Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) Professional Licensure Disclosures

The OTD program at OBU prepares students for professional licensure in specific states and national certification through the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA).

Occupational Therapists (OTs) are required to hold a current state license in every state where they practice. Some states also require OTs to hold educator certification to work in a school. State licensure boards and educator credentialing departments may require additional qualifications beyond academic and clinical requirements such as:

• Exams
• Professional experience
• Application and licensing fees
• Criminal background checks
• Reference checks
• Fingerprint submissions
• Continuing education for license maintenance

State licensing requirements can change at any time. While the OBU OTD program updates this information annually, students are strongly advised to:

1. Contact relevant state licensure and educator certification boards before enrollment to confirm eligibility.
2. Review all academic and clinical requirements for their intended practice location.
3. Consult with their academic advisor for guidance.

Professional Credentialing for Occupational Therapists (OTR)

Upon completion of the program, graduates are eligible to pursue a national credential through the National Board Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). Certification can be pursued upon successful completion of a master’s or doctoral degree from a program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE), completion of the required fieldwork experience, and earning a passing score on the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) examination. Graduates begin the certification process upon graduation by completing an application on the NBCOT website. For complete and up-to-date information regarding occupational therapy certification, visit https://www.nbcot.org/.

State Licensure

To practice as an OT in a specific state, a state license must be obtained. The table below provides information about state OT licensure requirements for each state and territory. Many states have additional and specific requirements which may include additional coursework, examinations, professional development, and practicum hours. Students are responsible for reviewing state licensure information prior to enrollment. Additional information about state associations and state licensure boards can be found on the AOTA State Licensure website. Students are responsible for understanding and following all state licensure requirements for any state where they plan to practice professionally.

Additional Credentials

Some states require an additional certificate to work as an OT in a school or to utilize physical agent modalities (PAMs). Requirements vary by state and may include additional coursework, examinations, professional development, and practicum hours. Students are responsible for reviewing licensure information prior to enrollment. State association and state licensure board information can be found on the AOTA State Licensure website. Students are responsible for understanding and following all educator credential and physical agent modalities laws and requirements for any state where they plan to practice professionally.

State and Territory Disclosures

While the OBU OTD program reviews state licensure and educator certification requirements annually, students are ultimately responsible for understanding and meeting all requirements for their intended practice location.