Are you passionate about helping others regain independence and live fuller lives? If so, earning an Occupational Therapy Assistant degree could be the perfect path for you. This degree is the key to becoming a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA), a hands-on healthcare professional who supports patients recovering from injuries, illnesses, or managing long-term conditions.
Whether you’re a recent high school graduate, a career changer, or someone seeking a flexible and rewarding healthcare career, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Occupational Therapy Assistant degrees. From admission requirements and coursework to clinical fieldwork and licensing, you’ll find practical, step-by-step information to help you confidently take the next step.
Pima Medical Institute
Types of OTA Degrees
There are several educational paths available for aspiring Occupational Therapy Assistants (OTAs), depending on your goals, schedule, and long-term plans. While all OTA programs prepare you for certification and licensure, the type of degree you pursue may influence your future opportunities in the field. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types of OTA degrees:
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Occupational Therapy Assisting
The AAS in OTA is the most common degree for entry-level occupational therapy assistants. It’s designed to prepare students for immediate employment upon graduation and includes both classroom instruction and supervised fieldwork.
Key features:
- Typically takes about 2 years to complete
- Emphasizes practical, hands-on training
- Includes coursework in anatomy, medical terminology, therapeutic techniques, and documentation
- Leads directly to eligibility for the NBCOT® certification exam
This degree is ideal for students who are focused on quickly entering the workforce and working in clinical settings such as hospitals, rehab centers, and schools.
Lone Star College
Associate of Science (AS) in Occupational Therapy Assisting
An AS in OTA includes the same core occupational therapy curriculum as the AAS but may place more emphasis on general education courses like English, math, and social sciences.
Key features:
- May be a better choice for students planning to transfer to a 4-year program later
- Often found at community colleges with university articulation agreements
- Includes required OTA coursework plus electives that can apply to a bachelor’s degree
This degree path is ideal if you’re considering pursuing further education, such as becoming a licensed Occupational Therapist (OT) in the future.
Platt College
Hybrid/Online OTA Programs (Overview)
Many accredited OTA programs now offer hybrid or partially online formats, which are ideal for working adults or those who need a more flexible schedule.
Key features:
- General education and lecture-based OTA courses may be delivered online
- Labs, hands-on skills training, and clinical fieldwork must be completed in person
- Often includes weekend or evening sessions for in-person components
While you can’t earn an OTA degree 100% online due to the fieldwork requirement, hybrid programs can make it easier to balance school with work or family responsibilities.
St. Catherine University
Bridge Programs (e.g., OTA to OT)
If you’re already a practicing OTA and want to advance your career, some schools offer bridge or transition programs that help you become a licensed Occupational Therapist (OT).
Key features:
- Requires a completed OTA degree and certification (COTA)
- Typically results in a Bachelor’s or Master’s in Occupational Therapy
- May offer flexible or part-time formats to accommodate working professionals
These programs are ideal for experienced OTAs looking to take on more responsibilities, lead therapy plans, or open their own practice as licensed OTs.
St. Augustine University
Each type of OTA degree has its advantages depending on your career goals, timeline, and lifestyle. Whichever path you choose, be sure to verify that the program is ACOTE-accredited, which is essential for sitting for the national certification exam.
OTA Degree and Bridge Program Admission Requirements
| Requirement | AAS in OTA | AS in OTA | Bridge Program (OTA-to-OT) |
| Educational Background | High school diploma or GED | High school diploma or GED | Associate degree in OTA (AAS or AS) from an ACOTE-accredited program |
| GPA Requirement | Typically 2.5+ | Typically 2.75–3.0 | Typically 3.0+ (cumulative and/or OTA coursework) |
| Prerequisite Courses | Basic sciences (e.g., A&P, psychology) | Broader general education (e.g., English, biology, statistics) | General education courses or bachelor’s degree; may require statistics, psychology, biology |
| OTA Certification/Licensure | Not required (entry-level) | Not required (entry-level) | Required: NBCOT certification (COTA) and active state license |
| Work Experience | Not required | Not required | 6 months to 2 years of OTA clinical experience often required |
| CPR/First Aid Certification | Required before fieldwork | Required before fieldwork | Required prior to clinical/fieldwork placements |
| Background Check & Health Records | Required | Required | Required (including drug screen and immunizations) |
| Letters of Recommendation | Sometimes required | Often required | 2–3 letters typically required (professional/academic) |
| Essay or Personal Statement | Sometimes required | Often required | Required: Personal/professional goals statement |
| Interview | May be required | Often required in selective programs | Frequently required as part of the admissions process |
| Program Goal | Direct-to-workforce | Career preparation + potential transfer | Career advancement: transition from OTA to full OT licensure |
What Will You Learn in an OTA Program?
Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) programs are designed to equip you with the knowledge and hands-on skills needed to support patients in achieving greater independence. The curriculum includes a combination of classroom instruction, lab experiences, and real-world fieldwork.
Here’s what you can expect to learn during your OTA program:
Common Coursework
- Anatomy and Physiology
Understand the human body’s systems, how they function, and how injury or illness can affect movement and daily living. - Kinesiology
Study body mechanics and movement principles to safely guide patients through therapeutic activities. - Mental Health in OT
Learn strategies to support patients with emotional, psychological, or behavioral challenges through occupational therapy interventions. - Pediatric and Geriatric Care
Explore age-specific approaches to therapy, including developmental delays in children and mobility or memory concerns in older adults. - Assistive Technology
Discover tools and devices that help patients adapt to their environments, including mobility aids, communication devices, and home modifications. - Ethics and Documentation
Learn proper methods for documenting patient progress and understanding ethical responsibilities in clinical practice.
Hands-On Lab Experiences
In addition to classroom instruction, you’ll participate in supervised lab sessions where you’ll practice therapy techniques, patient transfers, use of adaptive equipment, and communication strategies—all in a simulated environment.
Introduction to Adaptive Equipment and Patient Care
You’ll gain hands-on experience using various types of adaptive equipment such as wheelchairs, dressing aids, and reachers. You’ll also learn how to assist patients with basic tasks while ensuring safety and comfort.
Fieldwork Requirements
Fieldwork is a core component of OTA training and provides the opportunity to apply what you’ve learned in real clinical settings. It’s essential for building your confidence and preparing for the workforce.
Level I and Level II Fieldwork
- Level I Fieldwork
This is an introductory experience where you observe and interact with patients under the supervision of a licensed OTA or OT. It focuses on understanding different patient populations and the role of therapy in various settings. - Level II Fieldwork
This phase is more intensive and hands-on. You’ll take on more responsibility, assisting with treatment sessions and patient care under close supervision. It’s designed to help you meet competency standards required for certification.
How Many Hours Are Required?
- Level I Fieldwork: Typically includes short placements throughout the program, often totaling a few weeks of part-time experience.
- Level II Fieldwork: Usually includes two full-time, 8-week placements, totaling 16 weeks (approximately 640 hours) of hands-on clinical training.
What to Expect During Fieldwork
During your placements, you may:
- Work with children in a school-based therapy program
- Assist adults recovering from injury in a hospital or outpatient clinic
- Support elderly patients in a skilled nursing or rehabilitation facility
- Learn documentation, patient interaction, and treatment planning firsthand
Fieldwork not only reinforces what you’ve learned in class but also helps you develop professional skills and determine the types of environments and patients you enjoy working with most. It’s one of the most important and rewarding parts of the OTA journey.
Admission Requirements for OTA Programs
To enroll in an Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) degree program, you’ll need to meet certain academic and health-related requirements. These ensure you’re prepared for the coursework, clinical fieldwork, and hands-on patient care you’ll experience during the program. While requirements can vary slightly by school, here are the most common.
High School Diploma or GED
All accredited OTA programs require applicants to have a high school diploma or equivalent (GED). Some schools may ask for transcripts that reflect your performance in science or health-related subjects.
Prerequisite Courses
Many programs require you to complete specific courses before admission. These may be part of your high school or taken at a college level. Common prerequisites include:
- Biology or human anatomy and physiology
- Medical terminology
- English composition or writing-intensive courses
- Introductory psychology or health sciences
Some schools may require a minimum GPA for these courses, especially in competitive programs.
Entrance Exams or Interviews (If Required)
Select programs may require additional steps during the application process, such as:
- Entrance exams, like the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills), especially for science-heavy programs
- Personal interviews to assess communication skills, motivation, and understanding of the OTA role
- Observation hours or recommendation letters demonstrating your interest in occupational therapy
Not all programs include these steps, but they can help strengthen your application.
Background Checks, Immunizations, and CPR Certification
Because OTA students work with patients in healthcare settings, programs typically require:
- A criminal background check and drug screening
- Up-to-date immunizations, including TB tests, flu shots, and COVID-19 vaccinations (depending on location)
- CPR and First Aid certification, usually through the American Heart Association or Red Cross
These requirements ensure the safety of both students and patients during clinical fieldwork.
Meeting these requirements helps prepare you for success in both the classroom and the clinical environment. Be sure to check with individual OTA programs for any additional application details or deadlines.
How Long Does It Take to Complete an OTA Degree?
Most Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) degree programs are designed to be completed in about two years of full-time study. This includes classroom instruction, lab work, and required fieldwork experiences. However, program duration can vary depending on the school, your course load, and whether you’re pursuing a traditional, part-time, or accelerated option.
Typical Program Length
- Full-time students can expect to complete an associate degree in about 20–24 months.
- Programs usually include four to five semesters of coursework and two full-time clinical fieldwork placements (Level II), which typically last 8 weeks each.
Fast-Track, Part-Time, and Flexible Options
- Fast-track programs may allow you to finish in as little as 18 months, but they are intensive and require a heavier course load.
- Part-time programs are available at some schools and may extend the timeline to 3–4 years, making them ideal for working adults or parents.
- Hybrid or flexible formats (a mix of online and in-person instruction) can help you balance school with other commitments, though hands-on labs and fieldwork must still be completed in person.
Fieldwork and Exam Prep
- After completing coursework, you must complete Level I and Level II fieldwork, which may take 3–4 months total.
- Once fieldwork is complete, you’ll need time to prepare for and pass the NBCOT certification exam. Many students begin studying during or immediately after fieldwork.
Cost of an OTA Degree Program
The total cost of an OTA degree can vary widely depending on the type of school, your state residency status, and the program format.
Tuition Ranges
- Community colleges:
- Typically range from $5,000 to $12,000 total for in-district residents
- Higher for out-of-district or out-of-state students
- Typically range from $5,000 to $12,000 total for in-district residents
- Private colleges or technical schools:
- Can range from $20,000 to $40,000+ for the full program
Additional Fees to Consider
- Books and supplies: $500–$1,500 per year
- Lab and materials fees: $100–$500 per semester
- Fieldwork travel expenses: Costs for transportation, housing (if needed), uniforms, and background checks
- Exam prep and testing: NBCOT exam fees (~$555), state licensure fees, and certification prep materials
Financial Aid, Scholarships, and Grants
- Federal financial aid is available through FAFSA for qualifying students
- State grants and scholarships may be available through your local higher education agency
- Some schools and professional organizations offer OTA-specific scholarships, such as through the American Occupational Therapy Foundation (AOTF)
VA and GI Bill Benefits (If Applicable)
- Many OTA programs accept VA education benefits and GI Bill® funding, making them a great option for veterans and military-connected students
- Check with your school’s veterans affairs office to understand what costs are covered and what steps to take
Accreditation and Why It Matters
When choosing an Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) degree program, accreditation should be one of your top priorities. It ensures the program meets the national educational standards necessary to prepare you for the profession.
Why You Should Choose an ACOTE-Accredited OTA Program
The Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) is the official accrediting body for OTA programs. Graduating from an ACOTE-accredited program is essential because it:
- Ensures the curriculum meets national quality and safety standards
- Prepares you to work in diverse healthcare settings
- Guarantees you’re eligible to sit for the NBCOT® (National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy) exam
How Accreditation Affects Certification Eligibility
Only graduates of ACOTE-accredited OTA programs are eligible to take the NBCOT exam—a critical step to becoming a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA). Without this credential, you cannot practice legally in most states.
How to Check if a Program Is Accredited
To verify a program’s accreditation status:
- Visit the ACOTE website: www.acoteonline.org
- Check your school’s official program page
- Ask admissions or program coordinators directly
Online and Hybrid OTA Programs
While OTA programs cannot be fully completed online due to hands-on training and fieldwork, many schools now offer hybrid formats that combine online learning with in-person experiences.
Availability and Structure of Online OTA Coursework
- Lectures, assignments, quizzes, and discussion boards may be completed online
- Coursework often includes anatomy, documentation, and occupational therapy theory
- Ideal for students needing flexible scheduling
In-Person Requirements for Labs and Fieldwork
- Labs (e.g., patient transfer techniques, equipment handling) must be completed on campus or at designated partner sites
- Fieldwork (Level I and II) is always completed in person at clinical facilities
Pros and Cons of Online/Hybrid Programs
Pros:
- Greater flexibility for working adults or caregivers
- Reduced commuting time
- Learn at your own pace (for online portions)
Cons:
- Limited in-person interaction with peers and instructors
- Requires strong time management and self-motivation
- Travel may still be required for fieldwork placements
Certification and Licensure After Graduation
Once you’ve completed your OTA degree program, the next step is becoming certified and licensed to practice. This process ensures you meet the professional standards needed to safely and effectively assist patients.
Steps to Become a Certified OTA (COTA)
- Graduate from an ACOTE-accredited OTA program
- Complete required fieldwork (Level I and II)
- Apply for and pass the NBCOT® exam
- Apply for state licensure (requirements vary by state)
- Maintain certification through continuing education
NBCOT Exam
- Administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy
- Covers key topics like patient care, intervention techniques, safety, and documentation
- Costs approximately $515
- Passing the exam allows you to use the title Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA)
State Licensure Requirements
- All 50 states require OTA licensure
- Requirements may include:
- Proof of graduation from an accredited program
- Passing the NBCOT exam
- Background check and application fees
- Proof of graduation from an accredited program
- Some states may have additional jurisprudence exams
Continuing Education Expectations Post-Graduation
- To maintain your NBCOT certification, you’ll need to renew it every 3 years and earn 36 professional development units (PDUs)
- States may have separate continuing education requirements for licensure renewal
- Ongoing education ensures you stay current on best practices, ethics, and emerging therapy techniques
How to Choose the Right OTA Degree Program
Selecting the right OTA program is critical for your success both during school and after graduation. Consider these factors to find a program that fits your needs:
Accreditation
Always choose an ACOTE-accredited program to ensure quality education and eligibility for certification.
Clinical Partnerships
Look for programs with strong connections to diverse clinical sites for comprehensive fieldwork experiences.
Class Sizes and Faculty Experience
Smaller classes often mean more personalized attention. Experienced instructors with professional OT or OTA backgrounds add value.
Schedule Flexibility and Support Services
Consider whether the program offers full-time, part-time, evening, or hybrid options. Support services like tutoring, counseling, and career advising can make a big difference.
Questions to Ask Admissions Advisors
- What is your program’s graduation and certification exam pass rate?
- How do you support students with job placement?
- What are the fieldwork sites like, and how are placements assigned?
- Are there opportunities for scholarships or financial aid?
Careers for Graduates of Occupational Therapy Assistant Degree Programs
Graduates with an Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) degree have several career opportunities in healthcare and rehabilitation settings. Here are the most common and in-demand careers for OTA degree holders:
Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA)
This is the primary role for OTA degree graduates.
- Role: Work directly with patients to help them improve or regain the skills needed for daily living and working, under the supervision of an Occupational Therapist.
- Settings: Hospitals, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, outpatient clinics, schools, and home healthcare.
- Populations Served: Children with developmental delays, adults recovering from injury or surgery, seniors with age-related conditions, individuals with disabilities.
Pediatric OTA
- Role: Specialize in working with children, helping them develop motor skills, coordination, sensory processing, and independence in school and home environments.
- Settings: Schools, pediatric clinics, early intervention programs.
Geriatric OTA
- Role: Assist elderly patients in maintaining mobility, independence, and safety in daily activities.
- Settings: Assisted living facilities, nursing homes, memory care units, or in-home care.
Mental Health OTA
- Role: Support individuals with mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, or schizophrenia to develop coping skills, routines, and social interaction.
- Settings: Behavioral health clinics, inpatient psychiatric hospitals, community mental health centers.
Rehabilitation OTA
- Role: Help patients recovering from surgery, injury, or illness (such as stroke or traumatic brain injury) regain functional independence.
- Settings: Hospitals, rehabilitation centers, outpatient clinics.
Home Health OTA
- Role: Travel to patients’ homes to provide therapy sessions tailored to the home environment.
- Advantages: Flexible schedule, personalized care, often higher autonomy.
OTA in School Settings
- Role: Assist children with physical, developmental, or emotional disabilities in meeting their educational goals.
- Tasks: Support handwriting, classroom behavior, and self-care routines.
- Employer: Public or private school districts, early childhood programs.
Community-Based OTA Roles
- Role: Work with community programs to promote wellness, accessibility, and independent living among various populations.
- Examples: Programs for veterans, individuals with disabilities, or at-risk youth.
OTA with Specialized Certifications
With additional training or certifications, OTAs can focus on areas like:
- Hand therapy
- Sensory integration
- Physical agent modalities (PAMs)
- Neurorehabilitation
FAQs About Occupational Therapy Assistant Degrees
Can I become an OTA without a degree?
No. You must complete an ACOTE-accredited associate degree program to become eligible for certification and licensure as an OTA.
Are there bachelor’s degrees in OTA?
Bachelor’s degrees specifically titled OTA are rare. However, some schools offer bridge programs that allow licensed OTAs to pursue a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy to become licensed OTs.
What’s the difference between an OTA and an OT degree?
An OTA degree (typically an associate degree) prepares you to assist occupational therapists in patient care. An OT degree (usually a master’s or doctorate) prepares you to become a licensed occupational therapist with full responsibility for treatment planning and evaluation.
Are OTA degrees offered fully online?
No. Due to hands-on lab work and clinical fieldwork requirements, OTA degrees cannot be completed 100% online. However, many programs offer hybrid formats combining online coursework with in-person labs and fieldwork.
How hard is the OTA program?
The OTA program is rigorous, requiring strong commitment to both academic coursework and clinical practice. Success often depends on good time management, dedication, and a passion for helping others.
Takeaways
Earning a degree in occupational therapy assisting is more than just a credential—it’s a gateway to a fulfilling, in-demand career in healthcare. With a typical program lasting around two years, OTA degrees offer a relatively fast and affordable way to enter the field, make a difference in patients’ lives, and enjoy long-term job stability.
Whether you’re just beginning your research or ready to apply, choosing an ACOTE-accredited OTA program is the key to starting your journey. Take the time to explore your options, ask the right questions, and find a program that fits your goals, schedule, and learning style. Your future as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant starts with the right degree—and the right support to get there.
