Occupational Therapy Assistant

Clinical practice
Under the supervision of a registered occupational therapist, you will work with children and adults in various settings including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools, and extended care facilities.

Length of study
As a full-time student, you can earn an A.A.S. degree in two years. Flexible part-time schedules are available for completing general education courses.

Program accreditation and licensing requirements
Parkland's program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA), 4720 Mongomery Lane, P.O. Box 31220, Bethesda, Maryland 20824, 301/652-AOTA, www.aota.org. In order to practice, graduates are required to take an exam, offered several times a year at locations nationwide, by the National Board of Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). After passing the exam you will become a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA). COTAs are required to be licensed in Illinois and most other states; see www.idfpr.com.

Certification examination pass rates
The 2004-2006 pass rate for Parkland OTA graduates on the national certification examination is 97%.

Entry requirements
All health professions programs require a State Police background check prior to or at the start of the first course in a program. A positive finding related to a felony conviction may limit clinical placement and employment.

This is a selective admission program - you must be admitted into the program before taking OTA courses. Assessment into ENG 101, MAT 095, and CCS 099 is required for admission, and applicants must meet the minimum qualifying admissions score. A physical exam and current CPR card are required prior to or at the start of the first OTA course.

Application deadline
New students are admitted only in the fall semester although you may start your general education requirements at any time. You should submit all required transcripts and forms by March 1 of the year you wish to enter the program. Contact Parkland’s admissions office at 217/351-2482 for information on the health professions selective admissions procedures.

Required courses
Occupational Therapy Assistant A.A.S. Degree