Admissions Policy

 

 The Quincy University Occupational Therapy Doctorate Program (QU OTD) offers two admissions pathways based on the applicant’s academic background.  

  1. Direct Admission Pathway – A six-year dual degree track allowing qualified students to secure their place in the OTD program while completing their undergraduate studies at Quincy University.  For students in the Direct Admission Pathway the first semester of the OTD program will count toward both undergraduate and graduate degrees.
     
  2. Graduate Admission Pathway – For qualified applicants who have completed or are near completion (minimum 80 credit hours) of a bachelor’s degree. 

In accordance with ACOTE Standard A.5.2 (2023), the OTD degree will be awarded upon successful completion of all program requirements, encompassing a minimum of six full-time academic years encompassing pre-professional and professional preparation. 

Graduate Admission Pathway 

The Graduate Admission Pathway is designed for applicants who have completed or are near completing (at least 80 credit hours), a baccalaureate degree. Admission requirements include: 

  • Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) in the last 60 credit hours of university coursework.
  • Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) in prerequisite coursework. 
  • Completion of all additional admissions requirements as outlined in this policy. 

Applicants must apply through OTCAS, and available spots will be determined by the number of Direct Admission Pathway students advancing into the program.  

Direct Admission Pathway 

This pathway allows qualified students to complete their undergraduate degree at Quincy University while securing a spot in the OTD program. Students must meet annual progression benchmarks during their first three years of undergraduate study.  Meeting the benchmarks secures a spot in the OTD cohort while completing a QU undergraduate degree. 

Students who meet progression benchmarks will matriculate into the first year of OTD coursework while completing their bachelor’s degree. Support for Direct students includes: 

  • An academic advisor in the OTD program to monitor progress, review benchmarks, and provide guidance. 
  • An academic advisor in their chosen undergraduate field of study. 

If a student fails to meet the required progression benchmarks, they will lose their guaranteed slot in the OTD program. Students may reapply to the OTD program through the Graduate Admission Pathway via OTCAS if appropriate. 


Direct Admissions Process 

The Direct Pathway provides high-achieving undergraduate students with a guaranteed seat in the Quincy University Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) program, contingent on meeting all progression requirements. This pathway is designed to support students committed to a career in occupational therapy by offering early acceptance, mentorship, and academic guidance. 

Step 1: Eligibility Criteria 

To apply for the EAP, students must meet the following requirements: 

  1. Currently a high school senior applying to QU.
  2. Declare an undergraduate major with Pre-OT coursework (e.g., Biology, Exercise Science, Psychology, or Health Sciences).
  3. Have a minimum high school GPA of 3.5. 
  4. Minimum ACT composite score of 23 or SAT composite score of 1130. 
  5. ACT Math sub-score of 23 or SAT Math score of 540.  

 

Step 2: Application Process 

  1. Submit an Online Application (Deadline: March 1 of each academic year)
    Complete the QU OTD Direct Admission Pathway Application Form (available on the QU website).
    Upload official high school transcripts.
    Submit a personal statement (500–750 words) addressing:
          Why you are interested in occupational therapy.
           How QU’s mission aligns with your goals.
           How your experiences demonstrate your commitment to the profession.
    Provide one letter of recommendation from a teacher, professor, or occupational therapist.
  2. Candidates for the Direct Admission Pathway will be scored using structured rubrics.  Final decisions will include: 
    Offers of acceptance.
    Placement on a waitlist.
    Non-Selection 

Students not selected for the Direct Admission Pathway program can apply through the Graduate Admission Pathway. 

Students accepted into the Direct Admission Pathway complete their undergraduate degree during the first semester of their OTD coursework.  OTD courses start in January of each year. 

Direct Admission Pathway Benchmarks 

Students admitted to the Direct Admission Pathway must meet the following annual benchmarks to maintain their guaranteed spot in the QU OTD program. These benchmarks ensure that students remain on track academically and professionally while demonstrating readiness for the rigorous OTD curriculum. 

 

Year 1 Benchmarks (Freshman Year) 

  1. Academic Performance
    Maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale).
    Earn a grade of C or higher in all prerequisite courses completed during Year 1.
    Maintain a minimum pre-requisite GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale).
  2. Foundational coursework (recommended during Year 1)
    Complete at least 4 credits of prerequisite coursework
     
  3. Professional Development and Engagement
    Attend at least one QU OTD sponsored event, such as an information session, guest lecture, or student panel.
    Complete a minimum of 5 shadowing/observation hours with an occupational therapy practitioner (OTR or OTA).
  4. Advising and Mentorship
    Meet once with both
        i. Faculty academic advisor from the OTD program
       ii. Undergraduate academic advisor in declared major
     
  5. Professionalism and Conduct
    Adhere to Quincy University’s Code of Conduct and demonstrate professionalism in academic and extracurricular activities. 

 

Year 2 Benchmarks (Sophomore Year) 

  1. Academic Performance
     Maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale).
     Earn a grade of C or higher in all prerequisite courses completed during Year 2.
     Maintain a minimum pre-requisite GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale).
  2. Continued Coursework Progression
    a. Complete at least 9 additional credits of prerequisite coursework
  3. Occupational Therapy Exposure & Leadership
    a. Complete a minimum of 10 shadowing/observation hours with an occupational therapy practitioner (OTR or OTA). This will give the student a total of 15 hours by the end of Year 2.
    b. Join an OT-related student organization, volunteer group, or service-learning project.
  4. Advising & Mentorship
    a. Continue meeting once per semester with both academic advisors.
    b. Participate in an OTD faculty mentor check-in for early professional guidance.
  5. Professional Readiness Assessment
    a. Submit a self-reflection statement (1-2 pages) discussing:
        i. Interest in OT.
    ii.     Insights gained from shadowing experiences.
      iii. Progress toward personal and academic goals.
  6. Professionalism and Conduct
    a. Adhere to Quincy University’s Code of Conduct and demonstrate professionalism in academic and extracurricular activities. 

 

Year 3 Benchmarks (First Semester of Junior Year) 

  1. Academic Performance
    a. Maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale).
    b. Earn a C or higher in all prerequisite courses.
    c. Maintain a minimum pre-requisite GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale).
    d. Complete all remaining pre-requisite coursework.
  2. Final Prerequisite Completion Plan
    a. Enroll in any remaining prerequisite courses to ensure completion before OTD program entry.
     
  3. OTD Application Preparation
    a. Complete a minimum of 5 total shadowing/observation hours with an occupational therapy practitioner (OTR or OTA).  By the end of Year 3, students will have completed 20 shadowing/observation hours.
    b. Submit an updated resume highlighting leadership, community service, and healthcare-related experiences.
    c. Participate in a faculty-led application readiness session to discuss next steps for transitioning into the professional phase of the program.
  4. Professional Readiness & Interview Process
    a. Participate in the OTD Matching Process, including:
         i. Mutual fit interviews with faculty.
        ii. Group activities and discussion.
       iii. Writing activity.
  5. Final Admission Confirmation
    a. Receive final verification of successful progression from the OTD Admissions Committee.
    b. Formal transition into the OTD professional program upon completion of benchmarks and continued academic performance in spring of Year 3. 

If a student in the Direct Admission Pathway Program for the OTD at Quincy University does not meet the required yearly benchmarks, they will face program dismissal or a delay in matriculation. Students who do not meet the benchmarks in Year 1 or Year 2 will be dismissed from the Direct Admission Pathway Program but may still pursue admission to the OTD program through the Graduate admission process. If a student in Year 3 fails to meet the benchmarks, they will not matriculate into the OTD program in the spring of their third year and will complete their undergraduate degree. In all cases, students will receive guidance on alternative pathways, including opportunities to strengthen their qualifications for future application. 

Admission Process 

The admissions process for the OTD program aligns with Quincy University’s mission and adheres to all federal and state non-discrimination laws. 

       University Mission Statement
       Quincy University is a Franciscan, Catholic, and liberal arts institution emphasizing the development of servant-leaders. 

      Non-Discrimination Policy
      Quincy University prohibits discrimination against students, employees, or applicants based on race, color, national or ethnic origin, religion, gender, gender orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability as required by law. The university complies with all federal and state non-discrimination laws, including Title IX. (QU Academic Catalog, 2024-2025, Legal Statements and Disclaimer – Quincy University – Modern Campus Catalog™) 

 

Technical Standards 

Becoming an occupational therapist involves completing an ACOTE accredited professional program that is both intellectually and physically demanding. Applicants must be able to perform essential tasks independently, with reasonable accommodation as needed. However, accommodations do not exempt students from performing core tasks inherent to the profession.    

Applicants should review the QU OTD Technical Standards for Students (this will be linked once we have them written) document to assess their ability to meet program requirements. 

Admission Criteria: Quincy University OTD Program 

The Quincy University Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) Program’s admissions process reflects its commitment to academic excellence and alignment with the program’s philosophy of fostering servant leaders dedicated to advancing health and participation through the transformative power of occupation. Admission involves a multi-phase process, detailed below. 

 

Phase I:  Initial Admission Requirements 

  1. Academic Performance:
    A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) in the last 60 university-level credit hours.
    For Direct Admission Pathway applicants:
          Minimum ACT composite score of 23 or SAT composite score of 1130.
          ACT Math sub-score of 23 or SAT Math score of 540.
  2. Pre-Requisite Coursework:
    A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) for pre-requisite courses, with no grade lower than a C.
    Pre-requisite courses (18 credits total) must be completed within five years of application and include:
           Anatomy and Physiology I & II with labs (8 credits)
                                   May substitute with separate courses: Anatomy (4 credits) and Physiology (4 credits) with labs.
           Statistics (3 credits)
           Lifespan Developmental Psychology (or equivalent) (3 credits)
           Abnormal Psychology (3 credits)
           Medical Terminology (1-2 credits)
    No more than six (6) pre-requisite credit hours may remain at the time of application, and all courses must be completed before the start of OTD classes.  Students who are missing pre-requisite courses will be provisionally accepted into the OTD program until final transcripts are sent.
  3. Recommended Coursework:
    Completing the following courses can enhance an applicant’s competitiveness (by adding points to the rubric).  Grades of C or higher must be earned to show competitiveness:
    Sociology/Anthropology
    Ethics
    Kinesiology
    Pathophysiology
    Public Speaking or Oral Communications
    Global or Cultural Course
    Research Methods
    Gross Anatomy
    Pre-health Professions Course
  4. Letters of Recommendation:
    Three (3) letters required, including one from an undergraduate professor (or high school teacher for Direct Admission Pathway Program applicants) and one from an occupational therapist (OTR or OTA).
    Quincy University students or graduates require only two (2) letters.
  5. Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV):
    Highlight paid employment, volunteer work, leadership, and research experiences.
    Document involvement in extracurriculars (e.g., sports, clubs, community service) and leadership roles.
  6. Personal Statement:
    Address a program-specific prompt reflecting alignment with the Quincy University OTD philosophy.
    This requirement will be completed within OTCAS.
  7. Observation Hours:
    A minimum of 20 hours shadowing or observing a licensed OTR or OTA.
  8. Quincy University Students and Alumnae
    Quincy University Students and Alumnae will receive a bonus point on the phase I scoring rubric.
    Note: The GRE is not required. 

 

Consideration for Admission with a GPA Below 3.0 

The Quincy University (OTD) Program is committed to a holistic admissions process that values each applicant’s unique experiences, strengths, and potential for success in the field of occupational therapy. While a minimum cumulative and pre-requisite GPA of 3.0 is generally required for admission, the Program recognizes that a student’s academic performance may have been impacted by extenuating circumstances. Therefore, applicants with a GPA below 3.0 may be considered for admission on a case-by-case basis if compelling evidence of personal growth, academic improvement, and potential for success in the OTD program is demonstrated. 

Examples of extenuating circumstances that may warrant consideration include, but are not limited to: 

  • Personal or Family Hardship: Significant life events such as the loss of a loved one, serious illness, or other unforeseen family emergencies that impacted academic performance. 
  • Medical Challenges: Health-related issues, including chronic illness, mental health challenges, or recovery from a major medical event, that temporarily affected the applicant’s academic performance.
  • First-Generation College Student: Applicants who navigated higher education as a first-generation college student without prior family guidance or academic support may be considered based on their demonstrated resilience and growth. 
  • Extraordinary Professional or Life Experience: Applicants with substantial professional experience, volunteer service, military service, or leadership roles in healthcare or community service that reflect exceptional commitment to the occupational therapy profession. 

Applicants seeking consideration under this policy must submit a Supplemental Statement for GPA Consideration along with their application. This statement should provide a clear explanation of the circumstances that contributed to the lower GPA, evidence of academic and personal growth, and how the applicant is prepared to succeed in the rigorous OTD curriculum. Additionally, applicants should highlight any relevant experiences, skills, or personal qualities that make them a strong candidate for the program. 

The Admissions Committee will review each case individually and holistically. Acceptance under this policy is not guaranteed and will depend on the strength of the overall application, demonstrated potential for academic success, and alignment with the mission and values of the Quincy University OTD Program. 

Phase II: Matching Process 

Based on the rubric from Phase I, top candidates will be invited to participate in a Matching process, a comprehensive assessment designed to evaluate their readiness and fit for the QU OTD program. The Matching Process:

  • Ensures a Holistic Review – Evaluates applicants beyond GPA/test scores.
  • Assesses Key Competencies – Communication, leadership, adaptability, and problem-solving. 
  • Reflects Mutual Fit – Helps both applicants and the program determine alignment. 
  • Enhances Engagement – Applicants actively participate rather than passively listen. 

Applicants may select from several available Matching Process dates based on their chosen admissions pathway. 

Matching Process Components:

  1. Virtual Interviews
    Group activities and discussions.
    Mutual fit interviews with faculty. 
  2. Writing activity
  3. Welcome and Program Overview (introduction of faculty, presentation about the QU OTD program, its mission, curriculum structure, hybrid learning format, and unique opportunities)
  4. Q & A with current students or alumnae 

 

Scoring and Selection: 

  • Candidates will be scored using structured rubrics.  Final decisions will include:
    Offers of acceptance.
    Placement on the waitlist.
    Non-Selection (feedback on strengthening future applications will be given) 

During phase II, students can request a campus tour to assist with making their matching process decision.   

OTD Program Requirements for Admitted Students 

Once admitted to the Quincy University OTD program, students must meet the following program requirements to ensure academic and professional success.  

Fieldwork Preparation Requirements 

To follow QU’s written agreements with clinical sites students must complete the following prior to participating in fieldwork: 

  1. License verification (if applicable), including CPR certification.
  2. Criminal history background check under applicable legal and regulatory requirements and the clinical sites policy.
  3. Communicable disease screenings, including but not limited to tuberculin skin test or chest X-ray, as required by appropriate state law and regulation and the site’s policy.
  4. Drug testing is under the applicable facility policy.
  5. Vaccination compliance as required by the facility.
  6. General competency-based training regarding health and safety. 

Transfer Credits and Other Experiences Policy 

  • Experiential Learning: The OTD program does not accept work experience to meet the content requirements of the doctoral standard.
  • Advance Placement: The OTD program does not accept students for advance placement into OTD prefixed courses. 
  • Transfer Credits: The OTD program does not accept transfer credits for occupational therapy-related coursework. 
  • Other Coursework: All other policies regarding advanced placement, transfer of credit, credit for experiential learning, or pre-requisite education/work experience follow the QU Academic Catalog (ACOTE, 2023, Standard A.3.2). 

This admissions policy ensures that selected students align with the program’s mission, demonstrate academic readiness, and are prepared for success in OT education and practice. Additionally, the admissions process allows students to determine whether the QU OTD program is the right fit for their academic and professional goals.