Benefits of a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy Degree
Occupational therapists practice in an environment that encourages innovation and creativity. The Master of Science in Occupational Therapy provides graduates with opportunities to pursue advanced specialties in clinical care, administration, education and research. Clinical care areas in rehabilitation include:
- Mental health
- Spinal cord injury
- Hand therapy
- Geriatrics
- Traumatic brain injury
- Substance abuse
- Oncology
- Neurology
- Post-traumatic stress
- Rheumatology
- Dysphasia
- Home health care
Administrative opportunities are also available. An occupational therapist with a special interest in clinical education or research will find a variety of options available through numerous affiliations with colleges and universities.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics the employment outlook for occupational therapists is expected to increase faster than average (21-35%) through 2014. A minimum of a Master's degree in Occupational Therapy is required to qualify for the national examination.
According to U.S. News & World Report, Money & Business Career Guide 2007 the national median salary for occupational therapists in 2007 was $60,855.
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2006-07 Edition, Medical and Health Services Managers, on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocoso78.htm (visited November 9, 2006).