Occupational Therapy Doctorate |

In-person Learning Option 

Northern Arizona University (NAU) offers students the opportunity to earn their Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) degree through an in-person, full-time learning option. This cohort-based option runs Monday through Friday and is housed at the state-of-the-art Phoenix Bioscience Core (PBC) campus. One cohort of up to 45 students is admitted to the in-person OTD program each year. 

Philosophy: The NAU Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) recognizes many of our students choose the in-person option because they thrive in structured environments and benefit from daily and direct interaction with faculty and peers. This model supports relationship-building, consistent in-person engagement, and real-time feedback—all of which contribute to a rich and supportive learning environment. 

To meet these needs, the in-person learning option combines daily face-to-face instruction with blended learning approaches. These instructional methods are thoughtfully integrated to maximize learning outcomes while maintaining the structure that in-person learners value. 

In-person learning option modes of instruction 

The in-person learning option includes courses designated as either in-person learning or blended learning. 

In person learning 

All lab courses—including intervention courses—will follow the in-person mode of instruction, with at least 75% of content delivered face-to-face. Students and faculty meet in person at designated locations and scheduled times. No more than 25% of instructional time may be replaced with asynchronous activities or technology-based alternatives. 

Blended learning 

Lecture-only courses may be designated as either in-person or blended, depending on what best supports the course content. In the blended learning format, up to 50% of the course may be replaced with out-of-class learning activities. 

Examples of blended learning activities include: 

• Flipped classroom instruction 

• Community-based asynchronous experiences 

• Hands-on asynchronous learning activities 

• Clinical hours 

• Simulation technology platforms 

• Synchronous online sessions 

All blended content is integrated with weekly in-person sessions. Each course will include a clear rationale for the blended format, along with detailed expectations for time commitment and content alignment.

 The in-person learning option and hybrid weekend learning option share a common mission and curriculum. Both learning options also share the same prerequisites, admission requirements, academic calendar, length of program, number of credits, and policies.