Mercy University launches hybrid occupational therapy doctorate

Mercy University has launched an entry-level clinical doctorate in occupational therapy aimed at working professionals, with classes set to begin in Spring 2027. The hybrid weekend format is designed to help address the therapist shortage in New York while expanding access to doctoral-level training.

Why it matters: - Mercy University is trying to expand the pipeline of occupational therapists in the New York region. - The new program is built for working adults who need a schedule that fits jobs and family responsibilities. - The launch adds another route into doctoral-level occupational therapy at a time when demand is projected to keep growing.

What happened: - Mercy University launched an Entry-Level Clinical Doctorate in Occupational Therapy program. - The inaugural cohort is scheduled to begin in Spring 2027. - Applications are being accepted now, with a deadline of October 30, 2026. - The program uses a hybrid weekend model aimed at working professionals.

The details: - The program is 85 credits and full-time. - Classes meet approximately every other weekend across nine trimesters. - Students will complete state-of-the-art hands-on learning alongside synchronous and asynchronous coursework. - The format is designed to allow completion in as little as three years. - The curriculum builds on 30 years of occupational therapy education at Mercy. - Graduates are prepared to work with people living with spinal cord injuries, cancer, stroke, autism, cerebral palsy, developmental delay and other conditions. - Graduates are trained as generalists and can work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers and schools. - Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. - Required prerequisite coursework includes anatomy and physiology, developmental psychology, abnormal psychology and statistics. - The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects occupational therapy careers will grow 17% through 2028. - Occupational therapists in the New York region earn an average salary of $88,000. - More information is available in Mercy University's program announcement.

Between the lines: - The hybrid weekend structure signals Mercy University is targeting an audience that may not fit traditional full-time graduate school models. - The focus on broad clinical preparation suggests the program is meant to serve multiple care settings, not a narrow specialty track. - The launch comes as higher education and healthcare training programs increasingly compete on flexibility as well as credentials.

What's next: - Mercy University will enroll its first OTD cohort in Spring 2027. - Applicants must submit materials before the October 30, 2026 deadline. - The university is likely to use the new program to strengthen its role in regional healthcare workforce training.

The bottom line: - Mercy University is betting that a flexible doctorate can widen access for students and help ease the occupational therapy shortage in New York.