St. Ambrose University Program at home on the Loras Campus

Using an innovative hybrid delivery model, this interactive program includes two years of online and on-campus courses.

Experiential learning is emphasized in the curriculum, so you can connect classroom study with real-world observations as you develop knowledge and skills.

Occupational therapy education began at St. Ambrose in 1989 and offers Iowa’s first accredited, entry-level doctoral program.


Learn More

Student tuition and fees for the OTD program are determined by St. Ambrose University. Learn more about tuition, associated fees, and financial aid.

Program Options

3+3/4+3 Loras Student Pathway

High school seniors who have been admitted and first-year Loras students receive automatic conditional admission into the St. Ambrose University OTD program.

Students accepted into the program can complete both degrees (BS/BA + OTD) on the Loras campus in six years through a 3+3 agreement. A 4+3 option is also available.

3-Year Traditional Pathway

Loras juniors, seniors, alumni, or graduates from other institutions are admitted through the OTCAS applicant portal by selecting the St. Ambrose University OTD program.

Loras College serves as a second campus for the St. Ambrose University Doctor of Occupational Therapy program.

Accreditation

The entry-level occupational therapy doctoral degree program at St. Ambrose University is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA).

Student Outcomes

St. Ambrose University doctor of occupational therapy students have excellent NBCOT certification exam pass rates. Visit the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy NBCOT website for student exam outcomes.

Contact Us

Jill Schmidt, SAU OTD Program Chair and Director

Jill Schmidt  OTD

SAU Program Chair and Director