Occupational therapy session
On Campus, Hybrid

Occupational Therapy (Entry-level Doctor of Occupational Therapy)

Enter the OT field ready to make an impact from day one. Creighton’s Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) program combines hands-on learning with team-based training, preparing you to better serve clients. With diverse locations and immersive clinical experiences, you’ll graduate ready to succeed. Choose how and where you want to learn:  

  • Omaha (traditional, on-campus experience)
  • Phoenix, Denver, Anchorage (hybrid, combined online/on-campus experience at respective locations)

No matter your location, Creighton’s OTD program is:

  • Designed for real-world readiness, with hands-on experiences and clinicals across the country—100% of grads are employed or in fellowships within a year of graduation
  • A doctoral-level program that prepares you for long-term career growth
  • Direct entry, so you can begin your path without a bachelor’s or master’s degree
  • Supported by scholarships; 100% of incoming OT students received funding

Each OTD cohort starts in August and graduates in May, just 33 months later. OTD candidates complete eight semesters in total, including two summer terms throughout the three years of the program.  

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Build the skills to launch your career and make an impact.

Creighton’s 3-year OTD program is designed to help you successfully move directly from student to practitioner. Through hands-on learning, clinical experiences and team-based training, you’ll develop in-demand skills in evaluation and assessment, evidence-based intervention planning and implementation, and occupation-focused, client-centered care. You’ll also gain experience helping individuals achieve greater independence through daily activities, adaptive equipment and assistive technology.

You'll graduate prepared to deliver effective care and make an immediate impact in practice.

Four locations. One exceptional OTD program.

Creighton’s OTD program delivers one unified curriculum across four locations:

  • Omaha, Nebraska (on campus)
  • Anchorage, Alaska (hybrid)
  • Denver, Colorado (hybrid)
  • Phoenix, Arizona (hybrid)

Every student benefits from the same Jesuit, Catholic mission, academic rigor, clinical expectations and outcomes.

Coursework is universal and built around three core areas: occupation, professional practice and professional identity. These focus areas will help you grow as a clinician and leader in the field.

Throughout the program, you’ll:

  • Explore emerging and specialty areas of occupational therapy
  • Strengthen your leadership skills through dedicated professional development experiences
  • Integrate Creighton’s Jesuit values into your approach to care, decision-making and service

This doctoral-level focus prepares you to take on expanded responsibilities and adapt as healthcare continues to evolve.

Two specialty tracks are available:

  • Research Specialty Track
  • Maternal and Infant Health Specialty Track

Choose a specialty track to deepen your expertise and tailor your education to your professional interests and goals.

Extensive Fieldwork and Real-World Experience

Fieldwork and the Doctoral Capstone are central parts of your experience in all four locations, giving you the opportunity to apply what you learn in real practice settings.

You’ll complete:

  • Level I Fieldwork: Four, 1-week experiences. Each experience has its own focus based on the curriculum. These experiences progress in exposure and responsibility, which prepares students for Level II.
  • Level II Fieldwork: Two, 12-week experiences focused on becoming a competent entry-level practitioner.  
  • A 14-week Doctoral Capstone Experience, where you’ll deepen your expertise in an area of interest. Areas include clinical skills, research skills, administration, program development and evaluation, policy development, advocacy, education and leadership. 

With access to a wide network of clinical partners, you may have opportunities to complete experiences locally, nationally or internationally.  

Admission Requirements

All students should apply through OTCAS, the centralized application service for occupational therapy programs. When you begin your application, you’ll be asked to choose a location. Do not submit multiple applications to different locations. This will not increase your chances of acceptance.  

When you apply:  

  • An official transcript must be submitted to OTCAS from each institution you have attended and/or are currently attending. Official transcripts must be received directly from the issuing institution(s).
    • All fall/winter term and prior transcripts should be directed to OTCAS.
    • All spring/summer term transcripts should be directed to Creighton University’s Enrollment Services.
  • Include three letters of recommendation. We prefer that one letter come from a college professor who can attest to your ability to enter a competitive professional program. If you have been out of school for some time, letters from a work setting can be helpful. Do not submit letters from family members or friends.

  • Observation in an OT setting supervised by a licensed occupational therapist. We do not require a minimum number of hours; however, completing additional shadowing experiences can strengthen an application. Observation hours help inform applicant responses during the application and interview process.

    Applicants will be considered for an interview prior to completion of their observation. Admitted candidates will be required to complete their observation by August 1.

A GRE is not required as part of the application process for Creighton’s OTD.  

Creighton Occupational Therapy is one, unified program with four locations, which means the application requirements, admissions process and prerequisites are the same for students attending the program in Omaha, Phoenix, Anchorage and Denver.

Prerequisites

This is a direct-entry OTD program, which means applicants don’t need to have a bachelor’s or master’s degree to apply. Entrance into the Doctor of Occupational Therapy program does require a minimum of 60 semester hours or 90 quarter hours of prerequisite coursework. That's the equivalent of approximately two full-time years. 

Prerequisite courses may be completed at any regionally accredited institution and must be completed with a grade of C or better (a C- grade is not acceptable). All prerequisite coursework must be completed by August 1 of the desired year of entry.  

You do NOT need to wait until all your prerequisites are complete to apply. Students can apply for the OTD program with outstanding prerequisites. If you are admitted, you will have to finish all prerequisites before August 1 of the desired year of entry.   

For admission into the OTD program at Creighton University, you must meet the following academic requirements:  

  • Theology, Philosophy and/or Ethics (also includes religion or logic): 3 semester hours/4.5 quarter hours
  • Culture, Ideas and/or Civilizations (includes history, world religions, American studies, world literature or women’s studies): 3 semester hours/4.5 quarter hours
  • Human Anatomy (if enrolled in a combined anatomy/physiology course, six semester hours will be required): 3 semester hours/4.5 quarter hours
  • English Composition: 3 semester hours/4.5 quarter hours
  • Statistics: 3 semester hours/4.5 quarter hours
  • Psychology (three of the six hours must include either human development or abnormal psychology): 6 semester hours/9 quarter hours
  • Medical Terminology: 1 semester hour/1.5 quarter hours
  • Electives (Creighton undergraduate students must complete six hours of theology among the elective hours): 38 semester hours/57 quarter hours

The School of Pharmacy and Health Professions will make the final decision regarding courses satisfying requirements.

International Applicants

The School of Pharmacy and Health Professions welcomes applications from international students. International applicants must submit a foreign transcript evaluation to OTCAS through an evaluation service such as World Education Services (WES) or Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE). Due to F1 Visa requirements and processing timeline, we also require that all prerequisite coursework be completed by July 1 of the year of enrollment.

State Licensure Requirements

Programs in physical therapy, occupational therapy and pharmacy within the Creighton University School of Pharmacy and Health Professions meet the appropriate and relevant degree requirements for licensure for all 50 U.S. states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico.

Important Deadlines (Applies to all locations.)

July 16: OTCAS Launch Date  
November 1: Preferred Application Deadline  
November 1: Creighton Pre-Professional Scholars Program Deadline
December-January: OTCAS Academic Update (Update summer/fall grades through OTCAS)  
March 1: Final Application Deadline

The Creighton University Doctor of Occupational Therapy program operates on a rolling admission basis, meaning that qualified applicants are invited to interview and offered admission throughout the cycle. Applicants are encouraged to apply early.    

Interviews

Personal interviews are required in the OT admission process. Qualified applicants will be notified via email if they are selected for an interview. Interview registration, if applicable, is available in your application portal.

Applicants can interview virtually or on-campus. Interviews are offered at all locations. Candidates are encouraged to schedule a campus visit if they interview virtually. 

Occupational Therapy Career Paths

A doctoral education sets you apart, and at Creighton, it’s built to move you forward. Our OTD program goes beyond entry-level preparation, equipping you with advanced clinical reasoning, leadership skills and the ability to grow with the profession over time. That foundation leads to strong employment outcomes and gives you the flexibility to pursue a wide range of career paths. Here’s how that preparation shows up in outcomes:

  • 100% of graduates are employed or in fellowships within 12 months of graduation  
  • 97.8% pass rate on the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) over the past 5 years
  • 86% of graduates receive 1-3 job offers, with 9% receiving 4-7 offers
  • $70,000-$90,000 salaries for our graduates, with 78% earning $70,000 or more

Primary employers include hospitals, private practices, schools, skilled nursing facilities or assisted living facilities, and home health and early intervention agencies. Occupational therapists are in high demand nationwide, with strong opportunities across the regions where Creighton students learn and train, from growing urban healthcare systems to high-need rural and community settings.

Graduation Rate

  • 2025 
    Students Entering: 110 
    Non-academic Withdrawal: 1 
    Students Graduating: 104 
    Graduation Rate: 95% 
     
  • 2024 
    Students Entering: 123 
    Non-academic Withdrawal: 8 
    Students Graduating: 109
    Graduation Rate: 95% 
     
  • 2023 
    Students Entering: 115 
    Non-academic Withdrawal: 4 
    Students Graduating:105 
    Graduation Rate: 95% 
     
  • Three-year total 
    Students Entering: 348 
    Non-academic Withdrawal: 13 
    Students Graduating: 318 
    Graduation Rate: 95%

NBCOT Board Pass Rate for Creighton Graduates

For NBCOT licensure pass rates, please visit the NBCOT website. 
 

On-Campus vs. Hybrid Learning

Creighton’s OTD program offers two learning formats, on-campus and hybrid, so you can choose the experience that fits your goals. No matter which option you choose, you’ll complete the same curriculum, fieldwork and doctoral capstone requirements. You'll also learn from Creighton faculty across all locations, with ongoing support from advisors and mentors.

On-campus (Omaha):  

  • Attend classes and labs on the Omaha campus with daily interaction with faculty and peers
  • Participate in hands-on learning integrated throughout your weekly schedule
  • Access Creighton’s Omaha simulation spaces, standardized patients, campus resources and student life

Hybrid (Phoenix, Denver, Anchorage): Combine the flexibility of lectures delivered online with regular hands-on learning opportunities at your location.

  • Attend lectures online: You can join the livestream or watch on your schedule
  • Complete exams online with an online proctor
  • Complete in-person labs 2–4 days per week at your location—you'll participate in hands-on learning working with peers, standardized patients and community partners.

Hybrid pathways offer flexibility in how you learn. Because labs take place multiple days each week, you’ll need to live in your pathway city to complete the program. 

OTD Program Locations

Omaha

On Campus

Phoenix

Hybrid
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Omaha

On Campus
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Creighton OTD Omaha

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On Creighton’s Omaha campus, students experience a traditional, face-to-face learning environment with daily interaction with faculty and classmates. Coursework and hands-on labs take place in the CL and Rachel Werner Center for Health Sciences Education, a state-of-the-art facility where OT students learn alongside students in medicine, nursing, pharmacy and physical therapy. This collaborative environment helps students build the communication and teamwork skills needed in today’s healthcare settings.

A Full Campus Experience

As Creighton’s largest OTD cohort, the Omaha pathway offers the energy and connection of a campus community. Lecture courses are paired with smaller lab experiences, often taught by the same faculty member. Outside the classroom, students can take part in the full campus experience, including: 

  • Joining student organizations
  • Wellness and recreation opportunities
  • Attending Creighton athletics events and other campus events

Omaha students also engage with the local community by working with programs such as Omaha FunFest, while building clinical experience across Nebraska and the Midwest. Students have opportunities for placement in Omaha, Kansas City, Des Moines, Minnesota and beyond. Students may also pursue national and international opportunities, including experiences in the Dominican Republic through Creighton’s Institute for Latin American Concern (ILAC) and placements in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Graduates from the Omaha pathway most commonly enter outpatient and hospital-based practice settings, supported by extensive clinical experiences and strong regional healthcare partnerships.

Contact Us

Anna K. Domina, OTD, OTR/L 
Chair, Department of Occupational Therapy

spahpadmissions@creighton.edu
402.280.2662

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Phoenix

Hybrid
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Creighton OTD Phoenix Hybrid Pathway

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In this pathway, students complete experiential learning on Creighton’s campus in Midtown. Full-time OT faculty at the Phoenix campus work closely with faculty at the Omaha campus to instruct lab components of the curriculum. Throughout the curriculum, learners gain hands-on experience with standardized patients, home care environments and more.  

The Phoenix pathway offers the same curriculum, outcomes and expectations as Creighton’s other OTD locations while allowing students to build meaningful connections with faculty, classmates and community partners throughout the region. Students in this pathway benefit from:

  • Smaller lab groups that allow for individualized instruction and hands-on learning
  • Local clinicians help connect coursework to real patient care
  • The hybrid structure supports part-time, flexible employment or other responsibilities outside the classroom

Unique Partnerships and Learning Opportunities

Phoenix students learn through community partnerships and specialized experiences that reflect the region’s healthcare needs and strengths.

Opportunities may include:

  • An elective partnership with Barrow Neurological Institute, where students work with robotic rehabilitation technologies in inpatient or outpatient neurological care
  • Interprofessional experiences with First Place AZ, supporting neurodiverse adults through wellness and medication management programming
  • Community engagement with organizations like St. Vincent de Paul Dream Center, including developmental screenings and mental health fieldwork experiences
  • Exposure to nationally recognized specialty care through partnerships like the Arizona Burn Center

These experiences help students build practical skills while exploring areas such as neurology, pediatrics, rehabilitation and community health.

Clinical Experiences and Career Opportunities

Students complete fieldwork experiences throughout Arizona and across Creighton’s national clinical network. While many students pursue placements in the Phoenix area, opportunities are also available throughout the country and internationally.

Clinical experiences may include:

  • Hospital, outpatient, pediatric, rehabilitation and community-based settings
  • Placements with healthcare partners like Dignity Health and leading neurological and burn rehabilitation programs
  • Opportunities to explore care delivery in diverse and Spanish-speaking communities
  • Fieldwork exchanges across Creighton’s pathway locations, including Omaha

Arizona’s demand for occupational therapists continues to grow, creating strong opportunities for graduates interested in practicing in the region after completing the program.

Contact Us

Carrie Bose, OTD, OTR/L, BCP 
Assistant Professor and Coordinator, Phoenix Pathway

spahpadmissions@creighton.edu
402.280.2662

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Denver

Hybrid

Anchorage

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Denver

Hybrid

Creighton OTD Regis Hybrid Pathway

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The Creighton Regis hybrid pathway in Denver is offered in partnership with Regis University, another Jesuit institution with a longstanding commitment to healthcare education and service. For more than 10 years, the partnership has provided students with a collaborative learning environment rooted in shared values, academic excellence and community engagement.

Students in Denver complete lectures online while participating in hands-on labs on the Regis campus. Benefits include:

  • Local clinicians help connect coursework to real patient care
  • With two faculty in each lab, the student-to-faculty ratio is low
  • The hybrid structure supports part-time, flexible employment or other responsibilities outside the classroom

Hands-on Learning with Practicing Clinicians

This pathway provides the same curriculum, expectations and outcomes as Creighton’s other OTD locations while offering experiences connected to Colorado’s healthcare community.

Students benefit from:

  • In-person learning experiences in the Denver area
  • Faculty who actively practice in the field, including clinicians from healthcare organizations like Craig Hospital, UCHealth, Denver Health and private practice settings
  • Access to both Regis and Creighton University resources and support services

Clinical Experiences in Colorado and Beyond

Students have access to fieldwork opportunities throughout Colorado, across the country and internationally.

Clinical experiences may include:

  • Placements in hospital, outpatient, pediatric, rehabilitation and community-based settings
  • Opportunities with major healthcare organizations like UCHealth, Denver Health and Craig Hospital
  • Fieldwork experiences throughout the Front Range and Rocky Mountain region
  • National and international rotations supported by Creighton’s extensive clinical network

Strong Demand and Career Opportunities

Colorado’s occupational therapy job market continues to grow, with strong demand in areas such as pediatric care, home health and skilled nursing. Many graduates choose to remain in Colorado after graduation, supported by the region’s expanding healthcare systems and broad range of practice opportunities.

Outside the classroom, students also enjoy access to Colorado’s outdoor recreation, mountain communities and active lifestyle.

Contact Us

Suzanne Holm, OTD, OTR, BCPR, FAOTA
Associate Professor and Coordinator, Regis Pathway

spahpadmissions@creighton.edu
402.280.2662

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Anchorage

Hybrid

Creighton OTD Alaska Hybrid Pathway

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The Anchorage, Alaska, pathway is offered in partnership with the University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA). This partnership paved the way for the state’s only OT offering. In this hybrid pathway, lectures are delivered online, while lab courses are held on the UAA campus.  

A Connected, Hands-on Experience

Students in the Alaska pathway benefit from a supportive, close-knit learning environment with strong ties to real-world practice. Students in Anchorage benefit from:

  • Smaller lab groups that allow for individualized instruction and hands-on learning
  • Local clinicians help connect coursework to real patient care
  • The hybrid structure supports part-time, flexible employment or other responsibilities outside the classroom

Many students also incorporate Alaska’s outdoor culture into their learning through opportunities like adaptive recreation with organizations such as Challenge Alaska.

Built for Rural Health and Leadership

As the only OT program in Alaska, this pathway prepares you to serve communities where need is high and resources may be limited. Students can:

Clinical Depth and Strong Demand

Students complete fieldwork across Alaska, from Anchorage hospital systems to regional hubs like Fairbanks, Sitka and Ketchikan. Our Alaska students can expect: 

Demand for occupational therapists in Alaska remains high, creating strong opportunities to begin your career and make an immediate impact. 

Contact Us

Danielle Keller, OTD, OTR/L, BCP 
Assistant Professor and Coordinator, Alaska Pathway

spahpadmissions@creighton.edu
402.280.2662

100% of graduates are employed or in fellowship within 12 months of graduation
100% of students entering the OT program in 2027 will receive a scholarship
41.5 weeks of clinical experiences

Scholarships for OTD Students

We believe a Creighton education should be accessible to all who seek it, and we support students through every step of their educational journey. That’s why all applicants are considered for scholarships. In fact, 100% of OTD students who entered the program last year received scholarships.

An initial scholarship award can range between $20,000 and $75,000, and scholarships are divided throughout the 3 years of the program. 

How to Apply for Initial Scholarships

Because admitted candidates—whether they take classes in Omaha, Phoenix, Anchorage or Denver—are automatically considered for scholarships, no additional application is needed. The entire application is reviewed, including:

  • Overall grade point average
  • Prerequisite math and science grade point average
  • Quality of admission essays
  • Interview performance
  • Participation in service and leadership

Scholarships are awarded on a rolling basis, so applying early will maximize your consideration.

If you have questions about scholarships or concerns about affording Creighton, contact us.  

Tuition, Cost and Financial Aid

1st Year (9 months)

  • $38,882 Tuition
  • $1,676 University Fee
  • $646 University Tech Fee
  • $220 Lab Fee
  • $370 Program Fee
  • $41,794 Year 1 Total

2nd Year (12 months)

  • $58,323 Tuition
  • $1,676 University Fee
  • $646 University Tech Fee
  • $330 Lab Fee
  • $60,975 Year 2 Total

3rd Year (12 months)

  • $58,323 Tuition
  • $1,676 University Fee
  • $646 University Tech Fee
  • $110 Lab Fee
  • $60,755 Year 3 Total

Total Program Cost (3 Years)

  • $163,524

Tuition and fees are billed by Creighton each semester. Your total cost of attendance includes both direct costs to Creighton (tuition and fees), as well as indirect costs that will likely be incurred outside of Creighton as you pursue your degree, such as personal housing.

Published fees are subject to change.

 

Fieldwork Schedule

Level I Fieldwork

Students enroll in four Level I fieldwork experiences during their first five semesters. Level I fieldwork covers the lifespan, including hospitals, clinics, school systems and community centers and consists of both didactic and experiential learning opportunities. The Level I fieldwork courses are:  

  • OTD 318 Level IA Fieldwork: Mental Health
  • OTD 390 Level IB Fieldwork
  • OTD 490 Level IC Fieldwork
  • OTD 491 Level ID Fieldwork 

Level II Fieldwork

Two of the eight professional semesters required for the entry-level OTD degree are three-month clinical fieldwork placements at supervised, approved facilities. Eligibility for Level II fieldwork experiences is determined by the student’s mastery of the professional curriculum. A GPA of 2.0 or higher is required for Level II fieldwork placement. The clinical preparation courses are:  

  • OTD 460 Clinical Education Seminar I
  • OTD 461 Clinical Education Seminar II
  • OTD 481 Level II A
  • OTD 571 Level II B

Doctoral Capstone

The Doctoral Capstone Experience is a unique component of the doctoral program. This experience, along with the doctoral capstone project, gives students the opportunity to extend and refine the knowledge acquired in the classroom and use it to critically analyze occupational therapy practice and refine skills in one or more of the given areas of focus:  

  • Clinical skills 
  • Research skills 
  • Administration program development and evaluation 
  • Policy development 
  • Advocacy 
  • Education 
  • Leadership

Opportunities are available both nationally and internationally.   

Specialty Tracks

Specialty tracks allow students to explore focused areas of occupational therapy. Through coursework, mentorship and hands-on experiences, students can tailor part of their education to align with their interests and long-term goals. Graduates who complete a specialty track also earn a special designation on their transcript.

Available Tracks

Research Specialty Track

 

Maternal and Infant Health Specialty Track

 
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Research Specialty Track

The Research Specialty Track is comprised of electives and core courses focused on scientific inquiry in occupational therapy research. In this track:

  • Students can participate in a seminar series exploring contemporary trends, needs and issues in OT research
  • Students can take part it in high caliber, high impact research with faculty guidance and mentorship 
  • In collaboration with a faculty mentor, students establish individualized learning objectives and a defined scope of work while engaging in robust research activities, which may include presentations at national conferences and/or peer-reviewed publications

For a full list of courses required for the specialization, please refer to the Creighton University Course Catalog.  

Students interested in the this track will apply during their OT1 year.

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Maternal and Infant Health Specialty Track

The Maternal and Infant Health Specialty Track (MIHST) is designed to provide occupational therapy students with specialized knowledge and practical experience in both emerging and advanced practice areas related to maternal and infant health. The MIHST includes a combination of entry-level OTD courses and electives, offering students a comprehensive learning experience in this critical field.

In this track:

  • Students can engage in coursework that explores key issues, challenges and advancements in maternal and infant health within occupational therapy
  • Students will have opportunities for hands-on experiences and mentorship to deepen their understanding of evidence-based interventions and best practices in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, early intervention and women's health settings

For a full list of courses required for the specialization, please refer to the Creighton University Course Catalog.  

Students interested in the MIHST will apply during their OT1 year. Courses not already included in the OTD curriculum will begin in the OT2 fall semester and will be available to students across all pathways.  

International Opportunities

For more than a decade, OTD students have completed clinical experiences around the world, demonstrating the depth of Creighton’s clinical partnerships and the broad range of opportunities available to students. Students have recently trained and served in locations including Australia, Belize, the Dominican Republic, England, Nepal, Togo, Uganda and the Virgin Islands.

Many of these experiences are rooted in Creighton’s Jesuit, Catholic mission and focus on service, cultural understanding and community engagement. Through longstanding partnerships, including opportunities connected to Creighton’s Institute for Latin American Concern (ILAC), students work alongside local communities and healthcare professionals while gaining valuable experience caring for diverse populations.

Each year, more students pursue international experiences as part of their fieldwork and doctoral capstone projects, supported by Creighton faculty and clinical education teams throughout the process.

White ILAC building

Early Entry and Accelerated Options

Creighton Pre-Professional Scholars Program

 

Creighton Undergrad Preference

 

ASU Dual-Degree Program

 
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Creighton Pre-Professional Scholars Program

Learn About CPPSP

The Creighton Pre-Professional Scholars Program (CPPSP) is a selective program for incoming Creighton undergraduates who want a more structured and accelerated path to professional school. While all students receive strong pre-professional advising and may qualify for Creighton Preference, CPPSP offers an added level of support, direction and early assurance.

Students are considered for CPPSP when they apply to Creighton as an undergraduate. Those who are accepted into the program and maintain eligibility will receive:

  • Assured entry into Creighton’s OTD program after two undergraduate years
  • A minimum $15,000 scholarship during the doctoral program (with qualifying GPA)
  • Personalized advising and mentorship to guide academic and career planning
  • Connections with faculty, clinicians and alumni

Designed for highly motivated students, CPPSP helps you move forward with clarity, confidence and a clear path to your professional goals.  

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Creighton Undergrad Preference

Explore Creighton’s Pre-Professional Advising Resources

The Doctor of Occupational Therapy Program gives preferential admission consideration to Creighton undergraduate students who complete all prerequisite coursework at Creighton. Students can choose any major, but must earn a 3.25 GPA in all prerequisites. Benefits of the Creighton Preference include:

  • Guaranteed interview with a 3.25 overall GPA
  • Option of a formalized deferral program for one year if admitted, provided they remain enrolled and maintain a 3.25 science GPA

To qualify for the Creighton preference, students must:

  • Participate in Student Success pre-professional advising programming.
  • Take ALL prerequisite coursework at Creighton University. (Courses taken for college/advanced placement prior to high school graduation will not result in ineligibility; however any prerequisite courses taken at other institutions after high school graduation will result in ineligibility.)
  • Submit an online application to the School of Pharmacy and Health Professions Admission Office by November 1 of the academic year prior to enrollment in the professional program.  

Students unable to meet one or more of these criteria are still encouraged to apply for admission.

Explore Creighton’s Pre-Professional Advising Resources
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ASU Dual-Degree Program

Explore ASURequest Info About the ASU Dual Degree Program

Earn your Doctor of Occupational Therapy in less time in our 3+3 program, which is open to undergraduates at Arizona State University (ASU). Finish your undergraduate degree at ASU while completing your OTD at the Creighton University Health Sciences Campus in Phoenix, earning two degrees in just six years. Accepted applicants will begin working on their OTD with Creighton in their senior year at ASU. Ultimately, you’ll save a full year compared to a traditional timeline and start practicing sooner.  

While at ASU, you’ll work closely with an admissions counselor to ensure you’re on track to apply to Creighton’s OTD program.

Explore ASURequest Info About the ASU Dual Degree Program

Earn a bachelor’s degree alongside your OTD.

As you prepare for a career in occupational therapy, you can also earn a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Health Studies. Explore how this option can enhance your academic credentials and expand future opportunities. This option is exclusive to students who begin as undergraduates at Creighton.

“I appreciate Creighton’s emphasis on service and social justice as part of our education as we are encouraged to engage in reflection and expand our knowledge on important issues as future healthcare professionals.”

Bhavan Chana, BS'21, OTD'24

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an OTD and how is it different from a master’s in occupational therapy?

A Doctor of Occupational Therapy is an advanced clinical doctorate degree. With a focus on leadership and Ignatian values, Creighton prepares you for clinical practice plus leadership and advancement opportunities, leading to career growth. While both a master's and doctorate prepare you for entry-level practice, Creighton's OTD makes you a standout candidate for advancing practice.

How long is Creighton’s occupational therapy program?

Creighton’s OTD program takes 33 months to complete. Each OTD cohort starts in August and graduates in May. OTD candidates complete eight semesters in total, including two summer terms throughout the three years of the program. 

Can I apply to more than one location?

You should only submit one application. We are one program, offered in four locations. When you apply via OTCAS, you’ll be asked to choose your location. If you have a change of heart, there is an opportunity to request a different location later in the process. It is not advantageous to submit multiple applications to Creighton. 

What does “hybrid” mean in the Creighton OTD program?

Hybrid means you’ll complete lectures online while attending in-person labs and hands-on learning 2–4 days per week at your chosen location. Lectures are livestreamed and recorded from the Omaha campus. You can watch in real time or on your own schedule. Hybrid pathways are offered in Phoenix, Anchorage and Denver.

Do I need to live in Phoenix, Anchorage or Denver for the hybrid OTD pathways?

Yes. Because in-person labs are held multiple days each week, students in hybrid pathways must live in or near their assigned location (Phoenix, Denver or Anchorage) to complete the program.

Will students in all pathways interact with faculty during the online lectures?

The livestreams are primarily one directional, but all students can connect with faculty through follow-up conversations, faculty advising and mentorship.

What kind of clinical experience will I get in the OTD program?

You’ll complete 41.5 weeks of clinical education across a network of sites nationwide and internationally. These experiences provide real-world exposure in diverse settings and help you build the confidence to succeed in your first position.

Can I choose where I complete my fieldwork?

Students actively participate in this process. You'll work with Creighton's clinical education team for individualized clinical plan advising and practice setting identification. Final placements are coordinated by faculty to ensure high-quality learning experiences that are aligned with your educational goals.

Accreditation

ACOTE logo

The entry-level program in occupational therapy is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association, Inc. (AOTA) located at:

AOTA logo

7501 Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 510E
Bethesda, MD 20814
Email: accred@aota.org
Phone: 301.652.2682
301.652.6611
www.acoteonline.org

The Creighton entry-level program is accredited until the 2030-2031 academic year. The next accreditation site visit is scheduled for 2030-2031.

Professional Licensure Requirements

Professional licensure requirements are determined solely by each state and may change without notice to Creighton. While our information is updated annually, Creighton cannot guarantee continuous accuracy. Current and prospective students can find program-specific PDFs on our Academic Regulations page or consult the appropriate licensing agency in the state where they plan to practice to confirm updated requirements for their program.

Creighton also cannot guarantee that any student will attain state-established licensure or certification in any field or jurisdiction.  

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