Occupational Therapy Assistant

Keiser University’s Associate of Science degree in Occupational Therapy Assistant prepares you for a rewarding career helping people gain the skills they need for independent daily living. Our occupational therapy education emphasizes the therapeutic use of meaningful activities including self-care, work, and play/leisure pursuits to maximize independent function, enhance human growth and development, prevent disability, and maintain health.
 
The OTA program teaches you to implement intervention strategies that may include adaptations to a task or environment, or compensatory approaches to help clients achieve maximum independence. You’ll learn to work collaboratively with occupational therapists, families, and interdisciplinary healthcare teams to develop and implement treatment plans that address each client’s unique needs.

The Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) program’s mission is to prepare and empower its students to be compassionate and competent healthcare professionals. Their education at Keiser University will prepare them to develop clinical reasoning skills, foster professionalism, and advocate for the well-being and quality of life of all community populations.

Professional Attributes – Upholding occupational therapy’s professional standards and ethical responsibilities while engaging in life-long learning for the safe provision of quality occupational therapy services

Occupation-Centered and Client-Centered Care – Empirically supported, occupation-centered, client centered strategies and approaches that contribute to the health and well-being of individuals, groups, and populations.

Collaboration and Advocacy – Working and advocating for the communities served, while acknowledging the influence of constantly changing environmental factors.

Practice Competency – Clinical decision-making for prioritizing goals and implementing safe intervention plans based on client responses, under the supervision of the OT.

• Satisfactory background check and drug screening (for information on graduate’s eligibility for certification and credentialing click here). Graduates of the program will be eligible to sit for the national certification examination for the occupational therapy assistant, administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). After successful completion of this exam, the graduate will be a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA). In addition, most states require licensure to practice; however, state licenses are usually based on the results of the NBCOT certification examination. A felony conviction may affect a graduate’s ability to sit for the NBCOT certification examination or attain state licensure.
• Completion of general education courses with a minimum grade of ―”C” for each course. Successful completion of the following prerequisite courses: Human Anatomy and Physiology I & II, Intermediate Algebra and Introduction to Psychology.
• Cumulative grade average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
• Must earn a minimum of an 18 on the University Entrance Exam.

The occupational therapy assistant program at Keiser University combines rigorous academic coursework with extensive hands-on clinical training. Occupational therapy students benefit from small class sizes that allow for personalized attention from the program director, academic coordinator, and OTA faculty members.

Clinical courses give you opportunities to apply classroom learning in real-world settings. Level II fieldwork experiences provide intensive supervised practice in various settings including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools, and community agencies. The academic fieldwork coordinator works closely with clinical sites to ensure quality learning experiences.

Required and Optional Fees for Programs: Fees are costs set by the university in addition to tuition (and room and board, if applicable). These fees may be required for your program or optional depending on the courses you take, and they support the costs associated with completing an approved program of study. Fees are defined in the university’s catalog or supplement and listed on the school’s billing statement or invoice. Fees that are optional will not be paid using GI Bill® benefits and will be the responsibility of the student choosing these additional options. For additional guidance, please see your Program Director or Admissions Counselor.

• View OTA Tuition & Costs

• Click Here to review OTA programmatic outcomes.

Eligibility to take the NBCOT exam and apply for licensure requires graduation from an accredited associate level occupational therapy program. Keiser University OTA program pass rate outcomes on the certification exam are available at https://www.nbcot.org/Educators-Folder/SchoolPerformance. When you get to the site, select ‘Florida’ for the state, ‘OTA Level Programs’ for the program type, and choose the year you would like to view the results for.

Click here for State Licensure Disclosure Information

• Satisfactory background check and drug screening (for information on graduate’s eligibility for certification and credentialing click here). Graduates of the program will be eligible to sit for the national certification examination for the occupational therapy assistant, administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). After successful completion of this exam, the graduate will be a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA). In addition, most states require licensure to practice; however, state licenses are usually based on the results of the NBCOT certification examination. A felony conviction may affect a graduate’s ability to sit for the NBCOT certification examination or attain state licensure.
• Completion of general education courses with a minimum grade of ―”C” for each course. Successful completion of the following prerequisite courses: Human Anatomy and Physiology I & II, Intermediate Algebra and Introduction to Psychology.
• Cumulative grade average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
• Must earn a minimum of an 18 on the University Entrance Exam.

Federal financial aid available through FAFSA (School Code: 015159) including Pell Grants, Direct Subsidized/Unsubsidized Loans, and PLUS Loans. Florida residents may qualify for FSAG and EASE grants. Institutional scholarships available. Full-time undergraduate tuition: $12,408/semester; Education fee: $1,600/semester for Occupational Therapy Assistant.

Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants (COTA) can pursue entry-level positions in diverse healthcare settings. After successful completion of the national certification examination administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy, you can work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools, home health agencies, and community programs.

Career Pathways for Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants

• Pediatric occupational therapy assistant in schools and clinics
• Rehabilitation specialist in hospitals and acute care
• Geriatric therapy assistant in skilled nursing facilities
• Mental health occupational therapy assistant

• Hand therapy assistant
• Home health occupational therapy assistant
• Community-based therapy assistant for developmental disabilities
• School-based therapy assistant supporting students with special needs

Gain Job-Ready Skills for an Occupational Therapy Career

• Assessment and treatment planning
• Intervention strategies for physical, cognitive, and psychosocial challenges
• Adaptation techniques for tasks and environments
• Documentation and communication with healthcare teams
• Professional reasoning and clinical decision-making
• Safety protocols and infection control
• Pediatric and geriatric specialty skills
• Assistive technology and adaptive equipment use

Keiser University offers career-focused degree programs designed to support working adults, recent high school graduates, career changers, military veterans, and upskillers seeking career advancement. With on-campus learning options at multiple Florida locations, experienced faculty, and comprehensive student support, Keiser helps learners achieve their personal and professional goals.

Can I complete the OTA program online at Keiser University?

The occupational therapy assistant program requires on-campus attendance for hands-on laboratory courses and supervised fieldwork experiences. Clinical courses and Level II fieldwork must be completed in person at approved healthcare facilities. General education courses may be available online depending on the campus. Contact an admissions counselor to get more information about the OTA classes format.

What is the difference between an occupational therapy assistant and an occupational therapist?

An occupational therapy assistant works under the supervision of a licensed occupational therapist. After earning an associate degree and passing the national certification examination, certified occupational therapy assistants implement treatment plans, work directly with clients, and document progress. Occupational therapists hold a master’s or doctoral degree and perform evaluations, develop treatment plans, and supervise therapy assistants.

What careers can I pursue with an occupational therapy assistant associate degree?

Certified occupational therapy assistants can pursue careers in hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, pediatric clinics, mental health centers, rehabilitation facilities, home health agencies, and community programs. You may work with children with developmental disabilities, adults recovering from injuries, older adults in geriatric settings, or individuals with psychiatric conditions.

Can I transfer credits from another institution?

Yes, Keiser University accepts transfer credits for undergraduate and graduate-level programs. Our admissions team will work with you to review your transcripts and determine your transfer eligibility. Credits transfer based on several factors including accreditation and course equivalency. Learn more about credit transfer requirements and eligibility requirements.

Is financial aid available for the OTA program?

Yes. Students in the occupational therapy assistant program may qualify for grants, scholarships, and tuition assistance programs. Military veterans may also qualify for education benefits. Speak with a dedicated financial aid counselor to explore all available options and create a plan that fits your situation. Learn more about Keiser University’s Financial Services.

Is the Occupation Therapy Assistant program accredited?

Keiser University’s Occupational Therapy Assistant program, Daytona, Fort Myers, Jacksonville, Melbourne, Miami, Pembroke Pines, Tallahassee, Tampa, and West Palm Beach campuses are fully accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA). ACOTE can be reached at the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education, American Occupational Therapy Association: 7501 Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 510E, Bethesda, MD 20814; ACOTE’s telephone number c/o AOTA is (301) 652-6611; website: www.acoteonline.org.

On April 5, 2025, the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) granted a status of Probationary Accreditation—Inactive to the Fort Lauderdale Campus. ACOTE is located at 7501 Wisconsin Ave, Suite 510E Bethesda, MD. 20814. ACOTE’s telephone number c/o AOTA is (301) 652-6611 and its Web address is www.acoteonline.org. This status indicates that the program is not currently enrolling new students and does not plan to enroll new students in the future. While the program is on Probationary Accreditation-Inactive status, the graduates of the program will be eligible to sit for the national certification examination for the occupational therapy assistant administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). After successful completion of this exam, the individual will be a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA). In addition, all states require licensure in order to practice; however, state licenses are usually based on the results of the NBCOT Certification Examination. Note that a felony conviction may affect a graduate’s ability to sit for the NBCOT certification examination or attain state licensure.

Click here to see Keiser University OTA Program Performance Data on the NBCOT® National Certification Examination. When you get to the site, select ‘Florida’ for the state and ‘OTA Level Program’ for the program type and choose the year you’d like to view the results for.

Can I work while attending the OTA program?

The occupational therapy assistant program requires significant time commitment for classroom learning, laboratory practice, and clinical fieldwork. Many OTA students find it challenging to work full-time while enrolled in the program, especially during fieldwork rotations. Part-time employment may be possible during didactic courses, but Level II fieldwork typically requires time and focused work.

How long does it take to complete the occupational therapy assistant program?

The associate degree in occupational therapy assistant typically takes approximately 24 months to complete. This includes time for prerequisite courses, occupational therapy major courses, and Level II fieldwork. The actual timeline varies based on transfer credits and enrollment status.

How much does the OTA program cost?

View OTA Tuition & Costs

Tuition at Keiser University varies by degree program. Keiser University offers financial aid, military and veteran benefits, scholarships, and tuition reimbursement to those who qualify. For more information about the degree cost, please contact an admissions advisor. Get more information about Keiser University’s tuition and costs.

What courses are required in the OTA program?

The curriculum includes prerequisite courses in anatomy and physiology, psychology, mathematics, and general education. Occupational therapy major courses cover human occupation and development, kinesiology, musculoskeletal disorders, neurological disorders, psychiatric disorders, pediatric occupational therapy, aging and performance skills, and therapeutic interventions. Clinical courses include Fieldwork I, a pre-clinical practicum, and Level II fieldwork for hands-on experience in healthcare settings.

What is the NBCOT certification examination?

The National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) offers certification for occupational therapists (OTR) and occupational therapy assistants (COTA). This certification is essential for those seeking to practice as licensed professionals in the field of occupational therapy. The NBCOT certification is recognized nationwide and is often a prerequisite for state licensure.

What happens during Level II fieldwork?

Level II fieldwork involves the attainment of academic, professional, technical, and clinical skills for a period of two, eight-week rotations under the supervision of a licensed occupational therapy practitioner. Fieldwork II is scheduled immediately following completion of academic coursework. All Fieldwork II coursework must be completed within 12 months of a student’s completion of academic courses. Prerequisite: OTH2013C

Can I advance to become an occupational therapist later?

Yes. After working as a certified occupational therapy assistant, you may choose to pursue a bachelor’s degree and then a master’s or doctoral degree in occupational therapy. Some universities offer bridge programs designed for experienced therapy assistants.

Click here to see Keiser University OTA Program Performance Data on the NBCOT® National Certification Examination. When you get to the site, select ‘Florida’ for the state and ‘OTA Level Program’ for the program type and choose the year you’d like to view the results for.

Keiser University’s Occupational Therapy Assistant program, Daytona, Fort Myers, Jacksonville, Melbourne, Miami, Pembroke Pines, Tallahassee, Tampa, and West Palm Beach campuses are fully accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA). ACOTE can be reached at the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education, American Occupational Therapy Association: 7501 Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 510E, Bethesda, MD 20814; ACOTE’s telephone number c/o AOTA is (301) 652-6611; website: www.acoteonline.org.

On April 5, 2025, the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) granted a status of Probationary Accreditation—Inactive to the Fort Lauderdale Campus. ACOTE is located at 7501 Wisconsin Ave, Suite 510E Bethesda, MD. 20814. ACOTE’s telephone number c/o AOTA is (301) 652-6611 and its Web address is www.acoteonline.org. This status indicates that the program is not currently enrolling new students and does not plan to enroll new students in the future. While the program is on Probationary Accreditation-Inactive status, the graduates of the program will be eligible to sit for the national certification examination for the occupational therapy assistant administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). After successful completion of this exam, the individual will be a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA). In addition, all states require licensure in order to practice; however, state licenses are usually based on the results of the NBCOT Certification Examination. Note that a felony conviction may affect a graduate’s ability to sit for the NBCOT certification examination or attain state licensure.