Program Overview

Introduction to the Early Assurance Program in Occupational Therapy

The Early Assurance Program in Occupational Therapy is a joint initiative between the Honors College and the Department of Occupational Therapy. This program guarantees entrance into East Carolina University's Master of Science in Occupational Therapy and prepares students to sit for the national certification exam with the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy. Up to four slots per cohort are reserved for Honors College students, although these slots do not guarantee admission into the doctoral program.

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT) program is a 66-credit hour degree that can be completed in two years. It consists of four core areas: foundation, practice, fieldwork, and research.

Applying and Eligibility

To apply for the Early Assurance in Occupational Therapy, students must meet the following criteria:

1. Applications are available in the spring semester of the student's second year at East Carolina University and thereafter, if spots are available.
2. The application requires:

• Written essay(s)
• List of prerequisite courses taken and grades obtained (including BIOL 2140 and 2141)
• Information about shadowing hours, location, and takeaways
• Current involvement with the Pre-Professional Advising Center
• In-person interview

3. Eligibility criteria at the time of application submission include:

• Completion of the Honors course on Health Careers (HNRS 2002) prior to application
• Minimum overall GPA of 3.5
• Completion of four or more prerequisite courses (including BIOL 2140 and 2141) with a grade of B- or higher
• Good standing with the Honors College
• Established relationship with the pre-professional advising center
• Active membership in the Pre-OT Student Association
• Completion of 30 or more shadowing hours in occupational therapy (preferably in more than one setting)

4. The Occupational Therapy Director of Admissions and Department Chair make final decisions about students offered a seat through the Early Assurance program.
5. Students who fail to meet or maintain the eligibility criteria after being accepted into the Early Assurance program will be discontinued from the program but may apply for regular admission in the future.

Maintenance of Eligibility

To remain eligible, students must:

• Maintain a minimum GPA (both overall and prerequisite) of 3.5 at the time of graduation
• Complete all prerequisites with a B- or above
• Complete their bachelor's degree before beginning the MSOT program
• Participate in annual advising meetings with designated occupational therapy faculty members
• Demonstrate an acceptable level of maturity, personal development, and commitment to the occupational therapy profession

Program Completion and Admission

Students who remain eligible and interested will follow all application procedures required for their cohort at the appropriate time. The program is designed to ensure a smooth transition into the Master of Science in Occupational Therapy, providing a comprehensive education in occupational therapy.