Master of Occupational Therapy

The Master of Occupational Therapy prepares students to enter practice in the profession of occupational therapy. Students are prepared as generalists; however, a strong foundation allows for future specialization after graduation. The 73 minimum credit-hour curriculum is completed in two years of full-time academic work plus six months of full-time fieldwork.

The following outcome objectives are expected upon completion of the entry-level occupational therapy curriculum. These outcomes arise directly from the missions of the university and the entry-level program, as well as from the program’s philosophical base.

Graduates of the UIndy MOT program will be able to:

Outcome I: Demonstrate entry-level knowledge and skills, including foundational knowledge in core sciences, for practice as an occupational therapist in existing and emerging practice areas.

Outcome II: Apply critical thinking and evidence-based practice principles, grounded in theories of occupation, to influence the health and wellbeing of consumers across populations.

Outcome III: Demonstrate professional development and continuing competence through reflective practice and lifelong learning. 

Outcome IV: Demonstrate holistic and client-centered practice that reflects values consistent with the occupational therapy profession. 

Outcome V: Use leadership and advocacy skills in professional practice.


Mission
The mission of the Master of Occupational Therapy program within the School of Occupational Therapy is to develop caring and competent occupational therapy practitioners who are lifelong learners and leaders within local and global communities. Our students evolve into practitioners who link education, research, and practice as critical thinkers, who apply evidence and uphold high standards of professionalism. Learning opportunities within the curriculum enable students to become practitioners in both existing and emerging practice areas. Our graduates influence the health and well-being of consumers across diverse populations by facilitating engagement and participation in valued occupations.

Credentialing
Upon satisfactory completion of the curriculum, including level II fieldwork, students are awarded the Master of Occupational Therapy and are eligible to take the certification examination for the occupational therapist, administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy. Successful completion of this examination leads to certification as an occupational therapist and to the title "Occupational Therapist, Registered" (OTR).

Additionally, individual state regulations must be met for the OTR to practice. Most states require licensure in order to practice; however, licenses are usually based on the results of the NBCOT certification examination. When applying for state licensure, certification, or registration, a criminal history background check is conducted by the state occupational licensing agency.
A felony conviction may affect a graduate's ability to sit for the NBCOT certification examination or attain state licensure.

University of Indianapolis' NBCOT Pass Rate
National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy

*UIndy OT students complete the MOT program and graduate in December. They are eligible to sit for the NBCOT exam in January of the following year.
**Includes first-time test takers and those who retook the exam.