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If you are an undergraduate student who is thinking about becoming an occupational therapist, we have several options for you in the College of Science and Health at DePaul University. We have developed several programs that we call Accelerated 3+ that allow you to earn an undergraduate degree and a
Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (OT) all within five years.
You will take three years of traditional undergraduate classes that will prepare you for the rigor of our graduate Occupational Therapy program which will start in your fourth year. Your first year of graduate coursework will count towards the completion of your undergraduate degree, plus you may be eligible for a
Double Demon Scholarship to help with tuition in your fifth year. Our Accelerated 3+ options thus save you time and money.
How do I get started?
In January of your first year at DePaul you should do the following:
- Meet with a CSH pre-health advisor to discuss the Accelerated 3+ Occupational Therapy pathways.
- Meet with the Occupational Therapy program director to learn about the OT program.
- After these meetings, if you decide to pursue an Accelerated 3+ route, contact your CSH pre-health advisor, let them know of your decision, and they will change your major for you.
Which major must I be?
The following majors have specific concentrations that are part of the Accelerated 3+ Occupational Therapy pathways.
What are the requirements for full admission?
You will be formally admitted into the Occupational Therapy (MS) program in your fourth year upon meeting the following requirements:
- Complete all required undergraduate coursework
- Maintain a 3.5 cumulative GPA*
- Maintain a 3.5 prerequisite GPA*
- Earn at least a grade of C in each prerequisite course
- Complete 25 hours of community service each year while at DePaul University
- Complete 25 occupational therapy observation hours, take an Introduction to Occupational Therapy class, or complete online modules
- Have three letters of recommendaion from a professor, a supervisor, a clinician, or an employer
- Write a personal statement that addresses the following items:
- Why do you want to study occupational therapy at DePaul University?
- Describe what you observed during your observation hours and what you learned about occupational therapy practice through your observation.
- Occupational therapists work with a wide variety of people from all different backgrounds. Share what diversity, equity and inclusion mean to you and why they are important.
* If either GPA falls below 3.5 your application will still be reviewed, but admission to the Occupational Therapy (MS) program is not guaranteed.