Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) is an Associate Degree program offered by Pima Medical Institute in Tucson, AZ. The program takes 5 semesters (80 weeks) to complete, with a total tuition of $42,300.
Program Overview
Objective: To develop in students the intrapersonal and professional skills needed to perform as competent entry-level occupational therapy assistants through didactic instruction, hands-on laboratory practice, and clinical experiences. Students have the opportunity to develop professional skills in activity analysis, growth and development, human occupations, principles of occupational therapy, therapeutic modalities, administrative procedures, and ethics and laws governing the practice of occupational therapy.
Graduates of this program at the El Paso and Houston campuses receive an Associate of Applied Science Degree, while graduates at other PMI campuses receive an Associate of Occupational Science. Graduates of accredited OTA programs are eligible to apply to take the national certification examination for occupational therapy assistant (COTA) administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT).
At a Glance: Program Type: Associate Degree. Delivery Method: On-ground or hybrid. Semester Credits: 70.5. Program Hours: 1,712 (1,757 at the Las Vegas campus, which includes HST 205 Nevada History and US Constitution). Program Weeks: 80. Program Semesters: 5 (16 weeks per semester).
School Information
Cost of Attendance and Financial Aid Information
Tuition is $42,300.00. The published total cost is $45,742.00.
Admission Requirements and Process
Admissions Requirements: In addition to the Admissions requirements listed in the Prospective Students section of this catalog, an interview with the program director and/or faculty is required. Refer to the program specific Prospective Student Handout for more information.
Application Process
- 1Submit ApplicationComplete the online application form with your personal information and educational background.
- 2Submit TranscriptsProvide official high school transcripts or GED certificate. Some programs may require additional documentation.
- 3Financial AidComplete the FAFSA to determine eligibility for federal financial aid. Meet with a financial aid advisor to review your options.Complete FAFSA Application
- 4EnrollmentOnce accepted, complete enrollment paperwork, register for classes, and attend orientation.
Program Schedule
Delivery Method: On-ground or hybrid. Program Semesters: 5 (16 weeks per semester). Program Weeks: 80. Program Hours: 1,712 (1,757 Las Vegas). Level II fieldwork must be completed within 18 months of completing the didactic portion of the curriculum.
Career Outcomes
How Do I Get Certified as an Occupational Therapy Assistant After Graduation? Graduates of the program from this school are 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, all 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.
What Are My Career Opportunities as an Occupational Therapy Assistant? This associate degree program will prepare graduates to apply their skills in a variety of environments, such as: hospitals; public schools; rehabilitation centers; mental health centers; nursing homes; other community settings.
Job Outlook: Occupational therapy will continue to be an important part of treatment for people with various illnesses and disabilities. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the overall employment of occupational therapy assistants and aides is projected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations.
School Information
Cost of Attendance and Financial Aid Information
Tuition is $42,300.00. The published total cost is $45,742.00.