Briar Cliff University Announces Teach-Out Plan for Doctor of Occupational Therapy Program

October 4, 2024

Briar Cliff University has announced plans to initiate teach-out opportunities for students currently enrolled in its Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) program due to persistently low enrollment and challenges in sustaining the program. 

Following a comprehensive review of the program’s viability, the University concluded that future enrollment projections are unfavorable, reflecting a broader national trend of declining enrollment in occupational therapy programs. Additionally, the persistence of masters-level programs has made it more difficult to attract students at the doctoral level. 

“While we have worked diligently to support and grow the OTD program, we have faced significant obstacles in increasing enrollment,” said Dr. Matthew Draud, President of Briar Cliff University. “Our top priority is ensuring that our current students have the resources and opportunities necessary to complete their journey to becoming Doctors of Occupational Therapy.”

Briar Cliff University is collaborating closely with the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) to ensure a smooth transition for students. The University is also actively pursuing partnerships with other institutions to provide transfer options, with a goal of finalizing alternative placements by December 2024. 

The OTD program, located at Briar Cliff’s Mayfair Campus alongside the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program and the student-led Briar Cliff Clinic, was approved by the University’s Board of Trustees in 2018, with its first cohort beginning in the summer of 2023. Seven students are expected to transfer to other accredited institutions to complete their degrees in occupational therapy. 

The Doctor of Physical Therapy program will continue at the Mayfair Campus, where it remains committed to offering hands-on learning through its student-run clinic.