Key Takeaways

  • Online OT programs include flexible coursework plus in-person clinical fieldwork for licensure.
  • Most master's programs require 65-75 credits and take 2 to 3 years to complete full time.
  • Occupational therapists earn a median salary of $98K, with 14% projected job growth through 2034.

Online occupational therapy programs combine rigorous coursework with field experiences that prepare you for licensure. Online coursework gives you some flexibility in managing your schedule while meeting all educational and clinical requirements.

Some schools offer online associate and bachelor's degrees in OT, but you'll need a master's degree or higher to become a licensed occupational therapist. Explore online occupational therapy master's programs and how to choose one that fits your goals.

Career at a Glance: Occupational Therapist

  • According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), occupational therapists earn a median annual wage of $98,340, with the top 10% of earners making over $129,830.
  • Between 2024 and 2034, the BLS projects that occupational therapy jobs will grow by 14%, which is much faster than average.
  • California, Texas, and Florida have the highest projected number of annual job openings for occupational therapists, according to Projections Central.
  • BLS data shows that, in 2024, 28% of occupational therapists worked in hospitals, 27% worked in offices of physical, occupational and speech therapists, and audiologists, and 13% were employed in educational services.

What Is an Occupational Therapy Program?

MA, MS
Degree Types

65-75 credits
Required Credits

2 to 3 years (full time)
Program Length

A master's in occupational therapy prepares you to assess and treat patients through evidence-based interventions and hands-on practice. Common coursework includes:

  • Sensory assessment and planning
  • Human development and behavior
  • Kinesiology
  • Functional human movement
  • Assistive technology
  • Occupational research and trends

You can earn a master of science (MS) or a master of arts (MA) in occupational therapy. An MS emphasizes clinical research and practice for those planning to work in direct patient care. MA programs focus more on leadership, theory, and humanities, ideal for students interested in roles like program directors or OT educators.

Both degrees typically require fieldwork to help you gain real-world experience working with diverse patient populations. Some programs may also require a thesis or a comprehensive exam to assess your critical thinking skills and ability to apply concepts to clinical practice.

Can you get an occupational therapy degree online?

Online occupational therapy programs exist, but they're rarely entirely online. Instead, most are hybrid, allowing you to complete coursework online while requiring in-person clinical experiences.

In an online program, you'll typically complete online coursework with a blend of asynchronous and synchronous instruction. You'll also participate in clinical experiences within your community. Some schools may have additional in-person components requiring you to come to campus, such as immersion labs.

How Much Is Occupational Therapy School?

The overall average annual tuition for master's in health professions programs is $17,955. However, public schools are generally more affordable than private schools. You could also save on tuition by attending an online college, which sometimes offers one tuition rate for all online students. In many cases, these online rates are lower than the out-of-state tuition that schools charge for on-campus programs.

To lower your out-of-pocket costs, research your financial aid options before applying. Your school or department may have grants and scholarships available, which you don't have to repay. Occupational therapy students can also qualify for federal student loans. You'll need to pay them back, but repayment usually begins after a post-graduation six-month grace period.

How to Get Into an Occupational Therapy Program

In most cases, you'll need a bachelor's degree from an accredited school — or be in the process of completing one — to apply to an occupational therapy program. Many programs also have prerequisite courses, such as abnormal psychology, neuroanatomy, and human development.

Other common application requirements for OT programs include:

  • Official transcripts
  • A minimum GPA of 3.0
  • Three letters of recommendation from academic or professional contacts
  • Personal essay

Additionally, some schools may require you to have completed at least 20 observation hours with a licensed occupational therapist. Verification takes place through the Occupational Therapist Centralized Application Service, which processes many applications for OT programs.

How to Choose an Occupational Therapy Program

Unsure about OT school? Explore similar programs

Next Steps for Occupational Therapy Grads

Becoming a Licensed OT

All states require licensure for practicing OTs.

After completing an ACOTE-accredited OT master's degree with required fieldwork, you'll need to apply for and pass the National Board of Certification in Occupational Therapy Certification Examination. Then, complete an initial license application through your state's OT licensing board, which will review your education, clinical experience, and exam score before approving your application.

Apply for licensure with the licensing board for each state in which you plan to practice.

Career Advancement for OTs

You can pursue a doctor of occupational therapy to increase your knowledge and have an edge when applying for jobs. This degree enhances leadership skills for roles in OT research, academia, or program administration. A master's degree is not always required for acceptance.

To prove your knowledge in an OT specialization, consider an Advanced Certification from the American Occupational Therapy Association, such as pediatrics, gerontology, or physical rehabilitation. Advanced Certification may open doors to more job opportunities and promotions within the field.