Pre-Occupational Therapy at North Park

The pre-occupational therapy track provides the coursework and advising needed to build a strong foundation for optometry school applications. This track pairs with a major—typically biology, psychology, or health sciences —giving you essential knowledge in life sciences and human biology. 

Pre-professional tracks help you build a strong foundation for graduate school or professional programs. These tracks aren’t standalone majors, but a curated set of courses designed to complement your chosen field of study. Your advisors will help you explore your interests in occupational therapy, stay on track academically, and prepare for occupational therapy school applications and interviews.

Featured course

BIOL 1250–Introduction to Human Anatomy

Includes structure and organization of human organ systems emphasizing skeletal, muscular, digestive, circulatory, respiratory, nervous, and urogenital systems. Lab included with cadaver demonstrations. It is recommended that the student complete one year of high school laboratory science. This course is designed for students majoring in the sciences, healthcare, or nursing.

Recommended courses

To prepare for occupational therapy school and a career in healthcare, we recommend taking the following courses alongside your major and Core Curriculum requirements. These courses fulfill prerequisites for most occupational therapy programs, but be sure to check specific program requirements. Some courses may also count toward your major or Core Curriculum. For full course descriptions, visit the academic catalog.

Occupational therapy school admission prerequisites

• Introduction to Human Anatomy

• Advanced Human Physiology

• Introductory Statistics

• Human Lifespan Development

• Abnormal Psychology

• Introduction to Sociology

Additional recommendations

We recommend taking the GRE before or early in your third year. Most clinical program applications are submitted later that year. Applications must include proof of completed prerequisites, GRE scores, strong recommendation letters, and clinical experience.