Postprofessional Degrees

Convenient Options for Practicing OTs

The University of Indianapolis, School of Occupational Therapy offers the Master of Health Science and Doctor of Health Science degrees. These advanced programs serve occupational therapists who wish to improve their clinical, teaching, administrative, and research skills while still practicing. The MHS and DHS degrees offer a strong clinical focus with some requirements in research and administration.

Each course requires only one long- weekend in attendance at the University of Indianapolis with pre-course and post-course independent study required, making it convenient for clinicians located throughout the country to attend classes.

In addition to the full-time faculty, nationally recognized experts serve as adjunct faculty, making available to students the latest research, theories, and clinical techniques. The postprofessional program derives its strong reputation from this diverse faculty, which in addition to its cadre of occupational therapists and renowned experts, includes a physical anthropologist, a physiologist, and a psychologist. The occupational therapy faculty represent the major areas of specialized practice, including administration, geriatrics, pediatrics, orthopedics, work programs, mental health, and neurorehabilitation.

Master of Health Science (MHS) Degree
The Master of Health Science postprofessional program is designed for occupational therapists who wish primarily to advance their clinical skills. The program is structured for the clinician to pursue a degree on a part-time basis while continuing to work in a clinical setting. MHS students may take up to 7 years to complete the 36-credit-hour degree.
Core (3 courses)
Clinical Reasoning (Required);  Cultural Aspects of Occupation; Basics of Writing and Research; Research Methodology **;  Qualitative Research Methodology **; ** One research required
Electives (4 courses)
Selected Track (5 courses)

Doctor of Health Science (DHS)
Courses in research, anatomy, physiology, and theory development are taught. The program is structured for the clinician to pursue a degree on a part-time basis while continuing to work in a clinical setting. The DHS degree is awarded upon completion of 30 credit hours of master's-level course work and 42 credit hours of doctoral-level course work totaling 72 credit hours. DHS students may take up to 10 years to complete the degree.

Postprofessional OT students may also register for postprofessional courses in physical therapy and gerontology.

Applications and Registration

Postprofessional Application and Information
Postprofessional Course Registration Form  

Additional Information

Postprofessional MHS & DHS Brochure
Requirements for Admission

Course Descriptions
Course Schedule

Frequently Asked Questions
Continuing Education & Non-Degree Courses

Advising
Students may request an advising appointment with the Director of Advanced Studies or another assigned advisor if needed. Issues requiring advising include, but are not limited to: selecting a track, approving transfer credits, approving electives, planning a program of study, conducting a graduation audit, or approving the taking of any courses from other departments, e.g., Physical Therapy. It is recommended that the initial advising appointment be scheduled the Friday of the student's first class.