D’Youville University Approved to Launch New Doctor of Occupational Therapy Program

BUFFALO, NEW YORK – D’Youville University has received approval from the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) to launch a new entry-level Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) program, expanding the university's long-standing leadership in occupational therapy education while helping address growing workforce needs across New York State and the nation.

The new doctoral program builds upon D'Youville's rich history in occupational therapy, which includes offering one of the nation's first combined bachelor's/master's occupational therapy programs and educating occupational therapists for more than two decades through its master's degree program. D’Youville also launched a post-professional Doctor of Occupational Therapy program in 2021.

Among the graduates of D’Youville’s occupational therapy programs is U.S. Congressman Tim Kennedy, who earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in occupational therapy from DYU.

“D’Youville has been training occupational therapists for decades, and I know firsthand the impact that education has on a student’s career and their ability to serve their community,” said Congressman Tim Kennedy. “This new doctoral program means more Western New York students will be trained to help children develop the skills they need to thrive, support people recovering from injury or illness, and help older adults maintain their independence and dignity. I’m proud to see my alma mater continue to lead the way in occupational therapy education.”

Designed for students entering the profession, the new OTD program prepares graduates for advanced clinical practice, leadership, research, advocacy, and education. The hybrid program combines online coursework with immersive on-campus laboratory experiences, extensive fieldwork, and a doctoral capstone project focused on advancing evidence-based practice.

"Occupational therapists play an increasingly important role in helping people regain independence, improve quality of life, and fully participate in the activities that matter most to them," said Dr. Lorrie Clemo, president of D'Youville University. "The approval of our entry-level Doctor of Occupational Therapy program reflects D'Youville's continued commitment to preparing highly skilled healthcare professionals while responding to the evolving needs of patients, communities, and the healthcare workforce."

Demand for occupational therapists continues to grow. According to the New York State Department of Labor, employment is projected to increase by 28 percent between 2022 and 2032, while the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 14 percent national growth from 2024 through 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations.

The 36-month program spans nine semesters and emphasizes occupation-based practice, evidence-based care, client- and family-centered treatment, and professional leadership. Students will complete 24 weeks of Level II fieldwork before culminating their education with a doctoral capstone experience designed to solve real-world clinical and community challenges.

The inaugural cohort will begin classes in May 2027, with an initial class of 24 students. Enrollment is expected to grow to 72 students across three cohorts as the program reaches full implementation.

D'Youville's program is supported by an extensive nationwide network of clinical fieldwork partners, experienced faculty, and strong interprofessional education opportunities that prepare students to collaborate across healthcare disciplines.

For more information about D'Youville University's Occupational Therapy programs, visit dyu.edu.

About D’Youville University 

D’Youville University is a nationally ranked private university founded in 1908 and headquartered in Buffalo, New York, which offers degrees in the health sciences and business. D’Youville University promotes a healthy mind, body, and spirit. Through transformational educational experiences, students are prepared for growth, career success, and upward mobility. For more information, visit dyu.edu.