ÎçÒ¹¸£Àû¾«Æ·¸£Àû

Occupational therapy focuses on improving individuals’ ability to participate in everyday activities. Through compassionate, creative, and client-centered approaches, occupational therapists help people adapt to physical, cognitive, or developmental challenges while supporting independence and quality of life.

If you are looking for accredited master’s programs in occupational therapy in Pennsylvania, ÎçÒ¹¸£Àû¾«Æ·¸£Àû offers two pathways to earn a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT), allowing students to choose the option that best fits their academic background and career goals.

Five-Year Combined Bachelor of Science in Health Science + Master of Science in Occupational Therapy

Alvernia’s five-year BSHS + MSOT program is designed for students who know early in their college career that they want to pursue a career in occupational therapy. This integrated pathway allows students to complete both their bachelor’s and master’s degrees on an accelerated timeline. The program begins with undergraduate coursework in health science, followed by progression into the graduate-level occupational therapy curriculum. 

Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (Post-Baccalaureate) 

For those who have already earned a bachelor’s degree, the post-baccalaureate Master of Science in Occupational Therapy program provides a pathway to continue their education and prepare for professional practice in occupational therapy.

The program follows a hybrid format that combines online learning with in-person instruction. Classes meet two days per week, with some courses delivered online and others held on-site at the John R. Post Center at Reading CollegeTowne. Level I fieldwork is completed at off-campus locations during semesters two through four. The final two semesters are off-campus and focus on two Level II fieldwork practicums, paired with synchronous online coursework.

Hands-On Learning and Community Engagement

Experiential learning is a key component of occupational therapy education at ÎçÒ¹¸£Àû¾«Æ·¸£Àû. The program connects classroom instruction with clinical practice through community partnerships and fieldwork. Collaborations with organizations such as Hannah’s Hope, Hope Rescue Mission, Abilities in Motion, Opportunity House, the Reading Housing Authority, and the Olivet Boys and Girls Club provide opportunities to work directly with community members and to develop clinical and interpersonal skills.

Alvernia also operates a pro-bono occupational therapy clinic that provides free services to individuals in the Reading community who may not have access to traditional therapy. Under the supervision of licensed occupational therapists, participants gain experience delivering patient-centered care while collaborating with other healthcare professionals.

Additional opportunities include Level II international fieldwork placements in countries such as Ecuador, Belize, Haiti, Uganda, and the Dominican Republic. Service initiatives also extend globally through projects that use 3D printing to create prosthetic devices for individuals in need through the e-Nable network. These experiences help strengthen clinical competency and build confidence in real-world practice.

Career Opportunities and Preparation

Occupational therapy is a growing healthcare profession with employment projected to , much faster than the average for all occupations.

An MSOT degree prepares graduates to work in diverse settings, including hospitals, schools, home health services, pediatric clinics, telehealth programs, early intervention services, and skilled nursing facilities. In these roles, occupational therapists help individuals of all ages improve daily functioning and maintain independence.

Alvernia supports professional preparation through interdisciplinary coursework, fieldwork experiences, and mentorship from experienced faculty. Participation in professional events such as the AOTA Student Conclave Knowledge Bowl also allows future occupational therapists to connect with peers and professionals in the field.

Take the Next Step Toward an Impactful Career

If you are interested in pursuing a rewarding career in occupational therapy in Pennsylvania, ÎçÒ¹¸£Àû¾«Æ·¸£Àû offers accredited programs with hands-on learning, clinical preparation, and community engagement. 

For more information about the five-year BSHS + MSOT, contact Undergraduate Admissions at (610) 796-8269 or admissions@alvernia.edu. 

For those interested in the post-baccalaureate MSOT, contact Graduate Admissions at (610) 796-5187 or gradandadult@alvernia.edu. 

Request More Information