Clarkson University Launches New Scholarship Initiative for Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy Students

January 21, 2026

Clarkson University has launched a new scholarship initiative to support students enrolled in its Master of Science in Occupational Therapy and Doctor of Physical Therapy programs within the Lewis School of Health and Life Sciences.

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A physical therapy student simulates a patient using a walker next to a vehicle in a simulation lab as another student practices aiding the patient

The new institutional scholarships, outlined on Clarkson’s Occupational Therapy and Doctor of Physical Therapy program webpages, are designed to support students pursuing rigorous academic and clinical training. By investing directly in scholarships, Clarkson aims to help students focus on professional preparation and long-term career success in health care.

The scholarships are designed with affordability in mind and complement existing federal loan options for students pursuing advanced clinical and academic training.

Among the scholarship opportunities is support for students from the North Country, helping local residents, as well as students who choose to study in the region, pursue careers in occupational therapy and physical therapy. 

Additional awards are available for first-generation college students, students with notable community or service involvement, and those active in athletics. Clarkson also offers the New York Care Forward Scholarship for students from outside New York state who plan to contribute to health care needs in underserved communities.

“Our scholarships reflect Clarkson’s commitment to supporting the next generation of occupational therapists and to making an exceptional occupational therapy education accessible, especially for those who call the North Country home and those who have chosen to make it their home while studying here,” said Alisha Ohl, associate professor and director of the Occupational Therapy program.

Samantha Marocco, chair of the Department of Doctor of Physical Therapy, emphasized the broader impact of the initiative. 

“Clarkson University is dedicated to fostering the next generation of physical therapists and ensuring that an exceptional physical therapy education is financially accessible,” Marocco said. “These scholarships represent Clarkson’s belief in rewarding initiative, experience, resilience and community engagement.”

Qualified incoming students may earn between $20,000 and $25,500 in total scholarship support. The program also includes awards for students who accept admission early, demonstrate strong academic achievement, or bring professional or health care experience. Additional scholarships support students from colleges and universities with which the Lewis School maintains articulation agreements.

More information is available on Clarkson's Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy websites.

Clarkson University is a proven leader in technological education, research, innovation and sustainable economic development. With its main campus in Potsdam, N.Y., and additional graduate program and research facilities in the Capital Region and Hudson Valley, Clarkson faculty have a direct impact on more than 7,800 students annually through nationally recognized undergraduate and graduate STEM designated degrees in engineering, business, science and health professions; executive education, industry-relevant credentials and K-12 STEM programs. Alumni earn salaries among the top 2% in the nation: one in five already leads in the c-suite. To learn more go to www.clarkson.edu.
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