Occupational therapy programs offering advanced degrees provide comprehensive education and specialized training that equip professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in diverse occupational therapy settings. As of 2024, it is considered enough to have a masters degree in the profession but, in 2027, it is expected that Occupational Therapists will need a doctoral degree in order to become licensed practitioners.
As of now, this is not mandated. The Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) and the American Occupational Therapist Association (AOTA) have both been publicly expecting these changes since early 2017. When the ACOTE first proposed the mandate in 2018, AOTA called for it to be suspended, at least temporarily. Through the years that followed, the mandate has largely stayed suspended, but the conversations around it have only grown.
Read below to learn more about the benefits and detractions that come with OTs being forced to pursue doctoral degrees in 2027, if the mandate suspension is lifted.
The Benefits of Pursuing a Doctoral Degree in Occupational Therapy
With a doctoral degree, occupational therapists can delve deeper into research, evidence-based practice, leadership roles, and specialized areas of study, enhancing their impact on patient care and the broader healthcare community. These advanced degrees not only broaden career opportunities but also demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning and professional development, setting individuals apart as experts in the field of occupational therapy.
As an individual, investing in further education through a doctoral program is a strategic move that can lead to enhanced job satisfaction, increased earning potential, and greater recognition within the healthcare industry. When the entire field must pursue that path, it created a higher floor for all. With increased education requirements, the benefits that once applied to the individual are then applied to the field as a whole. Embracing the path of advanced education in occupational therapy is not just beneficial for personal growth but also essential for furthering the development of the field.
The Downside of Requiring a Doctoral Degree in Occupational Therapy
The looming shortage of occupational therapists is a critical issue that will only be exacerbated by these potential escalating education requirements, leading to a concerning decline in the number of qualified graduates entering the field each year. As the demand for occupational therapy services continues to rise, the shortage, as it is now, poses a significant challenge to meeting the healthcare needs of individuals requiring specialized care and rehabilitation.
The increased educational prerequisites not only deter potential candidates from pursuing this rewarding career path but also restrict access to essential healthcare services for those in need. Without concerted efforts to address this pressing concern, we risk facing a future where shortages in occupational therapists compromise the quality of care and support available to vulnerable populations.
An argument can be made that measures that enforce higher education should be far behind those that encourage educational access and opportunities to those that are interested in the role and do not have the means to pursue, as that is the factor that will help close the shortage gap. It is imperative to incentivize and support individuals pursuing careers in occupational therapy long before attempting to add an additional educational barrier, as ensuring an adequate supply of skilled professionals who are equipped to make a meaningful difference in improving people’s lives through comprehensive rehabilitation services is the most necessary factor of all.
Finding a Midground
Finding a middle ground means first addressing the active problem and then considering next steps. Making all OT education more accessible ensures that talented individuals who may not be able to commit to a doctoral program can still benefit from advanced education in occupational therapy. OT education programs should prioritize accessibility and clarity when considering the requirement for pursuing doctoral programs. By allowing individuals the option to pursue doctoral programs without making it a mandatory requirement, these programs can broaden their reach and cater to a more diverse range of students with varying career aspirations and goals.
Additionally, providing clear communication on whether the suspension of this mandate is permanent or temporary is essential for prospective students to make informed decisions about their academic journey. While it is known that OTs obtaining licensure before 2027 will be grandfathered in, should the mandate proceed, the decision being in limbo can make potential OTs feel unsure about pursuing the program. Clarity in program requirements fosters transparency and trust between educational institutions and students, allowing for better planning and goal setting.
Ultimately, by offering flexibility in pursuing doctoral programs and maintaining transparent communication regarding program mandates, OT education programs can better serve the needs of their students while upholding standards of quality education in occupational therapy. If you are an OT professional or looking to pursue a career in healthcare, then check out our job board now to see what opportunities are open to you now! If you are looking for something a little different, then send us in an updated resume and let us curate a list of fitting roles specially for you.
