Best Online Master’s Degrees in Occupational Therapy for Students 2024

Best Online Master’s Degrees in Occupational Therapy for Students 2024
By Dave Tomar
Published:
Updated:

Interested in continuing your college education with a master’s degree in occupational therapy? We rank the best online master’s degree programs in occupational therapy.

Key Takeaways

  • The master’s degree is the minimum requirement for becoming a licensed occupational therapist.

  • Occupational therapists work with individuals managing everyday tasks with injury, illness, or disability.

  • A growing number of online schools offer fully online master’s degrees in occupational therapy.

A master’s in occupational therapy is the basic threshold for becoming an occupational therapist. Fortunately, prospective students have many excellent online occupational therapy programs to choose from.

Occupational therapy is a great career for people who like to help others. As an occupational therapist, you’ll have the opportunity to work directly with individuals recovering from injury or illness as well as individuals managing disabilities.

Your job as an occupational therapist is to help your clients develop strategies for overcoming physical challenges and managing everyday tasks. As a licensed occupational therapist, you may work in a number of settings including nursing homes, schools, and in-home health services.

Most students who earn a master’s degree in occupational therapy will sit for their licensing exam and become certified occupational therapists. However, there are numerous related career paths that you could take including nurse practitioner, physical therapist, or physician’s assistant.

Find out more with a look at our Online Program Rankings. Otherwise, read on.

  

About Online Master’s in Occupational Therapy Degree Programs

Students in an occupational therapy master’s degree program will study topics such as pediatrics, school-based early intervention, gerontology, and the connection between physical and neurological disabilities.

These skills can easily be transferred to careers in other medical and therapeutic contexts including emergency healthcare, clinical rehabilitation, and general home healthcare.

In most cases, however, the online master’s degree in occupational therapy is designed to prepare you for a career in the occupational therapy profession. In fact, a master’s degree is required in order to become a licensed occupational therapist.

This advanced degree can lead to immediate and well-paying opportunities in the field. Graduates with a master’s of occupational therapy degree are capable of earning a median salary of $85,570 a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Admission Requirements for an Occupational Therapy Education

Schools that offer an online master’s in occupational therapy degree program have different admission requirements.

These are the admission requirements common to schools offering online occupational therapy programs to graduate students:

  • A completed online application
  • An accredited bachelor’s degree
  • Official college transcripts
  • A cumulative college GPA of 3.0 - 3.5
  • Graduate Record Examination (GRE) Score
  • Personal statement or essay
  • Reference Letters
  • Professional Resume or CV

Key Point: Some programs might also require an interview process.

Curriculum and Courses

Schools offering an occupational therapy online program have different courses, although there are similarities in programs. There are typically core occupational therapy courses, individualized research projects, and practicum, laboratory, or residency requirements.

The typical courses offered in a master of occupational therapy program include:

  • Aging and Gerontology
  • Pediatrics
  • Integrative Service Delivery
  • Home Healthcare
  • Autism Spectrum Therapies
  • Sensory Processing
  • Virtual Therapy
  • Homelessness and Healthcare
  • Home Modifications for Disabilities
  • Geriatric Rehabilitation
  • Navigating Limb Loss
  • Pain Management Strategies

Key Point: Graduate occupational therapy programs will cover topics such as aging, pediatric development, and rehabilitation from injury.

Old woman doing a hand exercise
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Careers for Online Occupational Therapy Program Degree Holders

Graduates with an online master’s degree in occupational therapy have the credentials to qualify for several careers, including:

  • Licensed Occupational Therapists
  • Physical Therapists
  • Certified Stroke Rehabilitation Specialist
  • Nurse Practitioners
  • Nurse Aestheticians
  • Physicians Assistants
  • Recreational Therapists
  • Occupational Therapy Assistants
  • Speech-Language Pathologists

Key Points: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, job openings for practicing occupational therapists are projected to grow by 14% from 2021 to 2031.

The picture is even brighter for those who use their graduate degree to pursue careers as nurse practitioners. Jobs for these positions are expected to grow by an incredible 40% from 2021 to 2031.

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Factors for Choosing Occupational Therapy Online Programs

If you aspire to a career in occupational therapy practice, you must be sure that you can tackle the challenges of an accredited occupational therapy program.

Choosing a top-notch online degree program will help to make your professional journey easier by allowing you to balance your pursuit of an advanced degree with any existing professional demands.

Furthermore, an online degree program in a reputable college or university should have the integrity, reputation, and track record to convince employers that their graduates deserve a place in the employer’s organization.

Here are the factors that you need to consider when choosing a school that offers the online master in occupational therapy degree:

  • National and Regional Accreditation: Accreditation is vital. It signifies that the school’s education is in compliance with the standards of the Department of Education and the accrediting body. A school must also be accredited in order to offer federal financial aid to its students.
  • Programmatic Accreditation:This is especially important in occupational therapy. In addition to institutional accreditation, be sure your degree in occupational therapy is accredited by the American Occupational Therapy Association. This national board provides programmatic accreditation, which is important for occupational therapy students who plan to sit for the Occupational Therapy Certification Exam and become licensed occupational therapists.
  • Cost: Cost is an inherent element of every educational pursuit. But since cost differs from one school to another, you must ensure that the online school you choose is affordable while still providing a quality education.
  • Financing Options: Accredited colleges and universities will offer financial aid options including grants, scholarships, and loans for students who qualify. Some will also offer work-study programs.
  • Course Delivery: Online education courses are delivered in three different ways: synchronous (live online classes), asynchronous (classes that can be attended anytime), and blended or hybrid (a mix of both synchronous and asynchronous). Choose a school that offers the type that suits your schedule.
  • Academic Support: Academic support is a valuable element of distance learning. Give due credit to schools that provide students with online resources such as references and tutorials. You will need these to gain a deeper understanding of your lessons.
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The 10 Best Online Occupational Therapy Programs for Master’s Degrees

  1. #1

    Colorado State University

    Fort Collins , CO
    #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Colorado 2024 #2 Best Public Colleges in Colorado 2024 #3 Best Research Universities in Colorado 2024 #3 Best Colleges in Colorado 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $13K

    Acceptance

    91%

    Graduation

    67%

    Student body

    37K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1185/26

    Career Outlook for Occupational Therapy degree at Colorado State University

    Cost of Degree: $13,490
    Expenses: $17,575
    Starting Salary: $56,900
    Salary after 4 years: $62,512
    Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Colorado State University known for?

    Colorado State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    What do we love about Colorado State University?

    Colorado State University was formed in 1870 as the flagship institution in what would become the Colorado state school system. The Fort Collins-based public research university is noted today for its excellence in biomedical sciences, engineering, environmental science, and more.

    Colorado State University was formed as a small agricultural school in the years leading up to Colorado’s 1876 statehood. Today, Colorado State serves more than 34,000 students.

    • Colorado State University is great for students who:

      Are pursuing careers in healthcare. Colorado State ranks high for spending on its various medical sciences programs.

    • Colorado State University might not be the best fit for students who:

      Are seeking a small campus experience.

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  2. #2

    San Jose State University

    San Jose , CA
    #17 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in California 2024 #15 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earning Business Degrees in 2024 #15 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Criminal Justice Degrees
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $8K

    Acceptance

    77%

    Graduation

    68%

    Student body

    41K

    Career Outlook for Occupational Therapy degree at San Jose State University

    Cost of Degree: $9,333
    Expenses: $22,951
    Starting Salary: $67,982
    Salary after 4 years: $74,686
    Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is San Jose State University known for?

    San Jose State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    What do we love about San Jose State University?

    San Jose State University is a public research university based in San Jose, California. Founded in 1857, San Jose State is not only the first campus in the expansive California State University system, but it is also the oldest public higher education institution on the West Coast.

    San Jose State University is home to nearly 34,000 students at the graduate and undergraduate levels.

    • San Jose State University is great for students who:

      Are interested in tech careers. San Jose State is a major contributor to the Silicon Valley workforce.

    • San Jose State University might not be the best fit for students who:

      Prefer a less urban learning environment. San Jose State is located directly in downtown San Jose.

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  3. #3

    Cleveland State University

    Cleveland , OH
    #8 Most Affordable Colleges in Ohio 2024 #8 Best Public Colleges in Ohio 2024 #9 Best Grad Schools in Ohio 2024 #9 Best Research Universities in Ohio 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    85%

    Graduation

    49%

    Student body

    18K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1005/21

    Career Outlook for Occupational Therapy degree at Cleveland State University

    Cost of Degree: $10,863
    Expenses: $18,567
    Starting Salary: $49,442
    Salary after 4 years: $54,317
    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Cleveland State University known for?

    Cleveland State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    What do we love about Cleveland State University?

    Cleveland State University was formed in 1964, but the public research university’s roots go back a bit further. The Cleveland, Ohio institution began offering courses after absorbing a once-private school founded in 1923 called Fenn College.

    By 1969, Cleveland State had absorbed the Cleveland-Marshall College of Law. Today, the University System of Ohio affiliate serves more than 15,000 students, including nearly 5000 graduate students.

    • Cleveland State University is great for students who:

      Prefer a commuter college school. The vast majority of Cleveland State students live off campus.

    • Cleveland State University might not be the best fit for students who:

      Prefer a more selective college. Until only recently, Cleveland State offered open admissions.

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  4. #4

    Thomas Jefferson University

    Philadelphia , PA
    #9 Best Research Universities in Pennsylvania 2024 #10 Best Private Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024 #10 Best Grad Schools in Pennsylvania 2024 #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Pennsylvania
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $44K

    Acceptance

    89%

    Graduation

    68%

    Student body

    10K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1240/29

    Career Outlook for Occupational Therapy degree at Thomas Jefferson University

    Cost of Degree: $23,103
    Expenses: $21,469
    Starting Salary: $99,478
    Salary after 4 years: $109,364
    Cost Recoup Time: 5 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Thomas Jefferson University known for?

    Thomas Jefferson University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    What do we love about Thomas Jefferson University?

    Thomas Jefferson University was established in 1824 as a private university based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Though the university merged with Philadelphia University in 2017, it is still largely recognized simply as Jefferson.

    Thomas Jefferson was formed as a medical college but, today, serves nearly 8,000 students in a wide range of disciplines at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Today, its medical school ranks as 9th oldest in the nation.

    • Thomas Jefferson is great for students who:

      Wish to study medicine. Jefferson is noted for its many teaching hospitals.

    • Thomas Jefferson University might not be the best fit for students who:

      Do not prefer an urban environment. Jefferson is based in the major metropolitan city of Philadelphia.

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    5. Occupational therapist helping an old man walk

  6. #5

    Towson University

    Towson , MD
    #3 Best Research Universities in Maryland 2024 #4 Best Public Colleges in Maryland 2024 #4 Most Affordable Colleges in Maryland 2024 #5 Best Grad Schools in Maryland 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $11K

    Acceptance

    79%

    Graduation

    70%

    Student body

    23K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1120/22

    Career Outlook for Occupational Therapy degree at Towson University

    Cost of Degree: $11,556
    Expenses: $17,902
    Starting Salary: $58,712
    Salary after 4 years: $64,502
    Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Towson University known for?

    Towson University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    What do we love about Towson University?

    Towson University was founded in 1866 and was the very first teachers college in the state of Maryland. Today, Towson is part of the University System of Maryland and serves more than 20,000 students across eight colleges.

    Towson University is a public research university and holds the distinction of producing the most teachers in the state of Maryland.

    • Towson University is great for students who:

      Want a balance between campus and city life. Towson is located just 8 miles from downtown Baltimore.

    • Towson University might not be the best fit for students who:

      Prefer a campus with competitive athletics programs in major NCAA sports.

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  7. #6

    Barry University

    Miami , FL
    #14 The Best Catholic Colleges and Universities Ranked for 2024 #1 Best Christian Colleges in Florida 2024 #6 Best Private Colleges in Florida 2024 #1 Most Affordable Online Occupational Therapy Masters Programs
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $33K

    Acceptance

    60%

    Graduation

    39%

    Student body

    9K

    Career Outlook for Occupational Therapy degree at Barry University

    Cost of Degree: $17,910
    Expenses: $18,058
    Starting Salary: $50,991
    Salary after 4 years: $56,059
    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Barry University known for?

    Barry University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    What do we love about Barry University?

    Barry University was formed in Miami Shores, Florida by Adrian Dominican Sisters. Founded in 1940, Barry is today one of the largest private Catholic universities in the region.

    Barry University offers more than 100 distinct degree programs to its roughly 7000 students. Barry’s student body is almost evenly divided between undergraduate and graduate students.

    • Barry University is great for students who:

      Are seeking a well-rounded liberal arts education.

    • Barry University might not be the best fit for students who:

      Desire fancy amenities. Students describe dorms and meal plans as relatively no-frills.

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  8. #7

    Grand Valley State University

    Allendale , MI
    #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Michigan 2024 #10 Most Affordable Colleges in Michigan 2024 #10 Best Public Colleges in Michigan 2024 #11 Best Online Colleges in Michigan 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $14K

    Acceptance

    90%

    Graduation

    66%

    Student body

    25K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1085/24

    Career Outlook for Occupational Therapy degree at Grand Valley State University

    Cost of Degree: $18,456
    Expenses: $13,245
    Starting Salary: $50,294
    Salary after 4 years: $55,254
    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Grand Valley State University known for?

    Grand Valley State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    What do we love about Grand Valley State University?

    Grand Valley State University is a public university located in the town of Allendale, Michigan. Formed in 1860 as Grand Valley State College, GVSU serves more than 24,000 students at both the undergraduate and graduate degree levels.

    Grand Valley State University offers more than 200 degree programs at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels.

    • Grand Valley State University is great for students who:

      Are looking for undergraduate options. Grand Valley places a strong emphasis on its varied selection of bachelor’s degree options.

    • Grand Valley State University might not be the best fit for students who:

      Like to attend campus events on the weekends. Some students say that many of their classmates leave the residential campus for home on most weekends.

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  9. #8

    Le Moyne College

    Syracuse , NY
    #8 Best Christian Colleges in New York 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $37K

    Acceptance

    78%

    Graduation

    72%

    Student body

    4K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1210/28

    Career Outlook for Occupational Therapy degree at Le Moyne College

    Cost of Degree: $20,468
    Expenses: $17,740
    Starting Salary: $55,700
    Salary after 4 years: $61,235
    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Le Moyne College known for?

    Le Moyne College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    What do we love about Le Moyne College?

    Le Moyne College was founded in 1946 by the Society of Jesus and became the first co-educational Jesuit college in the nation. Today, the private college serves a population of more than 3,000 students, mostly at the undergraduate level.

    Le Moyne College sits on 160 acres, stretching between Dewitt and Syracuse, New York.

    • Le Moyne College is great for students who:

      Are seeking a commuter college. Many students attend classes or complete online courses while living at home.

    • Le Moyne College might not be the best fit for students who:

      Prefer a traditional residential campus experience.

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  11. #9

    Trinity Washington University

    Washington , DC
    #4 Best Small Colleges in DC 2024 #4 Best Christian Colleges in DC 2024 #7 Best Private Colleges in DC 2024 #8 Best Colleges in DC 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $26K

    Acceptance

    97%

    Graduation

    38%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for Occupational Therapy degree at Trinity Washington University

    Cost of Degree: $15,120
    Expenses: $15,080
    Starting Salary: $43,177
    Salary after 4 years: $47,468
    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Trinity Washington University known for?

    Trinity Washington University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    What do we love about Trinity Washington University?

    Trinity Washington University was founded as a liberal arts college for women in 1897. Today, the coeducational institution serves 1800 students, many from directly within the local Washington, D.C. community.

    Trinity Washington University is the only university in the capital region designated as a Minority Serving Institution by the U.S. Department of Education for its emphasis on creating opportunities for Black and Hispanic students.

    • Trinity Washington University is great for students who:

      Wish to study at Trinity Washington’s reputable Schools of Nursing, Education, or Professional Studies.

    • Trinity Washington University might not be the best fit for students who:

      Are seeking scholarships or specialized financial assistance opportunities. Students report that these opportunities are often difficult to access.

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  12. #10

    Belmont University

    Nashville , TN
    #3 Best Christian Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #5 Best Private Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #8 Best Research Universities in Tennessee 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $40K

    Acceptance

    96%

    Graduation

    72%

    Student body

    9K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1245/27

    Career Outlook for Occupational Therapy degree at Belmont University

    Cost of Degree: $26,110
    Expenses: $20,630
    Starting Salary: $51,593
    Salary after 4 years: $56,720
    Cost Recoup Time: 9 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Belmont University known for?

    Belmont University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    What do we love about Belmont University?

    Belmont University was founded in Nashville, Tennessee by local school teachers in 1890. Begun as a women’s college, today Belmont is a private coeducational Christian university with more than 8000 students at the graduate and undergraduate levels.

    Belmont University ranks high among private universities in a number of categories, including healthcare professions, teaching, and in opportunities created for military veterans.

    • Belmont University is great for students who:

      Wish to study nursing and other healthcare professions. Belmont has worked closely with healthcare providers in the region to fill healthcare worker shortages.

    • Belmont University might not be the best fit for students who:

      Are paying for college on a fixed budget. Belmont University tuition is higher than average for private colleges in the state of Tennessee.

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Career Outlook for Students with Occupational Therapy Degree

Go to Degree Finder tool

Occupational Therapy/Therapist

Degree Level: Master's

  • Location: The U.S. (Private Schools)
  • Avg. Cost of Degree*: $11,689
  • Avg. Expenses*: $16,497
  • Avg. Starting Salary*: $57,500
  • Avg. Salary after 4 Years*: $63,170
  • Avg. Cost Recoup Time**: 6 years
  • Job Growth: 16.45%
  • Number of Jobs: 402,400
  • * denotes ‘annually’
  • ** denotes ‘at 15% of annual salary’

Career Salaries

CareerJob GrowthAvg. Salary
Physical Therapists15.11%$93,244
Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary19.10%$87,995
Occupational Therapists11.46%$87,705
Orthotists and Prosthetists14.74%$73,178
Therapists, All Other12.29%$61,707

Average Career Salaries

Bottom 10%MedianTop 10%
$47,948$81,171$128,164

Promising Job Markets

StateCost of LivingAvg. Salary
#2 Arkansas16% higher than average$111,949
#3 Mississippi18% higher than average$94,133
#4 Oregon11% higher than average$119,192
#5 Texas10% higher than average$96,045
#6 Ohio14% higher than average$86,386

Top Industries

IndustryAvg. Salary
Physical Therapists$93,244
Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary$87,995
Occupational Therapists$87,705
Data from The Bureau of Labor Statistics, The Department of Education College Scorecard, The Department of Education NCES, and The Council for Community and Economic Research.

Check out our complete List of University Rankings.

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