Do Occupational Therapists Need a Doctorate? OTD vs. MOT Explained

Do occupational therapists need a doctorate? It’s a question that echoes for many stepping into this vital, human-centered profession. For years, the Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT) stood as the trusted way forward. But the field is changing, and the Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) is a clear path to something more—more opportunity, more leadership, more impact.

At SCU California, that path is closer than you think. Designed with flexibility, hands-on learning, and future-focused training, our OTD program invites you to step into a career as a practitioner guide by some of the foremost experts in Occupational Therapy, anywhere. Some students may thrive with an MOT, while others will benefit from the expanded opportunities of an OTD. Let’s break down the differences between an MOT and OTD—and which one is right for you.

MOT vs. OTD: Which OT Degree Fits Your Future?

If you’re planning to become an occupational therapist, you’ve probably asked yourself: Do I need a doctorate, or is a master’s enough? The answer? It depends on your goals. Both the Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT) and Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) lead to the same job title—licensed occupational therapist—but the paths they take you on can look very different.

Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT)

For years, the MOT has been the go-to degree for aspiring occupational therapists.  Most programs take 2–3 years and focus heavily on clinical training, rehabilitation techniques, and real-world experience. While MOT programs were once seen as the fastest way into the field, accelerated OTD options have closed that gap.

Once you graduate and pass the NBCOT board examination, you’re licensed and ready to work in hospitals, outpatient clinics, schools, and rehab centers. The MOT is perfect for students who want to dive straight into patient care without extra coursework in leadership, research, or advocacy.

Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)

The OTD is a more advanced degree that traditionally builds on everything an MOT offers but adds layers of leadership, research, and specialization. It typically takes 2.5–3 years. The OTD program at SCU takes 2 years and 3 months to complete, without the need for a prior degree.

One of the biggest differences? The doctoral capstone project. OTD students research new interventions, develop innovative therapy programs, or advocate for OT policy changes—giving them a competitive edge in the field. This degree is the best choice for students who want higher-paying leadership roles, university teaching positions, or to specialize in emerging areas of OT.

While both degrees prepare you for licensure, SCU’s OTD program goes further—offering an accelerated, synchronous hybrid format that helps you graduate faster while gaining hands-on leadership, advocacy, and specialization experience. It’s not just about getting into the field—it’s about stepping in with confidence, future-ready skills, and a competitive advantage.

The Changing Standards in OT Education: What You Need to Know

Right now, an MOT is still enough to become a fully licensed occupational therapist. However, the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) has been discussing whether the OTD should become the required entry-level degree—just like physical therapy did when it transitioned to the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT).

Many universities are already moving away from MOT programs, phasing them out in favor of OTDs. While no official mandate has been set, students entering OT school now may want to consider how the field is evolving and whether an OTD makes more sense for long-term career growth.

Trends in Occupational Therapy

More and more employers prefer hiring OTD graduates—especially for leadership roles, teaching positions, and specialized OT practices. Even though an MOT is still widely accepted, the trend is shifting toward doctorate-level training.

• Advanced certifications and specializations increasingly favor OTD graduates.
• Leadership and research opportunities are more accessible with a doctorate.
• Some states and healthcare systems are beginning to favor OTD graduates in hiring decisions.

If you’re thinking long-term, earning an OTD now could future-proof your career and ensure you stay competitive in a changing job market.

A Smarter, More Flexible Path to Your OTD at SCU

At SCU, we believe earning your Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) shouldn’t be out of reach. Our OTD program is designed to eliminate unnecessary barriers while providing the highest standards in education, clinical training, and career readiness.

For students who want to advance their careers without putting life on hold, our hybrid format offers flexibility, accessibility, and a direct path to becoming a leader in OT. With no bachelor’s degree required, our program is built to support OTAs, career changers, and anyone ready to make an impact in occupational therapy!

A Flexible, Accessible Path to Your OTD

We designed our OTD program to make earning a doctorate more achievable, no matter where you are in your journey.

• Ideal for OTAs and career changers – If you’re transitioning careers or have prior experience in healthcare, this program offers a clear, structured path to a doctorate—just keep in mind that it requires full-time availability for live, remote classes Monday through Friday.
• Enter with just 90+ college credits – No bachelor’s degree? No problem. Our program welcomes students who meet the credit requirements, skipping the traditional extra years of schooling.
• Live online classes, never recorded lectures – SCU’s synchronous format mirrors the energy of a live classroom. Students learn by doing—not just by watching—with full participation in discussions, case studies, and virtual labs.
• In-person sessions for hands-on learning – Students attend campus just three weeks per term (four times total), ensuring they receive the clinical training needed for real-world practice.
• ACOTE accredited – Our graduates are fully prepared to sit for the NBCOT exam, meet licensure requirements, and enter the field with confidence.

Head-Start Toward Additional Credentials

Earning an OTD at SCU means more than just a doctorate—it’s about graduating with specialized skills and additional certifications that set you apart.

Students in our program automatically earn hours toward two additional certifications that expand their expertise and job opportunities. Our Physical Agent Modality (PAM) courses can be applied toward the California PAM certification, while our Wellness & Lifestyle Health coursework serves as a substitute for the 10-hour conference requirement for the American College of Lifestyle Medicine (ACLM) Certification Exam.

Our goal isn’t just to help students earn a degree—it’s to prepare them for a long, successful, and impactful career in occupational therapy.

Take The Next Step in Your OT Education

The question “do occupational therapists need a doctorate?” doesn’t have a simple yes or no answer—but the trend is clear. While you can still become an OT with a master’s degree, the profession is shifting toward the Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) as the new standard. If you’re thinking about the long-term future of your OT career, now is the time to consider earning your doctorate.

At SCU, we’ve made the OTD more accessible, more flexible, and more career-focused than ever. With no bachelor’s degree required, a hybrid format, and built-in certifications, we’re redefining what it means to earn an advanced OT degree. Ready to get started? Take a look at our admission requirements and apply today!

FAQs

Do occupational therapists need a doctorate to practice?

No, you can still become a licensed OT with a Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT). However, more schools are moving to Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) programs, and some employers prefer OTD graduates—especially for leadership, research, or academic roles.

What’s the difference between an MOT and an OTD?

An MOT focuses on clinical skills and patient care and takes about 2–3 years. An OTD covers everything an MOT does but adds leadership, research, and specialized training and takes about 2.5–3 years. OTD graduates are also required to complete a doctoral capstone project.

Does having an OTD lead to better job opportunities?

In many cases, yes. While MOT graduates can work as OTs, an OTD opens doors to leadership roles, teaching positions, and specialized practice areas. Some employers are starting to prefer candidates with doctoral training, especially for higher-level positions.

How does SCU’s OTD program make earning a doctorate more accessible?

Our program allows students to enter with just 90+ college credits—no bachelor’s degree required. With a largely online format and only four short in-person sessions, students can earn their doctorate without relocating. While the format is flexible, the program is full-time and requires availability Monday through Friday for live, remote classes.

How much hands-on training is included in SCU’s hybrid OTD program?

Even though most coursework is online, students still complete hands-on clinical training during four in-person intensives at our Whittier, California campus. Plus, we help students secure fieldwork placements near their home for additional real-world experience.