Rockhurst Occupational Therapy Degrees
MOT vs. OTD at Rockhurst University
Rockhurst University offers two paths into occupational therapy practice: the Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT) and the Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD). Both lead to licensure and direct entry into practice as an OTR/L. The table below compares degree level, program design, cost, and career fit to help you choose the path that's right for you.
Comparison of Rockhurst University's MOT and OTD programs
| Feature | MOT – Master of Occupational Therapy | OTD – Doctor of Occupational Therapy |
|---|---|---|
| Degree Level | Master's degree | Entry-level doctoral degree |
| Duration of Program | 2 years (6 semesters with a Summer start) | 2.5 years (8 semesters with a Summer start) |
| Core Curriculum | Occupational therapy theory, body systems and movement courses, assessment and intervention planning across the lifespan, leadership, and research in evidence-based practice. | Same as MOT, plus in-depth coursework in research, leadership and policy, advocacy, and management. In addition to fieldwork, students complete a 14-week doctoral capstone experience. |
| Program Design | This hybrid program holds lecture courses asynchronously using an online platform. Seminar courses are a mix of online asynchronous coursework and mandatory in-person intensive seminars, with a total of ten 3-day weekend intensives. Students are not expected to reside within driving distance of Rockhurst University but are expected to be present for all in-person experiences. | This entry-level program is mainly on-campus with minimal asynchronous coursework. Students participate in lecture and lab courses in person and are expected to reside within driving distance of Rockhurst University and be present in all courses. |
| Research | Students take two research courses, participate in the research process under faculty supervision, and share findings with peers. | Students take five research courses, participate in the research process under faculty supervision, and share findings with peers. |
| Fieldwork | Immersive fieldwork experiences occur during didactic semesters. Two full-time 12-week clinical fieldwork experiences occur after didactic semesters. | Immersive fieldwork experiences occur during didactic semesters. Two full-time 12-week clinical fieldwork experiences occur after didactic semesters and before capstone. |
| Capstone Project | None | 14-week doctoral capstone experience completed upon finishing fieldwork. |
| Cost | $75,975 | $102,000 |
| Licensure Path | Pass NBCOT exam → state license | Pass NBCOT exam → state license |
| Career Entry | Directly eligible to practice as OTR/L | Directly eligible to practice as OTR/L |
| Best For | Self-directed and motivated students able to manage time and prioritize tasks independently, with opportunities for hands-on learning guided by asynchronous teaching plus multiple on-campus experiences with highly skilled faculty. End goal: students seeking a clinically focused, faster path into practice. | Entry-level students seeking the community of an on-campus cohort for daily hands-on learning. End goal: students interested in research, teaching, leadership, policy, or program development. |
| Future Outlook | Still valid; no profession-wide mandate to replace. | Terminal degree; may be preferred for advanced roles. |
What is Occupational Therapy?
Occupational therapy (OT) is a healthcare profession that helps people of all ages regain the skills and function needed to participate in activities of daily living as safely and independently as possible.
Occupational Therapy Careers in Kansas City
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics' Occupational Outlook Handbook, occupational therapy is projected to grow 14% by 2034—more than four times the average growth rate of 3% for other professions—with a median annual salary of $98,340. As of Spring 2025, the Bureau's Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics report stated the Kansas City, Missouri, metro area, which includes part of Kansas, had an estimated 1,360 OT jobs. When concentrated, that figure is slightly more than the national average. Per Indeed.com, there are typically 60-00 active and open job postings for occupational therapy positions in the KC Metro.
In nearby St. Louis, Missouri, the Bureau reports nearly 2,000 OT jobs, with a concentration just above Kansas City's. St. Louis has a similar number of open OT jobs in its metro area when compared to Kansas City.
