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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Does Kean University still have an undergraduate Occupational Therapy Program?
Effective January 1, 2007, occupational therapy education is required to be at the post baccalaureate level. The program at Kean is an entry-level master’s program.
How competitive is the MS in OT Program?
The MS in OT is a demanding and rigorous academic program. Admission to the program is very competitive.
The Admissions Committee reads your application very carefully and considers the following when determining eligibility for an interview:
- Personal statement or essay questions on the application including content, organization, spelling, and grammar
- General appearance of your completed application, i.e. typed, neatness, professional
If you qualify for an interview, admission to the program is based on the interview and the following results:
- Cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 from all colleges attended
- A grade of B or better in each prerequisite course
- Three letters of reference
- Documented observation of occupational therapy services for a minimum of 40 hours
No. All applicants do not receive an interview appointment. Please refer to previous answers listed above.
Are GREs required?
No.
Is Chemistry a prerequisite requirement?
Chemistry is not required for admission to the MS OT program. Chemistry is only required for undergraduate students at Kean, pursuing the Dual Degree Program option.
How long will it take to complete this program?
The program may be completed in about 2.5 years of full-time study including the required 24 weeks of full-time fieldwork.
When are applications available and when are they due?
Dual Degree Program applications are available from the Occupational Therapy Department in November of each year and are due the third Friday in January.
Master's Program applications are available online through the Nathan Weiss Graduate College admissions office. It is due February 1st for consideration for Fall admission.
Where should I complete my observation hours of occupational therapy services?
You may observe occupational therapy services at hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, occupational therapy facilities, schools or wherever therapy is offered. You must observe a licensed occupational therapist.
How many hours should I observe?
A minimum of 40 hours in OT observation is required. This time will enable you to gain a general understanding of the profession. These hours may be split between different observation sites. It is your responsibility to obtain a proof of observation letter from the occupational therapist or occupational therapy department that you observed with. The therapist’s name, site name and contact information must be included along with confirmation of the number of hours observed.
Does Kean University provide a list of places where I can get my field experience?
No, but we do provide suggestions for possible sites for your observation experience at our scheduled information sessions.
Do I need to finish the prerequisite courses before applying?
Not necessarily. The courses do not need to be completed prior to applying to the program. Please note: having an increased number of prerequisites completed at the time you apply will strengthen your application. Prerequisite courses MUST be completed prior to beginning the program in the September. No exceptions.
Do I need to have a baccalaureate degree in any specific area to apply to the program?
No. We welcome students with diverse backgrounds in undergraduate education.
Is there a part-time program option?
Not at the present time.
Can I work full-time and take evening classes?
No. The program schedule includes both day and evening classes. Courses are offered only one time per semester. Your work schedule must be flexible enough to accommodate the complete academic schedule.
Can I work while in this program?
Yes. We suggest part-time, with a flexible schedule.
Where can I find more information about a Kean University Graduate Assistantship?
Contact the Graduate Admissions Office of Nathan Weiss Graduate College.
Do you accept international students?
Yes. Please review our international students page.