Why Get a Doctorate in Occupational Therapy?
Earning a doctorate in occupational therapy (OTD) allows you to play a vital role in treating individuals with a multitude of illnesses and disabilities. You will help individuals of all ages achieve greater independence and improve their quality of life with evidence-based practices.
An OTD will provide you with advanced skills and knowledge, greater career flexibility and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on people’s lives in a high-demand career.
What Can You Do With a Doctorate in Occupational Therapy?
Occupational therapy is a diverse profession that gives you the chance to transform lives. You could work as an occupational therapist in many different settings, including:
- Assisted living facilities
- Community-based early intervention programs
- Hand therapy clinics
- Home health agencies
- Hospitals
- Injured worker clinics
- Public school systems
- Rehabilitation facilities
You can also provide OT services in corporations and communities offering preventive healthcare and wellness programs.
Whichever setting or specialization you choose, you will play an integral role in improving the quality of life of your clients.
The Benefits of a Doctorate in Occupational Therapy
If you are passionate about helping others and want to contribute to the growth and evolution of occupational therapy, there are several reasons to earn your OTD.
- Advanced clinical expertise: One of the primary benefits of earning a doctorate in occupational therapy is that students will have a capstone experience where they can delve into advanced topics, evidence-based practices and specialized areas within occupational therapy. You will dedicate significant time to your own professional development in an area of personal interest that goes beyond the skills needed to be an entry-level practitioner. The capstone also helps you develop a comprehensive understanding of the field and equips you to provide more effective and specialized care to your clients.
- Expanded occupational therapy job opportunities: With an OTD, you can pursue various OT careers, such as clinical practice, research, teaching or administration. An OTD can open doors to leadership and management roles in healthcare settings, private practice and academic institutions. These increased responsibilities and expertise could lead to a higher salary, depending on your experience, location and work setting.
- Increased autonomy and responsibility: With a Doctor of Occupational Therapy, you may have more autonomy in your work and decision-making processes. You may also be set on a quicker path to take on more responsibilities, such as supervising other therapists, consulting on treatment plans or conducting research projects.
- Opportunities for research and innovation: As part of your OTD program, you will complete a capstone experience in which you will collaborate with a community partner and develop a project. Not only does this contribute to your professional development, but your findings may also contribute to the field. This experience will help you grow adept at critically evaluating and applying research findings to your practice. You can explore new treatment methods, therapies and interventions that may improve client outcomes and enhance the practice of occupational therapy.
- Higher level of professional credibility: OT careers are competitive, and a doctorate in occupational therapy distinguishes you from other applicants. Employers often prioritize candidates with advanced degrees, especially for leadership, teaching and research positions. Earning an OTD demonstrates your commitment to the field and your clients. It can enhance your professional reputation and provide you with greater credibility when working with colleagues, clients and other healthcare professionals.
Why Get a Doctorate in Occupational Therapy From Whitworth University?
The doctorate in occupational therapy degree program at Whitworth University provides "an education of mind and heart" that prepares you to provide exemplary, compassionate care. Our experienced faculty, innovative facilities and diverse clinical experiences prepare you to take the NBCOT exam and thrive in an occupational therapy career. Our program can be completed in three years.
Get Started on a Doctorate in Occupational Therapy
Are you ready to work as a leader in occupational therapy? If so, get more information about Whitworth University or apply today.