Post-Professional Doctor of Occupational Therapy (Online)

Doctoral Capstone

The Doctoral Capstone project is designed to help students develop comprehensive expertise in a specific area of interest. It comprises written, experiential, and oral components.

Preparation for the Capstone project is integrated throughout the program. Each term includes a dedicated capstone preparation course. In Terms 1 and 2, students are introduced to the foundational elements of their capstone project. In Term 1, Scholarly Research focuses on applying evidence-based practice principles to formulate research questions. Students will conduct a needs assessment related to their advanced certification track and begin shaping their capstone project through faculty-led discussions. Term 2, in Doctoral Mentorship, emphasizes refining the capstone project by developing a detailed proposal that outlines implementation, evaluation, and dissemination strategies.

In Terms 3 and 4, Doctoral Capstone Project I & II courses support the implementation phase of the scholarly project. Students will engage with a capstone mentor through a structured supervision plan to demonstrate their growing expertise. Term 4 will concentrate on data collection, analysis, program evaluation, discussion, and results. At the end of Doctoral Capstone Project II, students will prepare a poster presentation for review by faculty and peers.

The Doctoral Capstone project is a critical academic and professional milestone. It offers students an opportunity to demonstrate innovative thinking on relevant issues in occupational therapy. Many capstone projects lead to publications or evolve into future research opportunities or career advancements in the healthcare field.