M.S. in Occupational Therapy

Entry Requirements for International students

1. Academic Qualifications:

• Prospective postgraduate students are required to have completed their previous academic qualifications with a minimum score equivalent to a cumulative GPA of 65% or above.
   

2. English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS (International English Language Testing System):

  • Overall Score: 6.5 or higher.
  • No individual band score should be less than 6.
     

• TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language - Internet-Based Test): Overall Score: 80 or higher.

• PTE (Pearson Test of English): Score: 62 or higher.

• DET (Duolingo English Test): Score: 110 or higher.

3. WES evaluation required.

Sacred Heart University (SHU) is committed to supporting international students in their pursuit of higher education. The university offers various scholarships to help ease the financial burden and make education more accessible. 

1. International Academic Scholarship: Sacred Heart University provides merit-based scholarships to international students based on their academic achievements. These scholarships are awarded to students who have demonstrated exceptional academic performance in their previous studies. The amount of the scholarship may vary, and eligibility criteria are typically based on GPA or academic achievements.

2. International Student Ambassador Scholarship: This scholarship is designed to recognize and reward students who actively contribute to the international community at SHU. Recipients of the International Student Ambassador Scholarship are those who have shown leadership, involvement in campus activities, and a commitment to fostering a global community.

3. Athletic Scholarships: Sacred Heart University offers athletic scholarships to students with outstanding sports achievements. These scholarships are awarded to individuals who excel in specific sports and contribute to the university's athletic programs.

4. Talent-Based Scholarships: SHU provides scholarships for students with exceptional talents in areas such as music, art, or theater. Students showcasing outstanding skills in these areas may be eligible for talent-based scholarships.

5. Need-Based Financial Aid: Sacred Heart University is committed to meeting the financial needs of its international students. The university provides need-based financial aid, taking into consideration the financial circumstances of individual students.

6. External Scholarships and Grants: SHU encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities, including those offered by government agencies, foundations, and private organizations. The university's financial aid office may assist students in identifying and applying for external scholarships.

Graduates of Sacred Heart University's M.S. in Occupational Therapy program are well-prepared for rewarding careers in the dynamic and evolving field of occupational therapy. With a comprehensive education that combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on clinical experiences, these professionals are equipped to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals across the lifespan. Sacred Heart University's M.S. in Occupational Therapy opens doors to a variety of impactful and fulfilling career opportunities. Whether in traditional healthcare settings, schools, community-based organizations, or specialized areas like hand therapy or assistive technology, graduates emerge with the skills and knowledge to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and communities.

1. Occupational Therapist (OT): The primary career path for graduates is to become licensed occupational therapists. Working in a variety of settings, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools, and community agencies, occupational therapists assess clients' needs, develop intervention plans, and provide therapeutic activities to help individuals regain independence and improve their quality of life.

2. Pediatric Occupational Therapist: Graduates may choose to specialize in pediatric occupational therapy, working with children to address developmental challenges, sensory processing disorders, and other conditions affecting daily activities. Pediatric OTs collaborate with families and educators to enhance children's participation in school, home, and community settings.

3. Geriatric Occupational Therapist: Occupational therapists specializing in geriatrics work with older adults to address age-related challenges, such as arthritis, dementia, and mobility issues. They focus on maintaining or improving seniors' independence and facilitating engagement in meaningful activities to enhance overall well-being.

4. Hand Therapist: Graduates with a keen interest in upper extremity rehabilitation may pursue careers as hand therapists. Hand therapists specialize in treating conditions affecting the hands and upper limbs, providing interventions to improve function and facilitate recovery from injuries or surgeries.

5. School-Based Occupational Therapist: Occupational therapists in school settings support students with disabilities, helping them participate fully in educational activities. They collaborate with teachers and other professionals to create inclusive learning environments, address sensory and motor challenges, and promote academic success.

6. Community Health Specialist: Graduates may choose to work as community health specialists, promoting wellness and preventing occupational challenges within communities. They may design and implement programs that address specific needs, such as promoting healthy aging, preventing injuries, or supporting individuals with chronic conditions.

7. Assistive Technology Specialist: With the increasing role of technology in rehabilitation, graduates can pursue careers as assistive technology specialists. They assess clients' needs for adaptive devices, recommend and implement assistive technologies, and provide training to enhance individuals' independence and accessibility.

8. Mental Health Occupational Therapist: Professionals in this specialization work with individuals experiencing mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, or trauma. They use therapeutic activities to promote emotional well-being, enhance coping skills, and support clients in achieving their mental health goals.

9. Workplace Ergonomics Consultant: Occupational therapists can specialize in workplace ergonomics, helping organizations create environments that optimize employees' health and productivity. They assess workspaces, recommend ergonomic adjustments, and design programs to prevent work-related injuries and promote employee well-being.

10. Researcher in Occupational Therapy: Graduates interested in contributing to the advancement of the field may pursue research careers. They can engage in studies that explore new interventions, assess the effectiveness of occupational therapy practices, and contribute to evidence-based approaches within the profession.

11. Private Practice Owner: Some graduates may choose to establish their private practices, offering occupational therapy services to clients in the community. Private practice owners have the flexibility to tailor their services to specific client needs and create specialized programs to address diverse occupational challenges.