College of Arts and Sciences · Pre-Professional Program

Pre-Occupational Therapy

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Program Overview

Strengthening the Body and Mind.

Maryville University's Pre-Occupational Therapy program prepares students for admission to graduate occupational therapy programs through a strong foundation in psychology, science and mathematics. Embedded within the psychology program, you'll develop the academic knowledge and critical thinking skills needed to pursue a career helping people live more independent, meaningful lives.

What sets the program apart

    • Complete the psychology, science and math prerequisites for occupational therapy graduate school
    • Build a strong academic foundation through Maryville's psychology program
    • Learn from experienced faculty in psychology, science and mathematics
    • Prepare for admission to occupational therapy graduate programs

An Overview of the Pre-Occupational Therapy Program at Maryville

 
Occupational therapy, in my opinion, is that it's helping people do the things that they want to do, need to do, and are expected to do. I feel like I have learned so much just in my OT classes, and also I feel like I've made new friends. There's two types of ways that you can get into the program. You could be, direct entry. That's what I am, where you are guaranteed a spot. Once you finish your undergrad, you can go into the master's program right after you graduate. It's just very relieving to know that I'm already in school and I don't have to worry about reapplying, getting essays and letters of rec and everything like that. If you're interested in occupational therapy, you should come to Maryville and get a tour. Hope to see you guys soon.
Why Maryville

Build a Strong Foundation for Occupational Therapy.

Class Size14

Average Class Size

SupportLife Coaching Team

A dedicated team of life coaches helps you personalize your education

Career Outcomes98%

Career outcomes rate for Maryville graduates

Financial Aid$59M+

Awarded in scholarships and aid last year

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We've made it easy: free transcript evaluation, quick admission decisions, and no application fee.

  • Upcoming term starts:
  • Fall 2026 Start Date: August 24
  • Spring 2027 Start Date: January 11
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Career Outlook

What can I do with this degree?

Occupational therapists help people of all ages develop, recover and improve the skills needed for everyday living and working. Maryville's Pre-Occupational Therapy program provides the academic preparation needed to pursue graduate study and begin a rewarding career helping others achieve greater independence.

As demand for rehabilitation services continues to grow, occupational therapists are needed in hospitals, outpatient clinics, schools, rehabilitation centers and home healthcare settings. Completing this pre-professional program prepares you to apply to graduate occupational therapy programs.

Career Paths

Help people of all ages develop, recover and improve the skills needed for daily living after illness, injury or disability.
Support children with developmental, physical or cognitive challenges so they can participate more fully at home, school and in their communities.
Work with interdisciplinary healthcare teams to help patients regain independence following injury, illness or surgery.
Provide specialized rehabilitation for patients recovering from hand and upper-extremity injuries or surgeries.
$102,200Median annual salary

Median annual wage for occupational therapists.

11%Projected job growth

Expected employment growth from 2024–2034.

9,800Annual job openings

Average projected openings each year due to growth and workforce replacement.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Occupational Therapists.

Admission Requirements, Curriculum & Courses

Undergraduate Admissions Requirements Discover requirements for a freshman, transfer, or international student.Course Descriptions Explore our catalog for details about the course requirements and electives.Degree Planning Sheet A sample plan of study

Want to learn more about our course offerings?

Detailed course descriptions and prerequisites are listed in our catalog.

Read full course descriptionsExplore the full catalog
Tuition, Cost & Savings

How you can afford an education.

An investment in your future shouldn't be out of reach. Maryville offers multiple paths to reduce your out-of-pocket cost — and our team will help you find every one you qualify for.

Ways to Save

Scholarship OpportunitiesMerit and need-based awards for qualifying students.
Transfer CreditApply previously earned credits toward your degree.
Benefits for MilitaryTuition assistance and GI Bill benefits for those who served.

Estimated tuition cost breakdown

Full-Time Tuition$25,766
Fees*$2,600
Estimated total cost**$28,366

*Fees can include digital course materials and textbooks/lab materials.

**Estimated cost does not include room and board or meal plans.

Explore additional tuition and costs

Need help financing your education? Get in touch!

Our financial aid advisors are here to walk you through scholarships, grants, and aid options for the Pre-Occupational Therapy program.

Financial Aid InformationContact the Financial Aid Office
Accreditation

Maryville is accredited.

Maryville University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Honors & Rankings

  • Kiplinger Best College Values 2019Ranked among the best values in private colleges by Kiplinger's Personal Finance.
  • Forbes America's Top Colleges 2018Ranked among “America's Top Colleges” by Forbes.
  • Ranked No. 1 in social mobility among private universities in St. Louis.
  • Best for Vets Colleges 2022 Military Times. We made the list!Named Best for Vets among colleges by Military Times.
Review Maryville's full list of honors and rankings
Take the Next Step

Ready to take the next step?

Apply today, request more information, or schedule a visit to see if Maryville is the right fit for you.

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Frequently Asked Questions

A pre-occupational therapy program provides the undergraduate coursework commonly required for admission into occupational therapy graduate programs while helping students build a strong academic foundation.
Students complete the Pre-Occupational Therapy curriculum within Maryville's psychology program because psychology provides excellent preparation for graduate occupational therapy study.
No. Occupational therapists must earn a graduate degree and become licensed. This program prepares you to apply to master's or doctoral occupational therapy programs.
Students complete psychology coursework along with prerequisite classes in anatomy and physiology, biology, mathematics and other sciences commonly required by occupational therapy graduate programs.
Yes. Students work closely with faculty in psychology, science and mathematics who provide mentorship and guidance throughout the program.
Maryville combines rigorous academics, personalized faculty mentorship and strong healthcare partnerships to help students build a competitive application for occupational therapy graduate school.