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FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

  •   If I don't have a bachelor's degree, can I still apply to the program?

    Yes, but you will need to meet all the required prerequisites prior to matriculation into the program if accepted. No prerequisite courses can be taken while in the professional phase of the program. A minimum of 90 semester hours of college coursework must be completed before beginning the LMU OTD program.

  •   Do I need to take the Graduate Record Examination (GRE)?

    Applicants are not required to take the Graduate Record Examination (GRE).

  •   What is the admissions process?

    LMU-OTD's Occupational Therapy Program is a participant of OTCAS. You can apply to OTCAS in July of the year preceding the date in which you are applying for admission. Completed applications are reviewed as they are received. Applicants are notified as soon as possible regarding interview selection. 

  •   What part of the application is most important for admissions decisions?

    All parts of the completed application are given due consideration. The admissions committee looks at candidate's grade point averages, reference letters, responses to questions in the application, and the interview evaluation report. The Admissions Committee also evaluates the applicant's desire to become an occupational therapist, evidence of academic potential, motivation, personal maturity, self-assurance, and good interpersonal skills.

  •   Can I apply if I haven't completed all the prerequisite courses?

    Yes, provided you will have successfully completed all the prerequisite courses with a grade of "C" or higher, overall GPA of 3.0 and a Math/Science GPA of 2.8 by the end of the semester or term preceding your anticipated matriculation, if accepted. Applicants must provide documentation of the plan to complete prerequisite courses, if/when invited for an interview.

  •   Do you accept transfer credits toward the OTD program?

    No. We do not accept transfer academic credits or experiential learning credit for the OTD program. No advanced placement is granted.

  •   What if I have taken courses that are not listed on the prerequisite course list?

    If you have questions, contact the Admissions Department or the Program office at OTDadmissions@LMUnet.edu or 865.338.5754. We will be happy to answer your questions.

  •   How many hours are required of shadowing occupational therapists?

    A minimum of 40 hours of shadowing an OT is required.

  •   When do you interview applicants and who is allowed to interview?

    Only applicants who are selected by the admissions committee are offered interviews. Interviews are offered as candidate roster is filled. Admitted applicants must have completed all prerequisites before matriculation.

  •   What does it mean if I am put on the waiting list?

    Candidates not initially offered acceptance into the LMU-DCOM OTD Program may be placed on the waiting list. The Admissions Committee reviews the application of candidates placed on the waiting list at regular intervals throughout the admissions cycle and reconsiders an offer of acceptance into the LMU-DCOM OTD Program. These candidates will be notified of final acceptance offers prior to matriculation of their desired cohort.

  •   Can I visit LMU to see the program?

    Yes. We periodically conduct program information sessions. Feel free to call us to find out the schedule for these sessions, which will include information about curriculum, admissions, a facility tour, and a chance to interact with faculty and student ambassadors.

  •   Do you have an orientation for new students?

    Yes; we conduct a new student orientation at the beginning of the program for those students who have been accepted into the program.

  •   Do I need to have a background check prior to attending LMU-DCOM?

    Yes, all students accepted into the OTD Program will be required to have a background check prior to being fully accepted into the program. Note that a felony conviction may affect a graduate's ability to sit for the NBCOT certification examination or attain state licensure.

  •   Will I need to have a drug screen prior to admission to the OTD program?

    If accepted into the OTD Program you will be required to have a "URINE 11 PANEL" drug screen. Hospital sites during clinical rotation may have additional requirements. Students will be responsible for obtaining and paying for the drug screen(s).

  •   Is financial aid available?

    Yes. After an applicant is accepted, financial aid information will be provided. More information can be found at: https://www.lmunet.edu/student-financial-services/index

  •   Is housing available?

    No housing is available to OTD students on the LMU-Knoxville Campus. Housing is available in the community. Students will be responsible for their own housing during the duration of the program.

  •   Will I be able to work while a student in the program?

    The OTD program strongly discourages working while attending the program. The OTD program is an intensive didactic and clinical educational program that involves an average of at least 40 to 50 hours per week, in addition to study, laboratory and other activities. During the third year, students are not allowed to work due to the number of hours required in the clinical setting. Students are not allowed to be substituted for staff at any time during their training.

  •   Where are the fieldwork education and capstone sites?

    Numerous sites for fieldwork education and capstone sites are available throughout Tennessee and the rest of the country. Students can expect to travel to one or more of these core sites during their third year. Students are responsible for their lodging, transportation, and meals.

  •   Will I have any input into where my fieldwork education and capstone sites will be?

    Students are assigned to fieldwork education and capstone sites by the Director of Clinical Education. Students will have input into this process, but ultimately, the Director of Clinical Education will place the student where they will obtain the best experience based on their level of skill and knowledge.