What does an Occupational Therapy Assistant do?

Occupational therapy assistants (OTA) work under the supervision of occupational therapists in helping people of all ages with physical, psychological, or developmental disabilities so that they may regain, improve, or adjust to their physical or mental capacities. The treatments focus on helping patients achieve maximum levels of independence in such daily activities as dressing, bathing, grooming, eating, caring for a home, participating in education, or seeking and holding employment.

Depending on the areas of work, an occupational therapy assistant's general duties may include...

• Observing patient's skills & capacity to determine ability level.
• Selecting appropriate activities such as manual arts, crafts, daily living skills, recreation, and neuro-developmental techniques.
• Assisting in planning therapy programs.
• Preparing and designing materials, equipment, and adaptive devices for patient use, and instructing patients in their use.
• Teaching patients skills and techniques and how to adapt to home and work activities and social environment.
• Transporting patients, assembling equipment, obtaining supplies, and preparing and maintaining work areas.

What kind of classes will I need to take at MCC?

In addition to general education classes required of all students seeking associate's degrees, students in the occupational therapy assistant program will study anatomy and physiology, kinesiology, psychology, medical terminology, first aid, and various occupational therapy classes that build specific skills necessary in the field.

Students learn about ethical and legal issues in the practice of occupational therapy, psychiatric and physical conditions most frequently treated, theories of treatment and rehabilitation, treatment techniques, skills in the use of equipment, and treatment materials, and other pertinent skills. As students advance in their studies, they will move to clinical settings where they will observe, then perform tasks under supervision.

Accreditation Status of the OTA Program at Mott:

The Occupational Therapy Assistant Program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA), located at 4720 Montgomery Lane, P O Box 31220, Bethesda, MD 20824-1220. AOTA’s phone number is (301) 652-AOTA.

What are my career options & job opportunities in this field?

Career opportunities are good. Nationally, employment of OTA's is expected to increase much faster than the average for all occupations through the year 2014. The number of graduates has fallen short of demand.

Salaries may vary according to education and experience, and the type, size, and location of the employer. In Michigan hospitals and related institutions, the salary in 2008 for OTA's was $38,430. For information on current salaries visit Salary.com.
Advancement depends on experience, education, responsibilities, and performance. A career ladder for OTA's may be: OTA, occupational therapist, supervising therapist. Our aging population, advances in medical technology that save lives, and our rising life expectancy all contribute to the increased demand for occupational therapy services.

What degree will I hold when I finish?

Students who complete the Occupational Therapy Assistant Program at MCC are candidates for an Associate in Applied Science degree.

After graduation from the OTA Program students take the national certification exam. Mott Community College OTA Program graduates historically have been very successful with passing this exam. The table below represents the pass rate of Mott students for the last 3 years (2004 – 2006).

How can I find out more or enroll in the program?

You can find out more about the field of occupational therapy assistant by visiting Mott Community College's Career and Job Placement Center, second floor, Prahl College Center on the main campus, (810) 762-0250.

The OTA program courses are offered only at the Southern Lakes Branch Center - Fenton. General education courses required for the program may be offered on the main campus as well. The program coordinator will answer specific questions and assist you with scheduling. The program coordinator can be called at (810) 762-5018 or emailed at  wearly@mcc.edu.