Occupational Therapy is a holistic profession; it treats and addresses the whole person with an emphasis on improving their quality of life. It is a demanding and rewarding career, full of many challenges.
What is the difference between Occupational Therapy Doctorate OR a Master’s?
A few critical differences exist between pursuing an occupational therapy doctorate or a master’s degree. Firstly, a doctorate will prepare you for a more advanced clinical practice, whereas a master’s degree will provide you with the foundation necessary to pursue a career in occupational therapy. Secondly, a doctorate typically takes longer than a master’s degree – typically four years versus two years. Finally, the cost of pursuing a doctorate is usually higher than pursuing a master’s degree.
There are also reasons why pursuing an occupational therapy doctorate may be the better choice for you:
- As mentioned above, you will be prepared for a more advanced clinical practice.
- You will have the opportunity to contribute to the field of occupational therapy through research and scholarship.
- You will receive tremendous professional respect and recognition by holding a doctorate.
So, ultimately, whether to pursue an occupational therapy doctorate or master’s degree depends on your career goals and personal preferences.
Why I chose an Occupational Therapy Doctorate instead of Master’s
There are many reasons why I decided to get my Doctorate in Occupational Therapy instead of just a Master’s. For one, I knew I wanted to be a clinical researcher and an educator in OT. To do this, a Ph.D. was necessary. Secondly, I liked the challenge of a more advanced degree. The doctoral program is much more intense than the master’s program, and I knew it would push me to grow as an occupational therapist. Lastly, I wanted to work with some of the top researchers in the field on groundbreaking research projects. The doctoral program has given me all of these opportunities and more.
I am so glad I decided to get my Doctorate in Occupational Therapy. It has been a fantastic experience, and I have learned so much. I highly recommend it to anyone considering a career in OT.
The Benefits of choosing a Doctoral Degree
There are many reasons why I’m happy I chose the doctoral route. The benefits of selecting a doctoral degree are numerous, and they have helped me in my career and personal life.
One of the main benefits of a doctoral degree is the increased earning potential. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, people with a doctorate earn an average of $1,664 per week, nearly double the earnings of someone with just a bachelor’s degree. In addition to higher wages, people with doctorate degrees also enjoy greater job security and opportunities for advancement.
Another benefit of choosing a doctoral degree is the opportunity to conduct research and contribute to knowledge in your field. Postgraduate students have the chance to work on cutting-edge research projects and make discoveries that can help society. This has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my education.
Finally, completing a doctoral degree gives you a sense of accomplishment from achieving a significant milestone in your life. It takes hard work and dedication to finish a Ph.D., but it’s a gratifying experience. A doctorate gives you confidence in your abilities and makes you feel like you can take on anything.
How to get Financial aid for a Doctoral Degree
There are several ways to finance your doctoral degree. One way is to apply for financial aid through the government or your chosen institution.
The first step is to fill out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form. This will give you an idea of what aid you may be eligible for, such as grants, loans, and work-study programs.
You can also look into private scholarships and fellowships. These are typically awarded based on merit or need, so thoroughly research the requirements.
Finally, many employers offer tuition reimbursement programs for employees pursuing higher education. If this is an option, talk to your HR department about the details.