Indigenous Applicants
Western University values diversity and we strongly encourage Indigenous students to apply to our MScOT graduate program.
The Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MScOT) program at Western University prepares future occupational therapists for meaningful occupation-based practice by providing a venue of critical thinking, collaboration, a local-to-global perspective and a focus on social justice and equity. We foster an environment of respect and value where Indigenous applicants can thrive. We deliver on this commitment through equitable admission practices and review and evaluation of Indigenous applicant files that reflect these values. We endeavour to elevate applicants who have demonstrated the academic and personal attributes which will allow for successful completion of the program while prioritizing candidates who can enrich the program and profession through their life experience.
We reserve a minimum of 5 spots each year for Indigenous applicants who are Canadian citizens and have completed a 4-year undergraduate degree. Indigenous applications are reviewed wholistically on a case-by-case basis. To support student success in the program, a minimum sub-GPA of 3.0 is strongly recommended.
To be considered for these designated spots, you must affirm your claim to Indigenous citizenship or membership in accordance with Western University's Policy for Affirming Declarations of Indigenous Citizenship or Membership (MAPP 1.58).
As part of this process, applicants are required to complete the Student Declaration of Indigenous Citizenship or Membership Form and upload the following:
- Any two documents demonstrating proof of citizenship or membership to the Indigenous Nation claiming you, and
- A statement of relational positionality, which outlines your lived experience, lineal descent, and community connection (per guidance provided in the List of Approved Modes of Affirmation).
For questions or assistance with this process, please contact the Office of Indigenous Initiatives at indigenous.affirmation@uwo.ca.
You must self-identify as an Indigenous student in the ORPAS application to be considered for these seats. This does not remove your application from the general applicant pool.
Confidentiality
All personal documentation is kept in strictest confidence and securely housed within the Indigenous Student Centre. The personal information is collected under the authority of the University of Western Ontario Act, 1982. The information is collected for the purposes of offering accessible admission pathways for Indigenous applicants and providing additional support to applicants who become students. For further information about this collection, please contact the Indigenous Student Centre, Western University, London, ON, N6A 3K7; Phone 1-519-661-4095.
