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Occupational Therapy - Entry level (MSc)

Skills for living independently.

Program Types
Master
Entry-to-practice
Faculties
Unit
Location
Program Start
September
Program Options
Course-based

Why choose this program?

Dalhousie University's Master of Science in Occupational Therapy- Entry level program provides you with the skills and hands-on training you need to become an occupational therapist. You will learn how to help people overcome the challenges they face due to an injury, illness or environmental barriers.

This full-time, on-campus program combines a strong theoretical foundation with a commitment to social justice and inclusive practice—and is the only program in Canada offering dedicated fieldwork opportunities across four provinces.

You’ll learn through a blend of hands-on experience and academic study in enhanced learning labs, working alongside researchers and practitioners who are focused on improving everyday participation for individuals, families, and communities.

Careers

Program options

Professional: This course-based master’s program will enable you to acquire specialized knowledge, enhance critical skills, and advance your career. Learn more about professional master's degrees at Dal.

Co-op: You’ll participate in fieldwork placements throughout your program to develop your skills in a professional setting. 

Fieldwork

Fieldwork totals 1,000 hours and includes community-based experiences and three full-time placements. Students are responsible for travel and living costs for placements; limited rural/remote supports may be available.

All graduate programs at Dalhousie are collaboratively delivered by a home Faculty and the Faculty of Graduate Studies.

Admission requirements

You'll need to meet the Faculty of Graduate Studies minimum requirements as well as any program-specific admission requirements before you can apply.

Applications open October 15. Submit your application, transcripts, and fee by December 31, with academic references and (if required) proof of English proficiency due by January 31.


Program-specific requirements

This program requires you to meet the following criteria:

You’ll need a four-year bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) from a recognized institution. Admission is based on your most recent coursework, with a minimum GPA of 3.0 (B) over your last 60 credit hours.

You’ll also need to have completed two prerequisite courses, including Human Anatomy and a Social Science course.

Proof of English language proficiency is required where applicable. For more information, please visit the  Faculty of Graduate Studies English language proficiency requirements.

Financial information

Questions about tuition and fees? Contact Student Accounts.

Email student.accounts@dal.ca or phone 902-494-3998.

Learn more