Shenandoah University

Programme overview

Shenandoah University’s Master of Science in Occupational Therapy is a 75-credit, 2.5-year program delivered in a hybrid format with more than half of the content online. The Loudoun (Leesburg, VA) cohort meets on campus one day per week (Thursdays) while fieldwork is scheduled on non-campus days and during regular working hours. An alternative two-year weekend format meets face-to-face seven weekends per semester at the Health Professions Building in Winchester, VA. Students are also assigned hands-on experiences in their home communities as directed by faculty.

What you'll study

Curriculum emphasizes evaluation, treatment planning and evidence-based practice alongside practical intervention techniques. Course work and labs cover occupational therapy theory and its clinical application, including adaptations to client environments, splinting, mobility skills and simulated pediatric and adult practice settings. Online components include recorded lectures, readings and interactive assignments; in-person sessions focus on hands-on practice in lab spaces and community partner activities. Graduates are prepared to implement knowledge in fieldwork and entry-level practice.

Entry requirements

Program admits applicants to the MSOT programs including Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants (COTAs). COTAs are eligible with an associate degree plus a minimum of 90 higher education credits. For transfer credit rules, Shenandoah’s Division of Occupational Therapy will only transfer courses accredited under OT program accreditors (e.g., ACOTE); non-OT coursework from nationally accredited institutions may need to be demonstrated from regionally accredited sources to reach 90 credits. COTAs in the MSOT program may waive the second Level I fieldwork rotation after successful completion of the first Level I fieldwork.

Career prospects

Graduates enter practice as occupational therapists serving varied patient populations across health care and community-based settings. The program prepares students for roles involving client evaluation, treatment planning and delivery of occupational therapy interventions with an emphasis on professional, ethical and leadership qualities. Students who are current COTAs can use the degree to transition from assistant roles to licensed occupational therapist positions.

Scholarships & funding angle

Specific scholarships and detailed cost information are managed by the university; prospective students should review Shenandoah University’s financial aid pages and the program’s published cost of attendance and accreditation links to learn about available funding, scholarships, and any program-specific support.