Optional Certificates for OTD Students

Students enrolled in the OTD program have the opportunity to earn certificates in specific areas of interest, including:

Low Vision Rehabilitation: based in the OTD Division and approved by the Academy for Certification of Vision Rehabilitation & Education Professionals (ACVREP). The certificate prepares OTD students to serve a growing population of older adults and others whose visual changes impact safe participation in daily activities. Students work inter-professionally through unique learning and research experiences with the Duke Eye Center’s Vision Rehabilitation Clinic, Duke Eye Stroke Clinic, and other partners in the field. The certificate requires one 14-week course followed by a 12-week fieldwork placement and/or a 14-week capstone experience in low vision. The certificate prepares students to take the ACVREP exam to become a Certified Low Vision Therapist (CVLT). The Low Vision Rehabilitation certificate may be earned at no additional cost; enrollment is limited.

Innovation and Entrepreneurship: open to graduate and professional students across disciplines and based at Duke Innovation & Entrepreneurship, a partnership between Duke Interdisciplinary Studies and the Fuqua School of Business. Innovators, entrepreneurs, and founders who aspire to open their own practice, take an assistive device from idea to market, or position themselves to make real-world change as OT’s are encouraged to apply. The certificate complements the OTD course of study with two required business foundations classes and two electives that may be taken through OTD or other departments. OTD students may earn the I&E certificate at no additional cost.

Theology and Healthcare: offered in partnership with Duke Divinity School and designed to explore occupation and OT from a theological perspective. The certificate requires 5 courses that address questions of suffering, illness, ethics, and vocation in health care. OTD students who enroll in the certificate formally matriculate as Duke Divinity students and earn course credit that may be applied to a future graduate degree program. Download this information sheet for more details on the application process, tuition, and courses. 

Learn more about other Graduate Certificate Programs.