Occupational Therapy Schools

Occupational Therapy Degree, Occupational Therapy Schools, Occupational Therapy Career

The healthcare field is ripe for jobs that do not include sitting at a desk that also pay very well.  Many of us grow up thinking that a significant paycheck requires us to perform some business function at a computer all day.  This is just not the case.  One particular healthcare-related job that is exciting, rewarding, and physically challenging is that of an occupational therapist.

Occupational therapists (OTs) help people improve their ability to perform tasks in their daily living and working environments. They work with individuals who have conditions that are mentally, physically, developmentally, or emotionally disabling. They also help them to develop, recover, or maintain daily living and work skills. Occupational therapists help clients not only to improve their basic motor functions and reasoning abilities, but also to compensate for permanent loss of function. Their goal is to help clients have independent, productive, and satisfying lives.

Currently, a bachelor’s degree in occupational therapy is the minimum requirement for entry into this field. Beginning in 2007, however, a master’s degree or higher will be the minimum educational requirement. As a result, students in bachelor’s-level programs should complete their coursework and fieldwork before 2007.  Occupational therapy coursework includes physical, biological, and behavioral sciences and the application of occupational therapy theory and skills. Completion of 6 months of supervised fieldwork also is required.  Persons considering this profession should take high school courses in biology, chemistry, physics, health, art, and the social sciences. College admissions offices also look favorably at paid or volunteer experience in the healthcare field.

Featured Occupational Therapy Degree Programs

Featured Online Degree Programs (all fields)