Phillip EdwinTexas offers a robust and highly regarded landscape for occupational therapy (OT) education, anchored by top-ranked programs and diverse options across the state. According to multiple U.S. News & World Report rankings, Texas Woman’s University holds the #1 position in Texas, ranking in the top 8% of all university graduate programs in the country and consistently leading the state.
The state’s OT programs are primarily at the doctoral level, as the ACOTE 2027 mandate transitions all entry-level programs to the Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) . This list features professional-level OT programs and pre-OT advising pathways across Texas.
Top 15 Occupational Therapy Schools In Texas
1. Texas Woman’s University (Denton, Dallas, Houston)
Texas Woman’s University (TWU) is home to the top-ranked occupational therapy program in Texas, holding the #1 spot in the state and ranking in the top 8% of all university graduate programs nationally . The School of Occupational Therapy offers an entry-level Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) at three campuses in Denton, Dallas, and Houston.
The program is ACOTE-accredited and includes 24 weeks of Level II fieldwork and a 14-week capstone experience . TWU is one of only three programs nationwide offering a PhD in OT, making it a leader in both clinical and research education.
2. University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences – Dallas (Dallas)
The University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences (USAHS) Dallas campus offers both Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT) and Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) programs. The campus features state-of-the-art Simulation Centers, including a 10-bed hospital setting, VR equipment, and advanced robotics, providing students with a cutting-edge learning environment . USAHS offers its OT programs in three formats: Residential, Hybrid Immersion, and Flex, catering to diverse student needs and schedules.
3. University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences – Austin (Austin)
The USAHS Austin campus offers MOT and OTD programs in a city known for its vibrant culture and healthcare community. The Austin campus offers MOT programs in Residential and Flex formats, while the OTD program is available in the Residential format. This campus provides students with access to a dynamic learning environment in the “Live Music Capital of the World.”
4. Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (Lubbock)
TTUHSC offers a Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT) program through its School of Health Professions. The program is a key provider of occupational therapy education in West Texas and is known for its commitment to serving rural and underserved communities.
5. UT Medical Branch (UTMB) at Galveston (Galveston)
UTMB’s Occupational Therapy program offers an entry-level Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) program through its School of Health Professions. The program has introduced innovative hybrid options to expand access in medically underserved regions. UTMB is a historic institution with strong clinical training opportunities.
6. The University of Texas at El Paso (El Paso)
UTEP offers a Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT) program through its College of Health Sciences . Located in the border region of West Texas, UTEP provides unique educational opportunities that address the healthcare needs of a binational community.
7. The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (Edinburg)
UTRGV offers a Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT) program . As a public university serving the Rio Grande Valley, one of the most medically underserved regions in the country, UTRGV plays a critical role in training occupational therapists for the South Texas region.
8. Abilene Christian University (Abilene)
ACU offers an occupational therapy program through its Department of Occupational Therapy . This private, faith-based university provides a distinct educational experience that integrates Christian values with professional practice.
9. University of Mary Hardin-Baylor (Belton)
UMHB offers a Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) program that provides students with an advanced education grounded in Christian values and a commitment to service . As a private Christian university, UMHB provides an education that integrates faith and learning in a close-knit campus community, fostering a supportive environment where students can develop both professionally and personally . The program prepares graduates for leadership roles in occupational therapy, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to make a meaningful impact in their communities and the healthcare profession .
10. University of Texas at Tyler (Tyler)
UT Tyler offers a pre-occupational therapy advising track for undergraduate students preparing for graduate OT programs, providing essential guidance and support for those pursuing a career in occupational therapy . The university provides comprehensive advising and prerequisite coursework for students planning to pursue a professional OT degree, helping them build a strong academic foundation and a competitive application . Students benefit from dedicated advisors who understand the requirements of OT schools and can help them navigate the application process with confidence and clarity .
11. Lamar University (Beaumont)
Lamar University provides a pre-occupational therapy studies program to help undergraduate students prepare for entry into professional OT schools, offering a clear pathway for those aspiring to become occupational therapists.
The program offers prerequisite coursework and advising for students interested in OT careers, ensuring they meet all requirements for graduate school admission and develop a strong foundation in the sciences . Students receive personalized guidance from faculty who are committed to helping them achieve their career goals and succeed in the competitive OT school application process.
12. Stephen F. Austin State University (Nacogdoches)
The University of Houston offers pre-occupational therapy advising for undergraduate students preparing for graduate OT programs, helping them build strong academic foundations and navigate the competitive application process with expert guidance from experienced advisors.
The university provides guidance on prerequisite coursework and the competitive application process, ensuring students understand all requirements for graduate school admission and can present themselves as strong candidates. Students have access to resources and support services designed to help them succeed in their pre-professional studies and gain admission to top OT programs across the country.
14. Texas State University (San Marcos)
Texas State University offers pre-occupational therapy advising for undergraduate students, providing comprehensive support for those planning to pursue a graduate degree in occupational therapy through dedicated advisors who understand the field.
The university provides guidance on prerequisite courses and the application process for graduate OT programs, helping students develop competitive applications and meet all requirements for admission to professional schools. Students benefit from a supportive campus community and advisors who are committed to helping them achieve their career goals in occupational therapy.
15. University of North Texas (Denton)
UNT offers pre-occupational therapy advising through its Health Professions Advising office, providing students with expert guidance on the path to a career in occupational therapy and helping them navigate the complex admissions landscape. Students receive guidance on completing prerequisites and preparing competitive applications for OT schools, ensuring they are well-prepared for the rigors of graduate education and the demands of professional practice. The university’s advisors help students identify opportunities for clinical experience and volunteer work, building strong profiles that will make them competitive candidates for OT programs.
Comparison Table
| No | School Name | Location | Program Type | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Texas Woman’s University | Denton, Dallas, Houston | OTD | #1 in Texas, top 8% nationally, 3 campuses |
| 2 | USAHS – Dallas | Dallas | MOT/OTD | Sim centers, 3 formats available |
| 3 | USAHS – Austin | Austin | MOT/OTD | Residential/Flex formats, creative city |
| 4 | TTUHSC | Lubbock | MOT | West Texas focus, rural health |
| 5 | UTMB Galveston | Galveston | OTD | Historic program, hybrid options |
| 6 | UTEP | El Paso | MOT | Border region focus |
| 7 | UTRGV | Edinburg | MOT | Rio Grande Valley underserved focus |
| 8 | Abilene Christian University | Abilene | OTD | Faith-based education |
| 9 | University of Mary Hardin-Baylor | Belton | OTD | Private Christian university |
| 10 | UT Tyler | Tyler | Pre-OT Advising | Undergraduate preparation |
| 11 | Lamar University | Beaumont | Pre-OT Studies | Prerequisite coursework |
| 12 | Stephen F. Austin State University | Nacogdoches | Pre-OT Program | Undergraduate advising |
| 13 | University of Houston | Houston | Pre-OT Advising | Undergraduate preparation |
| 14 | Texas State University | San Marcos | Pre-OT Advising | Undergraduate preparation |
| 15 | University of North Texas | Denton | Pre-OT Advising | Undergraduate preparation |
Success Tips for Choosing an OT School
Start by understanding the ACOTE 2027 mandate, which requires all entry-level OT programs to transition to the doctoral level, meaning the OTD is becoming the standard degree for new practitioners. For the highest-ranked program, Texas Woman’s University holds the #1 spot in Texas and offers three campus locations.
Consider the program format and your current life commitments; USAHS offers Residential, Hybrid Immersion, and Flex formats to accommodate different learning preferences and schedules.
Research each school’s accreditation status with ACOTE, as graduation from an accredited program is required for NBCOT certification and state licensure.
Evaluate clinical fieldwork opportunities, as programs with strong healthcare partnerships provide valuable hands-on experience.
Finally, consider your career goals and preferred patient population; some schools have a strong focus on serving underserved communities, such as UTRGV’s mission in the Rio Grande Valley, while others emphasize research and academic careers, like TWU’s PhD in OT.
Closing
Texas offers a comprehensive and competitive selection of occupational therapy schools, anchored by the top-ranked program at Texas Woman’s University and a growing number of institutions offering the doctoral degree.
With the ACOTE 2027 mandate transitioning all entry-level programs to the OTD, students can expect to find a range of options from traditional on-campus programs at public universities to flexible hybrid and residential formats at private institutions like USAHS. Whether you are seeking a faith-based education, a border-focused program, or an innovative hybrid model, Texas OT schools provide diverse pathways to a rewarding career.
Note that all information, including rankings and program details, is subject to change, so it is essential to verify current details directly with each school and through official resources like the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) and the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE).