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Occupational Therapy Programs (MOT & OTD) |
Become an Occupational TherapistHelp People Regain Independence and Improve Daily Life
SMU’s Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) and Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT) programs prepare future occupational therapists to make a meaningful impact across healthcare and community settings. Whether supporting recovery after injury or helping individuals build everyday life skills, you’ll be ready to step into a career centered on real human outcomes. Through a rigorous, hands-on curriculum, you’ll gain the clinical experience, scientific foundation, and confidence needed to pursue licensure and begin practice. 
Hands-On Learning from Day OneWork with real clients in labs and community-based settings early in the program. 
Whole-Person Approach to CareSupport physical, cognitive, and emotional health through holistic practice. 
Interprofessional TrainingLearn alongside other healthcare students to prepare for team-based care. 
Career-Ready PreparationBuild the skills needed for licensure and real-world clinical practice. |
What You’ll Learn and Where It Can Take You
SMU’s Occupational Therapy programs prepare you to work with individuals across the lifespan. Helping patients regain independence, improve daily function and navigate physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges. Through hands-on labs, clinical experiences, and interprofessional training, you’ll develop the clinical judgment, communication skills, and problem-solving ability needed in real-world settings. From your first year, you’ll work with real clients and build the confidence to step into practice. REQUEST PROGRAM INFO |
Choose the Path That Fits Your GoalsMaster of Occupational Therapy (MOT)
Enter Practice SoonerA streamlined path to becoming a licensed occupational therapist
Strong Clinical FoundationBuild core skills for patient-centered care across settings
Career-Ready TrainingGraduate prepared to step directly into the field 
Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)
Advanced Clinical TrainingDevelop deeper expertise in evaluation and intervention
Leadership & Innovation FocusPrepare for roles in program development, education, and leadership
Doctoral Capstone ExperienceComplete a hands-on project focused on real-world impact |
Support When You Need It Most
Your occupational therapy education is an investment in a stable, meaningful career. SMU offers financial aid, scholarships, and personalized support to help you plan with confidence. From federal aid to institutional scholarships, our team works with you to create a financial plan that fits your needs, so you can stay focused on your education and your future. REQUEST TUITION INFORMATION
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Where Your OT Career Can Take You
Graduates of SMU’s Occupational Therapy programs are prepared to enter the workforce with the skills and confidence employers value. You’ll be ready to support patients across the lifespan and work in a variety of clinical and community settings. EXPLORE CAREER OUTCOMES |
Your Questions, Answered
What is the difference between the MOT and OTD programs?Both lead to licensure. The MOT focuses on entry into practice, while the OTD includes advanced training and a doctoral capstone. How long are the OT programs?The MOT program is 6.25 semesters and OTD is 8 semesters. What are the prerequisites?Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree and complete required prerequisite coursework. Where are the programs offered?Programs are delivered on campus with in-person coursework and clinical experiences. What kind of hands-on experience will I receive?Students participate in simulation labs, community-based learning, and fieldwork placements. What careers can I pursue after graduation?Graduates work in hospitals, schools, rehabilitation centers, and community organizations. How do I apply?Submit a request for information to connect with admissions and begin your application. |
Accreditations
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Our Campuses
Samuel Merritt University offers undergraduate, graduate, doctoral, and nursing certificate programs at four campuses in Northern California and online. 
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Start Your Path in Occupational Therapy Today
There’s a reason you’re here. Take the next step toward a career helping others live more independently and fully. REQUEST PROGRAM INFO |