Buffalo, NY – Canisius University has announced a new articulation agreement with St. Bonaventure University that creates a direct pathway for students to earn a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT). Under the agreement, qualified Canisius students are guaranteed admission to St. Bonaventure University’s nationally accredited MSOT program after completing their undergraduate degree.
The agreement comes as demand for occupational therapists accelerates. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, an aging population and the growing prevalence of chronic conditions are expected to drive a 14% growth in the field through 2034, with roughly 10,200 job openings anticipated annual over that period. The median annual wage for occupational therapists was $98,340 in May 2024.
“Occupational therapy is a rapidly growing profession that helps individuals of all ages achieve greater independence and quality of life,” said Karl F. Kozlowski, PhD, professor and chair of kinesiology and associate dean of the School of Behavioral and Health Studies at Canisius University. “This partnership creates an exceptional opportunity for our students by providing a clear and supportive pathway into a highly respected, mission-driven graduate program, while also helping address workforce needs in healthcare.”
The partnership is open to Canisius University students majoring in Health & Wellness or Sports & Exercise Health Care. Students who maintain a minimum 3.2 GPA, complete required prerequisite coursework, and are nominated by the Canisius Department of Kinesiology will receive guaranteed admission to St. Bonaventure’s program.
St. Bonaventure’s MSOT program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education. The 23-month, full-time program (five semesters) prepares students for licensure as occupational therapists through a combination of classroom instruction, clinical experiences and fieldwork placements. Students graduate equipped to work in a variety of healthcare, educational and community settings, and to help individuals overcome physical, cognitive and developmental challenges.
“We are excited to partner with Canisius University to provide students with a direct route into the occupational therapy profession,” said Suzanne Marasco, EdD, chair, assistant professor and academic fieldwork coordinator in the Department of Occupational Therapy at St. Bonaventure University. “Students from Canisius bring strong academic preparation and a commitment to service that aligns well with our mission of preparing compassionate and skilled healthcare professionals.”
The new pathway advances Canisius University’s strategic plan, Answer the Call, which prioritizes the expansion of academic partnerships and program offerings in high-demand fields. In recent months, the university has announced graduate and professional pathways in engineering and computer science with Syracuse University, healthcare administration with Boston College and chiropractic care with Northeast College of Health Sciences. Canisius also introduced an accelerated MD pathway with Western Atlantic University School of Medicine.
For more information on the new articulation agreement between Canisius University and St. Bonaventure University, click here or contact Audrey R. Browka, director of public relations, at 716-888-2792 / @email.
Canisius was founded in 1870 in Buffalo, NY, and is one of 27 Jesuit colleges and universities in the U.S. Consistently ranked among the top institutions in the Northeast, Canisius offers undergraduate, graduate and pre-professional programs distinguished by close student-faculty collaboration, mentoring and an emphasis on ethical, purpose-driven leadership.
