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Occupational Therapy Phd Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Occupational Therapist

Dayton, OH

$43 - $48/hr

Masters, or PhD in Occupational Therapy from an accredited institution of higher education * Current Active State License to practice Occupational Therapy in OH Experience/Requirements: * Pediatric ...

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Occupational Therapist

Toledo, OH

$43 - $48/hr

Masters, or PhD in Occupational Therapy from an accredited institution of higher education * Current Active State License to practice Occupational Therapy in OH Experience/Requirements: * Pediatric ...

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How much do occupational therapy phd jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for occupational therapy phd in the United States is $45.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38.70 and $50.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Occupational Therapy PhD, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Occupational Therapy PhD, you need advanced knowledge of occupational therapy theory, research skills, and a doctoral degree in occupational therapy or a related field. Familiarity with data analysis software, research databases, and evidence-based practice tools is typical, along with publication and grant-writing experience. Strong communication, leadership, and critical thinking skills help you collaborate effectively, mentor students, and drive innovation in the field. These skills and qualifications are crucial for advancing occupational therapy practice, contributing to academic research, and shaping future practitioners.

How to make 200k as an OT?

Achieving a $200,000 salary as an occupational therapist typically involves gaining extensive experience, specializing in high-demand areas such as hand therapy or neurorehabilitation, and working in settings like outpatient clinics or hospitals. Advanced certifications, leadership roles, or owning a private practice can also increase earning potential.

Is a PhD in occupational therapy worth it?

A PhD in occupational therapy prepares individuals for advanced research, teaching, and leadership roles in the field, often requiring strong analytical and clinical skills. While it can lead to higher-level positions and increased earning potential, it typically involves significant time and financial investment, and many occupational therapists find a master's degree sufficient for clinical practice. The decision depends on career goals and interest in academia or research.

What is an Occupational Therapy PhD?

An Occupational Therapy PhD is a doctoral-level degree focused on advanced research, theory, and practice in the field of occupational therapy. This program prepares graduates to contribute to the academic, clinical, and research advancements in occupational therapy. Students typically engage in original research, scholarly writing, and may prepare for careers in academia, leadership, or specialized clinical practice. The PhD differs from a clinical doctorate (OTD) by its emphasis on research and generating new knowledge rather than clinical skills.

What types of research or projects do Occupational Therapy PhD students typically engage in during their program?

Occupational Therapy PhD students often work on research projects that address emerging issues in rehabilitation, intervention effectiveness, or client-centered care practices. These projects may involve quantitative, qualitative, or mixed-methods studies, and students typically collaborate closely with faculty advisors and interdisciplinary teams. Depending on your area of interest, you might conduct clinical research, develop new assessment tools, or study policy impacts on occupational therapy services. Engaging in these projects not only advances knowledge in the field but also prepares you for academic, research, or leadership roles after graduation.

Can OT help with hypermobility?

Occupational therapists (OTs) can assist individuals with hypermobility by developing personalized strategies to improve joint stability, reduce pain, and enhance daily functioning. They may recommend exercises, activity modifications, and assistive devices to support joint health and prevent injury.

What is the difference between Occupational Therapy Phd vs Occupational Therapist?

AspectOccupational Therapy PhdOccupational Therapist
CredentialsPhd in Occupational Therapy or related fieldMaster's or Doctorate in Occupational Therapy (OTD or MOT)
Work EnvironmentResearch, academia, advanced clinical rolesHospitals, clinics, schools, community settings
Industry UsageResearch institutions, universities, healthcare organizationsHealthcare providers, rehabilitation centers, schools

The main difference is that an Occupational Therapy Phd focuses on research, teaching, and advanced clinical roles, often working in academia or research settings. In contrast, an Occupational Therapist provides direct patient care in various healthcare and community environments. Both roles require related credentials, but their career paths and daily responsibilities differ significantly.

What can I do with a PhD in occupational therapy?

A PhD in occupational therapy prepares individuals for advanced roles in research, academia, and leadership within healthcare organizations. Graduates often conduct studies to improve therapeutic practices, develop new interventions, or teach at universities, utilizing skills in research methodology and clinical knowledge. It can also lead to positions in policy development and program management in healthcare settings.
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Occupational Therapy Phd jobs near you
Infographic showing various Occupational Therapy Phd job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,375 per year, or $45.4 per hour.

Occupational Therapy Faculty

University of Saint Mary

Leavenworth, KS • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

The University of Saint Mary is conveniently located a short 30 minutes’ drive from Parkville, Shawnee, Basehor and Kansas City, Kansas. USM offer all full-time employees Medical, Dental, Vision, University Paid Basic Life & AD&D, Short and Long-Term Disability along with a generous Tuition Remission for the employee, spouse and dependents under the age of 24 years old.

THE HISTORY OF THE UNIVERSITY OF SAINT MARY:

The University of Saint Mary is a Roman Catholic, liberal arts university located in Leavenworth, Kansas, just 25 minutes away from Kansas City. For over 100 years, the University of Saint Mary has helped students find their way to meaningful lives and careers through an education that blends the liberal arts and a focus on critical thinking with the development of key professional skills. USM serves about 1,400 students at its main campus in Leavenworth, its satellite location in Overland Park, as well as online.

POSITION SUMMARY:

The University of Saint Mary invites applications for a full-time, non-tenure or tenure-track faculty position in the entry-level Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) program. With a Practitioner-Educator emphasis, position responsibilities center on teaching and advising students, university, community or professional service, engagement in scholarly activity consistent with interest/expertise, and capstone or research mentorship.


ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

  • Teach within area of expertise.
  • Advise and mentor students in coursework, curriculum, and capstone experience and project.
  • Contribute to the OTD program scholarship agenda in areas of discovery, application, integration, or teaching and learning.
  • Contribute to integrated curriculum design to ensure delivery of the broad scope of occupational therapy practice.
  • Contribute to program evaluation to assure quality assessment and program development.
  • Participate in university service, community collaboration efforts, and professional development.
  • Engage in student recruitment efforts and admission processes to support student success and program growth.
  • Cultivate a positive, health promoting culture working with diverse faculty and staff and in support of the mission of University of Saint Mary.
  • Comply with program policies and procedures, the university academic catalog and the faulty handbook.
  • Attend all required USM meetings and events.
  • Participate in student recruitment and retention activities.
  • Perform all other duties as assigned by the Program Director and/or Division Chair.


REQUIREMENTS:

  • Earned professional occupational therapy doctoral degree or an earned terminal academic degree (e.g., PhD, EdD, OTD, or DSc, etc.) in area of study which compliments occupational therapy.
  • Must hold a current Kansas license in Occupational Therapy (or be eligible for licensure) or related discipline.
  • Experience teaching and mentoring at the college/university level.
  • Evidence of clinical practice experience or documented expertise in area of instruction/teaching responsibility, such as physical rehabilitation, productive aging, or children and youth.
  • Broad and contemporary understanding of occupational therapy education and practice.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills and enthusiasm for a career in occupational therapy.

TO APPLY:
Submit a cover letter, resume and contact information for at least three current professional references.

Saint Mary is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Questions: email human resources at hr@stmary.edu