) in Occupational Therapy program. The program attracts students from across the world who reside in countries where the entry-level requirement to become an occupational therapist is a bachelor’s degree.  
 
Our MS in OT program offers three plans of study which can be tailored and personalized to meet individualized student goals: clinical, research, and research with a scholarly project. The clinical study plan offers multi-faceted exposure to the U.S. health care system through our uniquely designed clinical preceptorships for students interested in practicing as occupational therapists in the U.S. upon graduation. The program also provides support to meet the requirements and training in professional reasoning to apply and take the certification exam administered by the National Board of Certification for Occupational Therapy. For students interested in pursuing advanced research training (e.g., PhD) upon graduation, our research study plans provide immersion to occupational therapy research. These skills adequately prepare our students to apply for PhD programs.  
 
Regardless of the study plan, all students are strongly positioned to implement and advocate the distinct value of occupational therapy through clinical practice and research. Once they complete the program, students are equipped to provide leadership that advances occupational therapy practice.   

The MS in OT students take several classes with our Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) students. This allows for cross cultural sharing and learning to occur organically as students share experiences from their home countries. This is often a feature that students cite as making the program a standout.  

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Published on February 6, 2023