12 Best Occupational Therapy Majors to Pursue: Education & Other Requirements for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Chief Data Scientist & Ranking Editor

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What can you do with an occupational therapy major? 

An occupational therapy major prepares you to help patients regain independence in daily life after injury, illness, or disability. Graduates can pursue roles as licensed occupational therapists, therapy aides, or rehabilitation specialists. With further education, the degree also opens pathways to advanced practice in pediatrics, geriatrics, and mental health support. 

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for occupational therapists is projected to grow 12% from 2022 to 2032—much faster than average. This growth reflects rising demand for skilled professionals who can support aging populations and those with chronic conditions.

Where can you work with an occupational therapy major? 

An occupational therapy major allows graduates to work in diverse environments. Occupational therapists are needed in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, outpatient clinics, schools, and nursing homes. Some also find opportunities in home health care and private practice. The field’s flexibility makes it possible to specialize in areas like pediatrics, sports injury recovery, or mental health support. 

According to BLS data, nearly 27% of occupational therapists are employed in hospitals, while 25% work in therapy offices and clinics. This wide range of options ensures graduates can choose a setting that matches their professional goals and lifestyle.

How much can you earn with an occupational therapy major? 

Earning potential with an occupational therapy major is strong compared to many healthcare roles requiring similar education. The median annual wage for occupational therapists was $93,180 in 2023, according to the BLS. The top 10% in the field earned more than $120,000 per year, showing significant room for growth with experience and specialization. 

Earnings vary depending on location and work setting—therapists in nursing care facilities and home health services often earn higher wages than those in schools or outpatient clinics. With continued demand and opportunities for advancement, an occupational therapy degree provides both financial stability and career longevity.

What are the 12 best occupational therapy majors in 2025?

Occupational therapy is an interdisciplinary field, and the right undergraduate major can make a big difference in graduate school readiness and career success. The best majors build a foundation in science, healthcare, and human behavior while also offering flexibility for related careers. Here are the 12 strongest choices in 2025:

1. Biology

Biology is one of the most common undergraduate pathways for occupational therapy because it emphasizes anatomy, physiology, and cellular processes. These subjects give students the scientific background needed to understand medical conditions and how they impact daily functioning. A biology degree also keeps career options open in healthcare or research if you decide to expand beyond OT.

2. Psychology

Psychology majors study human behavior, cognition, and mental health, all of which are critical for OT practice. This major prepares students to work with patients facing emotional, developmental, or cognitive challenges. It’s especially valuable for those interested in mental health occupational therapy or pediatric practice.

3. Health Science

Health science provides a broad overview of the healthcare system, patient care methods, and rehabilitation services. This degree often includes coursework in public health, ethics, and evidence-based practice, which align well with OT program requirements. It’s a strong choice for students who want flexibility in pursuing other healthcare careers in addition to OT.

4. Exercise Science or Kinesiology

Exercise science and kinesiology majors focus on human movement, biomechanics, and physical performance. These programs are excellent preparation for occupational therapy roles involving rehabilitation after injury or illness. Students gain a strong foundation in anatomy and physiology while also learning practical approaches to movement therapy.

5. Sociology

Sociology helps students explore how social structures, culture, and environments shape health outcomes. This perspective is essential for occupational therapists who work with diverse populations and communities. A sociology degree strengthens skills in cultural awareness and adaptability—both highly valued in today’s healthcare system.

6. Occupational Science

Occupational science is one of the most direct routes into an OT career since it focuses specifically on human occupation and daily living. Students learn about engagement in activities, wellness, and therapy strategies before even entering graduate school. This specialized major often shortens the learning curve once students reach advanced OT programs.

7. Public Health

Public health emphasizes population health, prevention strategies, and community wellness. This background is useful for OTs working in schools, community centers, or public health programs. It also prepares students to address health disparities and advocate for better access to rehabilitation services.

8. Rehabilitation Science

Rehabilitation science combines aspects of health, exercise, and therapy to prepare students for careers in patient recovery. The degree emphasizes functional independence, adaptive equipment, and therapy techniques. It is highly aligned with OT graduate coursework, making it a seamless transition into advanced study.

9. Human Development and Family Studies

This major focuses on how individuals grow and change across the lifespan, from infancy to old age. Students gain insight into developmental stages, family systems, and caregiving roles. It’s particularly helpful for OTs interested in pediatrics, gerontology, or family-centered care.

10. Education

Education majors gain skills in teaching, communication, and child development, which are directly applicable to school-based OT. The major provides experience in working with children with special needs and designing individualized learning plans. It is a solid choice for those aiming to work as occupational therapists in educational settings.

11. Neuroscience

Neuroscience provides a deep understanding of the brain, nervous system, and cognition, all of which are vital for OTs working in rehabilitation. This major prepares students to help patients recovering from stroke, brain injury, or neurological conditions. It is a rigorous science-based pathway that also strengthens applications to graduate OT programs.

12. Liberal Arts with Pre-OT Focus

Some students choose a liberal arts degree but tailor it with a pre-OT track or specific prerequisites. This approach allows for flexibility while still meeting graduate program requirements in anatomy, psychology, and statistics. It’s a good option for students who value a broad education but still want to enter the OT field.

How long does it take to complete an occupational therapy major?

Completing an occupational therapy-related major at the undergraduate level usually takes four years. Degrees in biology, psychology, health science, or exercise science provide the prerequisites needed for graduate study. During this time, students also complete general education courses and often gain volunteer or clinical experience to strengthen their OT school applications.

For comparison, many students look into career paths like pharmacy technology, where training can be shorter and information such as the average pharmacy tech salary offers perspective on different healthcare career options.

After earning a bachelor’s, students move on to a Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT) or Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) program. These graduate programs typically last 2–3 years, depending on the school and degree type. The master’s remains the minimum requirement for licensure in most states, though the OTD is becoming increasingly popular as the field advances.

Altogether, the educational journey to becoming a licensed occupational therapist takes around 6–7 years. However, some universities offer accelerated or combined BS/MS or BS/OTD programs that can reduce the timeline to about 5 years. These programs are competitive but provide a faster pathway into a growing profession projected to see 12% job growth through 2032.

The number of accredited programs in the U.S. also reflects these educational pathways. Currently, there are 163 accredited master’s programs (OTM) and 130 doctoral programs (OTD), showing that students have multiple routes to licensure.

At the same time, there are 214 associate-level (OTA) and just 5 bachelor’s-level OTA programs (OTA-B), which prepare occupational therapy assistants. This distribution highlights that while assistant-level roles require less time in school, the majority of accredited programs are designed to train future occupational therapists at the master’s or doctoral level.

What are the education requirements for occupational therapy?

Becoming an occupational therapist requires completing specific academic steps to build the scientific, clinical, and practical skills needed for licensure. Students usually begin with an undergraduate major that includes OT prerequisites, then advance to graduate-level study before taking certification exams. Below are the key educational requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree (4 years): Common majors include biology, psychology, health science, or occupational science, with required courses in anatomy, physiology, and statistics.
• Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT) or Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) (2–3 years): Graduate programs provide advanced coursework, clinical practice, and fieldwork.
• Clinical fieldwork experience: Supervised, hands-on training in hospitals, schools, or rehabilitation centers is required for graduation.
• National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam: Passing this exam is essential to earn licensure and begin practicing.
• State licensure: Each state requires licensed therapists to apply for certification and meet ongoing continuing education requirements.

These requirements not only prepare students for licensure but also ensure they develop the adaptability and problem-solving skills needed in modern healthcare. Much like researching trends such as athletic director salary to understand long-term career value, aspiring occupational therapists must weigh their educational investment against the stability, growth, and rewarding impact the field offers. By completing this path, graduates are equipped to work in a variety of environments and address the complex needs of diverse patient populations.

How much does it cost to get an occupational therapy major?

The cost of occupational therapy majors varies depending on the type of school, program format, and location. A bachelor’s degree in fields like biology, psychology, or health science usually ranges from $25,000 to $60,000 per year in tuition at U.S. universities. Public institutions tend to be more affordable, especially for in-state students, while private schools often have higher tuition rates.

Graduate programs in occupational therapy, such as the Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT) or Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD), typically add another $40,000 to $70,000 per year. These programs also require additional expenses for textbooks, lab fees, and fieldwork placements. Since most students pursue both undergraduate and graduate degrees, the overall investment can be significant.

For comparison, students sometimes ask, “Why get an SLP degree instead of OT?” Both fields require graduate-level education and carry similar tuition ranges, but OT programs often come with unique costs for lab work and extended field placements. Recent data shows that graduates in health services, allied health, and health sciences fields carry an average student loan debt of $13,020, making financial planning essential for anyone considering an OT degree.

What skills do you gain from an occupational therapy major?

Occupational therapy majors equip students with both technical knowledge and interpersonal abilities needed to succeed in healthcare. The coursework and clinical experiences develop a mix of hard and soft skills that prepare graduates to meet patient needs and thrive in diverse settings.

It involves applying the latest studies and scientific findings to improve outcomes, which also helps students understand how much can you make with a graduate certificate in nursing informatics and the financial benefits of advanced credentials in healthcare fields.

• Clinical knowledge: A strong foundation in anatomy, physiology, and rehabilitation techniques for treating physical and cognitive conditions.
• Patient care skills: Ability to assess, plan, and implement therapy programs tailored to individual needs.
• Communication: Clear and empathetic communication with patients, families, and healthcare teams.
• Problem-solving and critical thinking: Designing creative solutions to help patients regain independence.
• Cultural awareness: Understanding diverse backgrounds to provide inclusive and effective care.
• Research and evidence-based practice: Applying the latest studies and scientific findings to improve outcomes.

These skills extend beyond the clinic, preparing graduates for leadership roles, specialized practice areas, and even opportunities in research or education. Much like comparing AMFT vs LMFT salary when evaluating career outcomes in marriage and family therapy, OT students can benefit from assessing how their skillset translates into earning potential across different healthcare paths.

By combining technical expertise with empathy and adaptability, occupational therapy majors create a strong foundation for both professional success and patient impact.

What jobs can you get with an occupational therapy degree?

An occupational therapy degree prepares graduates for careers that blend healthcare, problem-solving, and patient support. While becoming a licensed occupational therapist is the most common path, this degree also opens opportunities to specialize in certain populations, support rehabilitation teams, or contribute to research and education. Similarly, healthcare professionals may explore what can you do with a nurse midwifery graduate certificate to understand alternative paths and specialized roles in patient care. Below are some of the key roles you can pursue with an occupational therapy background:

Occupational Therapist

This is the primary career path for OT graduates. Occupational therapists help patients regain independence in daily activities after illness, injury, or disability. They often work in hospitals, clinics, schools, or private practices, providing tailored therapy plans.

Pediatric Occupational Therapist

Pediatric OTs specialize in supporting children with developmental delays, autism spectrum disorders, or sensory challenges. They collaborate with families and schools to improve motor skills, learning outcomes, and overall quality of life.

Geriatric Occupational Therapist

These professionals focus on helping older adults stay active and independent. They provide therapy in nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, and home health settings, addressing mobility issues, memory decline, and chronic illness management.

Rehabilitation Specialist

Rehabilitation specialists work with patients recovering from surgery, injury, or neurological conditions. They emphasize strength, coordination, and adaptive strategies, often within hospitals or outpatient rehabilitation centers.

Occupational Therapy Assistant (with certification)

With additional training or an associate’s degree, graduates can work as OT assistants. OTAs support licensed therapists in delivering treatment plans and providing direct patient care across multiple healthcare settings.

Academic or Researcher in OT

Advanced degree holders may transition into academia or research. These roles focus on training future occupational therapists and contributing to studies that improve rehabilitation methods and patient outcomes.

Employment data also shows where most OTs build their careers. The largest share—29%—work in hospitals, where they treat patients recovering from surgery, illness, or injury. Another 28% are employed in private offices of physical, occupational, and speech therapists, and audiologists, reflecting the strong demand in outpatient care settings. 

Educational services employ 13% of OTs, particularly in school-based therapy roles, while 8% work in home healthcare services, providing in-home treatment to patients. Finally, 7% are employed in nursing care facilities, focusing on long-term support for elderly patients.

This distribution highlights the flexibility of an OT degree—whether in clinical care, schools, or long-term rehabilitation, graduates have diverse and stable career options.

Which states pay occupational therapists the highest salaries?

Occupational therapists see their earnings vary significantly depending on where they practice, and certain states consistently offer higher pay. According to recent data, the top-paying state is California, where OTs earn an average annual salary of $105,738. Other states with strong salary levels include Alaska ($98,525), Nevada ($95,125), Hawaii ($94,336), and Washington ($89,446).

While California leads the list with six-figure averages, the cost of living in the state can offset some of the higher earnings. By comparison, states like Nevada and Washington may provide a more favorable balance between income and expenses, allowing occupational therapists to stretch their salaries further.

This salary variation exists within states, not just between them. Metropolitan areas such as San Jose, CA and San Francisco, CA offer some of the nation’s highest OT salaries, often well above the state average. Much like comparing CMA vs RMA when evaluating different medical assisting credentials, occupational therapists should consider not only salary but also location, cost of living, and career growth opportunities when deciding where to work.

What is the job outlook for occupational therapy majors?

The job outlook for occupational therapy majors remains very strong, with steady demand projected well into the next decade. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for occupational therapists is expected to grow faster than the average for all professions. This growth is largely driven by an aging population, greater awareness of rehabilitation needs, and the increasing demand for therapy services in schools, hospitals, and home health care.

For students exploring related fields, it’s helpful to understand what majors are in health science, as many of these programs provide foundational knowledge that complements occupational therapy training and can broaden career opportunities.  

Another key factor fueling demand is the rise in chronic health conditions and disabilities that require long-term care. Occupational therapists play a crucial role in helping patients regain independence and adapt to physical or cognitive challenges. As healthcare systems continue to emphasize quality of life and preventative care, OTs are becoming more essential, opening up opportunities across diverse settings.

For occupational therapy majors, this outlook means strong job security and flexibility in career options. Graduates can expect opportunities nationwide, with particularly high demand in underserved or rural areas. This positive employment trend makes occupational therapy not only a stable career choice but also one with meaningful impact, as professionals directly improve the lives of individuals and communities.

Why is occupational therapy a rewarding career?

Occupational therapy is a rewarding career because it allows professionals to make a direct and lasting impact on people’s lives. Therapists help individuals recover from injuries, manage disabilities, and adapt to everyday challenges, ultimately improving their independence and quality of life. Seeing a patient progress—from struggling with basic tasks to regaining confidence and ability—makes the work deeply fulfilling.

The profession also offers a high level of variety and flexibility. Occupational therapists work with diverse populations, from children with developmental needs to older adults recovering from strokes or managing age-related conditions.

This variety ensures that the work is never monotonous and allows OTs to specialize in areas that align with their passions and strengths. In a way, choosing occupational therapy is like weighing career options such as medical assistant vs phlebotomist—both help patients in meaningful ways, but OT stands out for its breadth, creativity, and long-term impact on quality of life.

Beyond personal fulfillment, occupational therapy also provides strong career stability and growth. The demand for OTs continues to rise, with about 9,800 job openings projected each year. This means not only good job security but also opportunities to choose from a wide range of work environments, including hospitals, schools, rehabilitation centers, and private practices. Combined with competitive salaries and long-term growth, this balance of professional stability and personal satisfaction makes occupational therapy a uniquely rewarding career path.

What are the licensing and certification requirements for occupational therapy?

Becoming a licensed occupational therapist requires meeting strict education, examination, and certification standards. These requirements ensure that professionals have the knowledge and skills to provide safe, effective, and ethical care to patients. While details vary by state, most follow similar steps set by national regulatory bodies.  For nurses and other healthcare professionals considering advanced degrees, having a clear answer to the question why pursue a DNP can provide context on the value of doctoral-level education in clinical practice, leadership, and patient outcomes.

Key licensing and certification requirements for occupational therapy:

• Earn a degree: Complete an accredited master’s or doctoral program in occupational therapy.
• Fieldwork experience: Fulfill required supervised clinical hours as part of the program.
• National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam: Pass this standardized exam to qualify for licensure.
• State licensure: Apply for and maintain a license through the state where you plan to practice, often requiring background checks and fees.
• Continuing education: Stay current with professional development and renewal requirements set by your state board.

Meeting these requirements not only allows you to legally practice as an occupational therapist but also builds credibility and trust with employers and patients. Licensure and certification serve as proof of professional competence, ensuring that OTs remain up to date with industry standards and best practices.

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say About Occupational Therapy Majors

Other Things You Should Know About Occupational Therapy Majors

Who gets paid more, PT or OT?

Physical therapists (PTs) generally earn higher salaries than occupational therapists (OTs), though both fields are well-compensated. PTs often have slightly higher average wages due to the physical rehabilitation focus and demand in sports medicine, orthopedics, and long-term care. However, OT salaries remain strong, especially in pediatrics, geriatrics, and mental health. Salary differences also depend on location, specialization, and years of experience, meaning some OTs in high-demand states or advanced practice areas may earn as much as or more than PTs.

Is OT harder than nursing?

Occupational therapy (OT) is not necessarily harder than nursing—it’s simply different. Nursing programs emphasize patient care, clinical procedures, and medical knowledge, while OT focuses on rehabilitation, psychology, and helping patients regain independence. Both require rigorous coursework, hands-on training, and strong problem-solving skills. Some students may find nursing more demanding due to clinical hours and fast-paced hospital work, while others find OT challenging because of the specialized knowledge in anatomy, neuroscience, and therapeutic interventions.

What do you study for occupational therapy?

Students in occupational therapy (OT) study a mix of health sciences, psychology, and rehabilitation methods. Core subjects often include anatomy, physiology, neuroscience, kinesiology, and mental health. OT programs also cover human development, adaptive technology, and therapeutic techniques tailored to different populations. In addition to classroom learning, students complete fieldwork placements to apply these skills in real-world healthcare settings. This combination of theory and practice ensures OTs are well-prepared to support patients of all ages and conditions.

Is OT a hard major?

Yes, occupational therapy (OT) is considered a challenging major because it combines intensive science coursework with applied therapeutic training. Students must master complex topics like anatomy, neuroscience, and kinesiology while also learning counseling and problem-solving skills. The program typically includes extensive fieldwork, requiring students to apply theory in clinical settings. While demanding, many students find the work highly rewarding, as it leads to a career focused on improving patients’ independence and quality of life.