M.S. in Occupational Therapy

Aplication Fees : US$ 60

Postgraduate Entry Requirements:

1. Academic Qualifications: International students should have completed a relevant undergraduate degree from an accredited institution. A minimum overall GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale or equivalent is typically required, but requirements may vary by program.

2. English Language Proficiency: 

   • IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 with no individual band score below 6.0.
   • TOEFL: A minimum score of 80 on the internet-based test (iBT) or 550 on the paper-based test (PBT).
   • PTE :  A minimum overall score of 53 is required.
   • DET : A minimum overall score of 120 is required.

The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) offers various scholarships and financial aid opportunities to support international students in their academic journey. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic achievement, leadership potential, and diverse backgrounds. 

1. Global Scholarship: The Global Scholarship is a merit-based scholarship available to incoming international undergraduate students. It provides partial tuition coverage for up to four years. Students must demonstrate strong academic performance, leadership qualities, and community involvement to be eligible for this scholarship.

2. UAB International Scholar Award: This scholarship is available to international students who have completed at least one semester at UAB and have a minimum GPA requirement. The award amount varies and is renewable each year, provided the student maintains satisfactory academic progress.

3. Honors College Scholarships: UAB's Honors College offers scholarships specifically for high-achieving students, including international students. These scholarships are highly competitive and provide financial support for tuition, fees, and other educational expenses. Eligibility criteria and award amounts vary.

4. Departmental Scholarships: Various academic departments and schools within UAB offer scholarships to students based on their field of study and academic achievements. These scholarships may be specific to certain majors or programs and require separate application processes. It is advisable to contact the respective department for detailed information on available scholarships.

5. External Scholarships: UAB encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities offered by government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private foundations. These scholarships may be country-specific, program-specific, or based on certain criteria such as academic performance, research interests, or community involvement.

It is important for international students to carefully review the eligibility requirements, application procedures, and deadlines for each scholarship opportunity. 

The M.S. in Occupational Therapy program at the University of Alabama at Birmingham provides students with a comprehensive curriculum, valuable clinical experiences, and interdisciplinary education.

1. Occupational Therapist: Graduates of the M.S. in Occupational Therapy program can pursue careers as licensed occupational therapists in a variety of settings such as hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools, mental health facilities, and private practices. They work with individuals of all ages, helping them regain or enhance their abilities to engage in daily activities and achieve their functional goals.
2. Pediatric Occupational Therapist: Some graduates may choose to specialize in pediatric occupational therapy, working with children and adolescents with developmental delays, disabilities, or behavioral challenges. They provide intervention services to promote independence, enhance sensory processing, improve fine motor skills, and facilitate participation in school and community activities.
3. Geriatric Occupational Therapist: With the aging population, there is a growing demand for occupational therapists specializing in geriatrics. These professionals work with older adults to address age-related challenges, promote independence, prevent falls, and enhance overall well-being through adaptive strategies, environmental modifications, and therapeutic interventions.
4. Mental Health Occupational Therapist: Occupational therapists can work in mental health settings, supporting individuals with mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, or schizophrenia. They help clients develop coping skills, improve social engagement, manage daily routines, and enhance overall quality of life.
5. Research and Academia: Some graduates may pursue research or academic positions, contributing to the advancement of occupational therapy knowledge through research studies, teaching, and mentoring future occupational therapists.

Graduates of the program are well-prepared to embark on successful careers as occupational therapists, specializing in various areas such as pediatrics, geriatrics, mental health, or research. The ACOTE accreditation ensures the program's adherence to rigorous standards, and the emphasis on evidence-based practice and research contributes to the advancement of occupational therapy as a profession.