Kasey Sobek Finds Accelerated Path to OT Career Through Belmont's 3+3 Program

Innovative program combines bachelor's and doctoral degrees in six years

When Kasey Sobek entered Belmont University as a neuroscience major, she never imagined she'd find her calling through an accelerated occupational therapy program. Now in her second year of doctoral studies, Sobek represents a growing cohort of students benefiting from Belmont's innovative 3+3 program, which allows students to complete both their bachelor's and doctoral degrees in just six years. 

"I was really interested in movement and equipping people of all abilities to engage in activities that matter to them," Sobek said. After shadowing at an occupational therapy clinic on her brother's recommendation, she knew she had found her path. 

The 3+3 program, typically declared upon enrollment at Belmont, offers high-achieving exercise science students guaranteed admission into the University's doctoral programs in occupational therapy or physical therapy after three years of undergraduate study. For Sobek, joining the program meant a slight detour — she transferred into the program during her sophomore year after a fortuitous conversation with a University administrator. 

"Everyone was just so willing to engage with me and was so encouraging and caring about my journey," Sobek said. "The exercise science faculty at Belmont is incredible, and they work really closely with the School of OT faculty. My transition into the program was seamless." 

The program's structure allows students to complete prerequisite requirements through their exercise science coursework, making the compressed timeline manageable. Sobek noted that despite the accelerated pace, she didn't need to take any overloaded semesters. 

Now advancing through her doctoral program, Sobek is preparing for diverse clinical experiences. Her upcoming placements include working with Nashville's homeless community at Room in the Inn, serving in Williamson County schools, and completing her capstone project at Embrace Special Needs Ministry. 

"Nashville is a hub for OT across all settings," Sobek said. "There are so many places where OT is popping up. It's not super common for OT to be in community-based settings, but Nashville has a high concentration of these emerging placements." 

The program's continuity offers unique advantages, particularly in building professional relationships. "You have this initial connection to the Belmont community through undergrad that carries you over into the graduate program," Sobek explained. "It was comforting to know I would have those connections already built." 

For high school students considering the program, Sobek offers clear advice: "There's truly no harm in doing it. You wouldn't miss out on anything if you chose to do it, but choosing not to do it sets you up to miss out on more, just because it is a lot harder to enter into the program later. Choosing the 3+3 program means you're immediately part of a community, making the transition smoother and your education more connected. It's a unique opportunity to integrate quickly and build lasting relationships, setting you up for success from day one." 

Sobek will graduate in May 2026 with her Doctor of Occupational Therapy degree, ready to pursue her passion for pediatrics and community-based care. Her journey through Belmont's 3+3 program exemplifies how innovative educational pathways can help students achieve their professional goals more efficiently while maintaining academic excellence.