Occupational Therapy Assistant

The pre-occupational therapy assistant program builds the academic and professional foundation needed to successfully enter the Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) program and prepare for a career as an occupational therapy assistant. In the pre-occupational therapy assistant program, general education classes help students build the core skills needed to succeed in the OTA program and in clinical practice. Students develop a strong understanding of written and verbal communication, critical thinking, and basic math skills that support accurate documentation, clear patient instructions, and safe clinical decision-making. These courses also strengthen study skills, time management, and professional behaviors that are essential for keeping up with the academic and clinical demands of an OTA program.

The pre-occupational therapy assistant program is designed as a preparation track and does not lead to a degree. Students who decide not to pursue OTA will need to work with their Education Navigator to transition into a different degree pathway.

The Occupational Therapy Assistant program prepares students to work under the supervision of a licensed occupational therapist to help individuals develop, recover, and maintain the skills needed for daily living and working. Students learn to assist with screening, assessment, treatment planning, and implementation of therapeutic interventions while documenting client progress. Coursework includes human growth and development, conditions that impact daily function, occupational therapy theory and processes, therapeutic activities, and strategies for adapting tasks and environments to meet client needs. Graduates are eligible to sit for the national certification examination and pursue careers in a variety of settings, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, long-term care facilities, schools, home health, and community-based programs.