Your Pathway Options
Current Western New England University students have multiple pathways to enter the OTD program in the College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences.
3+3 Bachelors to OTD Programs
- Health Studies/Pre-OT
- Psychology/Pre-OT
- Neuroscience/Pre-OT
Step 1: Students enrolled in the above programs should meet with their advisors at the beginning of their Junior year to be sure they: are on track to complete all major requirements and GURs and have met the direct admit GPA requirement of 3.20.
Step 2: COPHS Admissions staff will reach out to qualified students to schedule interviews with the Director of the Doctor of Occupational Therapy Program.
Step 3: After completing a successful interview, students will be directed by admissions staff to fill out a confirmation form. Enrollment deposits are waived.
Direct progression into the OTD Program is conditional upon:
- Completion of undergraduate credits (92 for Health Studies, 90 for Neuroscience and Psychology)
- GPA at the end of Junior year remaining at 3.20 or higher.
- Fulfillment of any outstanding prerequisite coursework, with a grade no lower than “C”.
- Completion of observation hours.
3+3 students who do not meet the 3.20 GPA may still apply to the OTD program during their Junior year. They will be required to complete the full, free OTD application through the WNE website including: recommendations, personal essay, observation hours and fulfillment of prerequisite coursework. Enrollment deposits are waived.
Undergraduate students who are not enrolled in a 3+3 major may meet with their advisor to determine if they are able to complete their undergraduate credits, GUR requirements, and OTD prerequisite requirements by the end of junior year, in time to take advantage of the 3+3 pathway. If so, they can change their major to one of the 3+3 pathways and follow the guidelines above to progress or apply to the OTD program.
Students Who Apply After Graduation
WNE students who plan to complete their four year bachelor’s degree before matriculating into the OTD program may apply during their senior year. Applicants with a 3.20 or higher can participate in our direct admit pathway by reaching out to our admissions staff. Applicants with a GPA lower than 3.20 will apply during using the free, WNE application and follow all application requirements. Enrollment deposits are waived.