The Next Paradigm Shift in Occupational Therapy Education: The Move to the Entry-Level Clinical Doctorate

Area of Science:

• Occupational therapy education and professional standards.
• Healthcare professional development and scope of practice.

Background:

• The U.S. occupational therapy profession is evaluating a potential shift in entry-level education requirements.
• Current accredited programs offer master's or doctoral degrees, with a 2014 position statement advocating for a doctoral-level entry by 2025.

Purpose of the Study:

• To overview the rationale behind the proposed move to a clinical doctorate for entry-level occupational therapy education.
• To analyze the potential impacts of this educational shift on various stakeholders, including students, educators, clients, employers, and payers.
• To discuss implications for the international occupational therapy profession and recommend a comprehensive debate on the paradigm shift.

Main Methods:

• Review of the American Occupational Therapy Association's position statement and related discussions.
• Analysis of potential consequences for diverse stakeholders in occupational therapy.
• Consideration of international perspectives and accreditation standards.

Main Results:

• The Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education decided in August 2015 to maintain both master's and doctoral degrees as entry-level qualifications.
• Despite the decision, a continued trend towards the clinical doctorate as the entry-level qualification is anticipated.

Conclusions:

• A broad, informed, and transparent discussion is crucial for navigating the proposed educational changes in occupational therapy.
• The profession is likely to see a continued, albeit not mandated, progression towards doctoral-level entry-level education.