Doctor of Philosophy in Occupational Science (Ph.D.)

You are a unique individual with your own personal and professional goals. Sarah Kelly, Director of Admissions, can answer your questions, schedule your visit, or arrange contacts with faculty members or students to help you further explore your interest in the Occupational Science program. You can reach her at (866) 385-4250 or .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address). If you would like to know more, please use our Request Program Information Form, and we will be happy to send you a beautiful brochure about any of our programs.

Admission Criteria

All applicants to the Ph.D. program must:

Complete a baccalaureate degree in an appropriate field, such as Occupational Therapy or one of the biological or social sciences, with a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 from an accredited college or university
Complete the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) general test within the last five years with a minimum combined score of 1100 on the verbal and quantitative sections
Submit at least three letters of recommendation from professors, therapists, and/or other professionals familiar with your capabilities and achievements
Show evidence of academic potential (based on Master’s level study if relevant), research skills and interest
Submit an essay describing your interests and skills, goals and professional accomplishments, including why you are choosing a graduate degree

In addition, international students must demonstrate competency in English, as measured by the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) examination. For more information, refer to www.usc.edu/admission/graduate/international/english.html.

Tuition and Fees

Currently, students selected for admission to the Ph.D. program are awarded fellowships or assistantships which cover full tuition, an annual stipend of $28,000, and year-round insurance.

Financial Aid

USC Graduate Financial Aid