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University of Southern California
University of Southern California
USC Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy
USC Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy
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Education
Education

Entry-Level Doctorate (OTD)
of Occupational Therapy

Admissions update
The USC Chan Division has revised the following Entry-Level OTD application requirements for Fall 2023, effective immediately:

  1. Applications received after the December 1 deadline will continue to be reviewed, and applicants will be admitted to the program on a rolling basis;
  2. Prerequisite courses can be in progress during Fall 2022 and Spring 2023 (see Transcripts section below for details);
  3. Phase II (personal video statement) has been eliminated for this application cycle to increase access, given that we are shifting to rolling admissions;
  4. Online anatomy courses that include one of the following qualifications will be accepted: Virtual 3D interactive dissection software/prosection; Animal dissection; At-home cadaveric dissection.

The Chan Division has initiated the process to transition the Entry-Level Master’s to an accredited Entry-Level Doctoral (OTD) program. This process requires review and approval by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education® (ACOTE®). We are currently offering admissions information sessions for the proposed Entry-Level OTD program, but please note that because this program is still in review, only limited information can be provided. Please review the Entry-Level OTD program frequently asked questions for additional information. Our website will provide the latest updates throughout the transition process as they become available. The admissions criteria listed below have been provided to enable applicants to prepare in advance of the 2023 application cycle.

Holistic Admission Criteria

Holistic review evaluates applicants based on cognitive and non-cognitive traits, which ensures that more than one factor contributes to admission decisions. The four criteria included in USC Chan’s holistic review are:

  • Personal Statement
  • OTCAS Statements
  • Letters of Recommendation
  • GPA

How to Apply

Your application for USC’s Entry-Level OTD program must be completed through OTCAS, and must include the program-specific requirements for the University of Southern California.

Application Requirements

Prerequisites

Personal Statement

OTCAS Statements

Letters of Recommendation

GPA

Transcripts

English Proficiency

Other Requirements

Other Supporting Documents

Background Checks

Health Clearances

Additional Resources

Scholarships and Financial Aid

FAQs

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