Clinical Doctorate in Occupational Therapy (OTD)

Balance coursework with rigorous research demands to develop advanced clinical expertise in interdisciplinary areas such as community practice and entrepreneurial innovation with the Clinical Doctorate in Occupational Therapy (OTD) in Temple’s College of Public Health. This 21-credit doctoral program—offered fully online and synchronously—is intended for any recent Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT) program graduate, as well as licensed occupational therapists already working in the field and seeking to enhance their careers and advance to leadership positions in clinical and academic environments. 

The Occupational Therapy (Transitional Program) OTD is structured so that students can transition naturally from an MOT program to the doctoral program. All classes are offered fully online to accommodate student needs.

Students in the Occupational Therapy (Transitional Program) OTD develop advanced clinical expertise in interdisciplinary areas. As a graduate, you will be prepared to

  • advance occupational therapy’s role in promoting a person’s participation in society, in consideration of societal needs, policies and trends;
  • bring relevant and fresh perspectives to clinical situations you encounter;
  • enact individual action and social reform to foster productive and meaningful living; and
  • use, promote and advance client-centered and evidence-based practices.

Many OTD graduates use their degrees and experience to move into leadership and higher education teaching positions. Other graduates advance in the field to become clinical educators, clinical specialists and program developers.

Program Format & Curriculum

The Occupational Therapy (Transitional Program) OTD is a 21-credit program. All classes are online and synchronous. Students may take up to three years to complete the program. Sample classes you will take as part of the Occupational Therapy (Transitional Program) OTD program include the following.

  • Clinical Education and Fieldwork Supervision
  • Current and Emerging Issues in Public Health and Health Professions
  • Leadership in the Health Professions: The Art and Science of Influence
  • Studies in Outcome Measures and Analysis

Learn more about the curriculum comprising the Occupational Therapy (Transitional Program) OTD program.

Tuition & Fees

The Occupational Therapy (Transitional Program) OTD program offers a competitive level of tuition with multiple opportunities for financial support.

Tuition rates are set annually by the university and are affected by multiple factors, including program degree level (undergraduate or graduate), course load (full or part time) and more. Learn more about our tuition and fees.

These tuition costs apply to the 2022–2023 academic year. 
Online: $1039 per credit 

Tuition rates are subject to change for the 2023-2024 academic year. 

HP-OTTP-OTD

Additional Program Information