Direct Entry Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT)

This program is designed for students who have earned a baccalaureate degree in another area of study and wish to become qualified as an occupational therapist. The focus of the direct entry master’s in occupational therapy is to prepare excellent practitioners who are dedicated to providing occupation-focused, client-centered, and evidence-based services and are committed to leadership in the field. The program’s design is a part-time evening cohort model. 

The program meets the standards, skills, values, and ethics set forth by the Accreditation Council of Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE). Graduates from the direct entry program meeting all requirements will be eligible to sit for the Occupational Therapy Certification Examination administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT).

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Program Requirements

A Growing Career

An occupational therapist works with an older client

According to the AOTA, occupational therapy practitioners enable people of all ages to live life to its fullest by helping them promote health, and prevent—or live better with—injury, illness, or disability. 

Common occupational therapy interventions include helping children with disabilities to participate fully in school and social situations, helping people recovering from injury to regain skills, and providing supports for older adults experiencing physical and cognitive changes.

National demand for occupational therapists is expected to grow by 27 percent over the next decade. Nationally, 96% of OT jobs require a master's degree.

The average salary for an occupational therapist is over $81,000. Graduates from Salem State's program achieve high pass rates on the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam.

Learn More about the Direct Entry MSOT

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Our graduate admissions team is ready to connect with you! Visit the graduate admissions events page to find an upcoming open house, Grad School 101 event or MSOT information session.

Felony Statement

Please note that any student who has been convicted of a prior felony may be considered ineligible by NBCOT to set for the NBCOT exam and may be unable to attain an OT license from the State Licensure Board. 

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