Is there a requirement that all practitioners must have an OTD or that the OTD will be the only degree offered in the future?
No. The Joint AOTA-ACOTE飪� Statement on Entry-Level Education (4/10/19) states 鈥溾�ccupational therapists may enter the profession at the master鈥檚 or doctoral level鈥� This is now the official policy of AOTA for entry into the occupational therapy profession.鈥� You can read the full statement here:
Do entry-level OTDs make more money than entry-level master鈥檚 OTs?
No. There are no existing data that show any salary difference between new graduates with either degree. Professional experience was the only factor found to impact financial compensation. See the AOTA-ACOTE飪� Special Task Force Report for more information:
Do employers prefer to hire new graduates with entry-level OTDs over master鈥檚 degrees?
No. There is no evidence that employers differentiate between degrees as both are considered entry-level degrees. Employers look for certification and licensure, not degree credentials. See the AOTA-ACOTE飪� Special Task Force Report for more information:
Page last updated February 12, 2025
