Belmont University Launches Post-Professional Occupational Therapy Doctorate Program

New predominantly online program bridges gap between clinical expertise and educational leadership  

Belmont University has announced the launch of its new Post-Professional Occupational Therapy Doctorate (PPOTD) program, designed specifically for licensed occupational therapists with master's degrees seeking to advance their careers in education, program development and leadership. 

The one-year, predominantly online program will welcome its first cohort in August 2025. Applications are now open for occupational therapists looking to expand their impact beyond clinical practice. 

"We designed this program with working professionals in mind," said Dr. Tamara Lemmonds, OTD program director at Belmont University. "Our goal is to transform excellent clinicians into excellent educators in the broadest sense — whether they aspire to become professors in higher education, program developers in rural communities or clinic directors developing continuing education." 

The program directly addresses a growing need in the field. With the rapid expansion of entry-level OTD programs nationwide, there is a significant shortage of occupational therapy educators with doctoral degrees who also possess substantial clinical experience. 

"There's job security in this blooming market, and those who earn their doctorate now will be first in line for these opportunities," Lemmonds said. 

The 30-credit program is delivered primarily through asynchronous online courses, with two on-campus weekend sessions at the beginning and end of the program. The structure minimizes travel requirements while maximizing learning opportunities, making it cost-effective for working professionals. 

A distinctive feature of the program is its teaching practicum, which provides students with real teaching experience they can add to their resumes. Students will have opportunities to develop and deliver both in-person and online educational content under faculty supervision. 

The curriculum focuses on developing skills in instructional design, leadership, program development and research, preparing graduates to disseminate their clinical knowledge across various educational settings. Students will complete a capstone project aligned with their professional goals, culminating in a formal presentation showcasing their work.  

Applications for the August 2025 cohort are now being accepted, and licensed occupational therapists with a master's degree in occupational therapy are eligible to apply.