Occupational Science Doctoral Program (Sc.D.)

Degree: Doctor of Science

The Doctorate in Occupational Science prepares certified occupational therapists to teach and engage in applied research. Occupational science is the scientific study of human occupation, the purposeful and meaningful activities that comprise everyday life experiences. The study of occupation involves the investigation of the relationship between humans' occupations and their health. This unique social science examines the capacity of humans to engage in occupation and develop adaptive skills. 

The main emphasis of this doctoral program will be to enhance the health of society by applying knowledge gained through the advanced study of occupational science and human behavior. A Doctoral degree in Occupational Science allows you assume key roles in teaching, research, clinical practice, education, advocacy, or administration!

The doctoral degree will require the completion of at least 90 credits beyond a bachelor's degree. Students who hold master's degrees in disciplines other than occupational therapy will be allowed to transfer a maximum of 30 credits from their master's degrees; students who hold master's degrees in occupational therapy may transfer a maximum of 36 credits from their master's degrees.

ScD Program: Program Objectives

The specific educational objectives are to educate individuals who:

• design and implement innovative health and lifestyle program initiatives based on occupational science, which are implemented at the macro/community system level
• use occupational science as a basis to expand and disseminate knowledge gained from applied research projects that focus on the function of individual humans, groups and community systems
• test and expand theories of occupation and occupational science as they relate to conceptual models of occupational therapy practice