Master Degree in Occupational Therapy

The Master of Science in Occupational Therapy degree is earned through a postgraduate program that readily prepares graduates with the skills they need to work as occupational therapists, as well as supervisory occupational therapists. The goal of occupational therapy is to help patients recover or maintain a certain level of daily function. In this manner, an occupational therapist can expect to assess the mental, physical, and developmental state of a patient; identify what type of therapy will be required; and then pursue an effective plan of care to help the patient live more independently.

Statistically, careers in occupational therapy are showing an upward trend. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics expects career opportunities in this profession to increase by roughly 26% over the next 8 years. One of the largest factors contributing to this trend is the growth of America’s elderly population. Data from 2008 indicates that with 38,613, 300 Americans over the age of 65, senior citizens makes up nearly 13% of the nation’s total population. Because the elderly are more likely to be affected by stroke and rehabilitative injury, they’re helping to drive the increased need for occupational therapists.