by Aubrey Marjason
Oklahoma Baptist University (OBU) is offering its first-ever doctoral program with the launch of a new Doctorate of Occupational Therapy (OTD). The program provides students with a hybrid learning environment that combines in-person lectures, labs, and workshops with online coursework, allowing students to complete the prestigious degree on an accelerated timeline.
The introduction of the OTD program marks a significant milestone for the university, as it is the first doctoral program in OBU’s history. Faculty and staff say the campus community is excited to welcome the program’s inaugural class of occupational therapy students.
Dr. Brandy Brown, associate professor and director of the occupational therapy program, said the program grew out of collaboration within OBU’s Exercise Science, Sports and Recreation (ESSR) department.
“The idea for the program came from faculty in the Exercise Science, Sports and Recreation program,” Brown said. “The program is an excellent continuation of the foundational liberal arts undergraduate educations students receive at OBU. Graduates from this program will serve to meet the needs of diverse populations in the communities in which they live and work.”
OBU leaders hope the program will also provide a clear pathway for ESSR graduates interested in pursuing occupational therapy at the doctoral level.
Students in the OTD program complete their coursework through an accelerated two-year timeline spanning six semesters. By the end of their first year, students will have completed most of their classroom instruction and will begin clinical experiences during their fourth semester. Many occupational therapy doctorate programs typically require three years or nine semesters to complete.
Another distinctive feature of the program is its integration of faith into the curriculum, a core part of OBU’s mission.
“Each course addresses occupational performance through a faith lens,” Brown said. “This may be accomplished through discussions, faith-related case studies of clients, course assignments, prayer, or biblical references relevant to occupational therapy.”
Faculty members encourage students to build strong relationships within the program’s community while growing both academically and spiritually.
Admissions leaders also emphasize personal and professional qualities when selecting students for the program. Rachel Donis, director of admissions for the OTD program, said the admissions process focuses on identifying applicants who demonstrate strong character and leadership potential.
“We seek applicants who demonstrate core competencies essential for success in occupational therapy, including servant leadership and cultural humility, strong self-efficacy and independence, flexibility and openness to learning, professionalism, and effective verbal and nonverbal communication,” Donis said.
Jessica Walsh, a student in the program’s inaugural cohort, said she felt confident choosing OBU despite the program’s newness.
“This program is so new, but I felt so led by God that this is exactly where I am meant to be,” Walsh said.
Walsh said OBU was the only school she applied to because of its commitment to faith integration. She believes the program will help her grow both professionally and spiritually.
“OBU is going to champion a new generation of therapists that will be able to not just contribute to the world on the front of leadership and therapy services, but be servant leaders in this field of work,” Walsh said.
After graduation, Walsh hopes to advocate for children in foster care both locally and nationally while serving her community through occupational therapy.
As thousands of students apply to occupational therapy doctoral programs across the country each year, OBU’s new program aims to stand out by combining academic rigor with faith-based education.
University leaders say the goal is to prepare therapists who not only excel in clinical practice but also serve their communities with compassion and faith.
