Top 5 Best Occupational Therapy Schools in Connecticut

Here are the best Occupational Therapy Schools [OT].

Occupational therapists help patients with injuries, disabilities or illnesses improve their ability to perform daily activities. They work in a variety of settings such as hospitals, schools and nursing homes.

There are many occupational therapy schools in Connecticut but not all have the same quality education. Some programs are better than others depending on how well they prepare their students for a rewarding career helping people live independently at home and in the community after graduation.

It borders Massachusetts to the north, Rhode Island to the east, Long Island Sound (an arm of the Atlantic Ocean) to the south, and New York to the west. Hartford, in the north-central part of the state, is the capital.

So if you need admission to one of these State Occupational Therapy Schools, please check Best OT Schools in New York, Best OT Schools in Massachusetts and Best OT Schools in Rhode Island.

We’ve put together this list of some great OT Schools [OT] and OTA Schools [OTA] based on our research into program curriculum, faculty credentials, accreditation status by national organizations like the Council on Occupational Education (COE) or Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE), student satisfaction data from graduates who shared it with us through surveys we conducted online and overall reputation among professionals within the field who had experience working with these programs during their careers.

How do I become an occupational therapist in CT?

1. Step 1: Complete a Program of Study at an Accredited School.
2. Step 2: Complete the Required Field Work
3. Step 3: Pass the National Certification Exam.
4. Step 4: Apply for a State License.
5. Step 5: Maintain Good Standing.

Occupational Therapy Schools in Connecticut

Currently, there are only two accredited Occupational Therapy Schools in Connecticut. But some Occupational Therapy Schools are either in candidacy or applicant status.

1. Quinnipiac University

Quinnipiac University is a great choice if you’re looking for one of the best Occupational Therapy schools in Connecticut. The university’s OT program is nationally ranked and their graduates have an excellent track record when it comes to passing the licensure exam.

Quinnipiac’s campus is just a short drive from New York City, making it a great option for students who want to experience all the city has to offer. Keep in mind that the university’s OT program is currently in Accreditation status, so make sure to check with the admissions office for the most up-to-date information. But overall, Quinnipiac is a great choice if you’re looking for a top-notch OT education.

• Degree Level: OT Masters
• Institution Type: Private Nonprofit
• Status: Accreditation
• School of Health Sciences, 275 Mount Carmel Avenue, MNH-362Hamden CT 06518-0569203-582-8204
• admissions@quinnipiac.edu
• Last on-site: 2018/2019
• Next on-site: 2028/2029

Quinnipiac University offers two pathways for high-school graduates who want to become occupational therapists.

• Master’s Degree (MOT):
  • This is a 5½-year program. It is considered a dual degree because you will earn a bachelor’s and master’s degrees. (BS/MOT). Students will complete their bachelor’s degree in 4 years and will have 1 ½ years to complete their master’s degree.
• Clinical Doctorate Degree (OTD):
  • This is a 6-year program. It is a dual degree where you will earn a bachelor’s degree and a doctoral degree (BS/OTD). Students will complete their bachelor’s degree in 4 years and have 2 years to complete their doctoral degree.

2.Sacred Heart University

Sacred Heart University is one of the best occupational therapy schools in Connecticut. The university is known for its rigorous academic standards and its commitment to providing students with the best possible education. In addition, the university is also committed to providing its students with the opportunity to pursue their dreams and goals.

As a result, the university offers a variety of programs and courses that allow students to customize their education according to their own needs and interests. In addition, the university also provides its students with the opportunity to study abroad. This experience allows students to understand different cultures and how they view Occupational Therapy. As a result, Sacred Heart University is an excellent choice for those interested in pursuing a career in Occupational Therapy.

• Sacred Heart University
• Degree Level: OT Masters
• Institution Type: Private Nonprofit
• Status: Accreditation
• 5151 Park AvenueFairfield CT 06825-1000203-365-4771
• mccloskeys@sacredheart.edu
• Last on-site: 2016/2017
• Next on-site: 2026/2027

Master of Science in Occupational Therapy

The program lasts 24 months and begins in late August of the fall semester. There are six trimesters, including summers. The first four trimesters are academic, and the last two consist of supervised clinical fieldwork for two, 12-week periods. More information is available on the curriculum page.  

Accelerated Bachelor’s to Master’s Degree in Occupational Therapy

Accelerated Bachelor’s Degree Option in Preparation for Graduate Study in Occupational Therapy Study is available only to Exercise Science, Health Science, Psychology and Sociology majors.

This program allows students to complete the bachelor’s degree and pre-occupational therapy prerequisites in a three-year course of study. Students choosing a 3+2 option must work carefully with their undergraduate advisor to follow a specific sequence of study. Please note that some summer and winter coursework is required for this 3+2 option. With appropriate planning, summer and winter coursework may be completed at other universities offering equivalent courses in foundational core classes.

3.Goodwin University

Goodwin University is one of the best occupational therapy schools in Connecticut. The school offers a master’s degree in occupational therapy and is still in applicant status. The school has a unique curriculum that is focused on preparing students for a career in occupational therapy. The school also has a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion. Goodwin University is an accredited institution by the American Occupational Therapy Association. The school is located in the heart of Hartford, Connecticut.

• Degree Level: OT Masters
• Institution Type: Private Nonprofit
• Status: Applicant
• 2 King CourtEast Hartford CT 06118860-913-2069
• danderson@goodwin.edu
• Next on-site: 2024/2025

4.Southern Connecticut State University

Southern Connecticut State University is one of the best occupational therapy schools in Connecticut. The school offers a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy, and the program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education. The program is designed to prepare students for a career in occupational therapy, and it provides an education that is both theoretical and practical. The curriculum covers topics such as anatomy, physiology, and psychology, and it also includes a fieldwork component that allows students to gain hands-on experience. Southern Connecticut State University is an excellent choice for those who are interested in a career in occupational therapy. The school offers a high-quality education at an affordable price, and it is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education. If you are interested in a career in occupational therapy, Southern Connecticut State University should be at the top of your list.

• Degree Level: OT Masters
• Institution Type: Public
• Status: Applicant
• 501 Crescent StreetNew Haven CT 06515203-392-7015
• bulmers1@southernct.edu
• Next on-site: 2025/2026

5.University of Hartford

The University of Hartford’s Occupational Therapy program is one of the best in the state of Connecticut. The program is currently in Candidacy status, which is the final step before full accreditation. This means that the University of Hartford is committed to providing a high-quality education to its students. The program offers a Master’s degree, which can be completed in as little as two years. Additionally, the University of Hartford offers a unique combination of coursework and fieldwork experiences that prepare students for a successful career in occupational therapy. As a result, the University of Hartford’s Occupational Therapy program is an excellent choice for those interested in pursuing a career in this field.

• Degree Level: OT Masters
• Institution Type: Private Nonprofit
• Status: Candidacy
• 200 Bloomfield AvenueWest Hartford CT 06117860-768-4648
• cthompson@hartford.edu
• Next on-site: 2023/2024

6.University of New Haven

The University of Hartford is one of the best Occupational Therapy schools in Connecticut. They offer an OT Doctorate and are still in Applicant status. The University has a strong commitment to occupational therapy and its students. They have state-of-the-art facilities and a supportive environment that helps students thrive. The faculty is experienced and invested in their students’ success. The University of Hartford is an excellent choice for anyone interested in pursuing a career in Occupational Therapy.

• Degree Level: OT Doctorate
• Institution Type: Private Nonprofit
• Status: Applicant
• Department of Allied Health, 300 Boston Point RoadWest Haven CT 06516-1916203-931-6029
• eoleschuk@newhaven.edu
• Next on-site: 2025/2026

Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) Schools in Connecticut-

Connecticut State has 3 Occupational Therapy Assistant Schools [OTA].

• Goodwin College
• Manchester Community College
• Lincoln College of New England

1.Goodwin College

Goodwin College is one of the best Occupational Therapy schools in Connecticut. They offer a Doctorate in Occupational Therapy and are still in the process of becoming an accredited university. The school has a lot to offer its students and its faculty are passionate about their work. The campus is beautiful and the student body is friendly and welcoming. I would definitely recommend Goodwin College to anyone considering a career in Occupational Therapy.

Occupational Therapy Assistant Program
Health and Natural Sciences
One Riverside Drive
East Hartford, CT 06118-1837
Status: Probationary Accreditation.
Website: www.goodwin.edu

Requirements:

• Arrange to take the Accuplacer
• TM placement evaluation prior to registration,
• High school diploma or GED equivalent,
• Immunization records,
• Interview with an admissions officer,
• Complete admission application

2.Manchester Community College

Although Manchester Community College is still in the process of becoming an official Doctorate program for Occupational Therapy, they are already one of the best schools in the state for this field. They offer unique and comprehensive programs that give students the skills and knowledge they need to become successful occupational therapists. The faculty is experienced and passionate about their work and always willing to go above and beyond to help their students succeed. Manchester Community College is an excellent choice for anyone interested in pursuing a career in occupational therapy, and I am confident that they will soon be one of the top programs in the country.

Occupational Therapy Assistant Program
Division of Math, Science, and Health Careers
P.O. Box 1046
Great Path, M.S. #17
Manchester, CT 06045-1046.
www.manchestercc.edu

Requirements:

• MCC Students Application
• Health Career Program application form
• High school diploma or GED equivalent

Occupational Therapy Assistant Program
2279 Mount Vernon Road
Southington, CT 06489
Status: Probationary Accreditation.
www.lincolncollegene.edu

Note: Please be aware that Lincoln College of New England is no longer enrolling new students. Visit their website to get more information.

Check other Occupational Therapy Schools:

Conclusion

I hope you liked the best Occupational Therapy schools in Connecticut. We also provided the Occupational Therapy Assistant [OTA] Schools in Connecticut. If you find any mistakes in this article please let me know in the comment section below.