General Admissions & OTCAS OTD vs MSOT

[mull015]

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First let me say that I'm sure this has been discussed on the threads before (even this year) BUT I haven't been able to find many and nothing very helpful.

My question is this: what are the pros of an OTD vs a MSOT?

I didn't get accepted to any MSOT programs this year and it could possibly be a blessing in disguise because I am now considering applying to some OTD programs this next cycle as well as some MSOT.

I know the field is moving towards the OTD but if I get my masters I'll be grandfathered in and not need my doctorate but I'm really wondering if there are any benefits to just get my doctorate right now anyway?

 

[FutureOT2020]

I recently got accepted into OT school so I don't have much experience in the field. However, I personally don't think there is much difference when starting out as an entry level OT except for the time spent in school. If I were interested in research/teaching I would have considered applying for an OTD program, however, right now I'm more interested in working clinically as an OT.

The education requirement for an OT used to be a bachelors and those people have been grandfathered in. I'm assuming it will be the same when OT transitions to a doctorate level requirement.

My thought process is that an OTD would be beneficial for those interested in academia/research or might be an advantage a few years down the line when applying for a supervisor/administrative position.

There are also a several MOT to OTD programs available online, should an OT feel the need to continue their education.

 

[FutureOT2013]

If you want to simply work as an OT, OTD offers no advantage from what I can tell, the possession of your license is the important thing as it allows you to bill medical insurance for your services. Until the OTD becomes required to get your license, it is essentially pointless. When it does become required, current MSOT programs will begin to offer a post professional OTD. The only OTD's I am aware of who are doing anything different are the ones at USC who end up teaching the lower level classes.