New ranking puts the Mizzou entry-level occupational therapy doctorate (OTD) program among the top 8% in the nation. 

Mizzou is one of the best places to earn an occupational therapy degree, according to U.S. News and World Report, which released its Best Health Schools rankings today. 

The University of Missouri climbed 14 places to No. 22 out of 263 occupational therapy programs across the country. 

“Our vision for Department of Occupational Therapy at University of Missouri is to be a leader in advancing the profession of occupational therapy,” said Department Chair Tim Wolf, PhD, OTD, OTR/L. “Our faculty, staff and students embody this every day in the work they do.”  

The U.S. News and World Report ranking is determined by votes from academic peers throughout the nation. Knowing that program directors across the country also recognize the excellent work at Mizzou is gratifying, said Associate Department Chair Crystal Gateley, PhD, OTR/L. 

“This new ranking is a reflection of the exceptional work our faculty do every day to integrate our missions of teaching, research, and service to the community,” Gateley said. “Students continue to select our OTD program knowing they will get hands-on experience with clients through our pro-bono teaching clinics and community partnerships, as well as the opportunity to work with world-renowned faculty in their research labs.” 

Over the past decade, Mizzou’s occupational therapy ranking has continued to rise while the number of competitors has also increased. This is the program’s highest ranking to date. 

“We certainly celebrate this recognition, but we will never be content with our accomplishments,” Wolf said. “We will be back here tomorrow to continue to innovate, discover, educate and serve for the benefit of occupational therapy and our clients.”