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What is an Occupational Therapy Assistant?

An occupational therapy assistant (OTA) is a professional responsible for assisting occupational therapists through performing daily duties, providing clerical assistance, and treating patients regularly as part of a regiment outlined by their supervisor. Occupational therapy are  responsible for treating patients under duress through education, treatment, preventative care, and exercise therapy. Individuals work closely with their patients and must be familiar with the various machines and techniques used to assist them in recuperation and training. Individuals in this field are required to stand for excessive periods of time and must be able to maintain a pleasant and positive demeanor with clients and patients.

Career Summary

MEDIAN SALARY

$59,530

PERCENT ABOVE NATIONAL
INCOME AVERAGE

37.74%

TOTAL SECTOR EMPLOYMENT

38,170

Degree Median Salary vs Adjacent Degree Types

Source: BLS, US Census, and IPEDS

2024 Best Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) Schools

Rutgers University-New Brunswick (New Brunswick, NJ) is a public research university recognized for its scientific innovations. The university provides all levels of academic advancements. It provides accessible education through online courses, satellite campuses, certificate programs, professional education, and lifelong learning programs to cater to everyone. Busch Campus in Piscataway offers the Occupational Therapy Assistant degree program. Students are expected to serve and help people of all ages who are disadvantaged or ill to get back and participate in meaningful occupations. Graduates are eligible to sit down and take the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exams.

Acceptance Rate

61.22

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

Career Training Solutions (Fredericksburg, VA) also known as Eastern Virginia Career College aims to train and educate students to be the best professionals in the healthcare and medical industry. The college provides hands-on training that serves as a practice for students to enhance their skills and knowledge. Some of the popular programs from EVCC are Medical Assistant, Medical Insurance Specialist, Phlebotomy, and Practical Nurse programs. Occupational therapy assistant is an associate’s degree that prepares students to assume entry-level roles in the industry. The college provides a 12-month program composed of high quality theoretical courses, and laboratory and clinical experiences. Students are also required to take General Education courses to pass the program. 

Acceptance Rate

63.89

Tuition

$31,479 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

5:1

Howard University (Washington, DC) is a private university also recognized as one of the historically black universities (HBCU). It offers more than a hundred academic programs which is distinctively higher than other universities of its type. It offers undergraduate and graduate programs including professional programs.  Howard University focuses on providing quality health and medical education to its students. Occupational Therapy Assistant degree program is offered at the graduate level leading to a doctoral degree. The program aims to address the health-related needs of Blacks and underserved populations. Students who seek further knowledge and advance skills can take a post-professional OTD degree. 

Acceptance Rate

36.08

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1

Stanbridge University (Irvine, CA) private technical college focused on providing education and skills training for both students and adults. Several programs in Stanbridge are delivered through on-campus lectures and training, some are available online through the Stanbridge University Edverum. The Occupational Therapy Assistant major program leads to an associate degree. Students will learn about the basic skills to be able to assist people with physical and mental limitations. Graduates of the program are eligible for the NBCOT exam. 

Acceptance Rate

63.33

Tuition

$33,751 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

15:1

Fox College (Bedford Park, IL) is a higher learning institution awarding diplomas and associate degrees. It provides career-focused courses and professional programs. Every program in Fox College is designed to address the needs of the industry and employers. The degree in Occupational Therapy Assistant is a 20-month program that requires Level II fieldwork completion. It is an accelerated program that focuses on enhancing the skills of students. Graduates are qualified to sit down for the NBCOT.  

Acceptance Rate

61.84

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

Cabarrus College of Health Sciences (Concord, NC) is a private degree-granting institution specializing in health sciences programs. The college provides undergraduate programs and a few master’s programs for interested students. It also has programs for professionals to further their skills and expand their knowledge. Occupational Therapy Assistant is an associate degree program that prepares students to be skilled entry-level generalist clinicians.The proximity of the college to several partner medical centers and clinics allows students to train clinical skills. Graduates are eligible to sit for the national certification examinations. 

Acceptance Rate

27.65

Student to Faculty Ratio

7:1

Touro College (New York, NY) is a private Jewish college that aims to transmit and perpetuate the Jewish heritage. It grants degrees on undergraduate and graduate levels. The School of Health Sciences offers occupational therapy undergraduate programs. Students are expected to handle complex situations in a professional and right way. A full-time fieldwork experience is required for students to undergo. Touro’s OTA degree at Touro College is conferred as a BS/MS program. Students will earn a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences and a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy within three years. 

Acceptance Rate

69.42

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

St Catherine University (St. Paul, MN) is a private university offering a wide range of academic opportunities. It is one of the oldest higher learning institutions dedicated for women in the Midwest. The university offers baccalaureate programs for women and a co-educational graduate and associate programs. Occupational Therapy Assistant is an associate degree program delivered online. Students who apply to this program are required to undergo lab and fieldwork. Students can conduct this requirement across these regions - Minnesota, Virginia, California, or Texas. 

Acceptance Rate

67.33

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1

St Louis College of Health Careers-Fenton (Fenton, MO) operates as a private higher education institution that focuses on providing allied health and medical programs. The college provides training to students and professionals who aim to have a career in these particular fields. Occupational Therapy Assistant degree program students are trained to provide effective help for patients who are limited by their physical or mental disability. Students are also trained to provide holistic treatment plans for patients of all ages. Graduates can immediately assume OTA roles with direct supervision from an occupational therapist. 

Acceptance Rate

100

Tuition

$30,466 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

30:1

New England Institute of Technology (Warwick, RI) is a private institute that focuses on providing career and technical programs. Occupational Therapy Assistant is an associate program that prepares students through classroom training and field work opportunities. Graduates are eligible to sit on national certification exams. OTAs assist people of all ages with varying conditions to gain independence through different occupations. 

Acceptance Rate

63.2

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

Radford University (Raford, VA) is a public university that offers coeducational and comprehensive academic programs. It offers undergraduate and graduate programs. Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) Program leads to an Associate of Applied Science degree. It is a two-year program open for students from all educational backgrounds. High school students and adults who want to shift careers are welcome to take this program. The university maintains a small class size for a more individualized and hands-on learning experience. 

Acceptance Rate

75.32

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

Newman University (Wichita, KS) is a private liberal arts university. It offers a wide range of undergraduate programs and several pre-professional programs. The university grants an Associate of Science in Health Science in Occupational Therapy Assistant degree. The program provides hands-on learning and laboratory experiences allowing students to be more skilled. Graduates are eligible to take the NBCOT examination.

Acceptance Rate

67.47

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

Concorde Career Institute-Miramar (Miramar, FL) is a small college offering a wide variety of health and medical professional programs. The institute grants associate’s, and bachelor’s degrees. It also offers diploma courses. Some of the popular programs offered in Miramar campus are dental assistant, medical assistant, occupational therapist assistant, pharmacy technician, respiratory therapy and more.  Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant is a 21-month program that leads to an associate degree. Students are expected to learn essential skills that can help every patient with their needs together with a licensed OT. Patient care health programs in Concorde are designed to keep up with one of the fastest growing healthcare sectors. 

Acceptance Rate

88.35

Tuition

$43,552 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

36:1

Concorde Career Institute-Memphis (Memphis, TN) is a small college offering a wide variety of health and medical professional programs. The institute grants associate’s, and bachelor’s degrees. It also offers diploma courses. Some of the popular programs offered in Memphis campus are dental hygiene, massage therapy, medical assisting, radiologic technology, surgical technology, and more. Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant is a 21-month program that leads to an associate degree. Students are expected to learn essential skills that can help every patient with their needs together with a licensed OT. Patient care health programs in Concorde are designed to keep up with one of the fastest growing healthcare sectors. 

Acceptance Rate

93.38

Tuition

$15,840 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

35:1

Arkansas State University (Jonesboro, AR) is a public research university that offers a wide range of academic programs. The university is also recognized for its active research programs. Occupational therapy assistant is a program that leads to an Associate in Applied Science degree. OTAs work under the direction and supervision of occupational therapists. The program is designed to train students to meet the needs and requirements of the industry. Graduates are eligible to take state and national certification exams. 

Acceptance Rate

79.91

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

Herzing University (Minneapolis, MN) is a private university that has a headquarters in  Milwaukee, WI. The university also manages several academic locations across the United States. Most programs in the university are in nursing, technology, business and healthcare. The Occupational therapy assistants program is offered in Minneapolis, MN campus. It is a 24-month program that provides a hands-on and career-focused education. All general education courses are delivered online. 

Acceptance Rate

79.31

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

Baptist Health College of Little Rock (Little Rock,AR) grants certifications and associate degrees. BHSLR is a small private college with a small student population. It specializes in providing health and medical related programs. The Occupational Therapy Assistant major is a 21-month program that leads to an associate degree. The college allows web-based access to some courses for this program. Graduates of this program are expected to assist individuals of all ages who need attention and care across all clinical settings. 

Acceptance Rate

100

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1

Siena Heights University (Adrian, MI) is a nonprofit private institution offering a wide range of programs. The school values its Roman Catholic affiliation and it plays an important role in the school’s vision. Some popular programs in SHU are liberal arts and sciences, business and marketing, and public administration and social services. Aside from academics, SHU also has active athletic programs. The student population in the school is fairly low compared to nearby colleges. 

Acceptance Rate

73.4

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

University of Southern Indiana (Evansville, IN) is a public university that offers education to undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral students. It also offers continuing education and special programs for professionals and adults. An Associate of Science Degree with a major in Occupational Therapy Assistant is offered at the university. Theoretical and practical courses are provided to students. These courses will equip them to be skilled generalist practitioners in the field. Graduates are encouraged to pursue a Bachelors of Science degree in Health Services.

Acceptance Rate

93.32

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

University of the Incarnate Word (San Antonio, TX) is a private Catholic university that also manages high schools and elementary schools. It offers undergraduate and graduate academic programs, international opportunities for students, and professional studies. Occupational Therapy Assistant is offered as an associate’s degree program. Classroom instructions are given as well as practical training. Before completing this program, students are required to undergo community service. 

Acceptance Rate

93.77

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

Adventist University of Health Sciences (Orlando, FL) is a Seventh Day Adventist University of Health Sciences. Academic programs are delivered on-campus - Denver or Orlando; or online. AHU is organized into eight departments all are medical and allied health related. Students taking up the Occupational Therapy Assistant program are exposed to clinical settings and are trained with the fundamentals of occupational therapy practice. The program leads to an Associate of Science degree upon completion after two years. 

Acceptance Rate

50.53

Student to Faculty Ratio

7:1

University of Louisiana at Monroe (Monroe, LA) is a public university that offers a variety of undergraduate majors and several graduate programs. The occupational therapy assistant program is conducted within five semesters. The program is divided into two segments - pre-occupational therapy assistant (POTA) and occupational therapy assistant (OCTA). Students are required to complete a Level II fieldwork which is a minimum of 16 weeks of full-time work across clinical settings approved by the university. Successful students who completed the program are eligible to sit on national certification exams. 

Acceptance Rate

80.04

Student to Faculty Ratio

20:1

Central Methodist University (Fayette, MO) is a private university that grants master's, bachelor's, and associate degrees. Occupational Therapy Assistant program trains individuals to assume clinical roles under the supervision of a licensed occupational therapist. Students can expect technical courses to be delivered through hands-on learning in the classroom and laboratory. Graduates will earn an Associate of Applied Science degree. Interested students can pursue a Bachelor of Science degree. 

Acceptance Rate

93.23

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

University of Charleston (Charleston, WV) is a private nonprofit university that focuses on employing six competencies - Citizenship, Communication, Creativity, Critical Thinking, Ethical Practice, and Science to its students. Associate of Science in Occupational Therapy Assistant is a two-year program that prepares individuals to be clinical generalists in the field. The program is offered in both Beckley and Charleston campuses. A Level II fieldwork is required before program completion.  

Acceptance Rate

50.04

Student to Faculty Ratio

15:1

Mercy College (Dobbs Ferry, NY) is a private learning institution that offers a wide range of academic programs. The college aims to ensure that graduates are equipped with relevant skills and knowledge before joining the workforce. Occupational Therapy Assistant program leads to an Associate in Applied Science program. Full time and part time admissions are offered in the college and the program can be completed within two years. Upon graduation, students can take the occupational therapy assistant certification exam and immediately take on roles as an entry level generalist. 

Acceptance Rate

81.62

Student to Faculty Ratio

17:1

Difference Between Occupational Therapy Assistants and Occupational Therapy Aides

With similar and often confusing acronyms, we have received dozens of student communication regarding differences between occupational therapy assistants and occupational therapy aids. There are significant differences and the two are contract below to help demystify the differences between the two jobs.

Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA)

The job title and college degree description of an Occupational Therapy Assistant in known as an OTA and should not be used to describe an Occupational Therapy Aide. For clarity, we will utilize OTA for the balance of this section in a bullet point format.

  • OTAs will treat patients under the direct supervision of a licensed OT
  • An OTA requires students to earn an Associate Degree
  • During degree programs, OTAs are required to complete supervised fieldwork
  • OTA academic programs are ACOTE accredited
  • An OTA are eligible to become certified and licensed in their state of residence by passing the NBCOT COTA certification examination.
  • Upon passing the NBCOT COTA exam, an OTA can earn a Certification in Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) designation

Occupational Therapy Aide

An occupational therapy aide is trained to provide support to OTAs and OTs. In order to become an occupational therapy aide, students will need a high school diploma or higher plus on the job training. Currently occupational therapy aides are not eligible for licensure nor certification and aide programs are not accredited by ACOTE.

Educational Requirements for an OTA

An individual pursuing a career as an occupational therapy assistant must first an associate degree or diploma which may be earned through a certified program offered at a community college or private career school. Such a program takes between one and two years to complete and provides the student with the education required to perform the duties of an assistant through courses such as physiology and anatomy which familiarize the student with the human body. Students will also be exposed to a cross section of sciences as well as a number of courses that educate the students on the use of equipment and implementation of therapies necessary in the field of occupational therapy.

Courses in occupational therapy assistance may include:

  • General Anatomy
  • Developmental Physiology
  • Occupational Theory and Practice
  • Speech
  • Assistive Technology and Adaptations
Schools Other Students Requested Information From:

Employment Opportunities for OTA's

Occupational therapy assistants will work under a professional occupation therapist, administering care and treatment to patients suffering from any of a variety of ailments that may be attended to through occupational therapy. Such assistants typically educate patients in the various exercises to be performed or how to operate and utilize equipment that may assist in therapeutic treatment. Additionally, assistant will record patient histories and note progress made through treatment over time, particularly for patients that require more routine care.

Most states require occupational therapy assistants to pursue licensure prior to employment. Individuals pursuing licensure typically must complete an accredited program of study and pass a state issued examination. Additionally, maintaining licensure may require annual or biannual continuing education courses be taken. The process of licensure will vary by state. Certification is also available through the passing of an exam offered The National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy allowing for use of the term Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA).

Most Popular Job Titles for an OTA

Across the nation, you will find an array of job titles for an Occupational Therapy Assistant. In most cases, the job responsibilities will be virtually identical which is why it is important to understand the variations of the OTA job and associated nomenclature.

  • Acute Care Occupational Therapy Assistant
  • Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant (COTA)
  • Occupational Therapist Assistant
  • Staff Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant/Licensed (Staff COTA/L)
  • Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA)
  • Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant-Licensed (COTA-L)
  • Licensed Occupational Therapy Assistant
  • School Based Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant
  • Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant/Licensed (COTA/L)
  • Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA)

Top Job Responsibilities of an Occupational Therapy Assistant

Upon the completion of a recent survey by the United States Department of Labor, OTAs from around the country provided insight into their typical job duties. We have assembled a list of the top 5 job responsibilities of an occupational therapy assistant below for your reference.

  1. Carefully manage performance in therapy activities and provide education, coaching, and counseling as appropriate
  2. Determine what therapy activities a patient can complete and establish short-term and long-term goals
  3. Instruct and assist patients with home-based therapy programs, essential living skills, and utilization of adaptive tools
  4. Encourage and motivate patient before, during, and after treatment plans
  5. Carefully log verbal, physical, and non-verbal patient information for future reference

States with the Highest Employment of Occupational Therapists

  • Texas 3,750
  • Ohio 3,480
  • Illinois 2,460
  • Pennsylvania 2,350
  • New York 2,300

Top Paying States for an Occupational Therapist

  1. Texas $74,070
  2. Arkansas $67,290
  3. New Jersey $66,120
  4. Maryland $65,350
  5. California $64,870

Top Employers of Occupational Therapists

  • Health Practitioners Offices 16,200
  • Nursing Care Facilities 7,360
  • Medical & Surgical Hospitals 4,500
  • Home Health Care 2,270
  • Primary & Secondary Schools 1,830

Job Growth, Salary and Related Therapy Fields

Job growth for occupational therapy assistants is expected to increase by an astounding 40% according to the BLS over the next decade due primarily to the need for professionals in the field due to the aging population in the United States. This growth in OTA's equates to an additional 23,600 jobs being created in the coming decade. Occupational therapy assistants earn approximately $56,070 per year. Individuals working in more populated areas are expected to earn more. Individuals interested in career advancement typically choose to at some point continue their education, pursuing a degree in occupational therapy.

Individuals interested in becoming an occupational therapy assistant may also be interested in becoming a pharmacy technician, medical assistant, or veterinary assistant.

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