To work as an occupational therapist assistant, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent; and
• have an associate degree.

Education after high school

You can prepare to work as an occupational therapist assistant by completing a formal training program. Professional-technical schools and two-year colleges offer occupational therapist assistant (OTA) programs. These programs usually grant an associate degree or certificate. An associate degree is the most common way to prepare for this occupation.

During the first year of the program you study health care, medical terminology, and physiology. During the second year you learn about gerontology, pediatrics, and mental health.

Work experience

Volunteering with an occupational or physical therapist is good preparation.

On-the-job training

While you are a student, you get experience working with patients. Experienced occupational therapist assistants supervise your work. Training usually lasts a month, although this varies by employer.

Military training

Some branches of the military train people to be occupational therapy specialists. Training lasts 11 to 13 weeks, depending on your specialty. Additional training occurs on the job and through advanced courses.