- Is there a requirement that all practitioners must have an OTD or that the OTD will be the only degree offered in the future?
- Do entry-level OTDs make more money than entry-level master’s OTs?
- Do employers prefer to hire new graduates with entry-level OTDs over master’s degrees?
- Why did you choose to start a master’s level program?
Is there a requirement that all practitioners must have an OTD or that the OTD will be the only degree offered in the future?
No. The Joint AOTA-ACOTE Statement on Entry-Level Education (4/10/19) states “…occupational therapists may enter the profession at the master’s or doctoral level… This is now the official policy of AOTA for entry into the occupational therapy profession.” You can read the full statement here: https://acoteonline.org/students-public/
Do entry-level OTDs make more money than entry-level master’s OTs?
No. There are no existing data that show any salary difference between new graduates with either degree. Professional experience was the only factor found to impact financial compensation. See the AOTA-ACOTE Special Task Force Report for more information: https://www.mdpi.com/2227-7102/12/7/431
Do employers prefer to hire new graduates with entry-level OTDs over master’s degrees?
No. There is no evidence that employers differentiate between degrees as both are considered entry-level degrees. Employers look for certification and licensure, not degree credentials. See the AOTA-ACOTE Special Task Force Report for more information: https://www.aota.org/-/media/Corporate/Files/AboutAOTA/BOD/Special-Task-Force-February-2019-Summary-Report.pdf
Why did you choose to start a master’s level program?
At UMHB OT our primary goal is to graduate excellent, highly qualified and competent occupational therapists. All of the master’s level accreditation requirements that lend themselves to this goal are exactly the same for the master’s degree as for the entry-level doctoral degree. The intention of the OTD is to increase knowledge and understanding of emerging areas of practice and requires in-depth [beyond entry-level] exploration in one or more of the following areas: Clinical practice skills, research skills, administration, leadership, program and policy development, advocacy, education, and theory development (see the 2018 ACOTE Standards and Interpretive Guide for more information: https://acoteonline.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/2018-ACOTE-Standards.pdf )
While we believe that students should have the choice between degrees based on their career goals and aspirations we decided to focus our initial efforts on developing an excellent, student-centered clinical program.
Please feel free to call if you would like to discuss this further: Dr. Giuli Krug 254-295-4837
Page last updated December 05, 2023
