There are many OTA programs available today, but only some are occupational therapy assistant online programs AND accredited. Your choice will depend on your career goals and needs. Here are some things to consider when choosing an online OTA program:
- Do you want a program that’s online or in-person?
- What kind of occupational therapy assistant jobs are you interested in?
- What is your budget for an online OTA program?
Once you’ve answered these questions, you can start looking at specific online OTA programs. Read on to make a more informed decision about your occupational therapy assistant education! Before we list the best online OTA programs, let’s quickly review some basics.
OTA Education Requirements
Online and offline occupational therapy assistant schools offer training to people who want to help patients with mental or physical disabilities. The education necessary to become an occupational therapy assistant (OTA) typically includes completing a two-year associate’s degree program in occupational therapy assisting.
Typical occupational therapy assistant courses include:
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Psychology
- Math
- English Coursework
In addition, students take classes specifically focused on occupational therapy assisting, such as Principles of Occupational Therapy, Occupational Therapy for Physical Dysfunction, and Pediatrics in Occupational Therapy.
Online OTA programs require students to complete numerous clinical hours to graduate. Clinical hours come in the form of fieldwork. OTA fieldwork divides into Level I and Level II. Level I involves direct observation as well as participation in actual OT settings. This may consist of site visits, simulated environments, and an overall introduction to patient care. Level I length will vary with each program, however many offer around 40 hours. Level II fieldwork involves giving OT services to actual patients under direct supervision. This can take place in up to three different clinical settings. Although the hours vary with each institution, students can expect at least 16 weeks of Level II fieldwork experience. This is the requirement for OTA programs to maintain their ACOTE accreditation.
Can You Get an OTA Degree Online?
If working as an occupational therapy assistant (OTA) is your dream, then resources are easily accessible. Nowadays it’s possible to pursue this goal from anywhere. How is that possible? Due to advances in modern learning tools, students can enroll in higher education programs that are online. This is also true for OTA degrees.
Accredited online OTA programs bring dynamic courses to your fingertips. From the comfort of home you can gain valuable knowledge as well as the skills needed to get your first OTA job. These occupational therapy assistant online programs are from trustworthy institutions. They are from major universities, colleges, and technical schools. In summary, accreditation means that these centers for learning meet rigorous standards for quality.
Keep in mind that no OTA program is fully online. Even though students will receive the majority of their studies virtually, certain elements need to be in person. Participating in live lab sessions will help you practice skills learned in class. You will not only apply theoretical knowledge, but you’ll learn to work in a team and create a bond with classmates.
Attending actual clinical facilities for the fieldwork requirement is also critical. In these settings students will meet other healthcare professionals, improve their ability to serve patients, and build confidence. Life as an OTA involves building human connections, so more opportunities to practice interpersonal skills will only set you up for success.
If you want to continue on the OTA journey, then keep reading!
Accreditation of Online OTA Programs
The Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) is the accrediting body for occupational therapy assistant programs. The accreditation criteria is rigorous. The curriculum, fieldwork, learning outcomes, quality of faculty, the school’s facilities, and skills graduates are expected to develop are all examined by the ACOTE before a program becomes accredited. ACOTE accreditation is necessary for people who want certification and licensure. This is because the NBCOT exam only invites candidates with an ACOTE-accredited education. NBCOT is the national OT and OTA certification organization. Also, ACOTE is the only accrediting organization for occupational therapy recognized by the US Department of Education (USDE) and Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).
Additionally, ACOTE accepts OTA online programs accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS). ACICS is recognized by CHEA.
The Best Online OTA Associate Programs
You might be wondering why GetEducated is only highlighting one online occupational therapy assistant program. At the time of this writing, there was only one program that was 80% online, accredited by ACOTE, and prepared students to take the NBCOT occupational therapist assistant exam.
St. Catherine University
Degree: Associate of Applied Science in Occupational Therapy Assistant
Total Cost (In-State & Out-of-State): $52,725
St. Catherine University (St. Kate) is a higher education organization located in St. Paul, Minnesota. It was founded in 1905 and has a rich history. This faith-based private university was established by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet. They are a group of Catholic sisters with roots tracing back to the 1600’s in France. Their mission involves service, education, as well as advocacy. At first this university was only available to women, however nowadays it welcomes people of all genders and backgrounds. Additionally, St. Kate now has four campuses across the nation. It offers more than 50 fields of study. Their degrees have accreditation and range from associate to PhD.
Innovation and trend-setting are part of St. Kate’s doctrine. This is evident in multiple areas of the school’s legacy. Because of this legacy, it established the first OTA program in the United States in 1964. Later, it became the first university in the country to create a blended associate OTA program. This refers to a program that is partially in-person and online. In additiona, the occupational therapy assistant online program at St. Kate is ACOTE-accredited. Graduates qualify for the NBCOT exam for COTAs. The pillars of the program build on six practice areas. These are Children and Youth, Mental Health, Productive Aging, Rehabilitation and Disability, Health and Wellness, plus Work and Industry.
Admission Requirements
Students who want to join St. Kate’s OTA online program typically enroll as LIFE Core OTA students. Another term is liberal arts and science (LAS) students. Qualified university applicants have a high school diploma or GED with a minimum 2.5 GPA.
Program applicants need a “C” grade in four prerequisite courses before beginning OTA coursework:-General Anatomy and Physiology
-Medical Terminology
-General Psychology
-Lifespan Development TechnologyStudents can choose a “Pass/Fail” option for Medical Terminology. Students will apply to the program one term before OTA courses begin. Candidates must have an cumulative GPA of 2.5 and all university immunizations.
Coursework & Curriculum
The 63-credit degree consists of Phase I (LIFE Core courses in 1-3 semesters) and Phase II (OTA degree courses in 4 semesters).
During Phase I, students complete their prerequisites before entering the OTA program. They also take courses called Biomedical Ethics, The Reflective Woman, and Theological Questions.All courses of Phase II come in a fixed sequence. The first year of Phase II includes classes like Foundations of Human Occupation, Role of the OTA, Psychosocial Approaches, Pediatric Practice, and Rehabilitation Practice. Additionally, students participate in skill labs and begin their Level I fieldwork. Level I fieldwork uses group-cohorts which allows for more collaboration between students.
During the second year of Phase II, students deepen their learning with classes in Pediatric Practice 2, Aging, Applied Skills, plus Primary Care and OT. Most courses come with skill labs. The final semester places students in real clinical environments for their Level II fieldwork. Level II fieldwork divides into two 8-week experiences that are full-time. Students will gain experience working in settings like physical disabilities practice, emerging practice, or an area of interest. St. Kate has over 500 partnerships with clinical facilities around the country ranging from schools to outpatient centers. The fieldwork coordinator can pair students with locations that meet their career goals and are close to home.
Overall, St. Kate provides 12 skill labs and 720 hours of supervised fieldwork for their OTA students. Labs take place over the weekend in actual rehabilitation settings. Depending on where students live, they can choose between centers in Virginia, Texas, Minnesota and California.
Students may take their LAS classes simultaneously with the OTA program. This takes approximately 16 months to graduate. They may also complete all coursework sequentially. This can take around 24 months to complete.
Online Learning
The blended learning format consists of online and in-person. 80% of the curriculum involves online coursework. 20% of the curriculum consists of in-person labs and fieldwork. The online portion of the degree takes place on Canvas. This is St. Kate’s virtual learning platform. Through Canvas, students can access lectures, reading materials, and submit assignments. They also can engage with classmates and communicate with faculty. There is a 24:1 student-to-teacher ratio in all classes. Classes have forums, visual activities, and interactive simulations to engage all learning styles. Each course is asynchronous, meaning the workload is flexible to a student’s schedule.
In-Person Learning
OTA students at St. Kate will participate in three forms of in-person learning. These are skill labs, Level I fieldwork, and Level II fieldwork.
Skill labs take place at the Virginia, Texas, Minnesota and California campuses. Students can choose which location is most convenient for them. These are important because students will strengthen their skills in practice areas like mental health as well as productive aging. Each lab enriches student’s understanding of essential concepts and practices learned in coursework.
Fieldwork takes place in settings approved by the fieldwork coordinator. Level I involves group observation. Therefore, locations typically are close to one of St. Kate’s campuses. Level I is a three-day immersive experience. This is convenient for students who have to travel long distances. Settings will include facilities with pediatrics, physical disabilities, and aging populations. In short, Level I will help students understand client needs and learn from experienced healthcare workers.
On the other hand, Level II fieldwork is more flexible. St. Kate’s immense network of partner organizations lets students fulfill this requirement from anywhere in the country. Level II helps candidates practice their skills in real-world environments. They will receive invaluable mentorship and networking opportunities.
Learning Outcomes
Each student will develop competence in all of the program’s six practice areas. Gaining expertise in these areas will provide foundational knowledge to begin a rewarding career. The program offers experienced faculty, dynamic learning materials, and excellent hands-on practice. Therefore, graduates will have the skills needed to be a successful practitioner. These may include helping kids improve their motor skills or teaching someone proper self-care. Analytics, collaboration, leadership, communication, self-reflection, as well as organization are all skills that graduates can expect to receive.
Student Services
St. Kate offers an abundance of resources to help students thrive. Firstly, their Career Development department has many mentorship, networking, as well as job opportunities. They provide career counseling, internships, and tools for students to ace interviews. Secondly, St. Kate has a strong alumni community that helps current and former students connect. Additionally, academic counseling, disability resources, tutoring sessions, study assistance, and ESL services are available. Lastly, online OTA program students can receive a 7-week NBCOT exam prep course. This is optional but gives students a boost. It includes taking practice exams and weekly group coaching sessions.
Graduation Outcomes
The purpose of this online COTA program is to create job-ready professionals. Since this occupational therapy assistant online program has ACOTE accreditation, graduates will be prepared for the national certification exam. Consider this program as a stepping stone to certification. As a COTA, these industry professionals can apply for licensure to practice in many states. Although, each state has their own standards for accepting licensure applications.
Graduates also will have laid the groundwork for a potential career as a registered occupational therapist (OTR). OTRs need at least a master’s degree. Fortunately, coursework from St. Kate meets part of the OTA education requirements for a bachelor’s degree. With an undergrad degree, COTA’s can enroll in a master’s program.
Tuition, Other Costs & Financial Aid
Tuition for this online occupational therapy assistant program is $51,345. This breaks down to $815 per credit hour. In addition, there are various university fees:
-Technology Fee: $300 per semester
-Study Activity Fee: $45 per semester
-Books, Supplies, and membership with AOTA: approximately $2,500 in total
-Clinical Clearance Costs: Varies
-Health Insurance: VariesStudents can expect additional travel costs for their skill labs and fieldwork experience. Costs will vary based on time and distance needed to attend each in-person event.
To help alleviate the burden of tuition, St. Kate offers many scholarships, grants, and work-study programs. All students must submit both a FAFSA and the St. Kate Financial Aid Application to see whether they qualify or not. Additionally, first year students are automatically considered for institutional financial aid and don’t need to submit an application. Example scholarships include the Dean’s Scholarship, Alumnae Referral Scholarship, and TripliKate Scholarship. Grants include the Federal Pell Grant, St. Catherine Grant, as well as the Minnesota State Grant. Student loans, Parent PLUS loans, plus financial aid for military personnel and veterans are also available.
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Associate of Applied Science in Occupational Therapy Assistant
What to Expect in an Occupational Therapy Assistant Online Program
Admission Requirements
The admission requirements for OTA programs may vary from one school to another. However, most schools have similar standards. For example, prospective OTA students need at least a high school diploma or equivalent to apply. Applicants generally need to submit recent transcripts with at least a 2.5 GPA. They also typically need to submit the results of the ATI TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) exam. OTA programs online usually require completion of prerequisite courses like English, Math, Anatomy, and Physiology before beginning degree-related coursework. Students can either complete this obligation at the same school or from a different higher education program. Letters of recommendation or a letter of intent may also be needed to apply.
Coursework & Curriculum
Curriculums for online occupational therapy assistant programs prepare graduates to provide service in a multitude of settings. These include hospitals, outpatient facilities, and community centers. Therefore, courses dive into many different topics. Some of the courses you can expect to take in an online OTA program include:
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Psychology
- Kinesiology
- Therapeutic Activities
- Pediatric Practice
- Mental Health Topics
- Occupational Therapy Theory and Practice
OTA programs online develop professionals through didactic education and fieldwork. Similarly, courses like Rehabilitation Practice include interactive lab sessions where theory comes to life in simulated environments. OTA fieldwork is an integral part of a program’s curriculum. At this phase of a student’s degree, it introduces them to the industry through real-world observation and practice.
Online OTA curriculums will give students many soft skills including leadership, teamwork, and communication. Graduates will gain competency in areas like helping patients in various therapeutic activities, monitor patient performance, and implementing treatment plans.
Program Format for Occupational Therapy Assistant Online Programs
For online OTA programs, students can expect to complete the didactic or academic portion of their education online. However, they must meet their fieldwork requirements at an approved clinical facility nearby. Let’s look at both of those more in-depth.
Online Learning
Occupational therapy assistant online programs consist primarily of distance learning. Students typically connect and attend classes through the school’s online platform. Certain courses may be in either synchronous or asynchronous format. Curriculums may include virtual lectures or focus more on turning in assignments before deadlines. You can expect foundational coursework like Anatomy & Physiology, Fundamentals of Rehabilitation, or Pediatric Occupational Therapy. The first semesters of a degree program typically consist of only distance learning.
In-Person Learning
In-person learning via fieldwork and lab sessions serve a crucial role in an OTA student’s education. They transform theory into practice. In these environments, candidates sharpen many skills like active listening, teamwork, communication, and empathy. Also, the fieldwork experience qualifies graduates for the NBCOT exam for COTAs.
Fieldwork divides into Level I (observation) and Level II (supervised practice). Students may work with a hospital, rehabilitation center, outpatient facility, or even a school. A program’s fieldwork coordinator will match locations with students based on factors like availability and interests. In some cases, students must seek out potential sites for their fieldwork. Proposed locations would then need to be approved by the school.
Lab sessions may either be online or in-person. The format and frequency will depend on the program. Labs often consist of simulated clinical environments which allow students to practice what they learn in coursework.
What to Look for When Selecting an Online OTA Program
Location
It is essential to consider the location of a school before applying. This is important for a few different reasons. First, even though most areas of an online occupational therapy assistant program are accessible in a virtual format, there will be some in-person requirements. In fact, no program is completely online. All students will need to complete Level I and Level II fieldwork. In addition, they may have in-person lab sessions. Applicants should take into consideration the commute for labs and fieldwork. Second, program location may impact tuition. There is generally a gap between in-state and out-of-state tuition.
Coursework & Format
When looking at online OTA programs, take a close look at the coursework required. Make sure the online OTA program you select offers the courses you need to succeed. The coursework should prepare you for the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam and your future career as an occupational therapy assistant.
Occupational therapy assistant online programs are typically at least four semesters in length. Students begin their studies with didactic coursework like Fundamentals of OT or Anatomy & Physiology. As they advance in the program, pupils will be introduced to clinical environments with observational (Level I) and hands-on practice (Level II) fieldwork. Additionally, they will grow stronger in simulated environments during lab sessions.
Certain online occupational therapy assistant programs offer more fieldwork and classes with labs than others. Also, some curriculums may emphasize certain practice areas like pediatrics. Candidates should take into consideration whether the courses offered match their career goals. The amount of lab practice and fieldwork is also important to know before applying. As mentioned earlier, this is relevant because students at some point will need to commute to campus or to fieldwork assignments.
Cost & Financial Aid
The cost of online OTA programs can vary; some programs may have higher tuition rates than others. In addition, some programs may require students to pay additional fees, such as laboratory or technology fees. When looking at online OTA programs, be sure to consider the cost. Select the program that fits your budget and financial needs.
Depending on the university or program, financial support is available. A great starting point is through a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Filling this out will determine how much financial aid a student may receive. Students may also be eligible for other forms of financial aid. These include national, institutional, or even program-specific scholarships. These will require a separate application. Other forms of assistance are Federal Pell Grants, student loans, and student employment. Consider the variety and quantity of financial aid an OTA school online offers before applying.
Student Service
Universities and other higher education centers strive to offer the same quality education to both distance learning and on-campus students. This includes student services. Whether you are looking for an internship, want to build your professional network, or need help writing an essay, online occupational therapy assistant programs have resources available. This academic support allows students to succeed no matter where they are located. Examples of student resources include academic advising, technical support, library services, financial aid advising, career development, and academic tutoring. COTA programs online vary not only in curriculums but also in the kinds of resources available to students. When researching online occupational therapy assistant programs, it’s important to know what student services are available.
OTA Certification & Licensing
After graduating from an accredited OTA program, there are a few steps to becoming licensed. Firstly, students must pass an examination by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). Once they pass the NBCOT exam, they will be certified occupational therapy assistants (COTAs). After they obtain certification, they can apply for an OTA license in the state where they wish to practice.
COTAs who wish to work in a state that requires licensure must apply for a license from the state’s licensing board. Various states have different licensure requirements, but most need COTAs to pass the NBCOT exam and complete a background check.
Each state requires COTA’s to be licensed in order to practice. They all enforce their own standards for licensure applications. There are certain requirements that are the same no matter where someone applies. Nationally, qualified OTA candidates must:
- Be of good moral character.
- Graduate from an ACOTE-accredited OTA associate degree program.
- Have at least two months of supervised fieldwork experience.
- Pass the NBCOT certification exam.
Here are some example state licensure requirements:
Rhode Island
Pass a background check. Complete an ACOTE-accredited OTA program. Pass the national certification exam. Have proof of three months of supervised fieldwork experience.
Alaska
Pass a background check. Complete an ACOTE-accredited program or one approved by the Committee of Allied Health Education and Accreditation and proof of two months of supervised field work and be certified. They must submit proof that they either passed the NCBOT exam, perform at least 60 hours of OT service, or complete an OT-related internship of 150 hours.
Wisconsin
Pass a background check. Complete either an ACOTE-accredited program, have an initial NBCOT certification, or have requirements that are equivalent. They must pass the NBCOT exam. Submit proof of at least two months of supervised fieldwork experience.
Virginia
In states like Virginia it is possible to practice for up to 6 months without a license. However, this is only for COTA’s who are recent graduates from a program. They could work under a temporary license. This would happen in situations when a graduate is waiting for the results of their national certification exam.
COTA’s may seek licensure in as many states as they like. Additionally, numerous states including Washington, Montana, and Indiana throughout the US are part of the OT Compact. Members of this agreement allow for interstate practice of licensed OT’s and OTA’s as long as: they are in good standing with their licensure state and their license is from a state that’s part of the Compact.
Continuing Education for Career Advancement
Certification Renewal
Certification is required to work as an occupational therapy assistant. Additionally, certifications must be renewed four years from the date an OTA passes their national exam. Subsequent renewals happen every three years. Applicants for renewal require 36 Professional Development Units (PDU’s). PDU’s ensure OTA’s continue developing their expertise. NBCOT provides a list of PDU acceptable activities. For example, a few PDU’s include receiving continuing education units (CEU’s), competency assessment units (CAU’s) in the NBCOT Navigator, writing a scholarly article or attending an professional event. For instance, CEU’s may involve participating in a course, workshop, or lecture. They may be from an accredited college or university, AOTA, AOTA approved organizations, or IACET approved organizations.
Additionally, many states also require continuing education for license renewal. Similar to PDU’s, continuing education refers to OTA-related activities. They refresh or strengthen a professional’s knowledge, competency, and keep them updated with industry trends. For example, attending occupational therapy-related academic courses, seminars, programs, trainings, and scientific meetings might meet these requirements. It is also known as continuing competency. State licenses must be renewed every two years. Each state has their own continuing education unit (CEU) requirement. For instance, Arkansas and Montana require OTA’s to complete 10 hours of continuing education each year. Texas asks OTA’s to have 24 contact hours of continuing education activities in the two-year cycle.
Specialization Opportunities
In addition, NBCOT offers voluntary certification in specialized practice areas, such as pediatrics or mental health. COTAs who complete a specialty certification can increase their earnings potential and job prospects. In addition, AOTA has two professional certificates. The first is the School-based Practice and Home. It requires 14 contact hours for 14 mini course and 3 micro degrees. $359 for AOTA members, $514 for non-AOTA members. The second is the Community Safety and Driving. 17 contact hours for 18 mini courses and 3 micro degrees. $508 for AOTA members, $729 for non-AOTA members.
AOTA offers Advanced Certifications in areas like gerontology, pediatrics, and physical rehabilitation. Qualified candidates need to be certified, have at least three years of OTA experience (or two years if they completed a Fellowship Program), 3000 hours of experience in the certification area within the last five years, and 500 hours of delivering service in the certification area in the last five years.
Advanced Degrees
COTAs who wish to pursue a bachelor’s or master’s degree in occupational therapy can do so online. These programs prepare students for the national exam to become registered occupational therapists (OTR). They can typically be completed in two to four years.
Bachelor’s
A bachelor’s degree from an accredited program in occupational therapy serves two purposes: It provides more didactic learning, hands-on experience through fieldwork, and prepares graduates for a master’s degree in OT. A master’s degree is the minimum requirement to qualify for the NBCOT exam for OTRs. Therefore, a bachelor’s degree is ideal for people who want to break into the OTA world or COTAs who want to become OTRs. Students will be ready to work in many practice settings. They will learn how to perform OT duties including planning healthcare delivery programs, analyzing patient data, performing administrative work, and evaluating patient progress. It’s a foundational piece for a career in health services.
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Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences / Pre-Occupational Therapy
Bachelor’s to Doctor of Occupational TherapyMaster’s
A master’s degree in occupational therapy is for COTA’s who want to advance to an entry-level OT position. Graduates qualify for the NBCOT exam for registered occupational therapists. It also meets the application requirements for a doctorate degree in occupational therapy (OTD).
Students will deepen their theoretical knowledge and applied skills. This happens through coursework and fieldwork experience in diverse environments. Typical master’s degrees feature advanced coursework in areas like Anatomy, Kinesiology, and Neuroscience. The second half of the degree provides learning through observation and practice. Students will do this through Level I and Level II fieldwork. Certain programs will ask students to defend a thesis on an OT-related topic of their interest.
An accredited OT master’s degree opens doors to potential careers in management, education, and research. Graduates will be capable of practicing in any setting like business, rehabilitation centers, or hospitals. In other words, they are primed for a bountiful occupational therapy career.
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Master’s to Doctor of Occupational TherapyDoctorate
A doctorate in occupational therapy (OTD) is the highest educational level for an individual in this field. This serves multiple purposes depending on the kind of doctorate. An entry-level doctorate helps occupational therapists propel their current practice with advanced knowledge. A post-professional doctorate is beneficial for those who wish to go outside of the clinical world. Examples include publishing textbooks or journals related to the OT field. Individuals looking for higher-paying academic, administrative, or advocacy roles should consider a post-professional OTD. Doctorates incorporate coursework, labs, and a robust capstone project into their curriculums. Doctoral students will go deep into skill areas like research, clinical practice, theory, administration, leadership, advocacy, and policy development.
GetEducated's Picks
- Valparaiso University Post-Professional Occupational Therapy Doctorate
- Elizabethtown College Doctorate of Occupational Therapy
- Gannon University Doctorate of Occupational Therapy (Post-Professional)
- Barry University Doctorate in Occupational Therapy
- Columbia Southern University Doctor of Occupational Safety & Health
Occupational Therapy Assistant Career Information
What is an Occupational Therapy Assistant?
An occupational therapy assistant (OTA) is a highly educated, trained, and licensed professional. They work with occupational therapists to provide treatments to patients. OTAs help patients improve their ability to perform daily activities.
Firstly, a student must complete an accredited OTA program from an institution recognized by the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA). To enroll in the program, a student must have either a high school diploma or a GED. Most OTA programs take two years to complete. After completing an OTA program, graduates must pass a national certification exam to become certified occupational therapy assistants (COTAs). This exam is called the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam. COTAs frequently have to do both a criminal background check and a drug screening to begin working. They also typically hold CPR certification.
OTA programs prepare students for a variety of occupational therapy assistant jobs. They may work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, or home health agencies. Moreover, OTAs may also work in school systems or early intervention programs.
Is Becoming an OTA Hard?
If you’re willing to put in the time and effort to complete an accredited online OTA program, then becoming an OTA is not hard. Students can expect to complete the academic portion of their education online. Still, they must meet their fieldwork requirements at an approved clinical facility near them.
Salary & Job Outlook for OTAs
The job outlook for OTAs is excellent. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that employment of occupational therapy assistants will grow 25 percent from 2021 to 2031, a much higher rate than the average across all occupations in the U.S. According to the same statistics from the Bureau of Labor, the median annual OTA salary was $61,730 per year in May 2021. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $46,810, while the highest 10 percent earned more than $80,210.
Where Do OTAs Get Paid the Most?
California, New Jersey, and Texas are the top-paying states for occupational therapy assistants, according to the BLS. In 2021, OTAs of these states earned $80,670 (California), $77,050 (New Jersey), and $74,750 (Texas), respectively.
Enroll in an Online OTA Program Today!
Pursuing a career in occupational therapy can be as challenging as it is rewarding. Still, online OTA programs can help you accomplish your goals. With the convenience and flexibility of online learning, you can complete your education on your schedule and prepare for a rewarding career in occupational therapy. The program on our list is accredited and has been carefully vetted to ensure that it meets the highest quality standards. We’ve also provided information on admissions requirements, program length, and tuition costs to help you make an informed decision about whether pursuing an online occupational therapy assistant program is right for you. Don’t wait any longer to pursue your dream of becoming an occupational therapy assistant. Apply to an online OTA program today!
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