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News & Events
Canisius, St. Bonaventure launch OT master's pathway
Jul 8, 2026
A new articulation agreement between Canisius University and St. Bonaventure University 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 annually 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, Ph.D., professor and chair of kinesiology and associate dean of the School of Behavioral and Health Studies at Canisius. “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, Ed.D., chair, assistant professor and academic fieldwork coordinator in the Department of Occupational Therapy at St. Bonaventure. “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.”
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Explore SBU your way! Next option:
Explore St. Bonaventure your way with campus tours, Discovery Days, Open Houses and personalized visits this fall!
Fall Open Houses
Saturday, Oct. 3 & Saturday, Oct. 24
Dennis R. DePerro School of Health Professions Discovery Day
Friday, Oct. 16
Schools of Communication and Education Discovery Day
Friday, Nov. 6
Jandoli School of Communication | School of Education
Veterans Day Discovery Day, featuring the School of Business
Wednesday, Nov. 11
LEARN MORE ABOUT VISITING SBU
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Master's Entry to Practice (MEP) Nursing VIRTUAL Info Session
Learn more about the Master's Entry to Practice program in our virtual information session.
- 12:30- 1:30 p.m., Monday, October 5, 2026; register now
A Zoom meeting link will be sent to registrants.
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Francis: A New Oratorio by Richard Danielpour
Experience the world premiere of Francis, a powerful new oratorio by acclaimed composer Richard Danielpour inspired by the life of St. Francis of Assisi and commemorating the 800th anniversary of his death. Featuring a libretto by Sr. Margaret Carney, O.S.F. Led by JoAnn Falletta and featuring Claudia Christian as narrator, the performance brings together the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra and Buffalo Philharmonic Chorus for an unforgettable musical experience.
Sunday, October 11 | 2:30pm
- Kleinhans Music Hall
3 Symphony Circle
Buffalo, NY 14201A special ticket price of $40 is available for seats labeled pink and dark blue on the seating chart. Use promo code FRANCISJUBILEE when purchasing tickets online, or call the BPO Box Office at 716-885-5000 and mention the promo code. Tickets on sale now!
Before the Performance:
A Special Bonaventure Luncheon (NEW TIME 11:30AM)Join Sr. Margaret at Marcato by Oliver’s at Kleinhans Music Hall as she shares reflections on bringing the oratorio to life. The luncheon is free, but registration is required by Oct. 5. Performance tickets must be purchased separately.
RESERVE YOUR PLACE AT THE LUNCHEON
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Rochester Mountain On The Road
Thursday, October 15 | 6:30pm-8pm
Our Lady of Mercy School
1437 Blossom Road
Rochester, NY
For more than 20 years, St. Bonaventure University and Mt. Irenaeus have brought the spirit of the Mountain to alumni communities across the country, creating opportunities to reconnect, reflect and share in the Franciscan tradition.
Each gathering offers a taste of the Mountain experience, including a prayer service or liturgy followed by time for conversation and fellowship. It’s a chance to reconnect with familiar faces, make new connections and experience the welcoming sense of community that makes the Mountain so special.
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2026 Hellinger Award
The annual Hellinger Awards Ceremony honors the Jandoli School’s top graduates and recognizes the accomplishments of outstanding alumni. We look forward to honoring 2026 Hellinger Award recipient David Scibilia, honorable mention Conor Amendola, Alumnus of the Year Dr. Michael Hill and welcoming keynote speaker Lisa Wilson, a groundbreaking sports journalist and editorial director at The Athletic.
Aloft Hotel, Grand Aeries Room | 500 Pearl Street | Buffalo, NY 14202
Reception and open bar at 5:30 p.m. | Program at 6:30 p.m.
There is a hotel block at the Aloft, providing convenient access to the event and accommodations. You can make your hotel reservations here through Sept. 25.
For questions about sponsorships or advertising, or to arrange a payment method other than credit card, please contact Ashley Childs at achilds@sbu.edu
Registration and sponsorship information is now available here.
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St. Bonaventure MBB vs. Penn State
Join fellow Bonnies to root on the men’s basketball team as they face Penn State in an exhibition game at the Key Bank Center in Buffalo, NY at 4:00 p.m.
All courtside seats (first row) and floor seats on risers (second row) in sections 1-10 include access to the 1970 Club located behind Section 123. The 1970 Club will include a cash bar that will open at 1:30 p.m. and food served at 3:00 p.m.
Additional pre-game reception information will be announced soon.
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Bonnies vs. Penn State Pre-Game Event
Get ready for tipoff with fellow Bonnies alumni, fans and friends!
Join us for a pre-game gathering at The Draft Room inside Labatt Brew House before St. Bonaventure takes on Penn State at KeyBank Center.
Saturday, Oct. 17
1:30–3:30 p.m.
The Draft Room at Labatt Brew House
79 Perry St., Buffalo, NYFREE to attend but registration is required. REGISTER HERE
Enjoy time with the Bona community before heading over to KeyBank Center for the 4 p.m. tipoff.
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Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT) Q & A Session - VIRTUAL
, St. BonaventureJoin us for a Q & A session to learn more about the Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT) program at St. Bonaventure University! Discover how our innovative curriculum, hands-on clinical experiences, and dedicated faculty prepare students to become compassionate and skilled OT professionals. This session will provide an overview of the program, admission requirements, and the unique opportunities available to our students.
Register here