USC Chan Doctorate of OT Program: Innovation, Leadership, and a Holistic Path to Occupational Therapy [Episode 623]
Occupational therapy has expanded far beyond its early focus on rehabilitation, and today’s practitioners work in hospitals, schools, mental health settings, community programs, corporations, and many other environments. In this episode of Admissions Straight Talk, host Dr. Valerie Wherley speaks with Amber Bennett, OTD, OTR/L, associate professor of clinical occupational therapy at the USC Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, about the evolution of the profession and how USC Chan prepares students to become leaders, innovators, and advocates in healthcare.
Dr. Bennett discusses several factors that have helped USC Chan earn its ranking as the nation’s top occupational therapy program, including its long history of innovation, extensive experiential learning opportunities, and strong professional network. Students benefit from early fieldwork experiences, simulation-based learning, interprofessional collaboration, research opportunities, and access to more than 750 fieldwork sites around the world.
The conversation also highlights the program’s signature 14-week doctoral capstone, which allows students to apply research and clinical knowledge to real-world projects tailored to their interests. Dr. Bennett explains how the capstone helps students transition from learners to professionals who can contribute meaningfully to the future of occupational therapy.
Dr. Bennett also shares advice for prospective applicants. USC Chan uses a holistic admissions process that considers academic achievement alongside personal statements, short-answer responses, and letters of recommendation. She encourages applicants to focus on clearly telling their own story, answering the essay prompts directly, and not allowing imposter syndrome to stand in the way of pursuing a top-ranked program.
Listen to the full episode for insights into USC Chan’s Occupational Therapy Doctorate program, its admissions process, and the many career paths available to future occupational therapists.
Related Resources:
- Dr. Amber Bennett bio
- USC Chan Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy
- USC Chan Entry-Level Doctorate of Occupational Therapy (OTD) degree program
- Extracurricular Activities Can Help You Get Accepted to Graduate Therapy Programs
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