Bowling Green State University launches hybrid Doctor of Occupational Therapy program

Bowling Green State University has launched a new program that is the first of its kind in the state: a hybrid and accelerated Doctor of Occupational Therapy program that only requires student presence on campus twice per semester, making the program more accessible to more people, which will have a positive impact on the the growing need for occupational therapists in the country. The program is accepting applications now for the Fall 2025 semester.

According to an article on Bowling Green State University’s website, Dr. Jackson Miller, who is the doctor of occupational therapy program admissions director and an assistant clinical professor, was quoted as saying of the new program, "With a growing need for occupational therapists, the BGSU OTD program will place more professionals in the field and in communities where they're critically needed. Our program's all-encompassing admissions approach expands access to a quality education while allowing students to remain connected to their support systems. Upon graduation, BGSU OTD students will be well-prepared to serve their communities and provide an essential health care service."

The program’s accelerated format means students will be able to earn their degree in two years; additionally, the program is hybrid, meaning most of the coursework will be completed online. Students will only need to be on campus for hands-on activities twice per semester, meaning students can feasibly take the program from anywhere in the country, as long as they can make it to Bowling Green’s campus for the hands-on portions. The idea is that the program is more accessible to more students, lessening or eliminating certain barriers that may keep students away from earning their degree from Bowling Green State University: distance and money. While the hybrid format eliminates much of the distance issue, the accelerated format means students can complete the coursework in less time than in a traditional program, which will save them money in tuition costs.

Occupational therapists help patients learn or re-learn skills following an injury or illness, and there is a growing need for them around the country. Dr. Jason Hughes, who serves as the Doctor of Occupational Therapy program director and as an associate professor, said of the field and the new program, “We are thrilled to launch this program and to offer it in such a unique and accessible way. Occupational therapists play a critical role in health care, and our program will ensure communities large and small have access to quality care from highly skilled professionals.” He went on to say, "Through its accelerated, hybrid format, the BGSU OTD program is poised to make a significant and positive difference for the profession and patients. We are excited to expand education in a growing career field that will, in turn, expand access to occupational therapy in communities nationwide."

Bowling Green State University also has a similar Doctor of Physical Therapy program that follows the same format. The new Doctor of Occupational Therapy program has already been approved by both the  Ohio Department of Higher Education and the Higher Learning Commission, with ACOTE accreditation in the works, as well.

Dr. Jim Ciesla, who serves as the dean of the College of Health and Human Services, said, "Students in the BGSU OTD program will earn a well-rounded, rigorous education to prepare them for successful and in-demand careers. BGSU OTD faculty are highly respected in their field and bring a wealth of diverse knowledge and professional perspectives to an innovative program that will provide a comprehensive education for students from all backgrounds."

For more information about Bowling Green State University, visit the school’s website.