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What is an Occupational Therapy Assistant?
An occupational therapy assistant (OTA) is a professional responsible for assisting occupational therapists through performing daily duties, providing clerical assistance, and treating patients regularly as part of a regiment outlined by their supervisor. Occupational therapy are  responsible for treating patients under duress through education, treatment, preventative care, and exercise therapy. Individuals work closely with their patients and must be familiar with the various machines and techniques used to assist them in recuperation and training. Individuals in this field are required to stand for excessive periods of time and must be able to maintain a pleasant and positive demeanor with clients and patients.
Career Summary
MEDIAN SALARY
PERCENT ABOVE NATIONAL
INCOME AVERAGE
TOTAL SECTOR EMPLOYMENT
38,170Degree Median Salary vs Adjacent Degree Types
Source: BLS, US Census, and IPEDS
2025 Best Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) Schools
Career Training Solutions (Fredericksburg, VA) also known as Eastern Virginia Career College aims to train and educate students to be the best professionals in the healthcare and medical industry. The college provides hands-on training that serves as a practice for students to enhance their skills and knowledge. Some of the popular programs from EVCC are Medical Assistant, Medical Insurance Specialist, Phlebotomy, and Practical Nurse programs. Occupational therapy assistant is an associate’s degree that prepares students to assume entry-level roles in the industry. The college provides a 12-month program composed of high quality theoretical courses, and laboratory and clinical experiences. Students are also required to take General Education courses to pass the program.
Acceptance Rate
63.89
Tuition
$31,479 / year
Student to Faculty Ratio
5:1
Stanbridge University (Irvine, CA) private technical college focused on providing education and skills training for both students and adults. Several programs in Stanbridge are delivered through on-campus lectures and training, some are available online through the Stanbridge University Edverum. The Occupational Therapy Assistant major program leads to an associate degree. Students will learn about the basic skills to be able to assist people with physical and mental limitations. Graduates of the program are eligible for the NBCOT exam.
Acceptance Rate
63.33
Tuition
$33,751 / year
Student to Faculty Ratio
15:1
Concorde Career Institute-Miramar (Miramar, FL) is a small college offering a wide variety of health and medical professional programs. The institute grants associate’s, and bachelor’s degrees. It also offers diploma courses. Some of the popular programs offered in Miramar campus are dental assistant, medical assistant, occupational therapist assistant, pharmacy technician, respiratory therapy and more. Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant is a 21-month program that leads to an associate degree. Students are expected to learn essential skills that can help every patient with their needs together with a licensed OT. Patient care health programs in Concorde are designed to keep up with one of the fastest growing healthcare sectors.
Acceptance Rate
88.35
Tuition
$43,552 / year
Student to Faculty Ratio
36:1
St Louis College of Health Careers-Fenton (Fenton, MO) operates as a private higher education institution that focuses on providing allied health and medical programs. The college provides training to students and professionals who aim to have a career in these particular fields. Occupational Therapy Assistant degree program students are trained to provide effective help for patients who are limited by their physical or mental disability. Students are also trained to provide holistic treatment plans for patients of all ages. Graduates can immediately assume OTA roles with direct supervision from an occupational therapist.
Acceptance Rate
100
Tuition
$30,466 / year
Student to Faculty Ratio
30:1
Concorde Career Institute-Memphis (Memphis, TN) is a small college offering a wide variety of health and medical professional programs. The institute grants associate’s, and bachelor’s degrees. It also offers diploma courses. Some of the popular programs offered in Memphis campus are dental hygiene, massage therapy, medical assisting, radiologic technology, surgical technology, and more. Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant is a 21-month program that leads to an associate degree. Students are expected to learn essential skills that can help every patient with their needs together with a licensed OT. Patient care health programs in Concorde are designed to keep up with one of the fastest growing healthcare sectors.
Acceptance Rate
93.38
Tuition
$15,840 / year
Student to Faculty Ratio
35:1
CBD College, located in Los Angeles, California, offers vocational and career programs in the medical field. The school employs qualified professionals to educate and train students in order to prepare them for their chosen career. CBD provides a pleasant learning environment, encourages camaraderie and personal growth, and assists its students through their personal educational needs.
Academics
CDB College offers five programs for its students to choose from. Each program has its own length and certificate/degree awarded. All programs prepare individuals to enter the work force as skilled and qualified individuals.
Programs offered:
- Vocational Nursing
- Associate of Applied Science in Vocational Nursing
- Surgical Technology
- Pharmacy Technician
- Medical Massage Therapy/Physical Therapy Assistant
Admissions and Financial Aid
Students interested in enrollment must be at least 17 years old, have a high school diploma or equivalent, complete and submit an application, have an interview with an admissions officer and have a passing score on the ACT exam. Tuition varies based on program and the financial aid office will help eligible students determine the best financial aid options for him or her.
Acceptance Rate
-
Tuition
$38,635 / year
Student to Faculty Ratio
20:1
Rutgers University-New Brunswick (New Brunswick, NJ) is a public research university recognized for its scientific innovations. The university provides all levels of academic advancements. It provides accessible education through online courses, satellite campuses, certificate programs, professional education, and lifelong learning programs to cater to everyone. Busch Campus in Piscataway offers the Occupational Therapy Assistant degree program. Students are expected to serve and help people of all ages who are disadvantaged or ill to get back and participate in meaningful occupations. Graduates are eligible to sit down and take the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exams.
Acceptance Rate
61.22
Student to Faculty Ratio
16:1
Acceptance Rate
-
Tuition
$36,900 / year
Student to Faculty Ratio
34:1
Professional Clinical Massage Therapy The Professional Clinical Massage Therapy program provides instruction in therapeutic massage with advanced training in the treatment of soft tissue ailments, postural distortions, and degenerative process of the body. The program prepares students for employment in medical based facilities such as physicians' offices and rehabilitation centers, while also training students in the arts associated with a spa setting. Students receive training in massage law, basic massage theory techniques, allied modalities, and neuromuscular clinical massage theory techniques. The program includes 90 hours of practical clinical experience. Upon successful completion of this program, the student will receive a Certificate in Professional Clinical Massage Therapy. **Charlotte has 40 hours of clinical and is only a 6 month program. Columbia, Charleston, and Nashville have 90 hours of clinical and are an 8 month program. Medical Assisting Medical Assisting prepares you for a career that plays an integral role on the physician's healthcare team. You will train to give injections, administer electrocardiograms, handle insurance claims, maintain patient records, take vital signs, and assist in minor surgical procedures.  Your education at Southeastern Institute will teach you how to fulfill all these roles and become a multifaceted healthcare professional. Medical Billing and Coding This program will prepare you to gain employment in medical billing and health information management.  You will develop a through knowledge of medical terminology, health records management, insurance procedures, billing software, and medical coding. Medical billing and coding graduates are employed in virtually any location where healthcare services are provided including hospitals, insurance companies, private practice offices, assisted living facilities, and laboratories. Pharmacy Technology The Pharmacy Technology program provides instruction in how to assist the pharmacist in the packing and distribution of medication and basic health care skills. Students will study the professional and technical skills necessary for an entry-level position as a pharmacy technician. A certificate will be awarded upon successful completion of this program. Disclosure link at https://www.sec.edu/about/heoa/
Acceptance Rate
-
Tuition
$19,019 / year
Student to Faculty Ratio
10:1
Acceptance Rate
-
Tuition
$14,882 / year
Student to Faculty Ratio
25:1
Howard University (Washington, DC) is a private university also recognized as one of the historically black universities (HBCU). It offers more than a hundred academic programs which is distinctively higher than other universities of its type. It offers undergraduate and graduate programs including professional programs. Howard University focuses on providing quality health and medical education to its students. Occupational Therapy Assistant degree program is offered at the graduate level leading to a doctoral degree. The program aims to address the health-related needs of Blacks and underserved populations. Students who seek further knowledge and advance skills can take a post-professional OTD degree.
Acceptance Rate
36.08
Student to Faculty Ratio
10:1
Acceptance Rate
-
Tuition
$14,335 / year
Student to Faculty Ratio
25:1
Acceptance Rate
-
Tuition
$21,092 / year
Student to Faculty Ratio
25:1
Recognized as a Gold Star school by the OkACTE, Indian Capital Technology Center is a recipient of numerous accolades. It serves seven counties with its campuses in Muskogee, Sallisaw, Stilwell, and Tahlequah. Muskogee campus is located at 2403 N. 41st Street East Muskogee, OK 74403. As a highly regarded institution, ICTC has the third highest total enrollment rate among the Oklahoma technology center and it has also ranked as the second largest technology center in terms of Business and Industry Services enrollment. This college offers 39 career majors and 12 career clusters responsive to the needs of the students and industry. ICTC provides Full-Time Career Training Programs, Adult and Career Development, and Business and Industry training to equip students with the knowledge and skills essential to jumpstart or upgrade a career in the industry. Most of the programs are under the areas of Computer Technologies, Business and Accounting, Industry and Trade, and Health. Through the ICTC's College Alliance with Connors State College and OSU Institute of Technology, students can obtain college credits to complete an Associate of Applied Science degree. In addition to these programs are Continuing Education, General Interest and Online Courses. To assist students in finding a job, the Job Placement Center support students in job preparation, connects them with local businesses and maintains a list of job openings. Students of ICTC are honed to envision, experience and excel. This school primarily aims to develop competent and world-class workers bound to succeed and contribute to economic development. Find the school's application and course catalog at www.ictctech.com or simply request information from this page to learn more today.
Acceptance Rate
-
Tuition
$4,098 / year
Student to Faculty Ratio
18:1
Southeastern College Offers Career Education Designed for Working Adults As a student at Southeastern College, you will gain the training, skills, and knowledge you need to prepare for a rewarding career in occupations such as: • Massage Therapy • Medical Assisting • Diagnostic Medical Sonography • Pharmacy Technology • Practical Nursing • Surgical Technology and more Programs vary by campus Southeastern College is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges, 2101 Wilson Blvd, Suite 302, Arlington, Virginia, 22201. Further information may be obtained by contacting the Commission at (703) 247-4212. Why Southeastern College Our career-focused programs and flexible class schedules make Southeastern College a great choice for busy working adults. Small classes ensure personalized attention for each student, and you will gain career skills in an educational environment that simulates the workplace, so you can begin using your education immediately on the job. Additional benefits: • Prepare for a new career in as few as eight months • Learn from dedicated instructors in a caring, friendly learning environment • Financial aid is available to those who qualify • Career placement assistance is available for graduates Contact us today to find out more about why Southeastern College is the right choice to reach your career goals. Southeastern College is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges, 2101 Wilson Blvd, Suite 302, Arlington, Virginia, 22201. Further information may be obtained by contacting the Commission at (703) 247-4212.
Acceptance Rate
-
Tuition
$19,019 / year
Student to Faculty Ratio
9:1
Acceptance Rate
-
Tuition
$14,335 / year
Student to Faculty Ratio
25:1
Fox College (Bedford Park, IL) is a higher learning institution awarding diplomas and associate degrees. It provides career-focused courses and professional programs. Every program in Fox College is designed to address the needs of the industry and employers. The degree in Occupational Therapy Assistant is a 20-month program that requires Level II fieldwork completion. It is an accelerated program that focuses on enhancing the skills of students. Graduates are qualified to sit down for the NBCOT.
Acceptance Rate
61.84
Student to Faculty Ratio
11:1
Acceptance Rate
-
Tuition
$14,335 / year
Student to Faculty Ratio
25:1
Cabarrus College of Health Sciences (Concord, NC) is a private degree-granting institution specializing in health sciences programs. The college provides undergraduate programs and a few master’s programs for interested students. It also has programs for professionals to further their skills and expand their knowledge. Occupational Therapy Assistant is an associate degree program that prepares students to be skilled entry-level generalist clinicians.The proximity of the college to several partner medical centers and clinics allows students to train clinical skills. Graduates are eligible to sit for the national certification examinations.
Acceptance Rate
27.65
Student to Faculty Ratio
7:1
Touro College (New York, NY) is a private Jewish college that aims to transmit and perpetuate the Jewish heritage. It grants degrees on undergraduate and graduate levels. The School of Health Sciences offers occupational therapy undergraduate programs. Students are expected to handle complex situations in a professional and right way. A full-time fieldwork experience is required for students to undergo. Touro’s OTA degree at Touro College is conferred as a BS/MS program. Students will earn a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences and a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy within three years.
Acceptance Rate
69.42
Student to Faculty Ratio
13:1
St Catherine University (St. Paul, MN) is a private university offering a wide range of academic opportunities. It is one of the oldest higher learning institutions dedicated for women in the Midwest. The university offers baccalaureate programs for women and a co-educational graduate and associate programs. Occupational Therapy Assistant is an associate degree program delivered online. Students who apply to this program are required to undergo lab and fieldwork. Students can conduct this requirement across these regions - Minnesota, Virginia, California, or Texas.
Acceptance Rate
67.33
Student to Faculty Ratio
10:1
New England Institute of Technology (Warwick, RI) is a private institute that focuses on providing career and technical programs. Occupational Therapy Assistant is an associate program that prepares students through classroom training and field work opportunities. Graduates are eligible to sit on national certification exams. OTAs assist people of all ages with varying conditions to gain independence through different occupations.
Acceptance Rate
63.2
Student to Faculty Ratio
13:1
Acceptance Rate
-
Tuition
$14,335 / year
Student to Faculty Ratio
25:1
Radford University (Raford, VA) is a public university that offers coeducational and comprehensive academic programs. It offers undergraduate and graduate programs. Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) Program leads to an Associate of Applied Science degree. It is a two-year program open for students from all educational backgrounds. High school students and adults who want to shift careers are welcome to take this program. The university maintains a small class size for a more individualized and hands-on learning experience.
Acceptance Rate
75.32
Student to Faculty Ratio
16:1
Newman University (Wichita, KS) is a private liberal arts university. It offers a wide range of undergraduate programs and several pre-professional programs. The university grants an Associate of Science in Health Science in Occupational Therapy Assistant degree. The program provides hands-on learning and laboratory experiences allowing students to be more skilled. Graduates are eligible to take the NBCOT examination.
Acceptance Rate
67.47
Student to Faculty Ratio
11:1
Difference Between Occupational Therapy Assistants and Occupational Therapy Aides
With similar and often confusing acronyms, we have received dozens of student communication regarding differences between occupational therapy assistants and occupational therapy aids. There are significant differences and the two are contract below to help demystify the differences between the two jobs.
Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA)
The job title and college degree description of an Occupational Therapy Assistant in known as an OTA and should not be used to describe an Occupational Therapy Aide. For clarity, we will utilize OTA for the balance of this section in a bullet point format.
- OTAs will treat patients under the direct supervision of a licensed OT
- An OTA requires students to earn an Associate Degree
- During degree programs, OTAs are required to complete supervised fieldwork
- OTA academic programs are ACOTE accredited
- An OTA are eligible to become certified and licensed in their state of residence by passing the NBCOT COTA certification examination.
- Upon passing the NBCOT COTA exam, an OTA can earn a Certification in Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) designation
Occupational Therapy Aide
An occupational therapy aide is trained to provide support to OTAs and OTs. In order to become an occupational therapy aide, students will need a high school diploma or higher plus on the job training. Currently occupational therapy aides are not eligible for licensure nor certification and aide programs are not accredited by ACOTE.
Educational Requirements for an OTA
An individual pursuing a career as an occupational therapy assistant must first an associate degree or diploma which may be earned through a certified program offered at a community college or private career school. Such a program takes between one and two years to complete and provides the student with the education required to perform the duties of an assistant through courses such as physiology and anatomy which familiarize the student with the human body. Students will also be exposed to a cross section of sciences as well as a number of courses that educate the students on the use of equipment and implementation of therapies necessary in the field of occupational therapy.
Courses in occupational therapy assistance may include:
- General Anatomy
- Developmental Physiology
- Occupational Theory and Practice
- Speech
- Assistive Technology and Adaptations
Schools Other Students Requested Information From:
Employment Opportunities for OTA's
Occupational therapy assistants will work under a professional occupation therapist, administering care and treatment to patients suffering from any of a variety of ailments that may be attended to through occupational therapy. Such assistants typically educate patients in the various exercises to be performed or how to operate and utilize equipment that may assist in therapeutic treatment. Additionally, assistant will record patient histories and note progress made through treatment over time, particularly for patients that require more routine care.
Most states require occupational therapy assistants to pursue licensure prior to employment. Individuals pursuing licensure typically must complete an accredited program of study and pass a state issued examination. Additionally, maintaining licensure may require annual or biannual continuing education courses be taken. The process of licensure will vary by state. Certification is also available through the passing of an exam offered The National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy allowing for use of the term Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA).
Most Popular Job Titles for an OTA
Across the nation, you will find an array of job titles for an Occupational Therapy Assistant. In most cases, the job responsibilities will be virtually identical which is why it is important to understand the variations of the OTA job and associated nomenclature.
- Acute Care Occupational Therapy Assistant
- Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant (COTA)
- Occupational Therapist Assistant
- Staff Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant/Licensed (Staff COTA/L)
- Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA)
- Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant-Licensed (COTA-L)
- Licensed Occupational Therapy Assistant
- School Based Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant
- Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant/Licensed (COTA/L)
- Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA)
Top Job Responsibilities of an Occupational Therapy Assistant
Upon the completion of a recent survey by the United States Department of Labor, OTAs from around the country provided insight into their typical job duties. We have assembled a list of the top 5 job responsibilities of an occupational therapy assistant below for your reference.
- Carefully manage performance in therapy activities and provide education, coaching, and counseling as appropriate
- Determine what therapy activities a patient can complete and establish short-term and long-term goals
- Instruct and assist patients with home-based therapy programs, essential living skills, and utilization of adaptive tools
- Encourage and motivate patient before, during, and after treatment plans
- Carefully log verbal, physical, and non-verbal patient information for future reference
States with the Highest Employment of Occupational Therapists
- Texas 3,750
- Ohio 3,480
- Illinois 2,460
- Pennsylvania 2,350
- New York 2,300
Top Paying States for an Occupational Therapist
- Texas $74,070
- Arkansas $67,290
- New Jersey $66,120
- Maryland $65,350
- California $64,870
Top Employers of Occupational Therapists
- Health Practitioners Offices 16,200
- Nursing Care Facilities 7,360
- Medical & Surgical Hospitals 4,500
- Home Health Care 2,270
- Primary & Secondary Schools 1,830
Job Growth, Salary and Related Therapy Fields
Job growth for occupational therapy assistants is expected to increase by an astounding 40% according to the BLS over the next decade due primarily to the need for professionals in the field due to the aging population in the United States. This growth in OTA's equates to an additional 23,600 jobs being created in the coming decade. Occupational therapy assistants earn approximately $56,070 per year. Individuals working in more populated areas are expected to earn more. Individuals interested in career advancement typically choose to at some point continue their education, pursuing a degree in occupational therapy.
Individuals interested in becoming an occupational therapy assistant may also be interested in becoming a pharmacy technician, medical assistant, or veterinary assistant.