Department of Occupational Therapy
The Baylor University Department of Occupational Therapy offers two doctoral (OTD) programs using innovative, learner-focused, elevated instructional technology—the Entry-level Doctor of Occupational Therapy Program and the Post-professional Doctor of Occupational Therapy Program—as well as a Certificate in Hybrid and Online Teaching for the Health Sciences for professionals across healthcare disciplines.
The 24-month, hybrid Entry-level Doctor of Occupational Therapy Program equips students to succeed as competent, compassionate occupational therapy practitioners. Spanning six consecutive trimesters, the Baylor curriculum combines the best aspects of online instruction, hands-on laboratory sessions, and fieldwork/capstone experiences.
The 100% online, 16-month Post-Professional Doctor of Occupational Therapy program is designed for licensed occupational therapists who already hold a master’s degree and are ready to elevate their career. This flexible program supports professional growth and opens doors to advanced roles in leadership, education, clinical practice, and advocacy—while allowing students to continue working full time.
The fully-online, 9-month Certificate in Hybrid and Online Teaching for the Health Sciences provides professional development in the specialized area of hybrid teaching and learning for licensed healthcare practitioners. It may also serve as a bridge to the Post-professional OTD program.
Connect with Baylor Occupational Therapy
About Baylor’s Occupational Therapy Programs
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Committed to a Higher Calling
The Christian mission of Baylor University is threaded throughout the Department of Occupational Therapy. While students come from a variety of religious backgrounds, all are impacted by a commitment to developing meaningful relationships, a dedication to personal growth, and a calling to make a difference within the occupational therapy profession.
From Kayla Collins, EdD, OTR, Entry-level OTD Program Director: "As an occupational therapist, I have often been asked, 'What does an occupational therapist do?' The word 'occupation' can seem abstract in today’s world, but its meaning is deeply rooted in God's design for humanity. Occupations are not just tasks or jobs; they are the essence of our being. They connect us to ourselves, to others, and most importantly, to God. When we engage in meaningful work, rest in joyful leisure, and give and receive love, we are drawing closer to Him."
What is an occupational therapist?
An occupational therapist (OT) is a licensed health professional who helps individuals of all ages participate in the activities (or “occupations”) they need or want to do in their daily lives. These occupations may include self-care, work, education, social participation, and leisure.
Occupational therapists assess the person’s physical, cognitive, emotional, and environmental factors to develop individualized intervention plans aimed at improving function, adapting environments, or modifying tasks to support participation and independence.
Occupational therapy is client-centered, evidence-based, and grounded in the belief that participation in meaningful occupation supports health and well-being. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for an occupational therapist was $98,340 in May 2024, and employment of occupational therapists is projected to grow 14% from 2024 to 2034.
News
More NewsSustained local partnerships strengthen occupational therapy education at Baylor University, helping to shape the professional journeys of Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) students and graduates. For example, at Elite Therapy Center, individuals have been provided opportunities for fieldwork education, doctoral capstone mentorship, and alumni employment.
Baylor University is pleased to announce the Certificate in Hybrid and Online Teaching for Health Sciences, responding to a rapidly changing educational landscape in which health professions educators are increasingly expected to teach across multiple formats. The nine-month program is fully online and designed for practicing healthcare professionals, including occupational therapists, physical therapists, physician assistants, and nurses.
As a former Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant, Marjorie Olgin entered Baylor University’s Doctor of Occupational Therapy program with a clear goal of becoming an occupational therapist. Along the way, she completed a capstone project focused on performing arts medicine, welcomed a new baby, passed the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy exam, and began her next professional chapter in outpatient hand therapy.
From the clinic to research to the classroom, Post-professional Doctor of Occupational Therapy alumna Kelly Hochstetler, OTD, OTR, CLT, brings her calling for whole-person care to every aspect of her career. A key part of her impact lies in her specialized work with patients with lymphedema and lipedema.
Profiles
"We're armed with the tools and knowledge to be successful."
"The heart of the program comes from the fact that we focus on servant leadership and practice scholarship."
"The bonds that you form with the students are very similar to the ones you form with the instructors."
Occupational Therapy Program Accreditation
The entry-level occupational therapy doctoral degree program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA), located at 7501 Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 510E, Bethesda, MD 20814. ACOTE’s telephone number c/o AOTA is (301) 652-AOTA and its web address is www.acoteonline.org.
