Questions
- When is the application deadline?
- The OTA admissions committee begins reviewing complete files May 1 and continues until the class is full. We suggest that you begin the application process well in advance of May 1 so there is ample time for completion of the process and for us to advise you about your course of study.
- How can I increase my chances of being chosen for the Program?
- The successful applicant will:
- meet or exceed the GPA and/or ACT test score requirements.
- be able to demonstrate an understanding of the profession of occupational therapy.
- be able to effectively communicate in writing.
- Do I need to show evidence of volunteer hours in an OT clinic before I can be admitted?
- While we strongly encourage all prospective OTA students to volunteer or job shadow in a variety of occupational therapy settings prior to program application, it is not mandatory. However, job shadowing will give the student a better understanding of the profession and assist them in determining if this is the career they wish to pursue. Students who have this experience typically perform better in writing the letter of interest. OTA faculty can assist you in locating OT clinics who allow observation.
- Can I work while in the OTA program?
- For those students taking general education and OTA courses, your free time will be extremely limited. Most OTA classes have labs and clinicals which means they are longer in length than lecture classes. The number of hours spent in class, plus study time, will make it difficult if not impossible to work while in the OTA program.
- If I decide later that I want to go on to become a registered occupational therapist, what will I have to do?
- Becoming an OTA will allow you to enter the profession of occupational therapy in the shortest amount of time, 2 years. If you decide later that you would like to continue your education, you will need to complete a bachelors degree and be accepted into a masters OT program. The OTA classes you take here (or in any OTA program) will not transfer into a higher level OT program. This is because the depth of the courses is different for the technical (OTA) and professional (OTR) level.
- What if my GPA is not high enough because of some poor grades in the past?
- If grades for courses taken in the past are lowering your overall GPA, we may determine your GPA based on more current grades that are applicable to the OTA program. You must, however, request this special consideration in writing explaining any extenuating circumstances.
- What are my chances of getting chosen from the alternate list?
- Students may enhance their chances of being chosen by raising their acceptance qualifications. Students may raise their GPAs by taking or re-taking additional classes. It is also acceptable for students to re-take the ACT to achieve a higher score.
- What is a typical OTA student?
- The OTA Program accepts students from a wide range of age levels and backgrounds. A typical class might include recent high school graduates, single parents, individuals opting for a career change, and adults reentering the workforce. A mature and committed student makes a successful OTA.
- Is transportation required?
- Reliable transportation is a must as some of the sites used for clinical education in the OTA Program are up to 60 miles from the College campus.
