Preparing for a degree as an occupational therapy assistant is very achievable. Especially, if you know what program you are looking for and are willing to put in the time set yourself apart from other candidates. Here are a few useful tips to help you shine above the rest!
How do I prepare for a degree as an occupational therapy assistant?
- Request occupational therapy assistant program information. According to the Accreditation Council of Occupational Therapy Education there are over 250 occupational therapy assistant programs. Though many share some of the same requirements for admission each program will offer a different flavor of OT. Some programs are gears more for traditional students, where as others will involve more online course work. Requesting information from the OTA programs you want to explore helps you to make a wise, informed decision about your education.
- Hands-on experiences is highly recommended. Job shadowing an occupational therapist or an occupational therapy assistant can really get your foot in the door. In addition, it give you valuable experience seeing what OT’s all about. Often, you can contact a local occupational therapist or an occupational therapy assistant to see if they will allow you observe them for a day or even a few hours. Most OT’s would be happy to accommodate you. Another option is to volunteer with an occupational therapy department in a hospital, clinic, or school. Whether job shadowing or volunteering be sure to record all your hours as many OT programs require observation hours for acceptance. A good number to aim for is about 50 hours of job shadowing in a variety of settings.
- Interview an occupational therapy assistant. Most OTA’s would be more than happy to talk to you about what they do. It’s a good way to get a snap shot of what the job and profession is all about. It’s also a great way to open doors for future job shadow opportunities.
- Maintain relationships with teachers and occupational therapy assistants you shadow. Most OTA schools require you to have a total of 2-3 letters of recommendation from teachers you’ve had and occupational therapists you’ve shadowed. By maintaining contact with these professionals you can ensure that they’ll write you a strong recommendation when you apply for OTA school.
- Begin completing prerequisite courses. Most OTA schools have some prerequisite courses that have to be complete before applying. Coursework can vary from program to program but generally includes classes like: anatomy, human development, algebra, communications, and a writing class. Typically, OTA schools like to see that you’ve taken these courses in the last 5 years and gotten a “C” grade or better.
- Take an Intro to OT/OTA course. Many colleges and universities that have OT programs offer an Introduction to OT course. This course looks good on your application to the program and also will help you decide if OT/OTA school is right for you.
What are my occupational therapy assistant degree options?
Two degree options are available at programs throughout the United States, depending on the career path you wish to pursue.
- Occupational Therapy Assistant Associates Degree: This degree typically takes two years to complete after finishing the prerequisites for your OTA program. Prerequisites can usually be finished in one semester. Course work often involves in-person labs and lectures, along with online courses and assignments. Towards the end of your program you will complete 2 fieldwork experiences that typically last 8 weeks. During your fieldwork you provide patient care under the supervision of an OT.
- Occupational Therapy Assistant Baccalaureate Degree: This degree prepares you to be an OTA, but affords you the prestige and accolades of earning a bachelors degree. Typically course work, labs, and fieldworks are all completed in 4 years. Like an associates degree, you complete two 8 week fieldworks towards the end of your program.
Wherever you choose to go, be sure it is accredited by Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE).
After completing my OTA program, what’s next?
The final step to becoming an occupational therapy assistant is passing the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy Exam for OTA’s. This exam take about 4 hours to complete and is offered every month at testing centers across the United States. Most states require licensure; contact the Department of Professional Licensing in your state to determine the requirements.
Finally, you are ready to join occupational therapy assistants throughout the country in using your skills to provide excellent patient care!
Where will an occupational therapy assistant degree take me?
An occupational therapy assistant degree will open your world to a rewarding and meaningful career helping people live life to the fullest after illness, injury, or disability. You’ll become a creative problem-solver who promotes independence in daily activities. You’ll also find incredible satisfaction when patients overcome functional limitations as a result of your efforts.
In addition, you will find a stable work environment and opportunities to advance your career based on your interests and lifestyle. You can expect to see an incredible 35% job growth over the next 10 years, as well as an average salary of over $61,000 a year. The future is bright for occupational therapy assistants!