Mercy College

What you'll study

This doctoral programme combines advanced clinical coursework, applied research methods and a substantial culminating project to develop expert-level practice, leadership and scholarship. Core topics typically include advanced clinical reasoning, evidence-based practice and outcomes measurement, advanced neurorehabilitation, paediatrics and school-based practice, gerontology, mental health interventions, assistive technology and adaptive equipment, health systems and policy, and interprofessional collaboration.

Students undertake rigorous research methods and statistics modules that prepare them for a dissertation or doctoral capstone project focused on practice improvement, implementation science or original research. The curriculum usually integrates intensive clinical practicums or advanced fieldwork placements, simulation-based learning in clinical skills labs, and coursework in leadership, programme development and teaching methods for those planning academic careers.

• Advanced Clinical Reasoning and Assessment
• Evidence-Based Practice and Outcomes Measurement
• Research Methods, Biostatistics and Qualitative Inquiry
• Advanced Neurorehabilitation and Motor Learning
• Paediatrics, School Systems and Early Intervention
• Geriatrics, Community-Based Rehabilitation and Long-Term Care
• Mental Health Practice and Psychosocial Interventions
• Assistive Technology, Environmental Modification and Universal Design
• Health Policy, Leadership and Service Development
• Doctoral Capstone or Dissertation and Knowledge Translation

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised occupational therapy qualification. For the professional doctorate route this is typically a master’s degree in occupational therapy or the equivalent and current registration or licensure to practise as an occupational therapist. Applicants without a master’s degree but with an accredited bachelor-level entry and significant clinical experience may be considered on a case-by-case basis, depending on prior learning and practice history.

Typical application components include:

• Academic transcripts from previous degree(s)
• Current professional registration/licensure (where applicable)
• CV or résumé demonstrating clinical experience
• Personal statement or research/clinical interests statement outlining doctoral goals
• Two or more professional/academic references
• Interview with programme faculty (selected applicants)

The programme may also look for evidence of readiness for independent study and research, such as prior research experience, scholarly activity or continuing professional development. Some applicants may be advised to undertake preparatory research methods coursework before progressing to the dissertation/capstone phase.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Occupational Therapy Doctorate go on to a wide range of senior clinical, academic, leadership and research roles. Typical career destinations include advanced clinical specialist positions in hospitals, community health and rehabilitation centres; multidisciplinary team leaders and service managers; clinical educators and programme directors in higher education; policy advisors and rehabilitation consultants; and researchers in clinical trials and health services research.

The doctorate also prepares occupational therapists who wish to pursue further academic research or a transition into university teaching and supervision roles, as well as those aiming to lead quality improvement and service development initiatives within health and social care organisations.

Why study at Mercy College

Mercy College offers a practice-focused doctoral programme with close links to clinical partners across the metropolitan region, providing a wide range of advanced fieldwork and placement opportunities. Students benefit from hands-on training in modern simulation and occupational therapy skills labs, opportunities for interprofessional learning with other health programmes, and faculty who combine clinical expertise with active scholarship.

The programme emphasises applied research and knowledge translation, supporting students to complete clinically meaningful capstone projects or dissertations that address real service challenges. Small cohort sizes foster personalised supervision and mentoring, and Mercy College’s community partnerships enable projects spanning hospitals, schools, community organisations and long-term care settings.

Overall, the programme is designed for occupational therapists seeking a clinically relevant, research-informed doctorate that advances practice, leadership and scholarly contribution to the profession.