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School of Speech, Language, Hearing and Occupational Sciences

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Student Outcomes, Program Outcomes, and Career Pathways

A Career That Makes a Difference
Graduates of the University of Montana’s Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) program enter a profession dedicated to helping people live their best lives. Occupational therapy is about more than treatment—it’s about asking “What matters to you?” and empowering individuals of all ages and abilities to achieve their goals.

Student and Program Outcomes

The University of Montana Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) program is committed to transparency and the public reporting of student and program outcomes in accordance with the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) Standard A.4.2.

Graduation Outcomes

The University of Montana OTD program anticipates graduating its first cohort of students in May 2028. As the program has not yet graduated its first cohort, graduation outcomes and graduation rates are not currently available.

The program expects to begin publishing its first graduation outcomes later in 2028, following the graduation of the inaugural cohort and verification of program completion data.

Once available, graduation outcomes will be published on this webpage and will include the number of program graduates and graduation rates for each reporting year, along with cumulative totals for the most recent three years, as applicable.

Anticipated First Publication of Graduation Outcomes: 2028

National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) Examination Results

Program graduates are eligible to take the certification examination administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy, Inc., 12 South Summit Avenue, Suite 100, Gaithersburg, Maryland, 20877-4150; telephone: 301-990-7979; fax: 301-869-8492.

View our results on the NBCOT website*

*NBCOT certification examination results for the University of Montana OTD program will become available following the graduation of the inaugural cohort and the reporting of examination performance data by NBCOT.

 

Strong Job Prospects and Competitive Salaries

The outlook for occupational therapists is bright.

  • High Demand: OT is one of the fastest-growing health professions in the U.S., with demand increasing as healthcare systems, schools, and communities recognize the importance of holistic, client-centered care.

  • Competitive Salaries: According to national data, the median annual salary for OTs is around $95,000, with earning potential varying by region, setting, and specialty.

  • Job Security: With opportunities in nearly every state and across a wide range of settings, OT professionals enjoy both stability and flexibility in their careers.

 

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Strong Job Prospects and Competitive Salaries

One of the strengths of an OTD degree is its versatility. Occupational therapists can practice in a wide variety of settings, including:

  • Hospitals & Rehabilitation Centers – supporting patients after surgery, illness, or injury.

  • Primary Care & Outpatient Clinics – helping individuals manage health conditions and daily routines.

  • Schools & Pediatric Clinics – working with children on motor skills, sensory regulation, and learning participation.

  • Nursing Homes, Skilled Nursing, & Assisted Living – enhancing independence and quality of life for older adults.

  • Mental Health Facilities – addressing psychological and social well-being.

  • Home Health & Community Centers – adapting environments and promoting participation in daily life.

  • Corporate & Vocational Rehabilitation – improving workplace ergonomics and helping people return to work after injury.

  • Military & Veterans Services – supporting service members with recovery and reintegration.

Wherever people need support to live fully, OTs are there.

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Specialties and Emerging Areas

The OTD degree also opens doors to specialized and evolving practice areas, such as:

  • Pediatrics and early intervention

  • Hand therapy and orthopedics

  • Mental health and trauma-informed care

  • Low vision and neurological rehabilitation

  • Assistive technology and home modifications

  • Lifestyle medicine, wellness, and prevention

  • Innovative approaches like animal-assisted therapy, nature-based interventions, and ergonomic consulting

As healthcare needs grow and change, occupational therapists are at the forefront of creating new solutions.

 

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The Versatility of an OT Career

An OTD is more than preparation for clinical practice—it’s a gateway to multiple career pathways:

  • Clinical Practitioner – delivering direct care across diverse settings.

  • Leader & Advocate – shaping healthcare systems and policies.

  • Researcher & Innovator – contributing to new evidence and creative solutions.

  • Educator & Mentor – teaching the next generation of OTs.

  • Entrepreneur – opening private practices, consulting firms, or wellness businesses.

Whether your passion is hands-on care, leadership, or innovation, occupational therapy offers a career that grows with you.

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