OT program earns top ranks in U.S. News
Introduction
AHS’ doctoral occupational therapy programs are among the best in the country, according to the 2026 U.S. News & World Report’s Best Graduate Schools.
The list, released April 7, includes overall rankings that assess performance across an institution and specialty rankings, which evaluate individual disciplines, such as occupational therapy. UIC’s OT program ranked fifth in the nation, tied with University of Southern California, University of North Carolina Chapel Hill and Washington University in St. Louis. UIC's physical therapy program was also nationally recognized, ranking in the 33rd spot.
This distinction reflects the OT department’s strong reputation within the profession.
“As the standards for excellence in occupational therapy education continue to rise, the UIC OT community remains committed to shaping the future of the field, amplifying UIC’s mission to provide the broadest access to the highest levels of education, research and clinical excellence,” said OT department head Susan Magasi ’02 MS OT, ’06 PhD DS.
“Our shared commitment to innovation and impact unites every member of our community to ensure that clients and communities receive evidence-informed, theory-driven services that support meaningful participation in the things that they want and need to do.”
“That is the beauty of this program and the power of the profession of occupational therapy,” said Magasi.
This article has been edited for length and clarity by Emily Parenti-Lopez.