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Pre-OT Pathway
The Pre-Occupational Therapy pathway program prepares students for admission to occupational therapy doctoral programs. Students build a strong foundation in science and human development while gaining hands-on experience for a clear, guided path into the OTD program.

Dig Deeper Into the program
Explore coursework, hands-on experiences, and advising that prepare you for occupational therapy programs and careers focused on helping people live more independently.
Pre-OT is a pathway program that guides students from their undergraduate studies into the Occupational Therapy Doctorate program at College of Saint Mary. The benefit of a pathway like this is a clear, accelerated route to your career, allowing you to become a licensed, practicing occupational therapist in as little as six years after high school.
Pre-OT students apply for their desired bachelor’s degree program. Common majors include:
- Rehabilitation Sciences
- Kinesiology
- Pre-Health (Biology)
- Psychology (Pre-OT)
Students meet with a dedicated advisor each semester to stay on track with GPA, prerequisite courses, and service hours. When all benchmarks are met, their spot in the CSM OTD program is secured—providing a clear, guided path from undergraduate study to doctorate.
In senior year, students interview with the CSM OTD program to experience a graduate-level interview. As long as all requirements have been met, they receive guaranteed admission to the CSM OTD program.
Applicants for admission are evaluated based on the following criteria to gain full admission.
- High school record of cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. An applicant for a degree program must have graduated or will have graduated with 16 high school units from an accredited high school. The college preparatory program is strongly recommended to high school students. Ordinarily this program includes four years of English and two years of social studies, science, and mathematics.
- College/university record of cumulative GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale, if applicable.
Applicants who do not meet the following criteria and show potential for success may be reviewed for an alternate admissions pathway.
Students who have successfully completed the General Education Development Test (GED) and have not accumulated at least 12 collegiate level semester hours credit at a regionally accredited institution with a 2.5 GPA or better will follow the Alternate Admissions Pathway.
Applications open July 1 for the upcoming academic year. CSM follows a rolling admission process, reviewing applications as they are received. We encourage students to apply early for priority consideration for scholarships, housing, and financial aid.
The Mercy Core is CSM’s general education curriculum and the foundation of every degree. Rooted in the Critical Concerns of the Sisters of Mercy, it integrates ethics, reflection, and action to prepare women to lead with purpose and advance justice in their communities.
Pre-OT MaJors
Pre-OT students choose an undergraduate major that builds a strong foundation for occupational therapy, each designed with the support and advising needed for a successful transition into the OTD program.

Psychology (Pre-OT)
Explore behavior, cognition, and mental health in patient care contexts.
Your Roadmap to Admission
From application to enrollment, we guide you through each step with clarity and personal support so you can focus on what matters most and take the next step toward your future.
Why Choose CSM?
Direct Pathway to CSM’s OTD Program
Seamless transition opportunities into the Occupational Therapy Doctorate.
Hands-On, Human-Centered Learning
Focus on helping individuals improve daily function and quality of life.
Strong Pre-Professional Advising
Guidance for coursework, observation hours, and application preparation.
Supportive Learning Environment
Small classes and faculty mentorship support student success.
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Name, Major and Year/Title

Tuition & Aid
Investing in your education is a big decision, and you do not have to navigate it alone. Every admitted full-time undergraduate student is guaranteed a merit scholarship, and CSM offers additional aid and personalized guidance to make your degree attainable. Our team will walk you through your options so you can move forward with clarity and confidence.
Pre-OT Career Opportunities
- Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD pathway)
- Occupational Therapy Assistant or Aide
- Rehabilitation or Therapy Support Roles
- Healthcare or Human Services Careers

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Accreditation
The Assurance of Accreditation
The assurance of regional accreditation means that our degrees have been evaluated for their outcomes — including how well they prepare you to meet the needs of your employers, yourself and our global society. College of Saint Mary is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.
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Wherever you’re starting from, we’ll help you build a future with confidence.




