UNE offering expanded, accelerated options toward careers in occupational therapy

In its continuing mission to train outstanding health professionals to meet evolving patient needs, the University of New England is now offering an accelerated pathway toward a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (M.S.O.T.), allowing students to earn their master’s degree in as little as five years — saving time and money and empowering them to help more patients in less time.

In UNE’s accelerated Pre-OT to Occupational Therapy 3+2 degree program, students can begin earning credits toward their M.S.O.T. degree from Maine’s leading health professions university before they complete their bachelor’s degree in Occupational Studies, which is done in three years instead of four. 

“In a landscape where some schools are actually increasing the time commitment for occupational therapy students, UNE is doing just the opposite,” said Caryn Husman, M.S., director of UNE’s Occupational Studies degree program. “Our graduates are passing the boards and getting good jobs at a rate that’s higher than the national average, so we know our students are up for the challenge.”

All students enrolled in the accelerated Pre-OT pathway are given real-world experience early in their education by participating in internships before their graduate-level classes.

“We are doubling down on Occupational Studies here at UNE,” said Husman. “Our students graduate with a strong understanding of what human occupation is and how being engaged in life leads to strong health outcomes for people of all ages.”

The first student cohort begins classes this fall.

UNE is also announcing a new minor in assistive technology, allowing health students from across multiple disciplines to gain in-depth knowledge of the tools and training methods used in occupational and physical therapy professions.