Are you looking for the best Occupational Therapy Schools in Florida? Then here, we have collected the best Occupational Therapy Schools in Florida[OT Schools in Florida].
If you are considering a career in Occupational Therapy, you will want to know about the best Occupational Therapy schools in Florida. Here is a list of the top Occupational Therapy schools in Florida:
In this article, we will talk about the top 20 best occupational therapy schools in Florida. We will also talk about the different types of schools and what each one offers in terms of training.
We will then highlight the different programs and degrees offered at each school.
To be eligible for licensure, applicants must have graduated from an accredited occupational therapy program and completed at least six months of full-time supervised experience in occupational therapy.
In order to become an Occupational Therapist (OT), you must first complete a degree at an accredited university. The minimum educational requirement to become an OT is a master’s degree, although some universities offer doctoral programs in Occupational Therapy.
Florida shares a land border with only two other states, both along its northern boundary:Â Georgia (east) and Alabama (west).
Top 20 Occupational Therapy Schools in Florida
Florida Has 15 Occupational Therapy Schools, 15 of which are fully accredited and five schools which are yet to be accredited.
| No | Name | Degree | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | AdventHealth University | OT Masters | Accreditation |
| 2. | Barry University | OT Masters | Accreditation |
| 3. | Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University | OT Masters | Accreditation |
| 4. | Florida Gulf Coast University | OT Masters | Accreditation |
| 5. | Florida International University | OT Masters | Accreditation |
| 6. | Gannon University-Florida Campus | OT Doctorate | Accreditation |
| 7. | Jacksonville University | OT Doctorate | Accreditation |
| 8. | Keiser University-Fort Myers | OT Masters | Accreditation |
| 9. | Keiser University-Ft. Lauderdale | OT Masters | Accreditation |
| 10. | Keiser University-Jacksonville | OT Masters | Applicant |
| 11. | Keiser University-Melbourne | OT Masters | Applicant |
| 12. | Nova Southeastern University-Ft. Lauderdale | OT Doctorate | Candidacy |
| 13. | Nova Southeastern University-Ft. Lauderdale | OT Masters | Accreditation-Inactive |
| 14. | Nova Southeastern University-Tampa Bay Regional Campus | OT Doctorate | Accreditation |
| 15. | University of Florida | OT Doctorate | Accreditation |
| 16. | University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences-Miami Campus | OT Masters | Accreditation |
| 17. | University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences-Miami Campus | OT Doctorate | Accreditation |
| 18. | University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences-St. Augustine Campus | OT Masters | Accreditation |
| 19. | University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences-St. Augustine Campus | OT Doctorate | Accreditation |
| 20. | West Coast University-Miami | OT Doctorate | Applicant |
1.Nova Southeastern University-Tampa Bay Regional Campus
Nova Southeastern University-Tampa Bay Regional Campus is one of Florida’s leading occupational therapy schools. The school offers an OT Doctorate in occupational therapy, which is still in accredited. The program is designed to prepare students for a career in occupational therapy. The curriculum focuses on the development and implementation of treatment plans, as well as on the provision of services to clients.
The program also emphasizes the importance of research in occupational therapy. graduates of the program are prepared to sit for the national licensing exam and to apply for state licensure. Nova Southeastern University-Tampa Bay Regional Campus is committed to providing its students with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in the field of occupational therapy.
- Degree Level: OT Doctorate
- Institution Type: Private Nonprofit
- Status: Accreditation
- Dr. Pallavi Patel College of Health Care Sciences, 3400 Gulf to Bay BoulevardClearwater FL 33759-4514813-574?5286
- barshay@nova.edu
- Last on-site: 2013/2014
- Next on-site: 2021/2022
- Visit Program’s Website
2.University of Florida
The University of Florida is one of the few schools in the state that offers an OT Doctorate degree in occupational therapy. The program is accredited and allows students to pursue a career in occupational therapy. The curriculum prepares students for various settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices.
In addition, the program provides students with the skills and knowledge necessary to provide services to clients with disabilities. The University of Florida is committed to providing quality education and training to its students, and the OT Doctorate program is an excellent example of this commitment. graduates of the program will be well-prepared to enter the workforce and positively impact their clients’ lives.
- Degree Level: OT Doctorate
- Institution Type: Public
- Status: Accreditation
- Gainesville FL 32610-0164352-273-6817
- otadmissions@phhp.ufl.edu
- Last on-site: 2020/2021
- Next on-site: 2027/2028
- Visit Program’s Website
3.University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences-Miami Campus
Located in Miami, the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences-Miami Campus offers an OT Masters degree in occupational therapy, which is fully accredited. The program is designed to prepare students for a successful career in occupational therapy.
Students will gain the skills and knowledge necessary to provide high-quality care to patients using evidence-based practice. Professional development and leadership skills are also promoted through the curriculum. Through a strong emphasis on research, the program provides students with the opportunity to engage in hands-on learning experiences that will prepare them for rewarding careers in occupational therapy.
OT Masters Degree
- Degree Level: OT Masters
- Institution Type: Private Profit
- Status: Accreditation
- Douglas Entrance Campus, North Tower Suite 149, 800 S. Douglas RoadCoral Gables FL 33134-3187800-241-1027
- admissions@usa.edu
- Last on-site: 2018/2019
- Next on-site: 2025/2026
Part-time hybrid (Flex) track offered.Visit Program’s Website
OT Doctorate Degree
- Degree Level:Â OT Doctorate
- Institution Type:Â Private Profit
- Status:Â Accreditation
- Douglas Entrance Campus, North Tower Suite 149, 800 S. Douglas RoadCoral Gables FL 33134-3187904-826-0084 x222
- admissions@usa.edu
- Last on-site:Â 2019/2020
- Next on-site:Â 2026/2027
Part-time hybrid (Flex) track offered.Visit Program’s Website
4.University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences-St. Augustine Campus
The University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences is a private, for-profit university located in St. Augustine, Florida. One of the occupational therapy schools in Florida offers a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT) degree. The MSOT program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE). Graduates of the program will be eligible to sit for the national certification examination for registered occupational therapists administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT).
The University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences is a private, for-profit institution that specializes in health care education. The university has campuses in St. Augustine, Florida; San Marcos, California; Austin, Texas; and Raleigh, North Carolina. The St. Augustine campus is the only campus that offers an occupational therapy degree program.
OT Masters Degree
- Degree Level: OT Masters
- Institution Type: Private Profit
- Status: Accreditation
- 1 University BoulevardSt. Augustine FL 32086-5783904-770-3612
- admissions@usa.edu
- Last on-site: 2020/2021
- Next on-site: 2030/2031
Part-time hybrid (Flex) track offered.Visit Program’s Website
OT Doctorate Degree
The occupational therapy program at the St. Augustine campus is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE). The University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences is dedicated to providing quality occupational therapy education and training to prepare students for successful careers in the ever-changing health care field.
- University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences-St. Augustine Campus
- Degree Level: OT Doctorate
- Institution Type: Private Profit
- Status: Accreditation
- 1 University BoulevardSt. Augustine FL 32086-5783904-826-0084 x1312
- admissions@usa.edu
- Last on-site: 2018/2019
- Next on-site: 2025/2026
Part-time hybrid (Flex) track offered.Visit Program’s Website
5.AdventHealth University
AdventHealth University is one of the Occupational Therapy Schools in Florida that offers an OT Masters degree in occupational therapy. The university is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) and prepares students with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide high-quality occupational therapy services. The curriculum focuses on evidence-based practice and offers opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience through fieldwork placements. graduates of the program are prepared to sit for the national certification examination for occupational therapists.
AdventHealth University also offers a Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) program for those interested in pursuing a terminal degree in occupational therapy.
- Degree Level: OT Masters
- Institution Type: Private Nonprofit
- Status: Accreditation
- 671 Winyah DriveOrlando FL 32803407-303-9180
- jackie.dones@ahu.edu
- Last on-site: 2019/2020
- Next on-site: 2029/2030
- Visit Program’s Website
6.Barry University
Barry University is one of the top occupational therapy schools in Florida. The university offers a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy, accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE). The program prepares students to become competent and ethical occupational therapists who are able to provide quality services to clients of all ages.
The curriculum is designed to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and values needed to succeed in the profession. In addition, the program emphasizes evidence-based practice, so students can critically evaluate the latest research and apply it to their clinical practice. As a result, graduates of the program are well-prepared to impact the field of occupational therapy positively.
- Degree Level: OT Masters
- Institution Type: Private Nonprofit
- Status: Accreditation
- 11300 Northeast Second AvenueMiami Shores FL 33161-6695305-899-3213
- ot@barry.edu
- Last on-site: 2013/2014
- Next on-site: 2023/2024
Weekend and hybrid programs are offered.Visit Program’s Website
7.Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University
Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University are one of the top
occupational therapy schools in Florida. The school offers an excellent
occupational therapy program that is still in accredited by the AOTA.
This program provides students with the skills and knowledge necessary
to become successful occupational therapists.
Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University are one of the top
occupational therapy schools in Florida. The school offers an excellent
occupational therapy program that the AOTA still accredits.
This program provides students with the skills and knowledge necessary
to become successful occupational therapists.
The curriculum is designed to
prepare students for the National Board for Certification in Occupational
Therapy Exam and to provide them with the skills needed to pass the state
licensing exam. In addition, the faculty at Florida Agricultural and
Mechanical University is committed to providing students with a
high-quality education. They are experienced practitioners who are
dedicated to helping their students succeed. As a result, graduates of
this program are well prepared to enter the workforce as competent
occupational therapists.
- Degree Level: OT Masters
- Institution Type: Public
- Status: Accreditation
- 334 Palmer Avenue, Room 318Tallahassee FL 32307-3500850-412-7867
- lewesa.peterson@famu.edu
- Last on-site: 2015/2016
- Next on-site: 2022/2023
- Visit Program’s Website
8.Florida Gulf Coast University
Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) is one of the top Occupational Therapy Schools in Florida. The FGCU Master in Occupational Therapy degree program is still in the process of being accredited. Nevertheless, the university offers an excellent education for students pursuing occupational therapy careers.
FGCU provides a well-rounded curriculum that covers all aspects of the occupation, from assessment and intervention to research and policy. Additionally, the faculty is experienced and committed to providing high-quality education. With small class sizes and ample opportunities for hands-on learning, FGCU is an excellent choice for anyone interested in occupational therapy.
- Degree Level:Â OT Masters
- Institution Type:Â Public
- Status:Â Accreditation
- 10501 FGCU Boulevard SouthFort Myers FL 33965-6565239-590-7550
- fgcuotprogram@fgcu.edu
- Last on-site:Â 2016/2017
- Next on-site:Â 2026/2027
- Visit Program’s Website
9.Florida International University
Florida International University is unique in that it offers an accredited Occupational Therapy Masters degree. This degree is essential for students looking to pursue a career in occupational therapy. The program at Florida International University is designed to prepare students for the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy examination and provides clinical experiences necessary for licensure.
In addition, the school’s location in Miami makes it a great choice for students who want to learn in a diverse and cosmopolitan environment. With its excellent academic reputation and a strong commitment to occupation-based learning, Florida International University is an ideal choice for students interested in pursuing a career in occupational therapy.
- Degree Level: OT Masters
- Institution Type: Public
- Status: Accreditation
- 11200 SW 8th Street, AHC3, 442Miami FL 33199305-348-6068
- occupthe@fiu.edu
- Last on-site: 2018/2019
- Next on-site: 2028/2029
- Visit Program’s Website
10.Gannon University-Florida Campus
Gannon University’s Florida campus is one of the few schools in the state that offers a degree in occupational therapy. The program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) and prepares students for a career in helping people with physical, mental, or emotional disabilities.
The occupational therapy program at Gannon University’s Florida campus provides students with the knowledge and skills they need to make a difference in the lives of others. Students learn to assess patient needs, develop treatment plans, and provide support and guidance to patients as they regain independence. The program also offers fieldwork opportunities that allow students to gain real-world experience working with patients. With its commitment to excellence in education, Gannon University’s Florida campus is an excellent choice for those seeking a career in occupational therapy.
- Degree Level: OT
- Type: Private Nonprofit
- Status: Accreditation
- 105 Commercial Center DriveRuskin FL 33573814-871-4903
- lunsford001@gannon.edu
- Last on-site: 2017/2018
- Next on-site: 2024/2025
- Visit Program’s Website
11. Jacksonville University
Jacksonville University is one of the leading occupational therapy schools in Florida. The university offers an OT Doctorate degree in occupational therapy, which is accredited. The university has a long tradition of excellence in occupational therapy education and research.
Jacksonville University is committed to providing students with the knowledge and skills necessary to become successful Occupational Therapists. The university provides an academically challenging and clinically relevant curriculum that prepares students for the ever-changing healthcare environment. Jacksonville University is dedicated to preparing students for a rewarding career in occupational therapy.
- Degree Level: OT Doctorate
- Institution Type: Private Nonprofit
- Status: Accreditation
- 2800 University Boulevard NorthJacksonville FL 32211-3321904-256-8917
- mjustis1@ju.edu
- Last on-site: 2020/2021
- Next on-site: 2027/2028
- Visit Program’s Website
12. Keiser University-Fort Myers
Keiser University-Fort Myers is one of the few schools in Florida that offers a Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy. The program is accredited by the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) and prepares students for a career in helping people with physical, mental, or emotional disabilities. The curriculum includes human anatomy and physiology courses, psychology, and kinesiology.
Students also complete two fieldwork rotations, allowing them to put their knowledge into practice. Upon graduation, students are eligible to take the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam. Keiser University-Fort Myers is an excellent choice for those interested in pursuing a career in occupational therapy.
- Degree Level: OT Masters
- Institution Type: Private Nonprofit
- Status: Accreditation
- 9100 Forum Corporate ParkwayFort Myers FL 33905239-277-1336
- tgelpi@keiseruniversity.edu
- Last on-site: 2020/2021
- Next on-site: 2027/2028
Bridge program offered.
13.Keiser University-Ft. Lauderdale
Keiser University-Ft. Lauderdale is one of the top occupational therapy schools in Florida. The university offers an OT Masters degree in occupational therapy, which is accredited. The curriculum includes coursework in various aspects of OT practice, including pharmacology, medical rehabilitation, diagnosis and treatment.
The program is designed to prepare students for a career in occupational therapy. Students will be eligible to sit for the National Certification Examination for Occupational Therapists upon graduation. Keiser University-Ft. Lauderdale is committed to providing the best possible education for its students and preparing them for a successful career in occupational therapy.
- Degree Level: OT Masters
- Institution Type: Private Nonprofit
- Status: Accreditation
- 1500 NW 49th StreetFt. Lauderdale FL 33309954-776-4456 x604
- tpinchevskyfont@keiseruniversity.edu
- Last on-site: 2016/2017
- Next on-site: 2022/2023
Bridge program offered.Visit Program’s Website
14.Keiser University-Jacksonville
Keiser University-Jacksonville’s Occupational Therapy (OT) program is designed to prepare students to enter the field of occupational therapy as entry-level practitioners. The program is based on a developmental perspective of human occupation and provides students with opportunities to develop the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to function as effective occupational therapists. The OT program at Keiser University-Jacksonville is currently in Applicant status with the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT).
Upon completing all academic and fieldwork requirements, graduates will be eligible to sit for the national certification examination for the occupational therapist administered by NBCOT. Additionally, graduates will be eligible to apply for state licensure. The OT program at Keiser University-Jacksonville is committed to providing students with the necessary resources and experiences to become competent, ethical, and caring occupational therapists who contribute to the well-being of society through meaningful participation in occupations.
- Degree Level: OT Masters
- Institution Type: Private Nonprofit
- Status: Applicant
- 6430 Southpoint Parkway, Suite 100Jacksonville FL 32216904-296-3440
- djohnston@keiseruniversity.edu
- Next on-site: 2025/2026
15.Keiser University-Melbourne
Keiser University-Melbourne is a unique university in Florida That offers an OT Masters degree in occupational therapy. The program is still in Applicant status Which means that it is not accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) as of October 2020. However, the university is eligible to apply for Candidacy Status, which is the first step in the accreditation process.
If granted Candidacy Status, Keiser University-Melbourne will then have five years to meet all of the standards required for Full accreditation by ACOTE. In the meantime, students who graduate from the program will be eligible to sit for the national certification examination for occupational therapists administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). After passing this exam, they will be able to apply for state licensure to begin practising. Please visit their website for more information about Keiser University-Melbourne’s OT program or contact the admissions office.
- Degree Level: OT Masters
- Institution Type: Private Nonprofit
- Status: Applicant
- 900 S. Babcock StreetMelbourne FL 32901321-409-4800
- donb@keiseruniversity.edu
- Next on-site: 2026/2027
16.Nova Southeastern University-Ft. Lauderdale
Nova Southeastern University in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida is one of the many schools in the state that offers an occupational therapy program. The school’s OT program is currently in candidate status with the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE). This means that the program has been granted accreditation-provisional status and is working towards full accreditation.
The school offers a Doctorate in occupational therapy, which is unique among the other occupational therapy schools in Florida. Nova Southeastern University is committed to providing students with a high-quality education to become successful occupational therapists. The school has a strong faculty and staff who are dedicated to helping students reach their full potential. Nova Southeastern University should be at the top of your list if you are looking for an accredited occupational therapy program in Florida.
- Degree Level: OT Doctorate
- Institution Type: Private Nonprofit
- Status: Candidacy
- Dr. Pallavi Patel College of Health Care Sciences, 3200 South University DriveFt. Lauderdale FL 33328-2018954-262-1229
- restes@nova.edu
- Next on-site: 2024/2025
- Visit Program’s Website
17.West Coast University-Miami
West Coast University-Miami is one of only a handful of occupational therapy schools in Florida that offers a Doctorate in occupational therapy. This cutting-edge program is still in applicant status, meaning that it has not yet been accredited by the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA). However, the curriculum and faculty at West Coast University- Miami are both top-notch, so students can be confident that they will receive an excellent education.
The University is also located in the vibrant city of Miami, which offers plenty of opportunities for clinical experience and professional networking. If you are looking for an occupational therapy program that can prepare you for the future, West Coast University-Miami is definitely worth considering.
- Degree Level:Â OT Doctorate
- Institution Type:Â Private Nonprofit
- Status:Â Applicant
- 9250 NW 96th StreetDoral FL 33178214-453-4533
- jegbert@westcoastuniversity.edu
- Next on-site:Â 2026/2027
- Visit Program’s Website
How long does it take to become an occupational therapist in Florida?
To become an occupational therapist, you must earn an undergraduate and graduate degree and pass the required licensure exams. You can expect to spend six to seven years in school: four years for an undergraduate degree and two to three years for a graduate degree (if you are attending school full-time).
Conclusion
Florida has many great occupational therapy schools that offer a wide range of programs. The Council on Occupational Therapy Education accredits Florida’s occupational therapy schools. They provide students with the opportunity to earn their degree in one of the most rewarding careers in the world.
In conclusion, we’ve been very careful only to include the best Occupational Therapy Schools in Florida. We’ve done our best to ensure that each of the schools we’ve listed are accredited and that they offer a great experience for you. If you’d like to learn more about any of the schools we’ve listed, just click on the links for the full details.
I hope you liked the best Occupational Therapy Schools in Florida. Please share this with Occupational Therapy Schools in Florida.
Leave a Reply