Occupational Therapy
-
Program TypeDoctorate, Master's
-
SchoolSaint Gianna School of Health Sciences
Earn either a master's (MSOT) or a doctorate (DOT) in one of health care's most versatile fields. Work with clients and collaborate with caregivers from your first semester onward.
What You’ll Learn
You’ll develop core OT competencies in the classroom and serve clients of all ages in diverse settings. Completing 24 weeks of fieldwork under the mentorship of seasoned, accomplished field experts. Doctoral candidates conclude their studies with a 14-week capstone experience.
Our department offers two degree options: a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy and a Doctor of Occupational Therapy. You’ll have one and a half semesters to decide which course of study best suits your career goals.
Study your way with flexible program options. Complete your degree in person at our Bismarck campus. Choose a hybrid format with on-site classes (2–3 days per week) or interactive video participation at our Fargo Butler Center or University of Mary – Billings. No matter the location, you’ll gain real-world experience through student-run pro bono clinics and hands-on learning, including face-to-face labs.
Prospective students may apply directly to the University of Mary or through Occupational Therapist Centralized Application Service (OTCAS).
- Focus on Community Service
Mary’s occupational therapy program stands out for its focus on our communities. It serves people locally through our pro bono clinic. It also serves people globally through a 10-day summer program. This program supports “La Alegría en el Señor” school in Lima, Peru.
- Learn from Experienced Professionals
Program faculty are experienced in a broad range of practice areas within occupational therapy. You will have many opportunities for mentoring through advising, research, and in your capstone experience.
- Become Eligible for Certification
Upon successful completion of the program, you will be eligible to take the certification examination for the occupational therapist, administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT).
- Fieldwork Sites Located Throughout the United States
You can fulfill the requirements for fieldwork at many locations throughout the United States. Your interests, learning style, and career goals will help us determine the best placement for you.
- Secure Your Spot Early
Incoming freshmen who have displayed superior academic performance in high school and have been officially admitted to the University of Mary can apply for Early Assurance to the occupational therapy program. Students in progress to complete a bachelor’s degree with 60-89 credits can apply to our program through the Priority Admissions process. Learn more about Early Assurance and Priority Admissions.
Program Information
Please visit our catalog for admission requirements and a full list of our courses.
Accreditations
-
Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education
The Occupational Therapy Doctoral program at the University of Mary is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA). The master’s degree program has applied for accreditation and has been granted Candidacy Status by ACOTE. The program must have a preaccreditation review, complete an on-site evaluation, and be granted Accreditation Status before its graduates will be eligible to sit for the national certification examination for the occupational therapist administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). ACOTE is located at 7501 Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 510E Bethesda, MD 20814. ACOTE’s phone number, C/O AOTA is (301) 652-6611.
Featured Faculty
Janeene Sibla, OTD, EdD
Associate Dean of Saint Gianna School of Health Sciences, Chair of Occupational Therapy, Director of Occupational Therapy (Bismarck & Fargo)
I serve as Chair of the Occupational Therapy Program and have had the opportunity to develop the program from an entry-level master’s degree to a doctoral degree, as well as to establish sites in Billings, MT, and Fargo, ND.
I am a lifelong learner and enjoy working with other educators. Personally, I am married to my husband, Brad, and we have two grown daughters, with families of their own. We enjoy travelling, spending time outdoors, and gathering with friends and family. I also enjoy being creative through crocheting, paper crafts, and quilting.
Joscelyn Varland, OTD
Coordinator of Academic Fieldwork, Associate Professor of Occupational Therapy
As an academic fieldwork coordinator, I work collaboratively with agencies, practitioners, and students to provide a wide range of fieldwork opportunities, including international fieldwork. I contributed to the development of the fieldwork program and curriculum of the current occupational therapy doctorate program.
I am an active member of the American Occupational Therapy Association, the Academic Leadership Council, and the North Dakota Occupational Therapy Association. I have presented short courses and poster presentations at the American Occupational Therapy Association annual conference. My research interests are in fieldwork education and aging in place.
Kevin Anderson, PhD
Assistant Professor of Occupational Therapy, Coordinator of Occupational Therapy (Fargo, ND)
I am an assistant professor of occupational therapy (OT) and program coordinator of the satellite program in Fargo. I love working with students to find their passion and guide them on the path of becoming an OT. I particularly enjoy collaborating with students and colleagues in interprofessional learning events.
