{"id":4936,"date":"2025-03-13T09:00:00","date_gmt":"2025-03-13T16:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.pacific.edu\/blog\/?p=4936"},"modified":"2025-07-23T13:29:58","modified_gmt":"2025-07-23T20:29:58","slug":"how-an-entry-level-otd-expands-opportunities-in-occupational-therapy","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.pacific.edu\/blog\/2025\/03\/13\/how-an-entry-level-otd-expands-opportunities-in-occupational-therapy\/","title":{"rendered":"How an entry-level OTD expands opportunities in occupational therapy\u00a0"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pacific.edu\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/RS112266_UOP09840_web.jpg?resize=1024%2C683&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-5161\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pacific.edu\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/RS112266_UOP09840_web.jpg?resize=1024%2C683&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pacific.edu\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/RS112266_UOP09840_web.jpg?resize=300%2C200&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pacific.edu\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/RS112266_UOP09840_web.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pacific.edu\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/RS112266_UOP09840_web.jpg?resize=930%2C620&amp;ssl=1 930w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pacific.edu\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/RS112266_UOP09840_web.jpg?resize=400%2C267&amp;ssl=1 400w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pacific.edu\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/RS112266_UOP09840_web.jpg?w=1200&amp;ssl=1 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re considering a post-graduate degree and want a career that blends health care, problem-solving and helping people live more independently, occupational therapy might be a perfect fit. Occupational therapy focuses on helping individuals of all ages overcome physical, cognitive or emotional challenges that impact their ability to perform daily activities. Whether it\u2019s working with stroke survivors to regain essential skills, designing adaptive technology or advocating for more inclusive workplaces, occupational therapists play a vital role in improving lives.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The growing demand for occupational therapists\u00a0<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The field of OT is evolving, and demand for skilled professionals is rising. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for occupational therapists is expected to grow 11% through 2033\u2014faster than the average for all occupations over the next decade. With an aging population and increased awareness of disability rights and accessibility, occupational therapists are needed in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools and community settings. &nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The benefits of a Doctor of Occupational Therapy degree\u00a0<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re thinking about pursuing OT, you\u2019ve probably come across an important decision: should you earn a <strong>master\u2019s in occupational therapy <\/strong>or go for an <strong>entry-level Doctor of Occupational Therapy degree (OTD)?<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Both degrees prepare you to become a licensed OT, but an OTD offers additional opportunities, particularly in leadership, research and specialized areas of practice. Here\u2019s a breakdown of why more students are choosing an entry-level OTD.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The profession is shifting toward <strong>higher educational standards<\/strong>, and while a master\u2019s degree is still acceptable for licensure, more health care organizations and universities are preferring doctoral-prepared OTs.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>An OTD can open doors to:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Advanced job opportunities<\/strong> in leadership, academia and research&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>A competitive edge<\/strong> in the job market as employers increasingly seek doctoral-level training&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Long-term career stability<\/strong> as industry standards evolve&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">More opportunities in leadership, research and innovation\u00a0<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re interested in shaping the future of OT\u2014whether through policy, innovation, or education\u2014an OTD provides specialized training in these areas.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the key features of an OTD program is the doctoral capstone experience, where students design and implement a real-world project. Examples of past projects include:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Creating assistive technology tools in collaboration with tech companies&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Developing mental health programs for underserved communities&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Designing accessibility initiatives for schools and workplaces&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>This hands-on experience allows OTD graduates to drive meaningful change in the field, not just work within it.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A wider range of occupational therapy career paths\u00a0<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>While many OTs work in clinical settings, an OTD can expand career possibilities. Graduates often move into:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Leadership and management<\/strong> \u2013 Department directors, rehab managers and program developers&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Academia and research<\/strong> \u2013 Professors, clinical researchers and grant-funded program leads&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Policy and advocacy<\/strong> \u2013 Shaping OT policies and promoting disability rights&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Consulting and entrepreneurship<\/strong> \u2013 Innovating in assistive technology or running private practices&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Higher education can also increase earning potential, with doctoral-prepared OTs often qualifying for higher salaries and leadership roles earlier in their careers.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A more comprehensive education<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Beyond clinical training, an entry-level OTD covers areas like:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Policy and Advocacy<\/strong> \u2013 Learn how to influence legislation and healthcare policies affecting OT&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Technology and Innovation<\/strong> \u2013 Explore how artificial intelligence, virtual reality and telehealth are transforming rehabilitation&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re passionate about advancing OT beyond traditional practice, a doctorate gives you the tools to make a bigger impact.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A more efficient pathway to a doctorate\u00a0<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Some students pursue a master\u2019s first and later return for a post-professional doctorate. If you already know you want to reach a higher level in OT, an entry-level OTD allows you to complete your education in one step\u2014saving time and money compared to earning two separate degrees.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why choose University of the Pacific&#8217;s entry-level OTD program\u00a0<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>At\u202fPacific, the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacific.edu\/healthsciences\/programs\/doctor-of-occupational-therapy\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Doctor of Occupational Therapy<\/a> program in Sacramento goes beyond traditional OT education to ensure our graduates are\u202fleaders, changemakers and innovators\u202fin the profession. Here&#8217;s what sets us apart:\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Cutting-edge capstone projects<\/strong>\u202f\u2013 Hands-on experiences that directly impact real-world practice.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Strong community partnerships<\/strong>\u202f\u2013 Over\u202f<strong>300 partnerships<\/strong>\u202fwith clinics, nonprofits, tech companies and more.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>High job placement rate<\/strong>\u202f\u2013 Most students have\u202fsecured jobs before graduation<strong>.<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Interdisciplinary and leadership focus<\/strong>\u202f\u2013 Training that goes beyond clinical practice to include\u202fbusiness, policy and advocacy.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Student-centered support system<\/strong>\u202f\u2013 Our program is designed with\u202fyour success in mind, offering dedicated\u202ffaculty mentors and peer mentoring programs\u202fto guide you through coursework, fieldwork, and career development. You&#8217;ll be supported every step of the way, ensuring you graduate confident and competent as a general practitioner.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Is a Doctor of Occupational Therapy degree right for you?\u00a0<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re looking for a career in OT that goes beyond clinical practice and offers opportunities in leadership, research, and innovation, an entry-level OTD could be the right path. While both a master\u2019s and doctorate prepare you for licensure, an OTD can provide a broader skill set and more career flexibility in the long run.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Thinking about your next steps? <\/strong>Research different OT programs, talk to practicing OTs and explore how this career aligns with your goals.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacific.edu\/healthsciences\/programs\/doctor-of-occupational-therapy\/admission\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Learn more about applying to Pacific Doctor of Occupational Therapy program.<\/a>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-post-author\"><div class=\"wp-block-post-author__avatar\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" alt='' src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pacific.edu\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/avatar_user_25_1741797203.jpg?resize=48%2C48&#038;ssl=1\" srcset='https:\/\/www.pacific.edu\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/avatar_user_25_1741797203-96x96.jpg 2x' class='avatar avatar-48 photo' height=\"48\" width=\"48\" \/><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-post-author__content\"><p class=\"wp-block-post-author__name\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacific.edu\/blog\/author\/natalie_perkins\/\" target=\"_self\">Natalie Perkins<\/a><\/p><p class=\"wp-block-post-author__bio\">Natalie A. Perkins, PP-OTD, MEd, OTR\/L, FIIE, FAOTA is the dynamic Department Chair, Program Director, and Associate Clinical Professor for the Doctor of Occupational Therapy Program at Pacific. A trailblazer in scholarship, teaching, and clinical practice, Dr. Perkins is passionate about advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion within the occupational therapy profession.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Considering a grad degree? Occupational therapy blends health care, problem-solving and independence.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":25,"featured_media":5161,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"neve_meta_sidebar":"","neve_meta_container":"","neve_meta_enable_content_width":"","neve_meta_content_width":0,"neve_meta_title_alignment":"","neve_meta_author_avatar":"","neve_post_elements_order":"","neve_meta_disable_header":"","neve_meta_disable_footer":"","neve_meta_disable_title":"","_themeisle_gutenberg_block_has_review":false,"_ti_tpc_template_sync":false,"_ti_tpc_template_id":"","_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[20],"tags":[376,525,522],"class_list":["post-4936","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-school","tag-graduate","tag-occupational-therapy","tag-school-of-health-sciences"],"yoast_head":"\n<title>How an entry-level OTD expands opportunities in occupational therapy\u00a0 - People of Pacific<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/live-peopleofpacific.pantheonsite.io\/2025\/03\/13\/how-an-entry-level-otd-expands-opportunities-in-occupational-therapy\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"How an entry-level OTD expands opportunities in occupational therapy\u00a0 - People of Pacific\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Considering a grad degree? 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