The post-professional Doctorate in Occupational Therapy (Dr.O.T.) at Grand Valley is designed for working Occupational Therapists seeking to advance clinical, leadership, and higher education/instruction skills. This 36-credit hour program offers a hybrid format, combining distance learning through both asynchronous and synchronous classes. Classes occur at a time convenient for students, often in the evening. Students visit campus one weekend for the Capstone and Commencement events. Students can choose between full-time and part-time options, allowing them to maintain employment while pursuing their degree. 

The curriculum covers a variety of topics essential for advanced practice in occupational therapy. Students will delve into:

• Occupational science.
• Public policy.
• Advocacy
• Leadership.
• Education.
• Individualized learning experiences, with courses designed to align with each students personal interests through research, discussions, and assignments. This approach ensures that students gain knowledge and practical skills relevant to their professional goals.

*Some students may qualify for reduced number of credit hours by applying to convert professional experience into course credit, with approval of the DrOT Program Director.

This program will be available to only master's prepared occupational therapists.

Occupational therapists admitted to the program are required to complete 36 credits of doctoral level coursework. Coursework is linked to professional practice with the intent to develop applied skills in the areas of policy, advocacy, leadership, and education. Specifically, students will develop knowledge and skills directed toward enhancing leadership and advocacy, participating in public policy activities, dealing with social determinants of health, providing evidence-based interventions, and educating new therapists. Additionally, a culminating Capstone portfolio grounded in theory and evidence will be required. The program will serve only master's degree credentialed students and qualifies graduates to hold advanced administrative positions, produce scholarly work including manuscripts, programs, and presentation, and to teach at the college and university level.