The effectiveness of master's degree programs for occupational therapists.

Are graduates of master's degree programs in occupational therapy satisfied with the content of their programs and the results of their studies? Are these programs commensurate with the needs of the occupational therapy profession in the development of skilled practitioners, educators, administrators, and researchers. These two questions provided the framework for an investigation to determine the needs, trends, strengths, and weaknesses of graduate study in occupational therapy in the United States today. The responses of 100 occupational therapists from 12 universities, 61.4 per cent of those who received questionnaires, were tabulated and analyzed. The results presented a composite picture of master's degree programs in occupational therapy and other graduate programs such as education, vocational rehabilitation, and special education. The conclusions suggest that requirements of the master's programs encourage independent inquiry, provide for the individual's academic needs, and prepare researchers. However, the programs are only partially fulfilling the requirements of the profession for skilled practitioners and educators.