22-04-2025
West Coast University's Occupational Therapy Programs
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West Coast University's (WCU) occupational therapy programs provide students with a hands-on, immersive approach to learning occupational therapy. With two unique programs, the Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT) and the Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) programs, WCU helps equip students with comprehensive education that prioritizes both clinical skills and professional development.
WCU's dynamic curriculum emphasizes client-centered care, problem-solving skills and current best practices essential for adapting to the complex needs of today's patients. This commitment to developing both the technical and interpersonal skills necessary for successful patient outcomes sets WCU apart, helping graduates enter the workforce as skilled therapists and advocates for their clients' well-being.
The Master of Science in Occupational Therapy program at WCU offers a focused, flexible and supportive learning environment designed to prepare students for a rewarding career in occupational therapy. The program's accelerated 24-month format allows graduates to enter the occupational therapy field sooner.
West Coast University also offers an Occupational Therapy Assistant-to-MSOT Pathway, providing a direct route to a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy. With no bachelor's degree required, this pathway enables students to complete their master's in as little as two years. It allows them to build on their existing experience as an OTA, while gaining the advanced skills needed to practice autonomously.
In contrast to the master's program, the 32-month Occupational Therapy Doctorate program at WCU goes beyond foundational skills to offer doctoral-level coursework focused on advanced practice skills, innovation and leadership.
The OTD program culminates in a Doctoral Capstone Experience (DCE), completed in the final two trimesters. The DCE allows students to dive deep into a specialized area of practice, such as clinical skills, administration, program development, research, or advocacy.
Both the MSOT and OTD programs include one to two days per week of online synchronous learning for direct engagement with faculty and classmates.
OT students learn in technologically advanced facilities designed for experiential learning where they can master their skills in a controlled environment–building confidence in the process. This hands-on training is a cornerstone of WCU's approach, preparing students with real-world skills before they even begin their fieldwork placements.
Faculty at WCU bring a wide range of expertise in occupational therapy, creating a rich learning environment that both challenges and supports students. Their approach is centered on a partnership that prioritizes each student's strengths, helping them thrive. This supportive atmosphere was exactly what drew WCU MSOT alumna Briana L. to WCU's occupational therapy program.
As a naturally creative person, Briana was captivated by WCU's curriculum, which blends creativity with evidence-based science. Her journey into occupational therapy was inspired by her son's autism diagnosis, sparking a desire to gain the skills to help him and others lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.
Reflecting on her time in the program, Briana shared, "Going through a full-time master's program with two little kids was a challenge, to say the least, but one I would do over again a million times to be here today."
Read Briana's full story.
In addition to being fully supported academically, the Career Services Department at WCU helps support students in their careers by providing job placement assistance, one-on-one career counseling, support in developing resumes, interview skills, and job search strategies.
WCU's occupational therapy graduates enter the workforce ready to make a meaningful difference in people's lives and to advance the field with innovative, compassionate care.
Ready to take the next step? Learn how WCU's programs can help you build a thriving career in occupational therapy. Schedule an information session today!
WCU provides career guidance and assistance but cannot guarantee opinion is the individual's sole opinion and not necessarily representative of that of the school, any instructor or any other student.
This article has been paid for by a third party. The views and opinions expressed are not those of Newsweek and are not an endorsement of the products, services or persons mentioned.
