Cox College to begin Occupational Therapy Doctorate program

Cox College will launch a new Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) program, beginning in May 2023. The program will provide doctorate-level training for occupational therapists, one of the most in-demand health care occupations.

“We are excited to bring this program to southwest Missouri,” says Dr. Amy DeMelo, president of Cox College. “Offering a doctorate degree in occupational therapy will provide additional options for students, and help ensure a pipeline of highly trained occupational therapists to serve patients across the region.”

The program – which is the first doctorate degree program in Cox College’s 116-year history – will be led by Dr. Amy Stark, who serves as Occupational Therapy Department Chair. Dr. Stark will lead both the OTD program and Cox College’s Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT) program, which has trained occupational therapists since its launch in 2015.

“We know Dr. Stark and our experienced faculty will create yet another path for students to become skilled and compassionate occupational therapists,” Dr. DeMelo says.

While both masters and doctoral degrees prepare students for licensure exams and practice, the doctoral degree has additional focus. The doctoral program incorporates advanced training in leadership and research, as well as a student self-directed research project with intensive faculty mentorship.

The OTD program is a nine-semester, hybrid program that will feature hands-on, skill-based practice and online coursework. The hybrid format offers the best of both worlds: flexibility and the application of hands-on learning.

Students will use a state-of-the-art online learning management system and on-campus learning activities to prepare for the NBCOT (National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy) exam and life as an occupational therapist.

Included in the program are 24 weeks of level 2 fieldwork with direct supervision from an occupational therapist. Once students complete fieldwork, they will finish their program with a capstone project in which they explore an area of occupational therapy they are most passionate about.

The OTD program has achieved candidacy status through the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) and will continue working through initial accreditation as the first cohort progresses through the program.

Applications are now open for the program’s inaugural class. If you are interested in learning more about Cox College’s Occupational Therapy Doctorate program, reach out to an admissions counselor at admissions@coxcollege.edu or visit CoxCollege.edu.

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