MS in Occupational Therapy Near Philadelphia, PA

For those seeking an MS in Occupational Therapy near Philadelphia, PA, Alvernia offers a dynamic, hands-on program that prepares students for clinical excellence and leadership. With practical learning experiences and a strong focus on community engagement, graduates develop the skills and compassion needed to make a meaningful impact in patient care.

Curriculum for Career Success

Alvernia’s two-year Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT) program is designed for students with bachelor’s degrees in a related field, such as health science, psychology, or kinesiology. It offers a comprehensive foundation in research, clinical reasoning, patient care, and ethical leadership to develop well-rounded, highly skilled therapists. Coursework covers:

Neurorehabilitation & Assistive Technology – Addressing brain injuries, stroke recovery, and the latest adaptive tools for patient independence.
Pediatric Occupational Therapy – Helping children with developmental delays, autism, and sensory processing disorders.
Mental & Behavioral Health – Equipping students with therapeutic intervention techniques for patients with mental health challenges.
Geriatric Rehabilitation – Supporting older adults in maintaining mobility, cognitive function, and quality of life.
Advocacy & Leadership in OT – Preparing students to become leaders in healthcare policy and patient advocacy.

Hands-On Learning & Clinical Experience

MSOT students gain real-world experience through clinical fieldwork, simulation labs, and hands-on opportunities, including:

Level I & Level II Clinical Rotations – Students complete rotations in leading healthcare settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centers, schools, and mental health facilities.
State-of-the-Art Simulation Labs – Housed in the John and Karen Arnold School of Nursing, OT students practice hands-on techniques, refine patient assessment skills, and engage in realistic therapy scenarios before entering clinical settings.
Pro-bono Clinic: Students collaborate with faculty and local healthcare professionals to provide free OT services to underserved communities at Alvernia’s Pro-bono Clinic. They work alongside peers from physical therapy, nursing, and other health-related fields, mirroring real-world interdisciplinary healthcare teams.

NBCOT Exam Preparation

The NBCOT Exam (National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy) is the required certification exam for occupational therapists to obtain state licensure and practice professionally in the U.S. Passing this exam demonstrates clinical competence, critical thinking, and ethical decision-making, ensuring high-quality patient care.

Alvernia provides comprehensive exam preparation through:

Structured Study Plans – Faculty-led review sessions, content refreshers, and study groups help students build a strong foundation in assessment, treatment planning, and therapeutic interventions.
Practice Exams & Test Strategies – Full-length practice tests and targeted quizzes familiarize students with the exam format, improve time management, and refine problem-solving skills.
Faculty & Peer Mentorship – Experienced professors and clinicians provide one-on-one guidance, personalized feedback, and test-taking strategies.
Capstone & Clinical Integration – Fieldwork rotations, simulation labs, and capstone projects reinforce critical thinking and intervention skills.

Career Readiness & Outlook

The demand for occupational therapists is expected to , nearly four times faster than the national average for all occupations. This growth is driven by aging populations, increased demand for pediatric therapy, expanding mental health services, and a greater focus on rehabilitation and preventative care.

Alvernia graduates are positioned for long-term success in this rewarding, impactful, and in-demand profession:

Comprehensive Career Services & Professional Development – Receive personalized career coaching, resume workshops, mock interviews, and job search assistance. Networking events and employer partnerships provide direct connections to hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools, and other healthcare organizations.
Alumni & Faculty Mentorship – Benefit from a strong professional network and mentorship opportunities with faculty and experienced OT practitioners.

Your Career Starts Here!

Alvernia’s MS in Occupational Therapy near Philadelphia, PA, provides OT students with hands-on training, clinical experience, and professional support. Focusing on practical application and compassionate care, students gain the expertise to positively impact lives as skilled occupational therapists.

For more information, contact the Admissions Office (1-888-ALVERNIA or admissions@alvernia.edu).

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