Post-Professional Doctorate (OTD)
of Occupational Therapy
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 following components are included in USC Chan’s holistic review:
- Letters of Recommendation
- Curriculum Vitae/Résumé
- Personal Statement
- Transcripts
- English Proficiency (as indicated)
Application Deadlines
Applications should be submitted by June 1st to allow sufficient time for document processing prior to enrollment in Fall. Applications are accepted after this date on a space-available basis. You are encouraged to apply for a USC Chan Division Tuition Scholarship when you submit your application. The division’s Admissions Committee will review your application once all materials are received, with decisions typically released within 6-8 weeks.
How to Apply
You may apply online at any time through USC Graduate Admissions. You will find the “Occupational Therapy (OTD)” program under “Independent Health Professions.” Please arrange to have transcripts and English Proficiency test scores (if applicable) sent to USC Graduate Admissions in time to meet the application deadline.
Generative AI Statement
The USC Chan Division is committed to maintaining the integrity of our admissions process. Applicants are expected to take full responsibility for the accuracy and authenticity of all submitted materials, including Personal Statements, Letters of Recommendation, and other required essays or writing samples. The use of generative AI (e.g., ChatGPT) in crafting these materials is not permitted. If it is determined that an applicant has used generative AI for these components, their application will not be considered.
Letters of Recommendation
Three letters of recommendation from among professors, practitioners, or other professionals familiar with your capabilities and achievements, utilizing the process provided called “Evaluations” in the online application. It includes a form to be completed as well as uploading a personalized letter.
Ask your recommenders to address specific examples of your qualities and traits that align with the post-professional OTD. These may include — but are not limited to:
- Professionalism
- Leadership
- Managerial skills
- Innovative thinking
- Critical problem solving
- Lifelong learning
- Self-motivation and/or proactive action
- Diligence
Curriculum Vitae/Résumé
A curriculum vitae (CV) or résumé must be uploaded. This document should detail as applicable:
- Previous academic preparation
- Professional expertise
- Leadership experience
- Publications and presentations
- Volunteer experience
- Community contributions
- Other professional contributions
Personal Statement
Submit a personal statement (1,000 words or less) in response to the following prompt: Please describe your leadership aspirations for your occupational therapy career and the vision you have for yourself in achieving these goals. To address this prompt please upload a double spaced essay that does not exceed 1,000 words. Your essay should be uploaded in the supporting documents section.
Transcripts
Applicants must have completed a master’s degree in occupational therapy with a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 from an accredited college or university.
Transcripts should be submitted directly to USC Graduate Admissions.
English Proficiency
If your degree was earned in a non-English speaking country and you are not a US citizen or permanent resident, you need to submit English proficiency examination scores. Please note that even if you are from an English-speaking country, you may still need to submit scores. We require that you have verification of the following scores within two years of the date you submit your application:
- An Internet Based TOEFL (iBT) score of 100 with no less than 20 on each sub-score; or
- An IELTS total of 7 with no less than 6 on each band score; or
- A PTE Academic score of 68 or above, with 53 or above on each band.
- A Cambridge English score of 185 or above, with 169 or above on each skill.
For detailed information on the English Proficiency requirements and how to send your scores to USC, visit the Graduate Admissions website.
If your native language is English and/or you have:
- a bachelor’s degree completed in its entirety from a country in which English is both the language of instruction and the only official language; or
- a completed master’s or doctoral degree from a country in which English is both the language of instruction and the only official language
you are exempted from this examination. For additional details about English proficiency requirements by country, please review the Graduate Admissions website.
NBCOT
If you plan to complete the program in the United States, you must submit proof of passing the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy® (NBCOT) examination and state licensure prior to enrollment. If you plan to complete the program outside of the United States, you must submit proof of an equivalent credential to practice in your location. You must maintain your respective credentials throughout the duration of the program. If you are licensed/registered with only a bachelor’s degree in occupational therapy, you should apply for the Post-Professional Master’s Degree Program.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
Generous Division Tuition Scholarship packages are available for our PP-OTD students, as well as other award opportunities. Please see information on how to apply for scholarships and financial aid.
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