I am interested in applying to the entry level Master's program. What should I do first?
Look over this Web site to get an idea of our curriculum philosophy and specific coursework you will study once in the program. You can also request or download an application from this Web site.
Is a bachelor's degree required for admission into the program?
Yes, you can enter the OT program with a BS degree in any major. You will find that a BS in the natural sciences, psychological, or social sciences will leave you with fewer prerequisites to take.
If I am interested in the program but don't know if I would be a competitive applicant with regard to courses and grades what do I do?
At any time we can analyze your transcripts to determine outstanding coursework and grade point average. Simply have your transcripts sent to:
Elaine Satterfield
Department of Occupational Therapy
RMSB 353
BIRMINGHAM AL 35294-1212
Simply request a transcript analysis and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
I am a transfer student to UAB and want to know what prerequisites I need to complete to enter the program.
See our website and look under "Admissions Requirements" for a listing of prerequisite courses and hours.
I am an international student with a BS degree from a college outside of the U.S. What do I have to do to be considered a candidate for the program?
Applicants must have their transcripts evaluated by an external agency prior to the submission of application materials. It is the student's responsibility to have the transcript(s) evaluated. One evaluating service is the (WES) World Education Service.
Another evaluating service is:
Josef Silny and Associates Inc.
International Education Consulting
7101 SW 102 Avenue
Miami, Florida 33171
Tel: 305-273-1616
Fax: 305-273-1338
Translation Fax: 305-273-1984
Website: www.jsilny.com
Email: info@jsilny.com
The student will need to contact one of these services to find out the specific procedures for transcript review. Please contact the UAB Graduate School (205) 934-8227 for additional information regarding other agencies qualifed to complete a transcript review. The Graduate School also requires the TOFEL for international students. Once this step is done you can submit your information to the Department of Occupational Therapy for review.
I am very interested in specializing when I graduate from the OT program. Is there any way to do that with your program?
While you have to take coursework in all areas preparing you for entry into the profession, you will have opportunities through a portfolio of activities to emphasize learning objectives important to you. Most students find they are able to develop specific professional strengths and desires through electives (including low vision and pediatrics) and portfolio activities. We also offer a graduate certificate in low vision rehabilitation.
What are the opportunities for financial assistance? Do you have teaching assistant positions or grants and scholarships?
Many of our students receive financial aid through subsidized and unsubsidized loans or through scholarships. We hire anatomy laboratory assistants from second year students each year. A few scholarship sources to look at are the American Occupational Therapy Association, (mostly 2nd year students) and Ambucs (specifically for allied health professional students).
When looking at various Web sites, I see some OT programs offered at the BS level and others at the MS level, like UAB's program. What is the difference and what would I hope to gain from having a Master's degree in Occupational Therapy?
Our National Association (AOTA) has issued a statement that by 2007 only programs at the post-baccalaureate level will be accredited. A master’s prepared therapist will realize a difference in their critical reasoning skills, the ability to search evidence and apply it to practice, and an ability to market OT services in a variety of settings, including community settings.
I do not see where volunteer hours are discussed in your application materials. How many hours are needed to be considered for the program?
We do not have a specific number of hours for you to complete. We do suggest that you make the most of volunteering in various OT settings so that you may be affirmed in your decision to pursue this profession. It is also to your benefit during the interview process to have as much experience with volunteering (or/paid position) so that you can discuss your understanding of occupational therapy and what personal attributes you will bring to the profession.
I know I must take the GRE exam but what if I don't score a 500 in each area verbal and quantitative?
UAB's Graduate School requires the GRE test for all graduate applicants. Depending upon the applicant pool each year, a person can be granted probationary status for program admittance if a score of 500 in each area is not obtained.
What resources do you have for housing?
There is student housing available on the UAB campus. The majority of our students live off campus. Our student OT association (SOTA) is responsible for getting this and other information to you once you have been accepted.