Occupational Therapy Program

Pre-professional track

Occupational therapists support the health and rehabilitation of people with disabilities, physical injuries, and mental health issues, and they play key roles in promoting lifelong health and creating more accessible environments for all people. As an occupational therapist (OT), your work could take you through a variety of settings, from health care, schools, and community centers, to businesses and communal homes for patients who are on the road to independent living. 

Hamline's pre-occupational therapy advising program will prepare you with the foundation of knowledge you need to apply to graduate school and create a powerful beginning to your career. We make sure you get hands-on experience in the skills that will set you above the rest of the field, and our mentors and advisors will support your continued education with plans and suggestions tailored to your needs.

Prerequisite coursework

Students interested in further education should be aware of the admission requirements of the programs or schools they intend to apply to. Admission requirements often include physics, anatomy and physiology, statistics, abnormal psychology, sociology and/or cultural anthropology, and lifespan development.

Occupational therapy observation experience requirements vary by program. Some schools recommend shadowing but don't require it, while others require a range of 10 to 30 hours of experience.

Relevant exams

Most programs require a Graduate Record Examination (GRE) General Test score for admission. Please check the requirements of the programs that you intend to apply to.

Degree programs

Many schools offer both master’s degrees and doctorate programs (doctorate of occupational therapy, or OTD). Both require a bachelor’s degree with the required coursework and last two to three years. Both degrees allow OTs to enter practice.

Application resources

Contact information