Exciting News: Augustana University to Introduce Doctorate in Occupational Therapy in 2026!

Augustana University has exciting news! They will launch a new Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) program in Fall 2026. This program is part of the School of Health Professions and marks the second doctorate offered in just three years.

Dr. Melissa Kimmerling, the program director, expressed enthusiasm for the new OTD program. She believes it aligns perfectly with Augustana’s values, which emphasize the dignity and worth of all individuals, regardless of disability.

The OTD program is designed to be flexible, allowing students to balance their education with personal responsibilities. It features a hybrid format, mixing online classes with hands-on learning opportunities. Labs will take place in the nearby Twin Cities, making it accessible for many students.

Why Minnesota? Kimmerling points to a robust alumni network in the area, as well as data that suggests strong job prospects for graduates. This makes the region an ideal place to train future occupational therapists.

The program consists of six trimesters over two years. Students will engage in online learning for three trimesters, supplemented by short lab sessions every eight weeks. The latter part of the program emphasizes real-world experience. This includes 24 weeks of full-time fieldwork and a 14-week Capstone project where students delve into specific areas of occupational therapy, such as leadership and advocacy.

Ultimately, the program aims to empower graduates to stay in their communities, bringing vital therapy services to places that often lack them. Occupational therapy has been shown to positively impact individuals’ quality of life, and the demand for qualified professionals is growing. According to recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for occupational therapists is projected to grow by 17% from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for other professions.

For more details on this innovative program, visit augie.edu/OTD.

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