The Occupational Therapist Assistant major is designed to prepare students to work as an assistant to an occupational therapist in a variety of settings. The major includes coursework in human anatomy and physiology, psychology, and therapeutic techniques. Students in the major will also have the opportunity to complete an internship in an occupational therapy setting.
The Occupational Therapist Assistant major studies how to help patients with physical, emotional or mental health issues participate in daily activities. As an OTA student, you will learn how to motivate patients and help them regain confidence while learning new skills. Classroom instruction covers topics such as anatomy, physiology and psychology, as well as the theory and practice of occupational therapy. You will also complete fieldwork experiences in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, rehabilitation centers, long-term care facilities, schools and home health agencies.
The Occupational Therapist Assistant major expects students to complete academic coursework in the sciences and liberal arts, including specific prerequisite courses, along with clinical fieldwork experiences. The academic coursework provides the necessary didactic instruction in the skills and knowledge base required for the OTA major. The clinical fieldwork experiences provide opportunities for the application and integration of this didactic instruction in a variety of settings and with a variety of populations.
The Occupational Therapist Assistant job market is expected to grow by 31.8% from 2016 to 2026. This is much faster than the average for all occupations. As the population ages, there will be an increasing need for occupational therapist assistants to help patients recover from accidents and illnesses and maintain their independence.
There is no doubt that studying to become an Occupational Therapist Assistant can be demanding and challenging at times. One of the biggest challenges faced by students is having to complete clinical rotations as part of their coursework. This can often be difficult to juggle with other commitments such as work and family. Another challenge is maintaining a high level of academic performance, as the coursework is often very challenging. However, the rewards of becoming an Occupational Therapist Assistant make all the challenges worthwhile.
The Occupational Therapist Assistant projected to grow much faster than average job growth in the U.S. The growth is largely due to the rising elderly population who will need OT services. The average salary for an OTA is $54,520 per year.
If you are interested in a health care career that involves working with patients to help them regain skills and independence, then an Occupational Therapist Assistant (OTA) major may be right for you. OTAs work under the direction of an occupational therapist and provide therapy services to patients of all ages. The OTA program at ABC Community College is a two-year program that leads to an Associate in Applied Science degree.
This program is designed to give students the knowledge and skills they need to be successful in the field of occupational therapy. The curriculum includes coursework in Anatomy and Physiology, Psychology, and Math. Students also complete fieldwork requirements in order to gain hands-on experience.
To be an occupational therapist assistant, one must be interested in helping people and have a caring personality. Organization and communication skills are also necessary, as is the ability to work closely with a team. The job outlook for this career is good, and the salary is decent.
If you are looking at becoming an occupational therapist assistant, here are some tips to set you on the right path. Firstly, you will need to complete an accredited occupational therapy assistant program. Secondly, you will need to pass the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) Exam. And lastly, you will need to obtain a state license. With these tips, you will be well on your way to becoming an occupational therapist assistant.
1. Get a degree from an accredited program. This is the first step to becoming a licensed occupational therapist assistant.
2. Complete your fieldwork requirements. Most programs include fieldwork as part of the curriculum, and it is a great way to gain experience in the field.
3. Pass the NBCOT exam. This exam is required for licensure in most states.
4. Find a good mentor. A mentor can help you navigate the field of occupational therapy and provide guidance as you begin your career.
5. Be a lifelong learner. The field of occupational therapy is constantly changing, and it is important to stay up-to-date on the latest research and developments.
