The Associate in Applied Science degree program in Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) is the study of occupational therapy as a skilled healthcare service that uses occupation to promote meaningful living. Occupational therapy assistants, under the guidance of occupational therapists, adapt activities, tasks, and the environment in order to enable people of all ages and backgrounds to fulfill their chosen occupations and life roles. Career options can include employment in hospitals, clinics, schools, specialized community care settings, and wellness programs. The program’s mission is to prepare competent and effective occupational therapy practitioners who value occupation as both a means and as an end to quality living for self and others through a sound educational experience that includes preparation in:

• The occupational therapy process
• The impact of culture
• Use of self as an agent of change
• Ethical professional practice
• Teaching and learning processes
• Collaborating as a healthcare professional
• Working in a variety of practice environments
• Oral and written communication skills

The Occupational Therapy Assistant program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education. Graduates of the program are eligible to sit for the National Certification Exam for Occupational Therapy Assistants administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy, Inc. (NBCOT). After successful completion of this exam, an individual becomes a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant. Determination of exam eligibility for applicants who have a felony related charge or conviction requires individualized review by NBCOT, Inc. Most states require licensure in order to practice. Illinois license issuance is based upon the results of the NBCOT Certification exam.

This selective admissions program requires students to submit a separate application or to take additional action before enrolling.

For more information on the Occupational Therapy Assistant program at Wright College, visit the program webpage.

Program Requirements

Pathway

This is an example course sequence for students interested in earning a degree in occupational therapy. It does not represent a contract, nor does it guarantee course availability. If this pathway is followed as outlined, you will earn an Associate in Applied Science Degree (AAS) in Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA). One course will satisfy the Human Diversity (HD) requirement, and is labeled with an (HD) in the sequence below.

Semester-by-Semester Program Plan for Full-Time Students

All plans can be modified to fit the needs of part-time students by adding more semesters.

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Program Prerequisite

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Program Elective

Choose your courses with your College Advisor.

Program Admission Requirements

Students can make formal application to the program when all pre-admission coursework is completed, or when pre-admission coursework completion will occur before the beginning of Semester I of the program. A minimum grade of “C” is required in each pre-admission and general education course. If more candidates apply than the program can accept, the best qualified will be admitted.

NOTE: If you plan to apply for admission prior to completing BIOLOGY 226 Human Structure and Function I and BIOLOGY 227 Human Structure and Function II, you also must complete BIOLOGY 121 Biology I, in order to meet City College Biology Department course requirements. 

For more information on admissions requirements and the application process, visit the program webpage.

Careers

This program can prepare students for the jobs listed below. Click on each one to learn more, including average earnings, annual job openings, and how much education people in that field have. For additional guidance and resources on career options, current City Colleges students and alumni can contact the Career Services Office.

Occupational Therapy Assistants

Occupational Therapy Aides