Entry-level Master’s Degree vs Entry-level Doctoral Degree in Occupational Therapy

The information on this page is intended to assist potential applicants and the public in understanding the difference between a master’s degree in occupational therapy (OT) and a doctoral degree in occupational therapy. Potential applicants should consider a variety of factors when researching a career in occupational therapy, including educational costs and future career possibilities.

Both degrees are entry-level professional degrees

The OT doctoral and the OT master’s degree are both paths that lead to working directly with clients as an occupational therapist. Both degrees are also considered entry-level degrees and individuals may practice as an occupational therapist with either an OT doctoral or an OT master’s degree.

Pay is typically the same, regardless of entry-level degree type

In general, occupational therapists are not paid more for obtaining an OT doctorate degree versus an OT master’s degree since both degrees are considered entry-level.

The OT doctoral degree is more costly

On average, OT doctoral degrees require an additional year (or more) of study, which means students will pay more in tuition and fees for the OT doctoral degree when compared to the OT master’s degree. OT doctoral degree programs also include additional content in the areas of leadership and scholarship as well as a Capstone Project and a 14-week long Capstone Experience. The goal of the doctoral capstone is to provide an in-depth exposure to one or more of the following areas: clinical practice skills, research skills, administration, leadership, program and policy development, advocacy, education, and theory development.

What is the benefit of a Master of Occupational Therapy?

• Provides a solid grounding in overall practice
• Less educational costs due to shorter program length
• Builds potential for going on for advanced degrees, such as a Ph.D., an EdD, or an OTD

What is the benefit of a Doctor of Occupational Therapy?

• Provides a solid grounding in overall practice
• Better potential to teach in an OT program
• Better preparation for conducting research in the clinic or academia
• Greater insight into a specific area of practice during the capstone

How do I decide?

Choosing between a master’s and a doctoral degree depends on your goals and future outlook. If you are interested in the quickest way to start your career but would still like the option of advancing in the future, the PNWU MSOT degree may be a good fit. If you are not worried about the additional cost and time commitment and want greater opportunities to participate in research and teaching, an OT doctorate could be your path.

How do I become an OT?

Regardless of the school or program a student ultimately chooses, we recommend doing research about what occupational therapists do. The American Occupational Therapy Association is a great place to start your inquiry https://www.aota.org/About-Occupational-Therapy.aspx. After researching the profession, it’s time to find a program. PNWU is developing a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy(MSOT) program. We offer monthly virtual information sessions. The purpose of the sessions is to share information about PNWU’s Developing School of Occupational Therapy (SOT), the planned programmatic offerings, and how students can prepare to be competitive when applying to the SOT. Register here for an upcoming session.

Want to know more?

If you want to know more about becoming an occupational therapist, you can contact The Founding Program Director, Dr. Heather Fritz at: hfritz@pnwu.edu