Occupational therapy degree overview

An occupational therapy degree teaches students how to help people of all ages live more independently by improving their ability to perform everyday tasks. This can include things like dressing, cooking, or working, especially for people who have physical, mental, or developmental disabilities. Students learn how to assess a patient’s needs and design personalized plans to help them overcome challenges in daily life.

This degree includes courses on human development, anatomy, therapeutic techniques, and how to use adaptive tools or modifications to make tasks easier. Students also gain hands-on experience, working with patients in various settings, such as hospitals, schools, and nursing homes, under the supervision of licensed occupational therapists.

An occupational therapy degree is available at different educational levels, each offering a unique approach to learning and practicing therapy. Below are some program options for studying occupational therapy:

• Associate Degree in Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA): This two-year program prepares students to become occupational therapy assistants. It covers the basics of patient care, therapeutic techniques, and assistive devices. Graduates work under the supervision of licensed occupational therapists to help patients with daily tasks.
• Bachelor’s Degree in Occupational Therapy: While this degree is no longer a direct entry point for becoming an occupational therapist, it provides foundational knowledge in health sciences and human development. It’s a stepping stone for those planning to pursue a Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy.
• Master’s Degree in Occupational Therapy: This graduate program is required to become a licensed occupational therapist. It provides in-depth training in assessment, treatment planning, and therapeutic interventions. Students gain practical experience through clinical rotations, preparing them for a career in various healthcare settings.

An occupational therapy degree teaches a variety of skills needed to help patients improve their ability to perform daily tasks and live independently. Below are some key skills learned in this program:

• Patient Assessment: Learning how to evaluate a patient’s physical, mental, and emotional abilities to design personalized therapy plans.
• Therapeutic Techniques: Gaining knowledge of different treatment methods and activities that help patients improve motor skills, strength, and coordination.
• Adaptive Equipment and Modifications: Understanding how to recommend and use assistive devices, such as grab bars or special tools, to help patients perform daily tasks more easily.
• Human Development and Anatomy: Studying how people grow and develop over their lifespan, as well as understanding the anatomy and functioning of the body, to better tailor treatments.

An occupational therapy degree opens up a range of career options focused on helping people of all ages improve their ability to perform everyday activities. Here are some career options for those with an occupational therapy degree:

• Occupational Therapist (OT): As a licensed occupational therapist, you work directly with patients to help them regain or improve the ability to perform daily tasks, such as dressing, cooking, or working. You may specialize in working with children, elderly patients, or those recovering from injuries.
• Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA): Working under the supervision of an occupational therapist, an assistant helps implement therapy plans and support patients with their exercises, tasks, and activities.
• Pediatric Occupational Therapist: Specializing in working with children, you help young patients with developmental, physical, or emotional challenges improve their daily functioning and participate in school or home activities.
• Geriatric Occupational Therapist: Working with older adults, you help them maintain independence, manage chronic conditions, and recover from surgeries or injuries that impact their ability to perform daily tasks.
• School-Based Occupational Therapist: You work within schools to help students with disabilities or special needs improve their ability to participate in academic and social activities, such as writing, using classroom tools, or interacting with peers.
• Mental Health Occupational Therapist: Specializing in mental health, you help patients with conditions like depression, anxiety, or trauma engage in meaningful activities that improve their well-being and daily functioning.