Doctorate in Occupational Therapy (OTD) > Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much does the Jefferson OTD Cost?
$825/credit for the 2008-2009 academic year.

How many credits are required?
A minimum of 33 credits is required. The exact number of credits depends on how much experience you have and whether you take the program on a full-time or part-time basis. Those with less than 3 years experience take a 6 credit fellowship, those with more than 3 years experience take a 3 credit fellowship. Students take an OTD seminar each semester they are enrolled. Therefore, students enrolled longer will have more OTD seminar credits.

Examples

Program taken full-time basis, for an OT with 3 years experience = 6 semesters. For example, if you start in the Fall of 2008, you would take courses in Fall 2008 (1st semester), Spring 2009 (2nd semester), Summer I (3rd) and Summer 2 (4th) 2009, Fall 2009 (5th), and Spring 2010.

Part-time = variable, depends on the total length of time you are in the program--how many courses you take per semester (1 or 2) and whether you have continuous enrollment (i.e., if you take a semester off, that will lengthen your time in the program).

Want to chart a plan to see how this can work for you? Contact Dr. Toth-Cohen for an individualized trajectory planning form.

How do I find out what classes are being offered in a particular semester?

You can check currently offered classes through the Banner schedule. Search for Occupational Therapy, and this will give you a list of classes. Also, you can check the OTD course descriptions for general information as to when classes are typically offered.

When do I need to have my application completed, to apply for Spring 2009?
Application materials are due no later than November 15th. But, we advise you to apply as soon as possible. We have a rolling admissions policy, so any students who submit applications after our class has been filled will be placed on a waiting list.

About how long after I apply will I know if I am accepted?
We expect to let you know if you have been accepted 4-6 weeks after you submit all your application documents.

If I am accepted, is it possible to start either in the Fall or Spring semester?
Yes. You can enter either in Fall or Spring, or even during the Summer semesters.

Can I work full-time while taking the OTD?
Yes. Our program is designed for busy professionals. However, the actual number of classes that is manageable for each person who is working full-time may vary. You can vary this according to your needs, increasing or decreasing the number of credits you are taking based on work, home, and other responsibilities.

Who are the faculty?
The OTD courses are taught by nationally and internationally recognized faculty at Jefferson (see list at: http://www.jefferson.edu/jchp/ot/fac.cfm) as well as additional clinical faculty who will serve as mentors in the Clinical Fellowship.

How much time do I need to spend campus?
Classes are online; with meetings 1-2x per semester on weekend day(s). More...

Do I have to take the GRE or MAT?
These are not needed as long as you have a 3.0 cumulative average in your completed MS or MA program. If you have a bachelor's degree in OT, complete the MSOT in one year with our online post-professional masters program and continue on to the OTD.

Is your institution accredited? Yes, our institution is fully accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools, Council on Education. Our entry-level programs are accredited by the Accreditation Council of Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE). Currently ACOTE does not regulate post-professional doctoral programs, since they are not entry level.

Can I apply online?
Yes, apply online. Go to: http://www.jefferson.edu/jchp/admissions/online.cfm The copy of the NBCOT certification or OT license may be faxed to the Admissions Department at 215-503-7241.

What if I'm not sure?

You can take up to 10 credits of coursework as a non-matriculated student, to help you decide.

How can I get more information?
Contact Dr. Susan Toth-Cohen, PhD, OTR/L the Director of the Occupational Therapy Doctoral Program, at susan.toth-cohen@jefferson.edu to talk by telephone or to set up a meeting (in-person or via web chat).

Susan Toth-Cohen, Ph.D., OTR/L
Associate Professor, Department of Occupational Therapy
Jefferson College of Health Professions
130 S. 9th Street, Edison #810
Philadelphia, PA 19107 USA
(215) 503-9610
susan.toth-cohen@jefferson.edu