The NYU Steinhardt’s Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) programs offer a rich and diverse learning environment, welcoming students from varied professional, academic, and personal backgrounds. This diversity enriches the educational experience and prepares graduates to excel in the wider occupational therapy community.
The entry-level OTD curriculum is focused specifically on occupational therapy coursework. It includes six months of full-time clinical fieldwork, followed by a 14-week doctoral capstone project. A key emphasis of the program is on evidence-based practice and applied research, with the doctoral capstone serving as a core component of the curriculum.
Fieldwork Experiences
A significant part of the Doctor Of Occupational Therapy Programs involves practical fieldwork. Students participate in part-time Level I Fieldwork and two full-time Level II Fieldwork experiences. These placements are designed to bridge academic knowledge with real-world clinical practice through active observation and participation in the occupational therapy process. NYU Steinhardt has established partnerships with over 200 organizations, including hospitals, outpatient centers, rehabilitation facilities, schools, and private practices. These diverse locations, situated in New York City and across the country, provide rich opportunities for students to develop into competent occupational therapists in authentic settings.
Doctoral Capstone Project
Reflecting the program’s commitment to evidence-based practice and applied research, a doctoral capstone is integral to the Doctor of Occupational Therapy programs. This capstone aims to provide students with in-depth expertise in a chosen area of occupational therapy. It is structured to cultivate advanced skills in areas such as leadership, scholarly inquiry, advocacy, and clinical proficiency. The doctoral capstone consists of both a project and a practical experience. During this phase, students collaborate with faculty and site mentors to apply their accumulated knowledge and fieldwork experiences. They are tasked with designing, implementing, and sharing an innovative solution to a recognized need within the practice or profession of occupational therapy.
