The pre-occupational therapy program at our private university is designed to give you the skills and knowledge necessary to enter medical school. A number of our students receive acceptance to medical school the summer going into senior year through the Early Decision Program (EDP) at the University of Kansas. We also have the third-most students accepted into KU Scholars in Rural Health Program, which admits undergraduates into medical school after sophomore year.
With one-on-one attention from the faculty, and the opportunity to shadow anywhere from 100-200 hours, you will gain a better understanding of the chosen medical field. Our students studying pre-occupational therapy can choose either biology, chemistry/physics, or occupational therapy assistant as a foundation degree.
Check back soon for curriculum information for the 2022-23 school year.
Our faculty and staff have the knowledge and experience to help you prepare for a career in occupational therapy. If you need clarification on a class assignment or advice on how to approach your future, you can feel confident that our faculty is available and ready to help.
While pursuing a degree in pre-occupational therapy, you can expect a promising future. The occupational therapy field is projected to grow 29% between 2014 and 2024. Our students are prepared to meet the expected demand for occupational therapists.
A degree in pre-occupational therapy from Newman University will give you the opportunity to pursue further education and eventually work in a variety of fields and specialties. Here are some examples of potential careers and median salaries:
Our pre-occupational therapy students have the opportunity to gain real-world experience by interning and shadowing in the Wichita community. This allows you to gain experience in clinics, doctors’ offices, hospitals, nonprofits, or clinical research programs. We also take the time to conduct mock interviews for all of our students going into the medical field. This, along with shadowing and internships, helps you to be prepared for the most important interview of your career.
One of the best ways to find success during your college career is to get involved in campus clubs and organizations. Within our pre-occupational therapy program, our students can join the
Alumna Kelsey Sponsel graduated from Newman in 2014. Currently, she is in the occupational therapy graduate program at the University of Kansas and recently expanded her knowledge in a whole other country. Kelsey, along with other occupational therapy students, were given the chance to observe and help in clinics and hospitals in India.
"You may be paying a little more at Newman, but you’re getting an experience that you can’t get at any other institution. You get more sense of a family. You’re one of few instead of one of many. You aren’t just another face in the crowd."
"It’s a totally amazing school! I love the Catholic tradition on it. "