Tag: occupational

Selecting among the best occupational therapy programs in Nebraska may be a bit dicey because there are excellent schools in the state.

Before you begin an occupational therapy program in Nebraska, you must be ready to prove that you qualify for a spot.

Again, you should be set for activities while in the program, like mandatory fieldwork. Fieldwork requires some placement practices.

Furthermore, before you become eligible to practice in Nebraska, you must sit for the licensing exams and pass. The state does not cut corners when it comes to those that offer health services.

See Also: Top Occupational therapy programs in New York

If you reside in Nebraska or its environs and searching for an occupational therapy program that you can enroll in, you can check out the list we made but be ready to do the rest of the job when we hand over the baton to you.

What is occupational therapy?

Occupational therapy is classified as a health care profession that works with individuals or a group of people to teach, assist, help to recover and maintain or improve daily physical and mental activities.

Occupational therapists have been trained to help people rediscover their lost abilities to thrive.

What is the job of an occupational therapist?

Depending on which field they work in, an occupational therapist may work with the disabled. Children can be disabled; this brings us to say that there are occupational therapists that work with disabled children and those that work with disabled adults.

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More so, occupational therapists work with the injured, people recovering from an illness, mental health patients, patients who underwent amputation, and more.

Generally, they help their patients to achieve wholesomeness in their states.

They achieve this result through the joint help of other professionals like nurses, audiologists, social workers, doctors, nutritionists, assistive technologies, and more.

Occupational therapists also work alongside other therapists to help out their patients. You can find one working with a language and speech therapist or a physical therapist. Most times, different therapists make sure they deliver the best services to people in need of their services.

How to become an occupational therapist

Firstly, you do not pass the same procedure if you wish to become an occupational therapist assistant. However, for both, you must earn a degree to qualify you.

So, if your dream is to become a practicing OT in Nebraska, some of the general criteria you must meet include:

Gain admission and graduate from a school certified by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education or The American Occupational Therapy Association with a bachelor’s or Master’s degree.

Sit for your licensing exam and pass

Go for the background check

Register and fulfill a six months internship in an accredited occupational therapy place

You can practice as a licensed OT in Nebraska with all these in place. If you finally gain your license, you will have to renew it when it expires. To do that, you must complete 50 hours of competence hours.

How to obtain a license as an occupational therapist?

Firstly, OT is not a job you go into by just having an idea of what you must do and figuring the rest out as you begin.

There are due processes you must follow before you practice, and one of those steps is to acquire the appropriate license, and the steps to getting licensed aren’t extremely challenging.

1. To begin with, get a bachelor’s or a master’s degree from an accredited school.
2. Complete the following clinical hours for six months. A licensed senior must supervise your hours.
3. Score up to 450 in the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy exam
4. Pay for your license, which costs about $120
5. Send your transcripts to the necessary body and authorities
6. Wait for a confirmation

By the way, becoming certified may take a little time and energy, but the gains outweigh the pains. The search for professional OTs has been on the rise in recent years in America.

Their salaries per annum are over $80,000, plus there is no dull moment on the job. Many OTs say they find fulfillment in their jobs and have no regrets about going into that career.

Furthermore, now that you know how to get started in this field of health care job, it is time to list out the schools you can enroll in, in Nebraska that will usher you into the leagues of professional Occupational Therapists.

Occupational therapy programs in Nebraska

Few accredited schools offer occupational therapy programs in Nebraska.

University of Nebraska Medical Center

The school has been accredited by Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE). They offer a three years course and award their graduates with a Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) certificate.

Also, the three years course covers eight semesters divided between online and on-site classes with campuses at Kearney and Omaha.

The OT program of this school runs on three significant courses; translational sciences, professional and personal development, and occupation for health.

Address: 42nd and Emile, Omaha, NE 68198

Phone Number: 402-559-4000

Website

College of Saint Mary

This school offers combined bachelor’s and master’s degrees in occupational therapy. Altogether, they make up the five-year duration of the program.

ACOTE already accredits the school, and graduates immediately sit for the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT).

After graduation, the school awards the graduate a master’s of occupational therapy certificate.

Address: 700 Mercy Road Omaha, Nebraska, United States

Phone Number: 402-399-2400

Website

Nebraska Methodist College

Nebraska methodist college equips its students for a successful career in this field. A comfortable learning environment, the right mindset, and the much-needed knowledge to handle the day-to-day challenges of this occupation. The school drills compassion and how to give an empathetic listening ear to their students.

After completing your studies and passing, you will earn a Master of Occupational Therapy Degree.

Address: 720 N. 87th Street, Omaha, NE 68114

Phone Number: 402-354-7000

Website

Creighton University School of Pharmacy and Health Professionals

Creighton University is the first in America to offer an entry-level occupational therapy program. The program took off in 1985 and has since served the country and the state.

More so, the mode of study in the school is through online or physical classes. Studying in this school empowers you to be the best at your work.

Address: 250 California Plaza Omaha, NE 68178

Phone Number: 402-280-2700

Conclusion on the Occupational therapy programs in Nebraska

You can achieve your dreams of becoming a great OT with any of these schools because the program you seek is part of what they know best to handle.

Feel free to reach out to the schools through the links provided in each of the institutions.

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What do you know about the occupational therapy programs in San Diego? Common occupational therapy interventions include assisting children with disabilities in fully participating in home, school, and social situations, assisting people recovering from injury in regaining functional skills and assisting older adults experiencing physical and cognitive changes.

The art and science of occupational therapy aim to promote full participation in life through identified meaningful occupations, resulting in improved health and well-being.

OTs specialize in restoring clients’ abilities to engage in instrumental activities of daily living, such as work, play, education, leisure, rest, social participation, and financial and home management skills, as health care professionals. Occupational therapists work in a variety of settings, including pediatrics, geriatrics, orthopedics, neurology, physical rehabilitation, mental health, and school districts.

Occupational Therapists must have the following characteristics and skills:

Communication: Ask the patient questions effectively and educate the patient’s family and employer about the necessary accommodations.

Organization: Create complex treatment plans for patients that necessitate strong organizational abilities.

Encourage patients as they work toward improvement, and work to put treatment goals into action.

Active: Be physically fit to assist clients with various disabilities and to demonstrate exercises effectively.

Strong writing abilities: The ability to write quickly and practically in order to assess and record patients’ activities and progress is required.

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Typical occupational therapy services

• An individualized assessment in which the patient and occupational therapist determine the individual’s goals.
• Intervention tailored to the patient’s ability to perform daily tasks and achieve goals.
• A re-evaluation to ensure that the goals are met and/or changes to the intervention plan are made.

Occupational therapy services are provided to clients with disabilities and non-disability-related needs for habilitation, rehabilitation, and health and wellness promotion.

Read also: 3 Best Occupational Therapy Programs in Louisiana

Occupational Therapy Programs in San Diego

There are two schools in San Diego that offers occupational therapy:

1. Point Loma Nazarene University

Students pursuing a master’s degree in occupational therapy at PLNU can expect a hands-on, evidence-based curriculum that will prepare them to improve the health and wellness of others. Students will interact with colleagues and clients, as well as serve in a variety of academic, clinical, and community settings.

The mission of the PLNU Occupational Therapy program, in keeping with the University’s mission, is to produce competent and professional graduates who provide evidence-based and occupation-focused interventions that serve others as an expression of faith.

Graduates of the Point Loma Nazarene University Master’s in Occupational Therapy Program will be able to:

• Provide evidence-based occupational therapy services across the lifespan in a variety of service delivery models, health care settings, and community-based systems using critical reasoning.
• Develop and apply a therapeutic use of self during client interactions to support the client’s participation in occupational therapy and achievement of the client’s goals.
• Provide services within a client-centered and occupation-based framework, taking into account contextual factors that influence an individual, group, or population’s ability to engage in meaningful occupational tasks and roles.
• When interacting with clients, service providers, and/or systems, demonstrate compliance with legal, ethical, and professional standards.
• Demonstrate the ability to document, manage, and evaluate the outcomes of services rendered.
• Create clinical programs that address a community need for underserved individuals, groups, and/or populations.
• In a technological and global environment, embrace diversity, equity, and inclusion in clinical practice by providing high-quality, accessible, and culturally responsive care.
• Increase awareness and ability to collaborate with multidisciplinary team members to provide client-centered, high-quality occupational therapy services.

The Western Association of Senior Colleges and University Commission has accredited Point Loma Nazarene University’s Master of Science in Occupational Therapy program (WSCUC). The WSCUC can be reached at 1080 Marina Village Parkway, Suite 500, Alameda, CA 94501 or by phone at 510-748-9001.

Also, the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education has granted the PLNU Master of Science in Occupational Therapy Program applicant status (ACOTE).

When a university submits a letter of intent and demonstrates a commitment to starting a new program by allocating sufficient resources to its development, applicant status is granted. In December 2022, the PLNU MSOT program will submit a Candidacy application.

If Candidacy Status is granted, the program will be able to admit its first class of students and move on to the second stage of the process, the pre-accreditation review.

The program conducts a programmatic self-study and prepares a Report of Self-Study, a comprehensive self-assessment of the program’s compliance with ACOTE Accreditation Standards, during this step.

ACOTE grants, defers action on, or denies Pre-accreditation Status based on this report, a decision that reflects ACOTE’s opinion of the program’s likelihood of meeting the ACOTE Accreditation Standards by the time of the initial on-site evaluation. In preparation for the initial on-site evaluation, trained evaluators thoroughly review the program’s Report of Self-Study.

The process concludes with an initial on-site evaluation conducted by a two-person team. The team prepares a Report of On-Site Evaluation at the end of the on-site evaluation, which is reviewed by the program for factual accuracy.

ACOTE then reviews the Evaluators’ Report of On-Site Evaluation and any program responses. ACOTE relies on these materials to make decisions about the program’s accreditation status and the term of accreditation (5 or 7 years).

Contact: +1 619-849-2200

Address: 3900 Lomaland Dr, San Diego, CA 92106, United States

Read also: Best Occupational Therapy Programs in Utah

2. Alliant International University

Alliant International University’s mission is to prepare students for professional careers in service and leadership while also promoting knowledge discovery and application to improve the lives of people in diverse cultures and communities around the world.

The theory-practice model allows you to enter your profession with confidence. Each of their programs is intended to prepare you to do meaningful work that has a long-term impact. Their educational approach combines theory and practice, scholarship and application.

They offer a professional school environment in which you can learn from seasoned working professionals and gain practical experience while still in school through a combination of internships, practica, consulting, and community service projects.

Alliant educational programs are designed to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and ethical values required to effectively serve and lead in a variety of professional settings. Alliant graduates are expected to master a body of knowledge and apply that knowledge in professional practice to achieve desired and beneficial outcomes.

Contact: (858) 780-5771

Address: 10455 Pomerado Rd. San Diego, CA 92131

Read also: 3 Best Occupational Therapy Programs in Maine

Conclusion on the Occupational Therapy Programs in San Diego

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are currently over 143,000 occupational therapists (OTs) working in the United States, and the job outlook is growing faster than the national average (BLS). According to the BLS, demand for occupational therapists will increase 16% between 2019 and 2029. Occupational therapists earned an average of $86,280 per year in 2020.

Occupational therapy was also ranked in the top 10 healthcare jobs of 2021 by US News & World Report, as well as 31st in its “Best 100 Jobs List” and 10th in its “Best Healthcare Jobs List.” Occupational therapists’ primary responsibilities include treating injured, sick, or disabled patients by reteaching and assisting them with daily activities.

They use intervention therapy, adaptive equipment (such as wheelchairs, eating aids, and so on), and basic skills (such as time management, budgeting, and so on) to help their patients move and function independently.

Occupational therapists work with a wide range of patients in a variety of settings, including classrooms, workplaces, and mental health facilities. They also work with people of all ages, from babies to the elderly. Occupational therapists in administrative positions oversee the operations of an occupational therapy department, rehabilitation services, or other programs such as a non-profit homeless shelter.

Program planning and management, policy development and budget preparation, staff and client education, and personnel management are all possible responsibilities. Occupational therapy educators create and teach courses, mentor students, volunteer in the community, and conduct research. Clinical or community roles as supervisors, consultants, or direct service providers may be part of faculty practice.

Most teaching positions require an advanced degree (such as an OTD or Ph.D.) as well as occupational therapy practice experience. Typically, the workplace is an academic institution such as a state university, medical center campus, or private college.

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There are two schools that offer occupational therapy programs in South Carolina that are ACOTE (Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education) recognized.

They offer Occupational Therapy Programs in South Carolina. Also,  they offer entry-level masters or doctoral programs in occupational therapy.

Additionally, the state has 4 Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) Schools that are ACOTE certified and offer an associate degree. In order to work as an occupational therapist in South Carolina, one must have a license. After earning a recognized OT entry-level degree, one may sit for the licensing examination.

Statistically, occupational therapist employment has increased at a 14.3% annual pace, from 115,137 persons in 2018 to 131,637 people in 2022.

This article promises to show you all you need to know about Occupational Therapy Programs in South Carolina.

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Who is an Occupational Therapist?

Health care practitioners with specializations in occupational therapy and occupational science are known as occupational therapists (OTs).

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Occupational therapists (OTs) and occupational therapy assistants (OTAs) support a person’s capacity to carry out their everyday tasks and roles. They do this by drawing on scientific principles and a holistic viewpoint.

Additionally, OTs have extensive instruction in the physiological, psychological, and social facets of human functioning. Thanks to a foundation in anatomical and physiological theories as well as psychological viewpoints during their schooling.

Also, by maximizing their capacity to engage in meaningful activities, they help people across their lifetimes (“occupations”). Activities of everyday living, work/vocation, recreation, education, leisure, rest and sleep, and social interaction are all considered occupations for people.

Pediatrics, orthopedics, neurology, low vision therapy, and physical rehabilitation, are just a few of the specialties that OTs work with. They also work with: mental health, assistive technology,  oncological rehabilitation, and geriatrics.

Furthermore, OTs work in hospitals, nursing homes, residential care institutions, home health agencies, outpatient rehabilitation facilities, and other healthcare facilities. In order to address employee workplace safety and productivity, OTs are frequently employed by school systems and by enterprises as consultants.

Also, many occupational therapists run their own private practices and are self-employed. In the Army, Navy, and Air Force branches of the military in the US, OTs are employed as commissioned officers. OTs are a member of the Army Medical Specialist Corps in the US Army.

Additionally, OTs are a part of the US Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, one of the country’s eight uniformed services.

Through compensatory or adaptive techniques, occupational therapy interventions try to lessen or remove limits or disabilities. And/or restore/improve functional capacities.

Occupational therapists assist individuals in maximizing their function and carrying out their occupational tasks.  OTs assess and address both the individual’s capacities and his or her surroundings (physical and psycho-social).

Occupational Therapy in South Carolina

The state association for occupational therapists, occupational therapy assistants, and OT/OTA students is called SCOTA (South Carolina Occupational Therapy Association).

The SCOTA is a non-profit volunteer organization that offers its members a professional network. In South Carolina, the occupational therapy profession is represented by the SCOTA, a state-based professional association.

However, the association’s primary duties include advancing the occupational therapy profession and raising public awareness. Also, their duties include: supporting therapists in their pursuit of continuing education. And enhancing and maintaining the standard of occupational therapy practice in the state of South Carolina.

Also, The American Occupational Therapy Association is linked with the SCOTA, a state organization.

Occupational therapy License in South Carolina

The South Carolina Board of Occupational Therapy issues licenses to occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants.

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However, you must be qualified to take the Certification Examination of the NBCOT (National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy). And obtain a license offered by the  SCOTA. To do this, you must satisfactorily complete the academic program and fieldwork.

Additionally, graduates can practice their profession in South Carolina after passing the licensing exam.

The following are the prerequisites for the license:

• OTD or a master’s degree as a starting point
• Certificate of passing the NBCOT exam.
• Fees for applications are $135 (OT) and $115. (OTA).

Temporary OT/OTA License

A temporary license to practice as an OT or as an occupational therapy assistant(OTA) may be given to individuals. Especially those who have met the educational and experience requirements for licensure and are awaiting the certification examination.

However, depending on the circumstances and with the board’s approval, temporary licenses may be renewed once.

Occupational Therapy Programs in South Carolina

Below is a list of the schools that offer Occupational Therapy Programs in South Carolina:

Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC)

Website: Visit here

Address: MSC, 171 Ashley Ave Suite 419, # 403, Charleston, SC 29425, USA

Phone:  +1 843-792-2381

Overview

Entry-level occupational therapy doctorate degrees are available from the MUSC occupational therapy schools (OTD-entry level). The occupational therapy school upgraded its program to become an OTD and stopped offering a Master of Science in occupational therapy.

The Medical College of South Carolina, a for-profit organization affiliated with the South Carolina Medical Society, was incorporated in 1823. This marked the beginning of the College of Medicine.

However, with 30 students enrolled, seven Charleston physicians established the first faculty in 1824. On April 4, 1825, the inaugural graduation was place.

The institution has been in operation continuously since its founding. With the exception of the American Civil War, even when there were only two students enrolled in total.

Abraham Flexner had just started his investigation of the medical college. This was when Dr. Robert Wilson was named dean of the College of Medicine in 1908.

However, a defining feature of the program at the OT school is the inter-professional education. It incorporates relationships with different health professionals on and off campus.

Also, the school is well-known and holds the 17th-best national ranking according to U.S. News and World Report. Modern laboratories and facilities are available at the institution. It is one of the schools that offers Occupational Therapy Programs in South Carolina.

Additionally, at CARES(Community Aid Relief Education Support), students experience more learning. It’s a free clinic run by MUSC students called the Physical, Occupational, and Speech Therapy clinic.

Lenoir-Rhyne University (Columbia Campus, SC)

Website: Visit here

Address: 4201 N Main St, Columbia, SC 29203, United States

Phone: +1 803-786-5150

Overview

Lenoir-Rhyne University launched a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy degree through distance learning in South Carolina in 2016. While lab and specialized sessions are held separately at CGSC, lecture classes are delivered via live interactive video networking. Licensed occupational therapists work as full-time instructors at the CGSC location.

Also, it is one of the schools that offer Occupational Therapy Programs in South Carolina.

Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) Schools in South Carolina

Here are the Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) Schools in South Carolina:

Greenville Technical College, Benson Campus

Website: Visit here

Address: 2522 Locust Hill Rd, Taylors, SC 29687, United States

Phone: +1 864-250-8000

Piedmont Technical College – Newberry Campus

Website: Visit here

Address: 1922 Wilson Rd, Newberry, SC 29108, United States

Phone:  +1 803-276-9000

South University-Columbia

Website: Visit here

Address: 9 Science Ct, Columbia, SC 29203, United States

Phone:  +1 803-799-9082

Trident Technical College

Website: Visit here

Address: 7000 Rivers Ave, North Charleston, SC 29406, United States

Phone:  +1 843-574-6111

Occupational Therapy Jobs in South Carolina

South Carolina has excellent employment prospects for occupational therapists. Occupational therapy is one of the professions with the quickest rate of growth, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. With registered occupational therapists are expected to have greater growth than the national average (21–36%).

Additionally, South Carolina is experiencing a scarcity of occupational therapists and OTAs, according to many health care recruitment companies.

In May 2017, there were approximately 1280 licensed and employed occupational therapists in South Carolina, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Additionally, the demand for licensed practitioners is rising. South Carolina offers a wealth of options for occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants.

Occupational Therapy Salary in South Carolina

According to Indeed.com, the average annual wage for an occupational therapist in South Carolina was $77,800 in 2017.

The average hourly wage for occupational therapy practitioners in May 2017 was $37.79, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Conclusion on the Occupational Therapy Programs in South Carolina

You must fulfill a number of requirements in order to be accepted into Occupational Therapy Programs in South Carolina.

First, you must possess a bachelor’s degree, preferably in a related subject like biology, kinesiology, or psychology. A number of course-specific requirements that change from program to program must also be met.

Additionally,  earning an associate’s degree in occupational therapy assistant from a program that has been accredited by ACOTE will satisfy several of these requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

See below for the answers to some of the most asked questions relating to the Occupational Therapy Programs in South Carolina;

• How many OT Schools are in SC?

The state of South Carolina has one school offering a Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) degree. One offering a Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT) degree. And four schools offer an Associate of Applied Science for Occupational Therapy of Assistants (OTA).

• How long is MUSC OTD program?

The three-year program culminates with an individualized capstone project.

• How long does it take to get an OT license in South Carolina?

It typically takes between 4 and 6 weeks to receive your occupational therapy license in South Carolina. This is average compared to other occupational therapy licenses across the US.

• What state has the highest salary for occupational therapists?

The states and districts that pay Occupational Therapists the highest mean salary is Nevada ($111,270). Others are: California ($101,080), Arizona ($99,950), New Jersey ($98,750), and District of Columbia ($96,330).

• Can I get into OT school with a low GPA?

You can absolutely get into OT school with a lower GPA. Focus on doing well on writing an awesome personal statement, doing a lot of observation hours, and getting good letters of recommendation.

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Through the therapeutic use of everyday activities, occupational therapists assist people of all ages in participating in the activities they want and need to do (occupations).

Occupational therapy interventions that are commonly used include:

• Assisting disabled children in fully participating in school and social situations,
• Assisting people who have been injured to regain skills, and providing services to older adults who are experiencing physical and cognitive changes.

Therapists not only provide them with appropriate care and support to combat their problems, but they also assist them with daily tasks such as washing, dressing, cooking, and eating.

They examine and treat patients of all ages, from children to the elderly, who have serious disorders or are in a bad situation.

Occupational therapists work with patients through rehabilitation and therapy to help them perform daily or physical activities, as well as to improve their patient’s quality of life.

Working closely with patients, being a part of their growth and progress, and witnessing their progress can be extremely rewarding on a personal level. Occupational therapists can work in a variety of settings, including the following:

Hospitals, physician offices, long-term or skilled nursing facilities, schools, home health settings, rehab centers, freestanding outpatient clinics, nursing homes, and mental health facilities are all examples of healthcare settings.

An occupational therapist can enjoy a dynamic career in a variety of settings with the opportunity for job growth, certification, and specialization.

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Schools that offer Occupational Therapy Programs in Louisiana

Here are a few schools that offer occupational therapy Programs in Louisiana;

1. Louisiana State University Health Shreveport

They are educating and training the next generation of healthcare professionals and scientists to carry on their proud tradition of innovative and lifesaving healthcare and cutting-edge medical research.

LSU Health Shreveport is a revered treasure in a community that fought for decades for its establishment as one of only 140 academic medical centers (AMC) in the country.

Read also: Best Occupational therapy programs in Los Angeles

The Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) program is a full-time, 119-credit, three-year program that includes 89 didactic credits in the first two years, followed by one year (30 credits) of Level II fieldwork and a Capstone Experience Project in the third year.

Each semester builds on the previous one, so all courses must be taken in order. The depth of content and emphasis on leadership and research distinguishes the OTD curriculum from the current MOT curriculum offered at LSU Health Shreveport. Prior to Level II fieldwork, small groups of students in the OTD program will design, implement, and disseminate a research study under faculty mentorship.

The two Level II Fieldwork 12-week rotations take place at various clinical sites under the supervision of the Academic Fieldwork Coordinator and Academic Educators. Following successful completion of Level II Fieldwork, OTD students will complete a 14-week Capstone Experience culminating in the Capstone Project.

Clinical practice skills, research skills, administration, leadership, program and policy development, advocacy, education, and theory development will all be covered in depth during the Capstone. Students will complete the Capstone under the supervision of a community site advisor and a faculty member with expertise in the area of focus.

The Occupational Therapy program provides a graduate degree that leads to the Doctor of Occupational Therapy degree (OTD). The Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA), located at 6116 Executive Boulevard, Suite 200, North Bethesda, MD 20852-4929, has granted Candidacy Status to the Doctor of Occupational Therapy program.

ACOTE’s c/o AOTA phone number is (301) 652-AOTA, and its website address is see here. The Doctor of Occupational Therapy program consists of three years (119 semester hours) of coursework on-campus at the LSU Health Sciences Center at Shreveport (LSUHSC-S) and off-campus at practice sites throughout Louisiana and beyond.

Six months of Level II Fieldwork and a Capstone Experience are included in these semester hours. All Level II Fieldwork must be completed within 24 months of finishing the didactic coursework.

Contact: +1 318-675-5000

Address: 1501 Kings Hwy, Shreveport, LA 71103, United States

2. University of Louisiana Monroe

Occupational Therapy is a health profession that assesses and treats people who have developmental, social, emotional, or physical problems, as well as assists them in developing the skills needed to overcome the challenges of a disability.

The goal is to help those who are temporarily or permanently disabled be as self-sufficient as possible in areas such as work, home, self-care, and leisure skills while recovering from or adapting to their disability.

Occupational therapy practitioners help people of all ages live their lives to the fullest by promoting health and preventing or living better with injury, illness, or disability.

Typical occupational therapy services include:

• Individualized treatment plans to improve one’s ability to perform daily tasks.
• Comprehensive home and job site evaluations with recommendations for modifications.
• Assessment and treatment of performance skills
• Adaptive equipment recommendations and training in its use.
• Support for family members and caregivers

The Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association has granted accreditation to ULM’s Occupational Therapy Assistant Program (AOTA).

Related: 3 Best Occupational Therapy Programs in Maine

Caldwell Hall on University Avenue houses the Occupational Therapy Program at the University of Louisiana at Monroe. The OT program offers an Associate of Science in Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) degree as well as a bridge program from OTA to Master of Occupational Therapy.

The primary settings for the Master of Occupational Therapy Program (MOT) are school systems, hospitals, and long-term care facilities.

There are six academic semesters.

Level II fieldwork in approved settings for a minimum of 24 full-time weeks (or the equivalent if completed part-time) scheduled and coordinated by The University of Louisiana at Monroe.

Students must complete 24 weeks of Level II fieldwork within 18 months of completing the program’s didactic portion.

Furthermore, licensure is required in all states in order to practice; however, state licenses are typically based on the results of the NBCOT Certification Examination.

Please keep in mind that a felony conviction may make it difficult for a graduate to sit for the NBCOT certification exam or obtain state licensure.

The Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) has accredited ULM’s Occupational Therapy Assistant Program, which is located at 6116 Executive Boulevard, Suite 200, North Bethesda, MD 20852-4929. ACOTE’s c/o AOTA phone number is (301) 652-AOTA, and its website address is www.acoteonline.org.

Contact: +1 318-342-1000

Address: 700 University Ave, Monroe, LA 71209, United States

3. Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center New Orleans

The Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center New Orleans is a public university in New Orleans, Louisiana that focuses on health sciences.

It is part of the LSU System and home to six schools (one of two LSU medical schools), 12 Centers of Excellence, and two patient care clinics.

The School of Dentistry was temporarily relocated to Baton Rouge due to Hurricane Katrina, but has since returned to its New Orleans campus.  As a public university, it primarily accepts Louisiana residents, with the exception of combined M.D./Ph.D. students and children of alumni.

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The MOT degree program at LSUHSC is accredited by the American Occupational Therapy Association’s Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE), which is located at 6116 Executive Boulevard, Suite 200, North Bethesda, MD 20852-4249. The phone number for ACOTE is 601-652-6611. Graduates are eligible to take the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam.

Also, the successful completion of this exam qualifies the individual as an Occupational Therapist, Registered (OTR), and makes him or her eligible for occupational therapist licensure in most states, including Louisiana.

Contact: +1 504-568-4808

Address: 433 Bolivar St, New Orleans, LA 70112, United States

Conclusion on the Occupational Therapy Programs in Louisiana

The art and science of occupational therapy aim to promote full participation in life through identified meaningful occupations, resulting in improved health and well-being.

Occupational therapy is a profession that provides a treatment that emphasizes increased participation in meaningful activities as a way to improve function, adaptation, and health.

See below for the answers to some of the most asked questions relating to the Occupational Therapy Programs in Louisiana.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do I get a full LSU scholarship?

To be eligible for the scholarship, students must be enrolled full-time at LSU, have a 3.0 GPA, and be in good standing at the time of the award. The amount varies depending on the scholarship’s earnings.

2. How long has LSU’s OT program been running?

3 years

The Doctor of Occupational Therapy program consists of three years (119 semester hours) of coursework on-campus at the LSU Health Sciences Center at Shreveport (LSUHSC-S) and off-campus at practice sites throughout Louisiana and beyond.

3. In Louisiana, how do I become an occupational therapist?

To be eligible for an Occupational Therapist license in Louisiana, you must have a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in an occupational therapy-related field from an ACOTE-accredited school.

There are two accredited schools in Louisiana: New Orleans’ Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center

4. What major is LSU known for?

Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services; Engineering; Education; Biological and Biomedical Sciences; Social Sciences; Communication, Journalism, and Related Programs; Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies; Agricultural/Animal/… are among the most popular majors at Louisiana State University—Baton Rouge.

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There are a lot of things to learn about Occupational therapy programs in Indiana. Occupational therapy is a wonderful profession with a high job satisfaction rate.

A pediatric, geriatric, orthopedic, rehab clinic, acute care, mental health, and cardiac care occupational therapist works in a variety of settings.

The demand for occupational therapy has recently increased, and the future outlook is very promising.

Also, the occupational therapy profession has a bright future, and the demand for occupational therapy practitioners is growing.

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Occupational Therapy Programs in Indiana

Here are a few schools that offer occupational therapy Programs in Indiana.

1. Huntington University

Huntington University is a comprehensive Christian liberal arts university with more than 70 academic concentrations, including its most popular programs in film and animation, nursing, psychology, and social work.

Huntington University, founded in 1897 by the Church of the United Brethren in Christ, is located on a modern, lakeside campus in Huntington, Indiana, in northeast Indiana.

Check also: Best Occupational Therapy Programs in Colorado

The university is a member of the Christian Colleges and Universities Council (CCCU). Huntington University has a tradition of academic excellence, and its first doctoral program reflects that tradition.

Occupational therapy (OT) is at the cutting edge of healthcare; their vision at a time when few other schools were offering doctoral programs in occupational therapy has made them a leader in OT education from the start.

They are a well-established program with a proven track record of producing high-quality graduates who are highly certified and competitively placed in the field.

Their renowned faculty members have professional experience in the field – many are still practicing occupational therapists as well as educators – and their facilities in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and Peoria, Arizona, are state-of-the-art.

The doctoral program in occupational therapy (OTD program) at Huntington University is a three-year, full-time degree program.

Classes are held in person at both of their locations. They will encourage your advancement in:

• Faith
• Health and well-being
• Leadership abilities
• Advanced training
• Professional research assistance

Graduates of the program are eligible to take the National Certification Examination for Occupational Therapists, which is administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT).

Address: 2303 College Ave, Huntington, IN 46750, United States

Contact: +1 260-702-9621

2. Indiana Wesleyan University

The Occupational Therapy Program’s mission is to educate practitioners who will work together professionally to promote client-centered, occupation-based practice and serve as servant leaders in their communities.

They value an active learning environment that promotes students’, faculty’s, and community members’ holistic personal and professional development. Because of their position as Indiana’s largest private university, IWU has access to classroom and lab resources that are unrivaled in their region.

Students at Indiana Wesleyan University learn in cutting-edge facilities and lab spaces, such as a sensory-based pediatric lab and an anatomy and neuroanatomy cadaver lab outfitted with media-based technologies.

In their human motion and musculoskeletal labs, they use XSensor® pressure mapping technology to assess and manage seating systems, as well as a Dynavision2® machine to evaluate and treat visual motor integration.

Related: Best Occupational Therapy Programs in Arizona

In addition, they have a three-bedroom “ADL House” where students can gain hands-on experience and training in environmental modifications, functional mobility and transfers, adaptive equipment, and improving skills to perform activities of daily living.

They have the only Bertec® computerized dynamic posturography machine in an OT educational program in Indiana for evaluating and treating balance and mobility issues.

Finally, they have a cutting-edge human motion capture laboratory, which employs 14 interconnected high-speed cameras to generate three-dimensional models of human movement patterns.

Unlike most other OT programs in the United States, their program takes a student-centered approach to fieldwork placement. During their time in the program, students are placed in five different fieldwork settings.

Near the start of the program, their academic fieldwork coordinator meets with students to help them identify areas of clinical interest as well as geographic areas where they hope to complete Level II fieldwork rotations.

As a result, their program sends students all over the country for fieldwork, from Alaska to Florida and California to Maine. They have active contracts with hundreds of high-quality fieldwork sites to meet the needs of any student.

Address: 4201 S Washington St, Marion, IN 46953, United States

Contact: +1 765-674-6901

3. University of Indianapolis

Since its inception in 1902, The University of Indianapolis has fostered a culture of belonging with a special emphasis on giving back through service-learning and volunteer work.

As an academic ecosystem linked to the city of Indianapolis, you’ll be surrounded by a plethora of opportunities, such as internships, experiential learning, museums, music, culture, service, and other ways to grow and emerge stronger.

You go beyond yourself, with opportunities to make a difference in the communities you’ll call home. Their distinguished programs’ students and graduates are constantly driving positive change in Indianapolis and around the world.

Check also: 5 top-rated Occupational Therapy Programs in Tennessee

You progress from being educated to being activated. As you are challenged to push forward, inspired to broaden your worldview, and trained to overcome obstacles, your potential becomes a purpose. When you graduate from Indiana University, you don’t just enter the real world; you pave the way.

The entry-level Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) program prepares students for practice in the occupational therapy profession.

Students are trained to be generalists, but a solid foundation allows for future specialization after graduation.

The Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) program at the University of Indianapolis is accredited by the American Occupational Therapy Association’s Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE).

Students become innovative practitioners who are critical thinkers in the development of scholarship by integrating evidence and practice. Learning opportunities develop leaders with high standards of professionalism in existing organizations.

Address: 1400 E Hanna Av, Indianapolis, IN 46227, United States

Contact: +1 317-788-3368

4. Indiana State University

They have stood since 1865: for hard work. For reliable results. In honor of sycamore trees. And also for you. They believe in public education, public health, and the common good. They seek happiness. Fairness. Opportunity.

And the opportunity for everyone to receive a high-quality education. That is why they provide over 100 majors, 70+ online programs, and limitless opportunities to their students (undergraduate and graduate).

They push them to grow and learn both inside and outside of the classroom. And to make a difference in the community, whether in Terre Haute or halfway around the world.

The mission of the Occupational Therapy program is to educate and train competent healthcare providers to work as healthcare providers, consultants, educators, managers, researchers, and advocates for the profession and the consumer.

Furthermore, through interprofessional education, the program aims to improve patient access and quality care for rural and underserved populations. The entry-level Master of Occupational Therapy (MSOT) program was created with the curricular themes of Interprofessional Education, Professional Responsibility, and Excellence in Practice in mind.

Every year, the program begins in mid-May.

Year-round program with eight semesters (2 years, 8 months) to complete – (81 credit hours)

Level 2 Fieldwork must be completed within one year of finishing the didactic study.

Address: 200 N 7th St, Terre Haute, IN 47809, United States

Contact: +1 812-237-3773

5. Indiana University Bloomington

Indiana University Bloomington, founded in 1820, is the flagship campus of Indiana University’s seven campuses and two regional centers throughout the state.

Their world-class contributions to research and the arts are distinguished by innovation, creativity, and academic freedom.

Indiana University students get it all: the storybook college experience and the endless opportunities that come with it. Outstanding academics. Outstanding faculty. Campus life is vibrant. Culture from other countries.

Fantastic music and arts events. The thrill of IU Hoosier sports. And a breathtakingly beautiful campus. Occupational therapy (OT) is a health profession whose primary goal is to “improve health and quality of life by facilitating participation and engagement in occupations, the meaningful, necessary, and familiar activities of daily life” (AOTA, 2015).

Occupational therapists work with people of all ages to promote, restore, and maintain physical, mental, developmental, and behavioral health, as well as to adapt to the effects of a disease, illness, or disability.

The Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) program will cover the concepts, theory, and practice of occupational therapy with well-known professors and practitioners in healthcare communities around the world over the course of 36 months. The program includes academic coursework as well as fieldwork experiences that will prepare you to make a difference in people’s lives and in the occupational therapy profession.

Address: 107 S Indiana Ave, Bloomington, IN 47405, United States

Contact: +1 812-855-4848

6. University of Southern Indiana

The University of Southern Indiana, founded in 1965, enrolls over 9,750 dual credit, undergraduate, and graduate students in more than 130 fields of study.

USI is a public higher education institution in Evansville, Indiana, with a beautiful 1,400-acre campus. It offers programs through the College of Liberal Arts, the Romain College of Business, the College of Nursing and Health Professions, and the Pott College of Science, Engineering, and Education.

Through Outreach and Engagement, USI is a Carnegie Foundation Community Engaged University that provides continuing education and special programs to over 15,000 participants each year. The University provides study-abroad opportunities in over 60 countries and welcomes international students from all over the world.

USI, an NCAA Division I and Ohio Valley Conference member, offers 19 varsity intercollegiate men’s and women’s sports. The occupational therapist is a professional-level practitioner who evaluates, develops, improves, maintains, or restores skills in ADL, IADL, work, school, play, leisure, and social participation, as well as lifestyle redesign.

The Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT) Program is intended for students who have completed a baccalaureate degree and are prepared to apply to an entry-level graduate program in occupational therapy. The MSOT Program does not have a preference for the bachelor’s degree major as long as the prerequisite courses are completed. The best undergraduate major is one in which the student would enjoy working after completing the undergraduate degree, and it should be chosen based on the student’s interests.

Address: 8600 University Blvd, Evansville, IN 47712, United States

Contact: +1 812-464-8600

A final thought on the Occupational Therapy Programs in Indiana

Occupational therapists (OT) assist people in doing what they want to do, increasing their sense of satisfaction and contributing to their overall well-being.

Clients of occupational therapists may have experienced trauma, illness, or developmental issues, or they may simply want to improve their health and wellness.

Occupational therapists facilitate the patient’s ability to engage in “occupations” that give meaning to the person’s life by assisting clients in gaining greater self-awareness through everyday activities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Below, you will find the answers to the most asked questions relating to the Occupational Therapy Programs in Indiana;

1. In Indiana, how many OTAs can an OT supervise?

3 An occupational therapist may supervise up to three (3) occupational therapy assistants at a time, but never more than two (2) occupational therapy assistants at the same time.

2. Which state pays the most for occupational therapists?

Nevada

Nevada ($111,270), California ($101,080), Arizona ($99,950), New Jersey ($98,750), and the District of Columbia ($96,330) have the highest mean salaries for Occupational Therapists.

3. Is there an occupational therapy program at Indiana University?

The Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association has granted accreditation to Indiana University’s Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) program (AOTA).

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There is only one occupational therapy school in Utah State that is ACOTE approved and that offers a Master of Occupational Therapy degree at the entry level.

Additionally, the state has 2 Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) Schools that are approved by ACOTE and offer an associate degree.

In Utah, a license is necessary to work as an occupational therapist, and candidates can sit for the exam once they have earned a recognized OT entry-level degree.

The OT Department encourages opportunities for inter-professional learning, research, and clinical practice that better equips students to work with healthcare teams.

Occupational Therapy Programs in Utah

There is only one occupational therapy program in Utah and it is:

1. The University of Utah

The University of Utah’s four main strategic goals are to promote student success in order to transform lives, to develop and transfer new knowledge, to engage communities in order to improve health and quality of life, and to ensure the university’s long-term viability.

Related: 4 Best Occupational Therapy Programs in Kentucky

The occupational therapist, occupational therapy assistant, and OT/OTA students at the University of Utah in Utah each have their own state association, known as UOTA (Utah Occupational Therapy Association). The UOTA is a non-profit volunteer organization that offers its members a professional network.

In Utah, the occupational therapy profession is represented by the UOTA, a state-based professional association. Occupational science and work are the foundation of the occupational therapy professional program.

The occupation-based, robust occupational therapy skills, professional abilities, and research are key to the program’s educational purpose. The course includes a number of cutting-edge teaching strategies, such as a Level II fieldwork emphasis on health and community service contexts.

They are dedicated to producing competent clinicians for the upcoming years. Their program is ranked 42 out of 197 of the top USA OT graduate schools by US News! Program Statistics for NBCOT

In the three years from 2019 to 2021, 103 students completed the University of Utah’s Master of Occupational Therapy program, with a 96% overall graduation rate.

An organization’s ongoing evaluation of a program of study to assess whether it satisfies specific requirements is known as accreditation.

The U.S. Office of Education recognizes the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) as the sole certifying body for occupational therapy educational programs. The ACOTE has approved the University of Utah MOT Program (2017-2027).

Graduates of this program are qualified to take the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy’s national certification examination for occupational therapists (NBCOT). The person will become a Registered Occupational Therapist after passing this exam (OTR). To practice, most states require a license. Results of the NBCOT certification exam are often used to determine licenses in the majority of states.

The College of Health at the University of Utah’s OT department provides a Master of Occupational Therapy degree that is entry-level. The school also provides a Ph.D. in Rehabilitation Science and a post-professional Clinical Doctorate in Occupational Therapy degree. The occupational therapy program is attempting to convert the present entry-level master’s degree to an entry-level clinical doctorate. The majority of the OTD entry-level program will start in the fall of 2021.

Address: 520 Wakara Way, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, United States

Contact: +1 801-585-9135

License for occupational therapy in Utah

The Utah Occupational Therapy Board issues licenses to occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants.

To be qualified to take the NBCOT Certification Examination and get a license from the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing, one must satisfactorily complete the academic program and fieldwork.

Check also: 3 Best Occupational Therapy Programs in Minnesota

Graduates who successfully complete the prerequisites are eligible to use their profession in Utah.

The following are the prerequisites for the license:

• a certificate of passing the NBCOT exam and a master’s degree or OTD.
• The Utah Occupational Therapy Law and Rule Exam must be passed.
• SSN must be provided.
• Occupational therapy fieldwork under supervision for a minimum of 24 weeks.

OT/OTA Temporary License:

The NCBOT does not issue a temporary license for the practice of occupational therapy (OT) or occupational therapy assistant (OTA) in Utah.

Also, the Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT) entry level course is offered by the University of Utah College of Health on the Salt Lake City, UT campus.

• D. Associate Professor Beth Cardell
• Course duration is 2 and a half year
• School Size is around 34 pupils yearly
• Once a year, the OT program starts (Fall).

Application Method

• A candidate must submit an application via OTCAS.
• Essential Requirements are: a bachelor’s degree from a college or university with accreditation;
• A CGPA of at least 3 on a scale of 4 is required;
• 50 necessary contact hours, including a minimum of 8 hours in each of at least two settings;
• official GRE test scores;
• If English is not a student’s first language on the TOEFL test, they must have an IBT score of at least 90–91.
• official transcripts from a university sent straight to OTCAS;
• Three reference letters will be electronically sent to OTCAS. A minimum of 1 reference must be from an OT who oversaw the observation hours. The additional references must be from people who are familiar with the candidate professionally (employer, professor, etc.).

check also: 3 Best Occupational Therapy Schools in Texas

Prerequisites academic work

• one course in general/college physics, biomechanics, or kinesiology.
• Human Physiology,
• Abnormal Psychology,
• Developmental Psychology over the Lifespan,
• Cultural Anthropology, Sociology, Health Education, Special Education, Gerontology, Statistics, Medical Terminology, and
• Human Anatomy with Lab are among the subjects covered in this course.
• One course in the fine arts or crafts is called a studio arts course (painting, pottery, knitting, woodworking, etc).

Utah’s Top Occupational Therapy Assistant Schools

1. Occupational Therapy Assistant Program at Ameritech College of Healthcare.

Address: 12257 Business Park Drive, Suite 100 Draper, UT 84020-6540 Email: [email protected]

Website: Visit here

2. Occupational Therapy Assistant Program at Salt Lake Community.

College Postal Address: JHS 3491 West Wights Fort Road, West Jordan, UT 84088

Email: [email protected]

Website: click here

Jobs in Occupational Therapy in Utah

In Utah, the employment prognosis for occupational therapists is excellent. Occupational therapy is one of the fastest-growing professions, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, with registered occupational therapists expected to have growth that is faster than average (21–36%). Utah is experiencing a scarcity of occupational therapists and OTAs, according to many health care recruitment companies.

In Utah, there were roughly 900 licensed and employed occupational therapists in May 2018, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Additionally, the demand for licensed practitioners is rising. For occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants, Utah offers a wealth of opportunities.

Pay for Occupational Therapy in Utah

According to Indeed.com, the average yearly wage for an occupational therapist in Utah was $80,000 in 2017. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, occupational therapy practitioners made an average of $85,300 per year and $41.01 per hour in May 2018.

Conclusion on Occupational Therapy Programs in Utah

The association’s primary duties include advancing the occupational therapy profession, raising public awareness, supporting therapists in their pursuit of continuing education, and enhancing and maintaining the standard of occupational therapy practice in the state of Utah.

Occupational therapists (OT) inspect a patient’s home or office and, based on the applicant’s health needs, identify future improvements, such as labeling kitchen cabinets for older adults with poor memory. Visiting offices to learn about the difficulties that an injured employee may face when attempting to return to work.

An occupational therapist (OT) examines the applicant’s medical history, asks various questions, and observes them perform jobs.

Examine high-risk manual jobs in offices to see how they can be done more safely. Applicants must have received nearly 50% on their 10+2 exams in chemistry, physics, biology, and English.

A Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (B.O.Th.) degree from a recognized university or institute is required for admission to the Master of Occupational Therapy program.

Students who want to be occupational therapists have a lot of responsibilities, such as building a solid science basis and participating in a variety of extracurricular activities.

Although it may seem overwhelming, you can complete what you need to by getting started as soon as possible and working steadily throughout your undergraduate studies.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

See below for the answers to some of the most asked questions relating to the occupational therapy programs in Utah;

1. Which is more profitable, OTA or PTA?

They may also be employed in general medical and surgical hospitals, nursing homes, and specialty hospitals. Several OTAs work in schools.

According to the BLS, PTAs earned a median salary of $49,970 in 2020, while OTAs earned a salary of $60,950. According to the BLS, there will be nearly three times as many PTAs as OTAs in 2020.

2. Is BYU a for-profit institution?

Is BYU a for-profit or a non-profit institution? Brigham Young University-Provo is a private, non-profit university.

To fulfill its educational mission, a not-for-profit college must reinvest revenue, such as improving operations, instructor salaries, library resources, or student services.

3. Is there an occupational therapy program at Utah State?

Utah State University has one ACOTE-accredited Occupational Therapy School that offers an entry-level Master of Occupational Therapy program.

Furthermore, the state has two ACOTE-accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) Schools that offer an associate degree.

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Today, we will be looking at the different schools that offer occupational therapy programs in Tennessee.  Occupational therapists are specialists who find new and simple ways for people who have experienced physical, mental, or emotional trauma to overcome their problems and live a normal, satisfying, and happy life.

Therapists not only provide them with appropriate care and support to combat their problem, but they also assist them with daily tasks such as washing, dressing, cooking, and eating.

They examine and treat patients of all ages, from children to the elderly, who have serious disorders or are in a bad situation. Here are a few schools that offers the occupational therapy programs in Tennessee.

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Occupational Therapy Programs in Tennessee

See below;

1. Belmont University

Belmont University is consistently named a “Most Innovative” university, attracting over 9,050 students from every state and more than 33 countries.

The campus is situated on 93 picturesque acres just two miles from downtown Nashville, Tennessee, a dynamic and vibrant hub for government, healthcare, music, tourism, and other industries. Belmont University is a private four-year university that combines the best of liberal arts and professional education in a Christian community of learning and service.

They are a Christ-centered, student-centered community committed to developing diverse leaders with purpose, character, wisdom, and a transformational mindset who are eager and equipped to make the world a better place.

The entry-level doctoral program is a full-time, day program for those who have earned a bachelor’s degree in any major from a regionally accredited college or university. It is intended for those who want to enter the field of occupational therapy with the most advanced training.

Related: Best Occupational Therapy Programs in Pennsylvania

Belmont was one of the first OTD programs to be accredited by the Accreditation Council of Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE), and it is now one of the most established clinical doctorate programs in occupational therapy available in the United States.

In several ways, the doctoral degree program differs from the master’s degree program. Through the creation and implementation of an in-depth Capstone Experience, OTD students develop leadership skills beyond those of an entry-level generalist.

The Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE), 6116 Executive Boulevard, Suite 200, North Bethesda, MD 20852-4929; 301-652-2682; www.acoteonline.org, has accredited Belmont University’s Occupational Therapy Doctoral degree program. The National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) National Certification Exam program performance data for all schools is available on the NBCOT website.

Contact: +1 615-460-6000

Address: 1900 Belmont Blvd, Nashville, TN 37212, United States

2. University of Tennessee at Chattanooga

The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga serves as a model for metropolitan universities across the country.

They provide an experiential learning environment with outstanding teaching scholars in bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs in collaboration with their many regional partners.

The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga is a driving force for success. Their mission is to actively engage students, faculty, and staff members, to embrace diversity and inclusion, to inspire positive change, and to enrich and sustain their community.

At UTC, they foster campus community, prepare students to enter the global community, and provide a nurturing environment that connects students, community, and opportunity. The Occupational Therapy Department’s mission is threefold:

• to provide doctoral-level education that allows students to integrate occupational therapy theory, practice, and research;
• to encourage faculty and student research on therapeutic occupation in order to develop leaders and advocates for society’s occupational needs;
• and to develop leaders and advocates for society’s occupational needs.

The Occupational Therapy Department will be recognized as a premier department that attracts and develops occupational therapy leaders in the state, nation, and world through exemplary integrated programs of education, practice, research, community service, and advocacy that address real-world occupational needs.

Read also: 4 Best Occupational Therapy Programs in Kentucky

Contact: +1 423-425-4111

Address: 615 McCallie Ave, Chattanooga, TN 37403, United States

3. Milligan University

Milligan University is a Christ-centered liberal arts university in Johnson City, Tennessee, with a close-knit community, a 355-acre scenic campus, and over 100 majors, minors, and other degree options. Milligan has been preparing men and women to lead and serve for over 150 years. Milligan has grown into a thriving, well-respected liberal arts institution as a result of their commitment to Christ-centered liberal arts education.

Students come from all over the world to experience their distinctively different approach to higher education because of their emphasis on scholarship, community, and faith. Milligan is consistently recognized for its quality and value.

The Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT) program at Milligan trains servant-leaders to engage in scholarship, contribute to the profession, and provide clinical expertise to underserved local and global communities.

They train occupational therapists to be leaders in clinical practice, administration, research, and education by providing them with critical thinking and clinical skills.

Read also: Best Occupational Therapy Programs in New York

The comprehensive program combines theory and practice in the art and science of occupational therapy.

Partnerships with regional, state, and national health care systems, hospitals, clinics, and non-profit organizations provide their MSOT students with a diverse range of professional experiences.

Contact: +1 423-461-8700

Address: 101 Neth Dr, Milligan College, TN 37682, United States

4. Tennessee State University

The Accreditation Council for occupational therapy education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) is located at 6116 Executive Boulevard, suite 200, North Bethesda, MD 20852-4929.

Following the on-site visit and ACOTE Board review, the Board voted to grant full accreditation for a period of ten years. The next on-site accreditation reaffirmation visit will take place during the 2026/2027 academic year.

Contact: +1 615-963-5000

Address: 3500 John A Merritt Blvd, Nashville, TN 37209, United States

5. The University of Tennessee Health Science Center

The University of Tennessee Health Science Center’s mission is to improve the health and well-being of Tennesseans and the global community through integrated, collaborative, and inclusive education, research, scientific discovery, clinical care, and public service.

UTHSC places a premium on excellence, compassion, respect, health equity, integrity, diversity, and knowledge.

The mission of the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, as the state’s flagship public, academic health system, is to bring the benefits of the health sciences to the achievement and maintenance of human health, with a focus on the citizens of Tennessee and the region, through an integrated program of education, research, clinical care, and public service.

UTHSC employs over 6,000 people on its faculty, staff, and not-for-profit corporation faculty practice groups and contributes more than $4 billion to Tennessee’s economy.

The Department of Occupational Therapy at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center’s mission is to guide students in integrating academic knowledge, community engagement, and clinical experiences in order to graduate outstanding practitioners committed to leadership and evidence-based practice. The UTHSC Occupational Therapy Program was first accredited as a Bachelor of Science Program in 1990, and the first class graduated in 1991.

In 2007, the program was upgraded to a Master’s Degree. Graduates are prepared for entry-level occupational therapy positions.

The UTHSC MOT program has joined the new Occupational Therapy Centralized Application Service (OTCAS). Applicants for the incoming class must apply online through the OTCAS application.

Contact: +1 901-448-5500

Address: 920 Madison Ave, Memphis, TN 38163, United States

Conclusion on the Occupational Therapy Programs in Tennessee

The Tennessee Board of Occupational Therapy oversees all licenses in the state. Individuals must complete an accredited program and pass the state-mandated exam before applying for licensure. Exams will cover topics covered in occupational therapy degree programs and careers.

Those who successfully complete a doctorate degree program in Tennessee earn an average annual salary of around $79,956, which is higher than their West Virginia counterparts.

Depending on location, experienced occupational therapists in the state can earn more than $100,000 per year. A career in occupational therapy can have many advantages, but it can also be demanding. Many therapists find occupational therapy duties and responsibilities to be both rewarding and challenging.

The client-centered nature of this job can be intrinsically rewarding because you are able to provide care and assistance to patients, but it can also cause physical and emotional stress.

If you are thinking about becoming an occupational therapist, you should be aware of the industry’s and field’s benefits and drawbacks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is occupational therapy available at UT Austin?

The majority of occupational therapy school interviews occur in the late fall and early spring semesters. Admission to occupational therapy programs begins in the spring semester. Complete all UT Austin degree requirements in order to graduate.

2. Is there an Occupational Therapy program at the University of Tennessee?

The University of Tennessee’s College of Health Professions’ Occupational Therapy program is located in Memphis, Tennessee, and leads to an entry-level Master’s in Occupational Therapy (MOT) degree.

3. How do I become a Tennessee occupational therapist?

You must have a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from a school accredited by the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) or the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE).

4. Is kinesiology available in Texas?

Texas State University’s Department of Health and Human Performance offers several master’s programs to prepare students for careers and doctoral studies in a variety of fields such as athletic training, exercise science, health and wellness promotion, kinesiology, recreation administration, recreation therapy, rehabilitation, and so on.

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Occupational therapy is a dynamic, growing healthcare profession that assists people in maintaining or regaining the skills needed for life’s “occupations” Occupational therapists see patients of all ages in a variety of settings, including their homes, the community, hospitals, and schools.

Physical or emotional challenges, for example, can make it difficult to participate in daily activities such as work, play, and leisure, self-care, or caring for others.

As an occupational therapist, you will assist people in enjoying life to the fullest by assisting them in participating in the job of living.

Occupational therapists have always used creativity, flexibility, and problem-solving skills to assist people in finding practical real-life solutions to their problems.

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Occupational Therapy Programs in Maine

If you have those qualities and want to work in a field where you can use them to help people participate more fully, occupational therapy may be the career for you. Here are the schools in Maine that offer the occupational therapy Programs.

1. Husson University

Husson University has changed the lives of students since its inception in 1898. They accomplish this by inspiring and preparing students for professional careers in current and emerging fields as part of a science and humanities-based education.

They have a long history of outstanding teaching and experiential learning. In all of their programs, students gain hands-on experience in business, legal studies, communications, education, health, pharmacy, science and humanities, and technology. They are also committed to keeping Husson degrees affordable for their students.

Their prudent management of university resources has allowed them to remain Maine’s lowest-priced private university accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Related: Best Occupational Therapy Programs in New York

Husson has assisted thousands of students in gaining access to the transformative power of education.

They are committed to making strategic decisions now that will allow them to continue changing people’s lives for the foreseeable future. Husson is a premier professional programs university where students succeed, experiential learning is promoted, and global engagement is emphasized.

Husson University inspires and prepares students for professional careers in current and emerging fields through a science and humanities-based education. Each year, approximately 40 students are admitted to the School of Occupational Therapy.

They are dedicated to providing a world-class education to Husson students. Students interested in becoming occupational therapists have several entry options at Husson University.

The BS/MS program confers a BS in Healthcare Administration and Public Health as well as an MS in Occupational Therapy.

Students in their first year at Husson University can enroll directly in the BS Healthcare Administration and Public Health – Occupational Therapy track; in their third year, they can progress into the professional phase of occupational therapy coursework.

After successfully completing four years of study, the BS in Healthcare Administration and Public Health is awarded; the MS in Occupational Therapy is awarded after successfully completing the fifth year of study.

Address: 1 College Cir, Bangor, ME 04401, United States

Contact: +1 207-941-7000

2. University of New England

The New England University College, a College of the University of Sydney, was founded in 1938 as UNE. The University gained full independence in 1954 and pioneered correspondence teaching to external students, making UNE Australia’s most experienced provider of distance and now online education.

Their focus is on your future, and they offer a personalized and flexible approach to learning. They have over 200 courses available at the undergraduate, postgraduate coursework, and higher degree research levels, with options to study online or on campus.

The Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (M.S.O.T.) degree program at UNE in Maine will prepare you for a fulfilling and successful occupational therapy practice through client-centered critical thinking and clinical excellence.

You will be part of a community of scholars and students at UNE who are passionate about the transformative power of everyday activities. During UNE’s 24-month Master of Occupational Therapy program, you begin with a theoretical foundation, therapeutic use of self, functional movement analysis, and occupational analysis.

Read also: Best Occupational Therapy Programs in North Carolina

As you progress toward your occupational therapy degree, you will learn more about mental health practice, practice with children, rehabilitation, disability, and participation (RDP) with adults and older adults, specific practice skills, context, research, and leadership.

Level I Fieldwork will also be completed in the areas of mental health, children and youth, adults and older adults.

Following the completion of your didactic coursework, you will participate in two 12-week Level II Fieldwork rotations, in which you will collaborate with OT practitioners to address clients’ specific occupational needs.

After that, you will complete one rotation in RDP and one in either mental health, children and youth, or another RDP setting. Then you’ll return to their Portland, Maine campus for a week of synthesis, exploration, and exam prep. After successfully completing your coursework and fieldwork, you will be eligible to take the national OT certification examination.

Address: 11 Hills Beach Rd, Biddeford, ME 04005, United States

Contact: +1 207-283-0171

3. University of Southern Maine Lewiston-Auburn College

From Portland’s lively Old Port to Lewiston’s vibrant arts district to Gorham’s friendly village center, USM is at the heart of Maine’s most exciting metropolitan region.

The University of Southern Maine, committed to equity and excellence, promotes a culture of inquiry and belonging in which research, creativity, and innovation accelerate transformational development in our students, on their campuses, and in our communities. The University of Southern Maine’s Lewiston-Auburn College (LAC) is a pioneer in interdisciplinary education, integrating the liberal arts with the workplace and community.

Their mission is to engage and graduate students through a transformational educational experience that will prepare them to be creative critical thinkers, strong and effective communicators, and informed global citizens.

Faculty and staff are committed to engaging students in a transformative process that integrates self-awareness, content knowledge, relevant skills, and career development so that lifelong success and learning are intentional and expected.

The Department of Occupational Therapy at the College of Science, Technology, and Health currently offers two entry-level programs as well as a post-professional program. The Occupational Therapy program educates students to become Occupational Therapists through an integrative and holistic approach.

Graduates of this program will be prepared to succeed as ethical, socially responsible, life-long learners in the health and community care contexts.

The Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT) program prepares entry-level occupational therapists to be change agents by understanding the socio-cultural, political, and economic factors that influence the nature of occupation in society, health, and the profession of occupational therapy.

Graduates of this program will be prepared to succeed as ethical, socially responsible life-long learners in the health and community care contexts. Graduates will understand their capacities as leaders while applying clinical reasoning, problem-solving, and evidence-based practice to positively impact their clients, communities, and lives.

Address: 51 Westminster St, Lewiston, ME 04240, United States

Contact: +1 207-753-6536

Conclusion on the Occupational Therapy Programs in Maine

Every occupational therapist’s main goal is to assist people in engaging in meaningful activities (occupations) that impact their health and wellness.

Healthcare occupations and the healthcare industry are expected to grow by 14% between 2018 and 2028, with nearly 1.9 million new jobs added as a result of an aging population and increased demand for healthcare services.

Occupational therapist employment is expected to grow 18% from 2018 to 2028, much faster than the average for all occupations, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

As the industry grows in demand, the cost and duration of occupational therapy courses become more manageable, as students may have better access to jobs after graduation.

Furthermore, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that occupational therapists earn a median annual salary of $84,950 and an hourly wage of $40.84, making the profession a lucrative one with plenty of job opportunities. Many occupational therapists can also work full- or part-time, giving them valuable flexibility in their work-life balance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

See below for the answers to the most asked questions about the occupational therapy Programs in Maine;

1. Can occupational therapists do Manual therapy?

Manual therapy is only one tool in an occupational therapist’s toolbox for mobilizing stiff joints and soft tissue.

This specialized form of treatment aids in the reduction of swelling, reduction of restriction, mobilization of joints, and improvement of range of motion.

2. What is an occupational therapist’s typical day like?

A Day in the Life of an Occupational Therapist

Evaluate and treat the physical and mental abilities of patients. Analyze medical data to determine realistic rehabilitation objectives for patients.

Create treatment plans for patients by identifying activity types that will assist patients in reaching their rehabilitation objectives.

3. What exactly is a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy degree?

The Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (BOT Degree) is an allied health profession concerned with the study of subjects and therapies for assessment and intervention in order to keep individuals with any injury or disease engaged in meaningful activities.

4. What is the distinction between PT and OT?

The Fundamental Distinction

The most fundamental distinction between physical therapy and occupational therapy is that physical therapy focuses on improving the patient’s ability to move their body, whereas occupational therapy focuses on improving the patient’s ability to perform daily activities.

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Occupational therapists work with children and adults who have difficulty performing daily activities or are at risk of having difficulty.

Occupational therapists are important members of an intervention team, working with individuals and their families, physicians, physical and speech therapists, nurses, social workers, psychologists, vocational counselors, teachers, and other specialists to encourage active participation in daily life.

An occupational therapist,  will assess the patient’s important activities and teach them how to become independent again after surgery, allowing them to resume the roles that define who they are.

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Required Education

To become a licensed practitioner, occupational therapy, like many other healthcare professions, requires extensive education and training.

Most OTs enter the workforce with at least a master’s degree in occupational therapy, though some choose to further their education with a doctorate. Graduates must take the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy national exam in addition to earning a master’s degree from an accredited program (NBCOT).

Related: 4 Best Occupational Therapy Programs in Kentucky

While requirements vary by state, all states require practitioners to pass the NBCOT exam in order to obtain the title “Occupational Therapist, Registered” (OTR) and state licensure.

The American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) also offers various board and specialty certifications for occupational therapists who want to demonstrate their advanced skills in a specific area of practice.

1. Gerontology
2. Mental Health
3. Pediatrics
4. Physical Rehabilitation
5. Driving and Community Mobility
6. Environmental Modification
7. Feeding, Eating, and Swallowing
8. Low Vision
9. School Systems

Skills required

While occupational therapists come from all walks of life, there are a few key characteristics that suit the nature of the job.

To work in the best interests of their patients, for example, these professionals must have a strong sense of compassion and empathy.

Indeed, many occupational therapists choose this profession because they want to make a difference in the lives of others. Aside from a people-oriented mindset, occupational therapists should have a variety of skills to be successful in the field. Here are a few examples:

Communication skills: In order to effectively understand their patients’ needs and explain the treatment process, occupational therapists must have strong written and verbal communication skills. In addition, they must be able to clearly document treatment plans and progress while collaborating with other healthcare professionals.

Problem Solving: Because no two cases are alike, good OTs must be excellent problem solvers in order to determine the best course of action for each individual situation.

Patience and flexibility: Restoring a patient’s independence can take a long time in occupational therapy. Good OTs must be patient and adaptable when dealing with the ups and downs of this process.

Occupational Therapy Programs in Minnesota

There are three occupational therapy schools offering occupational therapy Programs in Minnesota.

1. The College of St. Scholastica

St. Scholastica is an independent private college with campuses throughout Minnesota, including their original Duluth campus.

Enrollment in their undergraduate and graduate programs has increased from 2,200 to 4,000 in the last decade, thanks in part to their commitment to providing high-quality education online and through convenient evening and weekend formats.

The College of St. Scholastica is dedicated to providing an exceptional value for a comprehensive educational experience to all undergraduate, graduate, and adult students. As St. Scholastica continues to cultivate a dynamic intellectual environment based on academic excellence, rigor, and integrity, highly competitive tuition becomes a true investment.

Students gain more than knowledge as a result of engaged learning, deep reflection, and curricula that develop 21st-century skills; they develop the personal ambition and broad perspective that form the foundations for a fulfilling life and career. The OT school at College of St. Scholastica has cutting-edge labs and classrooms.

The OT school is affiliated with Maurices Community Clinic, an interdisciplinary clinic where students gain supervised hands-on experience working with the uninsured or underinsured. The OT program emphasizes experiential learning and encourages students to participate in original research projects.

Address: 1200 Kenwood Ave, Duluth, MN 55811, United States

Contact: +1 800-447-5444

2. St. Catherine University

With a baccalaureate college for women at the heart of the University, as well as graduate and adult colleges for women and men, they welcome a diverse range of students. St. Catherine University, which is dedicated to excellence and opportunity, develops leaders who act with integrity.

Their mission is supported by three endowed chairs and is founded on three core principles: women, Catholicism, and liberal arts. Their vision is to be known around the world for educating women who changed the world.

St. Catherine University, which has been recognized as a scholar and leader in occupational therapy education for over 75 years, continues this tradition by offering a path to a doctorate degree in just over three years.

The graduate OT science-based curriculum is intertwined with the liberal arts education at the University, and it provides you with a foundation in four major populations and practice areas: pediatrics, geriatrics, mental health, and rehabilitation.

Fieldwork opportunities in diverse communities allow you to deepen your understanding of the social determinants of health and their effects on various populations, practice cultural fluency skills, and share caring strategies to improve lives locally and globally.

Capstone courses provide opportunities for you to gain advanced knowledge and skills in leadership, advocacy, quality improvement, educational methods, and clinical practice. St. Catherine’s Occupational Therapy has a long history of excellence in occupational therapy education and professional leadership.

The department offers the most extensive selection of occupational therapy programs in the country, with options at the associate, master’s, and doctoral levels. St. Catherine University’s OT school offers two entry-level programs.

One is a master of occupational therapy program, and the other is a dual degree in occupational therapy. Instead of a Master of Science degree, the OT school offers a Master of Arts in Occupational Therapy (MAOT).

Address: 2004 Randolph Ave, St Paul, MN 55105, United States

Contact: +1 651-829-8801

3. University of Minnesota

They seek new knowledge that can change how they all work and live at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities. They prepare students to face the great challenges that their state, nation, and world face. And they use their knowledge and experience as students, faculty, and staff to engage with communities throughout Minnesota.

The University of Minnesota Occupational Therapy Program’s (OT) mission is to educate leaders in occupational therapy through innovative experience-based education and research to advance the science of OT and promote the health and quality of life of individuals, communities, and societies. Empathy, expertise, teamwork, results, and leadership are all important to them.

Their program provides a 37-month, 116-credit graduate-level professional program that is completed in nine semesters. Graduates of the program will be eligible to take the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy’s National Certification Examination for the Occupational Therapist (NBCOT).

After passing this examination, the graduate will be a registered occupational therapist (OTR). The OT school focuses on research excellence, teaching excellence, learning location options, and easy access to Learning Materials.

The curriculum employs a hybrid educational approach that combines online and in-person instruction (75% online and 25% in-person). Students visit campus for varying amounts of time each semester to interact with other students and faculty. The OT school also offers a Ph.D. program in Rehabilitation Science, which is a good option for therapists who want to become OT educators or researchers.

Address: Minneapolis, MN 55455, United States

Contact: +1 612-625-5000

A final thought about the Occupational Therapy Programs in Minnesota

Occupational therapists assess a person’s physical capacities, cognitive skills, emotional responses, and social adjustment; environmental factors in their lives such as their physical, social, and virtual environments; and performance factors related to the activities that fill their day or how their communities support people with disabilities.

These assessments enable occupational therapists to intervene and help people in their communities achieve the highest level of function and participation possible.

This includes the use of therapeutic activities, adaptive equipment, and the training of individuals in specialized techniques. Occupational therapists also work as managers, rehabilitation team leaders, and researchers who study the effectiveness of therapeutic interventions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. In Minnesota, how much does a COTA make?

In Minnesota, the average hourly wage for a certified occupational therapy assistant is $32.93 per hour. There were 87 reported salaries as of July 25, 2022.

2. How long does it take to get an occupational therapy license in Minnesota?

In Minnesota, receiving your occupational therapy license usually takes between one and two weeks. This is quick in comparison to other occupational therapy licenses in the United States.

3. Is there an Occupational Therapy program at the University of Minnesota?

The University of Minnesota’s Occupational Therapy (OT) program is the state’s only public doctoral-level OT program and one of the oldest in the country.

4. Can I get into OT school despite having a low GPA?

With a lower GPA, you can absolutely get into OT school. I concentrated on performing well on the GRE, writing an outstanding personal statement, completing a large number of observation hours, and obtaining positive letters of recommendation.

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What do you know about the occupational therapy programs in Illinois? Sit tight as we unravel the essentials you ought to know about these programs.

Occupational therapy can assist you in living your best life at home, work, and everywhere else. It is about being able to do what you want and need to do.

This could include assisting you in overcoming obstacles while learning in school, going to work, participating in sports, or simply doing the dishes.

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Occupational Therapy Programs in Illinois

Here are a few occupational therapy schools that offers occupational therapy Programs.

1. Chicago State University

Chicago State University, founded in 1867, is one of the oldest universities in the United States. The CSU Occupational Therapy Program has been in operation since 1984. Students can pay low tuition fees at the OT school. Chicago State University’s (CSU) Department of Occupational Therapy has a long and distinguished history. Since 1984, the University’s occupational therapy program has been continuously accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education.

Throughout the country, their graduates work as skilled clinicians, managers, entrepreneurs, and educators.

Their diverse and dedicated faculty members all have extensive clinical practice, academic scholarship, and professional service backgrounds. Members of their faculty hold professional leadership positions and have published and presented at national and international conferences.

The faculty is dedicated to providing their students with high-quality educational opportunities. Every semester of their curriculum includes fieldwork experiences. While students have the opportunity to work in traditional settings, they also make certain that all students have fieldwork experiences in innovative community-based programs.

All of these activities are designed to assist students in applying classroom concepts to real-world situations. Their students are a diverse group of people from various cultural backgrounds, ages, and life experiences.

Check also: Best Occupational Therapy Programs in Arizona

They are dedicated to their education as well as community service. Their faculty, staff, and students collaborate to build a community that fosters learning and personal development.

Occupational therapists can anticipate a growing job market that will provide practitioners with a variety of opportunities to assist individuals in doing what they find most meaningful.

You will agree that Chicago State University is an outstanding program for preparing students to do creative work in traditional practice settings as well as to develop innovative programs in emerging areas of practice.

Contact: +1 773-995-2000

Address: 9501 S King Dr, Chicago, IL 60628, United States

2. Governors State University

Governors State University (GSU) was established in 1969 as an upper-division institution primarily serving community college graduates pursuing baccalaureate degrees. GSU has grown over the last five decades to become the only regional, public, comprehensive university in Chicago’s south suburbs, serving approximately 4,600 students each year in 85 different bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and certificate programs.

GSU has a diverse faculty and staff of approximately 1,000 employees who reflect the students and community they serve. GSU provides culturally and economically diverse students from across the region and around the world with accessible, high-value undergraduate and graduate education. According to its mission statement, Governors State University is dedicated to providing an exceptional and accessible education that equips students with the knowledge, skills, and values.

The Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT) program at Governors State University prepares Occupational Therapists to guide clients through long-term recovery and shape and lead the profession in the years ahead.

Their graduates are well-versed in the sciences and skills that allow clients to regain function and adapt to the new realities and limitations that occur as a result of life-altering events.

See also: Best Occupational Therapy Programs in New York

The MOT program places a strong emphasis on advocacy, communication, critical thinking, and lifelong learning—skills and activities that set our graduates apart and equip them to be highly effective professionals. Occupational therapists come from a variety of backgrounds, but they all share one goal: to help change people’s lives.

Admission to the MOT program requires an undergraduate degree, and while no specific undergraduate major degree is required, certain course prerequisites must be obtained prior to admission.

Address: 1 University Pkwy, University Park, IL 60484, United States

Contact: +1 708-534-5000

3. Midwestern University

Midwestern University’s historical and sustaining philosophy commits the institution and its resources to the highest academic standards in order to meet the educational needs of the healthcare community.

They specialize in healthcare education. They are an established leader with an exciting future vision. Midwestern University’s programs will provide you with a strong foundation in the sciences, extensive hands-on experience in outstanding clinical rotations, and a compassionate attitude toward your patients. You’ll also learn from faculty mentors who are passionate about preparing their future colleagues for the realities of patient care.

Their graduates work in the nation’s top hospitals, private practices, laboratories, pharmacies, and healthcare facilities. The Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education has fully accredited the Occupational Therapy Program (ACOTE). For qualified students, the Program offers a curriculum leading to the Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) degree.

The entry-level OTD curriculum is intended to provide students with the academic and clinical education needed to prepare them for their professional roles as key members of the healthcare team and practice leaders in the healthcare delivery system.

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The Doctor of Occupational Therapy program is a continuous, full-time program that lasts 33 months from matriculation to graduation. This program has a maximum completion time of 49.5 months.

All Level II fieldwork and successful completion of a competency requirement must also be completed prior to the start of a 16-week full-time doctoral internship. Occupational therapists’ general education, professional training, experience, and personal character development uniquely prepare them to respond to and meet the needs of individuals who face difficulties participating in their daily lives.

Address: 555 31st St, Downers Grove, IL 60515, United States

Contact: +1 800-458-6253

4. Rush University

Rush University Medical Center’s academic enterprise is Rush University. Rush University Medical Center, or RUMC, is a non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation based in Illinois with three missions: education, research, and clinical care.

Each component of RUMC’s mission is equally important, and this tripartite mission allows academics and research to be fully integrated with clinical practice, providing an educational experience based on a teacher-practitioner model in order to train the next generation of health care professionals and providers while promoting a research environment that works in tandem with clinical excellence.

This entry-level occupational therapy doctoral program combines academic studies with clinical experiences to provide you with the scientific and professional education required to become a highly trained occupational therapy practitioner.

Every term, you will have clinical experiences, beginning with structured observations and progressing to fieldwork rotations and culminating with individual doctoral experiences and a capstone project. These opportunities expose you to a wide range of patient populations in a variety of settings, both on and off campus.

Address: 1653 W Congress Pkwy #12, Chicago, IL 60612, United States

Contact:

5. University of Illinois Chicago

Since 1943, the University of Illinois’ Occupational Therapy School has played a critical role in the development of the occupational therapy profession.

The Occupational Therapy program has been integrating research, education, and clinical practice to support a single vision: Creating Tomorrow’s Practice. The OT school encourages research in the field of occupational therapy, with over 290 publications in the last five years.

MOHO is thought to have originated at the University of Illinois at Chicago (model of human occupation). MOHO is the world’s most widely cited and used occupation-focused practice model, with an international reputation.

Address: 1200 W Harrison St, Chicago, IL 60607, United States

Contact: +1 312-996-7000

6. Elmhurst University

Elmhurst University aspires to be a national leader in undergraduate and graduate education, distinguished by the success of their students and alumni, innovative faculty and staff, and local, national, and international partnerships.

Also, Elmhurst University inspires intellectual and personal growth in their students, preparing them for meaningful and ethical contributions to a diverse, global society Elmhurst University’s master’s degree in occupational therapy (OT) will prepare you for professional entry-level practice as an occupational therapist.

Elmhurst’s graduate program is designed for students who are new to the field of occupational therapy. It combines rigorous academic coursework with service learning, field experience, and collaborative research on campus.

Address: 190 S Prospect Ave, Elmhurst, IL 60126, United States

Contact: +1 630-617-3400

Conclusion on the Occupational Therapy Programs in Illinois

According to Indeed.com, the average annual salary of an occupational therapist in Illinois was $83,800 in 2016; according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual and hourly income of occupational therapy professionals in May 2016 was $82,450 and $39.54, respectively.

See below for the answers to the most asked questions about the Occupational Therapy Programs in Illinois.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What should you do after passing the Nbcot?

After passing the NBCOT exam, how do I obtain my permanent license? A. Use your BreEZe account to submit the Initial License application for OT or OTA. Initial License applications are reviewed within 30 days of being submitted.

2. How long does it take to get your Illinois occupational therapy license?

In Illinois, it can take up to two months to receive your occupational license. This is a little slower than other occupational therapy licenses in the United States.

3. Is there an Occupational Therapy program at the University of Illinois?

Since 1943, the University of Illinois at Chicago’s Department of Occupational Therapy has been integrating research, education, and clinical practice to serve a single vision: Making Today’s Practice.

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Admission to an accredited occupational therapy graduate program is one of the first and most important considerations in pursuing a career in occupational therapy.

Because there are a number of occupational therapy school prerequisites that must be completed or are in progress before you begin applying, planning for admission into one of these programs should begin as soon as possible.

A Master’s in Occupational Therapy (MOT) or a Doctorate in Occupational Therapy is required to begin working as an occupational therapist (OTD).

Keep in mind that if you are applying to or have completed a Master’s-level OT program, you will be grandfathered into practice even if the broad graduate program changes towards entry-level Doctorates in 2027.

While not all occupational therapy graduate programs have the same requirements, there are many general occupational therapy school prerequisites that apply to the majority of them.

Read also: 12 Best Occupational therapy programs in Michigan

Check the specific prerequisites for each program you’re interested in because they will vary by school. If you plan on applying to multiple OT programs, it is also recommended creating your own spreadsheet to keep track of each program’s requirements.

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Steps to becoming an Occupational Therapist

See below for the steps;

1. Get your Bachelor’s Degree

Unless you’re applying to an occupational therapy school that offers a combined Bachelor’s/degree Master’s (which is rare), you’ll need to first obtain your Bachelor’s degree. Master’s and Doctorate programs in occupational therapy are available.

Many occupational therapy schools are not as picky about what Bachelor’s degree you have when applying. We had students in my program with degrees ranging from psychology to journalism.

2. Take the Required Prerequisites

Occupational therapy schools frequently have different requirements, so check each school’s website to see what they require. Having said that, the majority of occupational therapy school prerequisites are the same. The following are the most common OT school prerequisites:

1. Biology
2. Anatomy and Physiology (I and II)
3. Abnormal Psychology
4. Statistics
5. Physics
6. Medical Terminology
7. Human Development/Developmental Psychology
8. Sociology

Also, keep in mind that occupational therapy programs will accept prerequisites from either a four-year university or an accredited two-year college.

So, if you still need to take these courses (or retake them for a better grade) but are on a tight budget, a community college will suffice.

Read also: 4 Best Occupational Therapy Programs in Kentucky

Because OT school prerequisites are an important part of the application process, it is recommended that you have a high GPA in these core courses, with at least a 3.0 or B in each. However, if possible, strive for A’s in these prerequisite courses.

3. Take (and Ace!) the GRE

You do not want average results here. While the GRE may not appear to be particularly relevant to the field of occupational therapy, your test scores do play a role in increasing your chances of acceptance if your preferred schools require the GRE. If you’ve already taken it and received poor results, I recommend retaking it after thoroughly studying for it.

4. Get Plenty of OT Observation Hours

While many OT schools may state that they only require 30-40 hours of occupational therapy observation hours, most applicants receive far more than that.

It’s not uncommon for applicants to tell me they’re working more than 100 hours per week in multiple settings, so in order to stay competitive, it is  advised applicants to try to work more than 100 hours per week if possible.

Furthermore, completing these hours in more than one occupational therapy setting will improve your application.

This demonstrates that you’ve had exposure to various types of occupational therapy, making you a more well-rounded applicant.

It’s also beneficial to have a job or volunteer experience in occupational therapy, whether with adults or children.

5. Get Letters of Recommendation

Every school requires letters of recommendation, which are typically written by at least one occupational therapist.

The other letters should come from a professor and a supervisor in order to provide the school with a balanced picture of you as a student and an employee.

When looking for people to write your letters, look for professors or supervisors who know you well and can paint you in a positive light. You can definitely give them specifics on what makes you a great OT, as well as accomplishments you’re proud of.

6. Craft a Great Personal Statement

Your personal statement is your chance to shine and tell occupational therapy schools all about yourself and why you want to be an OT.

Take your time writing it and demonstrate to the admissions committee what sets you apart from the other applicants.

Your personal statement is especially important for schools that do not conduct interviews, so consider it your interview in some ways.

7. Apply to Occupational Therapy Programs of Interest

After researching the requirements of your preferred occupational therapy school, you can narrow down your options based on your personal needs.

Read also: 3 Best Occupational Therapy Schools in Texas

You can use AOTA’s comprehensive list of OT programs to help you sort through all of the programs when applying. When applying to OT school, most schools use OTCAS, or the Occupational Therapy Centralized Application Service, a comprehensive online application system.

Occupational Therapy Programs in Oregon

There is only one school offering occupational therapy Programs in Oregon

• 1. Pacific University

Pacific University, founded in 1849, is a diverse learning community that offers a unique blend of nationally recognized undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs in the arts and sciences, education, business, optometry, and the health professions. Pacific, which has four campuses in Oregon’s Willamette Valley, combines the close, nurturing learning environment of a small liberal arts college with the rigorous scholarship of a top university.

Students at Pacific form close personal bonds with their peers, mentors, faculty members, and academic and career counselors. One in every four of their students, from freshmen to future doctors, is the first in their family to attend college.

Their students achieve greater socioeconomic growth as a result of their education than their peers at other Pacific Northwest colleges. Pacific is also the state’s only Asian Pacific Islander Serving Institution.

They are proud to be a place where different points of view are valued. A place where you can thrive — where you will be challenged by exceptional academics and a rich liberal arts tradition, where you will be supported by your community, and where you will be surrounded by the beauty of the great Pacific Northwest.

Occupational therapists assist people in doing what they want to do, increasing their sense of satisfaction and contributing to their overall well-being.

This three-year doctoral program consists of two years on our Hillsboro, Oregon, campus, followed by a third year of distance learning and fieldwork.

Undergraduates interested in a career as an occupational therapist at Pacific University may choose to complete a pre-OT track alongside their bachelor’s degree in preparation for a graduate program, such as Pacific’s doctor of occupational therapy.

Contact: +1 503-352-6151

Address: 2043 College Way, Forest Grove, OR 97116, United States

Conclusion on the Occupational Therapy Programs in Oregon

Many occupational therapy schools require a minimum number of direct observation hours in occupational therapy clinical settings in addition to a minimum grade point average, a minimum GRE score, and prerequisite coursework.

The minimum number of shadowing hours is frequently around 40. Before you begin logging programs, make sure to research the shadowing requirements for the specific programs you’re interested in.

Regardless, it’s always recommended to get 100 hours (or more) of experience in a variety of settings to strengthen your application.

Volunteering or shadowing an occupational therapist at their workplace, which can be a clinic, hospital, skilled nursing facility, or school, to name a few options, can often earn credit for direct observation hours. It makes no difference where you log your hours as long as they are documented by a practicing occupational therapist.

It is also a good idea to observe in multiple clinics and with multiple therapists to get a comprehensive view and diverse perspectives on the field.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Below, you will find the answers to some of the most asked questions about the Occupational Therapy Programs in Oregon;

1. How long does it take to get an occupational therapy license in Oregon?

between one and two weeks

In Oregon, receiving your occupational therapy license usually takes between 1 and 2 weeks. This is quick in comparison to other occupational therapy licenses in the United States.

2. What is the number of occupational therapists in Oregon?

Oregon’s occupational therapy community has grown from a few therapists scattered throughout the state to over 2,600 licensed OT and OTA practitioners representing a wide range of field specialties.

3. Is there an occupational therapy program at the University of Oregon?

It takes a year to apply to OT school. Students who apply in their final year at UO will take a year off before beginning OT school. During the school year, students can work, take classes, travel, and so on.

4. Who makes more money: occupational therapists or physical therapists?

Is it true that occupational therapists earn more than physical therapists? Physical therapists make more money than occupational therapists on average.

Physical therapists earned $91,010 per year as of May 2020, according to the BLS, while occupational therapists earned $86,280.

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If you wish take a program in one of the top occupational therapy schools in Texas, this blog post is a must read for you.

Occupational therapists play critical roles in a wide range of public and private professional settings, including elder care, physical and mental health clinics and services, and working with children in schools and pediatric facilities.

Furthermore, occupational therapy (OT) is an allied health profession that involves the therapeutic use of everyday activities, or occupations, to treat physical, mental, developmental, and emotional ailments that interfere with a patient’s ability to perform daily tasks.

As a result, an occupational therapist is a practitioner who employs therapeutic techniques to improve, rehabilitate, or maintain a patient’s ability to perform daily tasks.

Occupational therapy differs from other healthcare professions such as physical therapy or nursing in that it treats the entire patient rather than a specific injury, ailment, or disability.

For example, following surgery, a nurse may assist a patient with pain management, dressing changes, and recovery care. An occupational therapist, on the other hand, will evaluate the patient’s important activities.

Pediatrics, orthopedics, neurology, low vision therapy, physical rehabilitation, mental health, assistive technology, oncological rehabilitation, and geriatrics are all areas where occupational therapists work.

Occupational therapists work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, residential care facilities, home health agencies, outpatient rehabilitation centers, and so on.

Read also: 12 Best Occupational therapy programs in Michigan

Occupational therapists are also used by school districts and businesses as consultants to improve employee workplace safety and productivity.

Many OTs are self-employed and run their own businesses. OTs are also one of eight members of the United States Public Health Service Commissioned Corps.

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Responsibility of Occupational Therapist

1. Occupational therapists are trained healthcare professionals who encourage participation, health, and well-being through meaningful participation in daily activities. One of their primary goals is to assist their patients in performing effectively in their roles and routines in daily life.
2. Rehabilitation after illness/injury, pediatrics, mental health, geriatrics, assistive technology, health and wellness, pain management, work/industry, and community accessibility are some of the practice areas in which occupational therapy practitioners work with clients of all ages.
3. By strengthening client factors and performance skills such as physical, cognitive, and perceptual abilities, occupational therapists can promote client participation and independence in life. Occupational therapists may also assist clients in achieving their goals by facilitating the use of adaptive strategies, adaptive equipment, and/or environmental modifications.
4. Occupational therapists use therapeutic interventions geared toward the person, occupation, and environment to provide a client-centered, holistic approach to each patient. Occupational therapists focus on a person’s distinct identity, abilities, strengths, interests, and environment to develop strategies and techniques that allow clients to live life to the fullest.
5. Occupational therapists promote self-esteem, self-efficacy, and a sense of accomplishment in a client’s choice of activities, roles, routines, contexts, and environments by doing, being, and belonging. Within the realms of prevention, promotion, and intervention, occupational therapists can also provide prevention and education regarding physical, mental, and social-emotional aspects of health and wellness.

Where do Occupational therapist work?

Occupational therapists treat a wide range of conditions in adults and children of all ages.

They typically assist people suffering from mental illnesses, physical disabilities, or learning disabilities.

And you’ll find them assisting people to live their best lives in health care, social care, housing, education, and volunteer organizations.

Read also: Best Occupational Therapy Programs in Arizona

Many occupational therapists work independently and with members of the public, asylum seekers and refugees, police or fire departments, or psychiatric services.

Occupational Therapy School in Texas

Below are the top occupational therapy schools in Texas;

1. Abilene Christian University

Abilene Christian University is a center of academic excellence and community service. They prepare students for lives of service leadership through residential and online undergraduate and graduate programs, empowering them through exceptional teaching that unlocks the power of their curiosity and prepares them to create solutions that address today’s and tomorrow’s opportunities.

They aim to contribute to their students’ spiritual and intellectual growth in ways that encourage confidence and vocational formation in our vibrant, Christ-centered community.

Abilene Christian University’s mission is to prepare students for Christian service and leadership around the world.

They achieve their mission through exemplary teaching provided by an innovative and caring community of Christian scholars, which inspires a commitment to lifelong learning; and significant research that is grounded in biblical scholarship, founded on the university’s disciplinary strengths, that informs and influences global issues of importance to the academy, church, and society; and meaningful service as a divine calling that enriches our global society, academic disciplines, the university, and the church for the glory of God.

Read also: occupational therapy program in Ohio

An occupational therapist’s, therapeutic work promotes independence in daily activities for people who have physical limitations due to illness, injury, disability, or aging.

The Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT) program at Abilene Christian University prepares you to transform patients’ lives through an understanding of the human body and human environments.

To obtain a master’s degree in occupational therapy, you must complete 69 credit hours. Musculoskeletal Anatomy, Occupational Therapy for Mental Health and Wellness, Ethical and Professional Decision Making in OT, and many other subjects are covered in order to develop your skills as a competent and confident occupational therapist.

Graduates of the program will be eligible to take the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy’s national certification examination for occupational therapists (NBCOT).

After passing this exam, the individual will be an Occupational Therapist, Registered (OTR).

Furthermore, licensure is required in all states in order to practice; however, state licenses are typically based on the results of the NBCOT Certification Examination.

A felony conviction may make it difficult for a graduate to sit for the NBCOT certification exam or obtain state licensure.

Contact: +1 325-674-2000

Address: 1600 Campus Ct, Abilene, TX 79601, United States

2. Baylor University

A private Christian university with a national research ranking of one. By combining interdisciplinary research with an international reputation for educational excellence and a faculty commitment to teaching and scholarship, Baylor creates a vibrant campus community for its more than 20,000 students.

Baylor University’s mission is to prepare men and women for global leadership and service by integrating academic excellence and Christian commitment within a caring community.

The Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) programs at Baylor University integrate innovative technologies and hybrid learning strategies to prepare practice scholars, educational innovators, and professional leaders who use clinically relevant research in the implementation of best practice and meet the changing demands of the Occupational Therapy profession.

The OTD faculty believe that student-centered teaching promotes scholarly inquiry-based discovery and clinical reasoning, as well as instills a sense of self and others, resulting in scientifically based client-centered service delivery marked by ethical treatment decisions.

This approach encourages students to broaden their understandings of occupational therapy’s relevance to include considerations about the dynamic interaction of occupational performance, social participation, and Christian values.

Faculty identified five curricular threads to unify the OTD curricular framework into a narrative discourse about the profession and its role in health care and the community, guided by institutional values and mission: clinical reasoning, focus on occupation, client-centered care, servant leadership, and scholarly practice/research. These five threads serve as the foundation for the program’s curricular learning outcomes.

Contact: +1 800-229-5678

Address: 1311 S 5th St, Waco, TX 76706, United States

3. Parker University Campus

Parker University’s certificate, associates, bachelors, masters, and doctoral degrees prepare graduates in the health sciences, technology, business, and education communities to set trends in health and wellness.

Parker University is a pioneer in collaborative and conservative patient-centered healthcare education, clinical practice, research, and service.

Parker University is a private, regionally accredited university that provides certificate, undergraduate, and graduate degree programs in healthcare and business-related fields via a variety of delivery formats and learning environments.

The university values lifelong learning, research, and service. Parker University offers its diverse student body support services and learning opportunities to help them develop the skills needed for successful employment and career advancement.

Contact: +1 214-301-4888

Address: 2540 Walnut Hl Ln, Dallas, TX 75229, United States

A final thought on the Occupational Therapy Schools in Texas

Occupational Therapist work By assisting you in performing important daily activities such as self-care, leisure/hobbies/play, work/education, social participation, and sleep/rest.

By using creative problem-solving to help you live a fuller, more satisfying life in the face of illness, injury, disability, or other difficult life circumstances or events.

By enhancing your skills and independence, you will be able to fully participate in your life roles (child, parent, student, friend, worker, volunteer, etc).

Occupational Therapy is focused on your preferences, goals, and priorities by taking a client-centered approach. By fighting for your human rights and gaining access to services

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

See below for the answers to some of the most asked questions about the occupational therapy schools in Texas;

1. Is there an OT program at Texas A&M?

Texas currently has eight entry-level colleges offering OT programs, all of which require a bachelor’s degree before admission.

Because Texas A&M does not have a pre-OT major, students can choose from over 200 major fields of study.

2. In Texas, how long does it take to become an occupational therapist assistant?

This two-year program trains students to work as Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants (COTA).

To practice under the supervision of a registered Occupational Therapist in Texas, the COTA must obtain state licensure (OTR).

3. In Texas, how many occupational therapy schools are there?

Texas currently has 12/404 OT programs, 11 of which are entry-level, and applicants can begin master’s or doctoral programs immediately after receiving a bachelor’s degree.

4. In Texas, how do I become an occupational therapist?

The occupational therapist must complete a minimum of 6 months of supervised clinical experience after graduating from an accredited program.

An accredited program and at least 12 weeks of supervised fieldwork experience are required for the occupational therapy assistant.

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