Posted 12:19 p.m. Thursday, July 3, 2025
Not sure whether to pursue a master’s or doctoral degree in occupational therapy? Take a look at this quick comparison.
| MSOT | OTD |
Length of Program | Shorter (24 months) | Longer |
Cost | More affordable | Higher cost |
Career Prep | Fully qualified for entry-level practice | Fully qualified for entry-level practice |
Earnings | Similar to OTD in entry-level roles | Similar to MSOT in entry-level roles |
Best for | Clinical positions and early entry to workforce | Clinical positions or academic, research-related roles |
Future-Proofing | Master's-level OTs will be grandfathered in if doctoral degree becomes mandatory | Prepares for any future education mandates |
Already have a master’s? You can always pursue a post-professional OTD later to advance your education while continuing to work.