The PhD in Occupational Science educates individuals to engage in the scientific study of human occupation, the purposeful activities that constitute our life experiences. This evolving science is chiefly concerned with the unique capacity of humans to develop adaptive skills, such as tool use and related occupational behaviors, and to choose and orchestrate daily occupations. It also seeks to understand the function, structure and interrelationship of these occupations and their impact on individuals and institutions.

The focus on occupation distinguishes this program from closely related disciplines such as psychology, sociology and anthropology. The program emphasizes the development of research skills and encourages students to organize and synthesize knowledge to contribute to occupational science theory and interdisciplinary understandings of occupation, health and social participation.

Dissertation Enrollment

Doctoral students must submit a dissertation according to the policies and procedures described in The Graduate School section of this catalogue. Registration in OT 794a Doctoral Dissertation, OT 794b Doctoral Dissertation, OT 794c Doctoral Dissertation, OT 794d Doctoral Dissertation, OT 794z Doctoral Dissertation for a minimum of 4 units (2 units in each of two consecutive semesters) is required.

Summary of All Course Requirements

Required core courses are OT 640, OT 641, OT 648, OT 649, OT 660, OT 661 for a total of 26 units.

Required cognate courses for a minimum total of 26 units.

Dissertation requires 2 units per semester for at least two semesters for a minimum total of 4 units.

Additional 4 units can include 4 further units of dissertation, OT 660 or cognate courses.