Occupational therapy is a vital healthcare profession that enables individuals, communities, and populations to participate in everyday activities and occupations that are meaningful to them. As the demand for occupational therapy services continues to grow, the need for skilled and compassionate occupational therapy assistants (OTAs) has never been more pressing. Ivy Tech Community College's Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) program is designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and competencies required to succeed in this rewarding field.
What is Occupational Therapy?
Occupational therapy is a healthcare profession that focuses on helping individuals develop, recover, or maintain the skills needed for daily living and work. Occupational therapists (OTs) and occupational therapy assistants (OTAs) work together to enable individuals, communities, and populations to participate in occupations that are meaningful and fulfilling.
Ivy Tech OTA Program Overview
The Ivy Tech OTA program is a two-year associate degree program that prepares students to become certified occupational therapy assistants. The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in occupational therapy principles, practices, and procedures. Upon completion of the program, graduates are eligible to take the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam to become certified occupational therapy assistants (COTAs).
Program Objectives
The Ivy Tech OTA program has the following objectives:
- To provide students with a comprehensive education in occupational therapy principles, practices, and procedures.
- To equip students with the knowledge, skills, and competencies required to succeed as occupational therapy assistants.
- To foster a commitment to lifelong learning and professional development.
- To promote cultural competence and sensitivity in occupational therapy practice.
- To prepare students to become certified occupational therapy assistants (COTAs) through the NBCOT exam.
Curriculum
The Ivy Tech OTA program curriculum includes coursework in:
- Occupational therapy principles and practices
- Human anatomy and physiology
- Kinesiology and movement analysis
- Occupational therapy assessment and intervention
- Mental health and psychosocial occupational therapy
- Pediatric occupational therapy
- Gerontological occupational therapy
- Rehabilitation and disability studies
Clinical Experience
Clinical experience is a critical component of the Ivy Tech OTA program. Students participate in fieldwork experiences at various clinical sites, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools, and community organizations. These experiences provide students with hands-on training and the opportunity to apply theoretical concepts to real-world situations.
Admission Requirements
To be eligible for admission to the Ivy Tech OTA program, students must meet the following requirements:
- Earn a high school diploma or equivalent
- Complete prerequisite coursework in anatomy and physiology, psychology, and mathematics
- Achieve a minimum GPA of 2.5
- Complete an application to the OTA program
- Participate in a program interview
Certification and Licensure
Graduates of the Ivy Tech OTA program are eligible to take the NBCOT exam to become certified occupational therapy assistants (COTAs). Certification is not required to practice as an OTA in Indiana, but it is highly recommended.
Career Opportunities
Occupational therapy assistants play a vital role in the healthcare team, working under the supervision of occupational therapists to provide occupational therapy services to individuals, communities, and populations. Career opportunities for OTAs include:
- Hospitals and rehabilitation centers
- Schools and early intervention programs
- Community organizations and non-profit agencies
- Private practices and clinics
- Home healthcare and hospice care
Salary and Benefits
The salary range for occupational therapy assistants varies depending on location, employer, and level of experience. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for occupational therapy assistants was $61,730 in May 2020.
Conclusion
The Ivy Tech OTA program provides students with a comprehensive education in occupational therapy principles, practices, and procedures. Upon completion of the program, graduates are eligible to take the NBCOT exam to become certified occupational therapy assistants (COTAs). With a strong job market and competitive salary range, the Ivy Tech OTA program is an excellent choice for individuals who are passionate about helping others and making a difference in their communities.
Gallery of Occupational Therapy Assistant Program
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Ivy Tech OTA program?
+The Ivy Tech OTA program is a two-year associate degree program that prepares students to become certified occupational therapy assistants.
What are the admission requirements for the Ivy Tech OTA program?
+To be eligible for admission to the Ivy Tech OTA program, students must meet the following requirements: earn a high school diploma or equivalent, complete prerequisite coursework in anatomy and physiology, psychology, and mathematics, achieve a minimum GPA of 2.5, complete an application to the OTA program, and participate in a program interview.
What is the job market like for occupational therapy assistants?
+The job market for occupational therapy assistants is strong, with a projected growth rate of 32% from 2020 to 2030, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.