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Occupational Therapy Assistant: Building a Purposeful Career

Keiser University offers an Associate of Science degree in Occupational Therapy Assistant designed for prospective students seeking career-oriented education with small class sizes and flexible learning options at multiple campus locations in Florida. Our program prepares you to help people achieve independence in daily living through meaningful therapeutic activities.

Master the Practice of Occupational Therapy

Learn proven strategies that help patients maximize independent function across self-care, work, and leisure activities. Our occupational therapy assistant program emphasizes hands-on clinical training under the supervision of experienced occupational therapist practitioners.

Study with Expert Faculty

Connect with certified occupational therapy assistant professionals and occupational therapists who bring real-world experience from skilled nursing facilities, clinics, rehabilitation centers, and community settings.

Multiple Locations in Florida

Choose from on-campus programs at multiple Florida locations. Evening classes may be available to accommodate working professionals and career changers seeking to enter the occupational therapy assistant profession.

Prepare for National Board Certification

Our curriculum aligns with the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy requirements, helping you prepare to sit for the NBCOT certification examination and attain state licensure as a certified occupational therapy assistant.

At a Glance

83

Credit Hours

21

Courses

24

Months *

4

Week Terms

  • Up to 12 credits of transfer credit*
  • Career opportunities in rehabilitation, pediatrics, mental health, and geriatric care
  • Available On-Campus
  • Financial aid for those who qualify**

* Time to degree completion and the number of transfer credits are estimates, not intended as a guarantee, and can vary based on many case-by-case factors.
** Speak with a dedicated financial aid counselor to explore all your financial aid and funding options.

Occupational Therapy Assistant, AS Overview

Keiser University’s Associate of Science degree in Occupational Therapy Assistant prepares you for a rewarding career helping people gain the skills they need for independent daily living. Our occupational therapy education emphasizes the therapeutic use of meaningful activities including self-care, work, and play/leisure pursuits to maximize independent function, enhance human growth and development, prevent disability, and maintain health.
 
The OTA program teaches you to implement intervention strategies that may include adaptations to a task or environment, or compensatory approaches to help clients achieve maximum independence. You’ll learn to work collaboratively with occupational therapists, families, and interdisciplinary healthcare teams to develop and implement treatment plans that address each client’s unique needs.

Program Mission

The Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) program’s mission is to prepare and empower its students to be compassionate and competent healthcare professionals. Their education at Keiser University will prepare them to develop clinical reasoning skills, foster professionalism, and advocate for the well-being and quality of life of all community populations.

Program Goals

Professional Attributes – Upholding occupational therapy’s professional standards and ethical responsibilities while engaging in life-long learning for the safe provision of quality occupational therapy services

Occupation-Centered and Client-Centered Care – Empirically supported, occupation-centered, client centered strategies and approaches that contribute to the health and well-being of individuals, groups, and populations.

Collaboration and Advocacy – Working and advocating for the communities served, while acknowledging the influence of constantly changing environmental factors.

Practice Competency – Clinical decision-making for prioritizing goals and implementing safe intervention plans based on client responses, under the supervision of the OT.

Prerequisites for Major Courses

  • Satisfactory background check and drug screening (for information on graduate’s eligibility for certification and credentialing click here). Graduates of the program will be eligible to sit for the national certification examination for the occupational therapy assistant, administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). After successful completion of this exam, the graduate will be a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA). In addition, most states require licensure to practice; however, state licenses are usually based on the results of the NBCOT certification examination. A felony conviction may affect a graduate’s ability to sit for the NBCOT certification examination or attain state licensure.
  • Completion of general education courses with a minimum grade of ―”C” for each course. Successful completion of the following prerequisite courses: Human Anatomy and Physiology I & II, Intermediate Algebra and Introduction to Psychology.
  • Cumulative grade average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
  • Must earn a minimum of an 18 on the University Entrance Exam.

Program Highlights

The occupational therapy assistant program at Keiser University combines rigorous academic coursework with extensive hands-on clinical training. Occupational therapy students benefit from small class sizes that allow for personalized attention from the program director, academic coordinator, and OTA faculty members.

Clinical courses give you opportunities to apply classroom learning in real-world settings. Level II fieldwork experiences provide intensive supervised practice in various settings including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools, and community agencies. The academic fieldwork coordinator works closely with clinical sites to ensure quality learning experiences.

Estimated Student Costs

Required and Optional Fees for Programs: Fees are costs set by the university in addition to tuition (and room and board, if applicable). These fees may be required for your program or optional depending on the courses you take, and they support the costs associated with completing an approved program of study. Fees are defined in the university’s catalog or supplement and listed on the school’s billing statement or invoice. Fees that are optional will not be paid using GI Bill® benefits and will be the responsibility of the student choosing these additional options. For additional guidance, please see your Program Director or Admissions Counselor.

Programs Outcomes

NBCOT®

Eligibility to take the NBCOT exam and apply for licensure requires graduation from an accredited associate level occupational therapy program. Keiser University OTA program pass rate outcomes on the certification exam are available at https://www.nbcot.org/Educators-Folder/SchoolPerformance. When you get to the site, select ‘Florida’ for the state, ‘OTA Level Programs’ for the program type, and choose the year you would like to view the results for.

Accreditation Status

Click here to see Keiser University OTA Program Performance Data on the NBCOT® National Certification Examination. When you get to the site, select ‘Florida’ for the state and ‘OTA Level Program’ for the program type and choose the year you’d like to view the results for.

Keiser University’s Occupational Therapy Assistant program, Daytona, Fort Myers, Jacksonville, Melbourne, Miami, Pembroke Pines, Tallahassee, Tampa, and West Palm Beach campuses are fully accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA). ACOTE can be reached at the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education, American Occupational Therapy Association: 7501 Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 510E, Bethesda, MD 20814; ACOTE’s telephone number c/o AOTA is (301) 652-6611; website: www.acoteonline.org.

On April 5, 2025, the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) granted a status of Probationary Accreditation—Inactive to the Fort Lauderdale Campus. ACOTE is located at 7501 Wisconsin Ave, Suite 510E Bethesda, MD. 20814. ACOTE’s telephone number c/o AOTA is (301) 652-6611 and its Web address is www.acoteonline.org. This status indicates that the program is not currently enrolling new students and does not plan to enroll new students in the future. While the program is on Probationary Accreditation-Inactive status, the graduates of the program will be eligible to sit for the national certification examination for the occupational therapy assistant administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). After successful completion of this exam, the individual will be a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA). In addition, all states require licensure in order to practice; however, state licenses are usually based on the results of the NBCOT Certification Examination. Note that a felony conviction may affect a graduate’s ability to sit for the NBCOT certification examination or attain state licensure.

Program Outline

Available On-Campus

Occupational Therapy Assistant Major Courses

The Associate of Science in Occupational Therapy Assistant at Keiser University prepares you to work as an occupational therapy assistant under the direct supervision of a licensed occupational therapist. This occupational therapy education program combines classroom learning with hands-on fieldwork experiences. You’ll gain the therapeutic skills needed to help clients with developmental disabilities, neurological disorders, musculoskeletal conditions, and psychiatric challenges achieve their functional goals.
 
To receive an Associate of Science degree in Occupational Therapy Assistant, students must complete 83 credit hours as follows:

Lower Division Courses

Occupational Therapy Assistant Major Courses (57.0 credit hours)
Introduction to Occupational Therapy 4.0 credit hours
Human Occupation and Development Across the Life Span 4.0 credit hours
Kinesiology for Occupational Therapy Assistants 4.0 credit hours
Musculoskeletal System Disorders/Assessment and Treatment Strategies 4.0 credit hours
Neurological Disorders/Assessment and Treatment Strategies 4.0 credit hours
Psychiatric Disorders, Assessment and Treatment Strategies 4.0 credit hours
Therapeutic Interventions for Individuals, Groups, and Populations 4.0 credit hours
Fieldwork I 2.0 credit hours
Occupational Therapy for the Physically Disabled 4.0 credit hours
Pediatric Occupational Therapy 4.0 credit hours
Aging and Performance Skills 4.0 credit hours
Occupational Therapy Pre-clinical Practicum 3.0 credit hours
Fieldwork II 12.0 credit hours
General Education Courses (26.0 credit hours)
Behavioral/Social Science (3.0 credit hours)
PSY1012 – Introduction to Psychology 3.0 credit hours
SGY1000 – Introduction to Sociology 3.0 credit hours
Communications (3.0 credit hours)
SPC1017 – Speech 3.0 credit hours
Computers (3.0 credit hours)
CGS1000C – Introduction to Computers 3.0 credit hours
English (3.0 credit hours)
ENC1101 – English Composition I 3.0 credit hours
ENC2102 – English Composition II 3.0 credit hours
Humanities/Fine Arts (3.0 credit hours)
AML1000 – American Literature 3.0 credit hours
ENL1000 – English Literature 3.0 credit hours
CWL1000 – Contemporary World Literature 3.0 credit hours
Mathematics (3.0 credit hours)
MAC2105 – College Algebra 3.0 credit hours
MAT1033 – Intermediate Algebra 3.0 credit hours
Natural Science (8.0 credit hours)
BSC2085C – Human Anatomy and Physiology I 4.0 credit hours
BSC2086C – Human Anatomy and Physiology II 4.0 credit hours

Note: Each course in the Occupational Therapy Assistant major is a prerequisite for the subsequent course and therefore must be passed with a minimum “C” grade in order to proceed successfully through the program.

If you’re someone who cares about …

Helping people regain independence,

an Occupational Therapy Assistant degree might be your path.

Occupational therapy students are compassionate, patient, and detail-oriented with the creativity to adapt activities and the dedication to celebrate small victories that mean everything to their clients.

Whether you work with children, adults recovering from injury, or older adults maintaining independence, this path gives you the tools to make a real difference in people’s daily lives.

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#2 Best 4-year graduation rates, private, nonprofit, nonresidential
(2023, The Chronicle of Higher Ed.)

What Jobs Can You Get with an Occupational Therapy Assistant Degree?

Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants (COTA) can pursue entry-level positions in diverse healthcare settings. After successful completion of the national certification examination administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy, you can work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools, home health agencies, and community programs.

Career Pathways for Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants

  • Pediatric occupational therapy assistant in schools and clinics
  • Rehabilitation specialist in hospitals and acute care
  • Geriatric therapy assistant in skilled nursing facilities
  • Mental health occupational therapy assistant
  • Hand therapy assistant
  • Home health occupational therapy assistant
  • Community-based therapy assistant for developmental disabilities
  • School-based therapy assistant supporting students with special needs
occupational-therapy-assistant-as-degree-

Gain Job-Ready Skills for an Occupational Therapy Career

  • Assessment and treatment planning
  • Intervention strategies for physical, cognitive, and psychosocial challenges
  • Adaptation techniques for tasks and environments
  • Documentation and communication with healthcare teams
  • Professional reasoning and clinical decision-making
  • Safety protocols and infection control
  • Pediatric and geriatric specialty skills
  • Assistive technology and adaptive equipment use

Keiser University offers career-focused degree programs designed to support working adults, recent high school graduates, career changers, military veterans, and upskillers seeking career advancement. With on-campus learning options at multiple Florida locations, experienced faculty, and comprehensive student support, Keiser helps learners achieve their personal and professional goals.

See What Sets Keiser Apart

Stephanie Hernandez, a student in the Occupational Therapy Assistant program, shares that she chose Keiser University for its fast-paced structure and well-rounded approach to care. Initially interested in becoming a physical therapist or behavior analyst, she found that occupational therapy combined her interests and allowed her to help a wide range of individuals. She values the supportive, family-like environment at Keiser and feels confident and excited about her future in the field.

Students Testimonials

At Keiser University we are here to help you succeed by providing the professional and academic foundation to meet your educational goals and objectives.

Tom Buchanan
Keiser University Nursing Student

Tom Buchanan, a military veteran and nursing student, says Keiser helped him transition into a meaningful healthcare career where he could continue serving his community. He appreciates the strong support available to veterans, including a dedicated VA adviser who is responsive, helpful, and committed to ensuring students fully use the benefits they earned through service.

Audrey Chouraqui Azoulay
Cinematic Arts program graduate

Audrey Chouraqui Azoulay, a Cinematic Arts program graduate, has shared her positive experience. She expressed gratitude to her professors, Samantha Kountz and Jean Jacques, for their encouragement and support during her studies. Her story highlights a passion for film production and acknowledges the program’s contribution to her success.

Kadeshia Rose
Keiser University Software Engineering Student

The environment is friendly. The instructors really actually care about how you are going to get your degree. Keiser was a great fit.

Kennedy Foster
Sports Management Graduate

Keiser University has always supported me in every aspect of my life. Athletically, they have provided top-notch coaches, athletic trainers, and strength coaches who truly helped mold and build me into the player that I am today. Academically, my professors brought out the best in me and constantly made me think critically in real-world situations, and professionally, my professors truly prepared me for my current job. Every task I am given, I can think back to my time at KU and think of an assignment or discussion that I had.

Antigonie Sanabria
Sports Management student

I picked Keiser because, first of all, it’s a school sports management, so I knew that there would be a higher focus of that here, and I knew I could get the best education that I wanted to have if I attended.

Lee Tamburro
Crime Scene Technology student

Being able to solve problems and try to figure out what exactly happened and try to help whoever is the victim is amazing. In a smaller classroom setting you have more time with your teacher. A lot of times you’re just a name on a paper in a bigger class but in Keiser’s smaller classes format, it’s a little more personable, and one class at a time is very helpful.

Amya Black
Culinary Arts, AS degree student

I chose Keiser because of a good friend of mine. She graduated last year and hearing all the good things about the program really made a difference. And this is possibly the best school experience I’ve had. Your teachers know your name. They know your personality. They know what to expect of you. Honestly, they push you to be the best version of yourself.

Marcus Walton
Keiser University Cybersecurity student

Keiser University is one big giant family and I feel that I’ve I learned a lot more here than I would on a traditional campus. This university has changed my life; I’m more assertive, I am completing tasks more efficiently, and I’ve learned a whole lot about it and cyber security.

Haley Roberge
BS in Forensic Investigations graduate

What I love about Keiser is the fact that there’s intimate class sizes, teachers that actually care about what you’re going to school for and they have real life experience; they’re going to be there for you throughout your journey; it’s not just you see that teacher one time and you’re done.

Will Doyle
Sports Medicine & Fitness Technology Graduate

I heard about Keiser University through a battle buddy that I was overseas with in the military. For me school was tough; the more one-on-one attention at Keiser helped me a lot and the teachers that seemed to reach out to you and care. I think that little push right there kept me dedicated. I became a gym owner because I got the skills I needed at Keiser.

Alex Avila
Sports Medicine & Fitness Technology Student

Hands On, Practical Instruction. We have incredible instructors who are very knowledgeable in this field.

Jacvelyne Michel
Keiser University Nursing Student

I chose to study at Keiser University because they offer the accelerated nursing program which I could get my BS in in 16 months. They push us to do our best and they’re very fixated on us passing all of our classes and understanding the concepts. And they really prepare us well for the NCLEX exam.

Ryan G
Culinary Arts Graduates

“I know that when I go for a job interview and I have Keiser University on my resume that I am going to get the job.”

Jillian Bellis
Keiser University Nursing Student

Jillian Bellis, a nursing student, says Keiser University gave her the opportunity to return to school and pursue her lifelong passion for nursing. She highlights key benefits of Keiser, including flexible pathways for adult learners and career changers, supportive programs designed for students at different life stages, and the chance to pursue meaningful, career-focused education later in life.

Solange Mondesir
Keiser University College of Nursing Student

Seeing Keiser nurses out in the field – Keiser pushes out good nurses. So, I know I’m going to be prepared once I step out of the program.

Kadeshia Rose
Keiser University Software Engineering Student

The environment is friendly. The instructors really actually care about how you are going to get your degree.  Keiser was a great fit.

Kiefer Suau
Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering graduate

Keiser University provided me with the foundation to turn ambition into action, equipping me with the discipline, purpose, and support necessary to make a lasting impact. The dedicated faculty and my incredible colleagues continually challenged, inspired, and encouraged me, shaping both my personal and professional growth. With my Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering, I’ve been able to pursue meaningful contributions in public service and technology, while advancing my career as a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst for Behavioral Pedestal LLC and Spring Health ABA.

Brian Mardy, RN
Associates of Science Degree in Nursing

I was an active reservist and wanted to enter nursing. Keiser University provided me with new opportunities to do much more in life.

Gaelen Przybylowicz
Keiser University B.S. in Law Enforcement Operations – Forensics Concentration Graduate

I learned a lot about my subject field while attending Keiser. All my teachers continually promoted success and successful thinking, and my peers helped me to a higher standard than others because they knew I could achieve more.

Christy Marek
Keiser University B.S. in Law Enforcement Operations Graduate

KU taught me how to thoroughly do an investigation, read a police report, and understand crime scenes and photos of crime scenes along with any other evidentiary items. I really loved the classes in our program as well as being able to focus on one class a month. It allowed me to learn more.

Brandon Alexander Presley
Legal Studies Student

“My experience at Keiser has been incredible, especially because of the small class sizes—they’re really catered to us and make learning more personal and engaging. As a veteran, I was worried about adjusting back to a structured routine, but the campus made that transition much easier.   Overall, this campus has truly become like a family to me.”

Sarah S.
Keiser University Medical Assisting Graduate

I cannot thank Keiser University enough for the experience and the learning opportunities I have had here. I never thought that at 20 years old, I would be halfway through my bachelor’s degree and working full-time as a medical assistant.

Quondra B.
Keiser University Medical Assisting Graduate

“I have had the experience of dealing with classes that accommodated my schedule of being a full-time employee as well as a full-time mother of three. The hands-on experience and the knowledge received was outstanding. I was elated by the amount of information I received in such a short period of time.”

Danna Murphy
Master of Science in Nursing Graduate

“I really enjoyed the small class sizes and having an advisor at the campus who was able to guide me when I needed advice. I could take the program online, which helped tremendously as I was staying home with my children. Being able to do my schoolwork on my own timetable helped me to be accessible for my children and my husband.”

Arisnelvys Gonzalez, JD
Paralegal Studies Graduate

“Keiser University provided me with everything I needed for my future career as a licensed Florida Bar Attorney. While at KU I retained an Associates Degree in the Paralegal Studies Program. The Program helped me develop not only the essential skills a paralegal is required to hold but also long-term practical and professional skills.”

Justin Pugh
Full Stack Engineer

“The instructors at Keiser University impacted my life. They believed in my ability to become a great graphic designer, regardless of how I felt about my skills. KU helped to prepare me for the real world and got me to where I am today.”

John F. Phelan
Fire Chief – Mashpee, MA

“When I first enrolled, I was new to the online educational environment and nervous as to how the experience would go. Keiser University has a knack for selecting educators who are perfect for this method of instruction, which allowed me and my fellow classmates to get up to speed quickly.”

Wayne Webb
Criminal Justice Graduate

“KU prepared me for Pat Thomas Law Enforcement Academy and the Florida State Correctional program. I have finally reached my goal of becoming a full-time deputy, with the Leon County Sheriff’s Office.”

Emily Emilov
Forensic Investigations Graduate

“At Keiser University we’re here to help you succeed by providing the professional and academic foundation to meet your educational goals and objectives.”

Ayden Przybylowicz
Associate of Science in Culinary Arts Graduate

“Because of the experiences I had at Keiser, along with the contacts I made, I made great progress throughout my career already. I thoroughly enjoyed the quality of my education at KU.”

Jennifer Kotzur
Curriculum and Instruction, PhD

“The C & I program at Keiser University is one of the best PhD programs, offering student-center learning and student-first learning. KU provided the rigor and growth I needed to be prepared for my future endeavors.”

Marie Boone
Family Nurse Practitioner, MSN

“I chose Keiser University because I was looking for a local University that was flexible and suited my needs as a parent and full-time RN. The weekly live interactions with the professors were a definite plus. The tuition was reasonable and less than other Universities. Keiser University’s motto, “purity, truth, wisdom” was honored by the commitment of the nursing faculty to the students.”

Javier Araque
Keiser University’s College of Nursing

“My name is Javier Araki, and I’m in the nursing program at Keiser University. What stands out most to me is their students-first approach. Everything is centered on preparing us for the real-world demands of the field. The faculty and staff genuinely support you and help in every way they can. Because of that environment, I truly feel empowered and confident about my future in nursing.”

Anthony Alber
KU Sport Management and Operations, MS Graduate

“I am forever grateful to have been a part of the Keiser Sports Management program! Not only did I gain professional momentum to kickstart my career, I received help from professors that truly care about their students and made great friends along the way.”

Osmara Cailam
Master of Science in Nursing Graduate

“Choosing Keiser was instrumental because they offered small class sizes and the faculty provided one-on-one time with all of the students. Being in an online program, it is essential to have someone accessible to you and the faculty was always there when we needed them. I was also impressed at the structure, organization and curriculum for the program at Keiser.”

Ryan Bushey
Content and Media Production

“My instructors weren’t interested in just teaching. They were invested in every single student. They were invested in me. I’m proud to say I went to Keiser University, if for no other reason, because of my personal and professional development my instructors brought me.”

Jane Krolewski
Master of Science in Family Nurse Practitioner Graduate

“The Family Nurse Practitioner Program at Keiser University is an excellent program managed by a group of dynamic and dedicated professional educators. During my time at Keiser University, there was never a moment when I felt alone or lost. The support and guidance of my instructors were instrumental in accomplishing my professional goals and certification.”

Kiefer Suau
Software Engineering Graduate

“The dedicated faculty and my incredible colleagues continually challenged, inspired, and encouraged me, shaping both my personal and professional growth. With my Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering, I’ve been able to pursue meaningful contributions in public service and technology.”

Jada Vidal
Culinary Arts Graduate

“Keiser was one of the best choices I made for culinary school but you must put in the time, show up, and listen to your chefs.“

Heather S
Keiser University Criminal Justice Graduate

Once I graduated, I found a job right out of college within my degree. I now proudly work for the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice.

Wayne W.
Keiser University Criminal Justice graduate

When I came to Keiser University, I had no idea what I was capable of doing. I knew if I made good grades and worked hard, it would look good on my resume. It would also show my girls how important an education was. So, I worked hard. KU prepared me for Pat Thomas Law Enforcement Academy and the Florida State Correctional program…I have finally reached my goal of becoming a full-time deputy, with the Leon County Sheriff’s Office.

Jason Liska
Keiser Graduate and Lake County Fire Fighter and Paramedic

Liska said he chose the Keiser University Fire Science program because of the professors’ real-life experiences in the field and the convenience of the one-class-at-a-time and one-class-per-month schedule. “You’ve got to find a way to balance things and Keiser was very beneficial in providing me that balance.”

Desiree James
Keiser University Diagnostic Medical Sonography Graduate

I loved that Keiser University focused on one class per month. I feel I gained a lot from this because there were no distractions from other subjects in the same period of time. I found the information for each subject was better retained this way. In addition, my professors were always available for one-on-one help which is nearly unheard of in a large university or state college.

Deanna Confessore
Deanna Confessore – Golf Management graduate – Keiser University

My time at Keiser gave me hands-on experience teaching golf and great mentors to look up to.

Jason Loomis
Executive Director at Great River Golf Club.

“Huge gratitude towards Keiser University, you know, I was a golf enthusiast and wanted to get into the game. And it was a perfect school that opened its doors to me, let me in, and showed me the ropes. And their guidance and education, and not to mention mentorship, even after I graduated, has really propelled me into the professional I am today.”

Samuel Fernandes
Animation and Game Design student – Keiser University

I’m Samuel Fernandes of Keiser University. I’m currently enrolled as a student under the animation and game design bachelors and I enjoy with my whole heart right now. I came to Keiser because it welcomes people and it was very warm and inviting. It allowed me to create the world I want. Here at Keiser, if you want to create world environments, if you want to enlist in characters, the game design program here is perfect.

How to Apply

  1. Submit your online application.
  2. Speak with an admissions advisor.
  3. Provide transcripts or transfer credits.
  4. Enroll and choose your start date.

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Speak to Your Advisor: 1-888-534-7379

Keiser University’s occupational therapy assistant program prepares you for a meaningful career helping people achieve independence and improve their quality of life. With accredited occupational therapy education, experienced OTA faculty, and extensive clinical training, you’ll gain the skills and credentials needed to make a lasting impact in the occupational therapy profession. Our graduates work in hospitals, schools, rehabilitation centers, mental health facilities, and community programs across Florida and beyond.

Apply Now

Accredited University

Keiser University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), ensuring your education meets rigorous academic standards.

Flexible Learning Options

Study on-campus at Florida locations with one class at a time. Small class sizes create an environment where faculty know students by name and provide individualized support throughout the program.

Financial Services

We’re here to help guide you through the financial aid process and provide assistance. Grants, scholarships, and financial aid available for students who qualify.

Top Questions About Earning an Occupational Therapy Assistant Degree

Can I complete the OTA program online at Keiser University?

The occupational therapy assistant program requires on-campus attendance for hands-on laboratory courses and supervised fieldwork experiences. Clinical courses and Level II fieldwork must be completed in person at approved healthcare facilities. General education courses may be available online depending on the campus. Contact an admissions counselor to get more information about the OTA classes format.

What is the difference between an occupational therapy assistant and an occupational therapist?

An occupational therapy assistant works under the supervision of a licensed occupational therapist. After earning an associate degree and passing the national certification examination, certified occupational therapy assistants implement treatment plans, work directly with clients, and document progress. Occupational therapists hold a master’s or doctoral degree and perform evaluations, develop treatment plans, and supervise therapy assistants.

What careers can I pursue with an occupational therapy assistant associate degree?

Certified occupational therapy assistants can pursue careers in hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, pediatric clinics, mental health centers, rehabilitation facilities, home health agencies, and community programs. You may work with children with developmental disabilities, adults recovering from injuries, older adults in geriatric settings, or individuals with psychiatric conditions.

Can I transfer credits from another institution?

Yes, Keiser University accepts transfer credits for undergraduate and graduate-level programs. Our admissions team will work with you to review your transcripts and determine your transfer eligibility. Credits transfer based on several factors including accreditation and course equivalency. Learn more about credit transfer requirements and eligibility requirements.

Is financial aid available for the OTA program?

Yes. Students in the occupational therapy assistant program may qualify for grants, scholarships, and tuition assistance programs. Military veterans may also qualify for education benefits. Speak with a dedicated financial aid counselor to explore all available options and create a plan that fits your situation. Learn more about Keiser University’s Financial Services.

Is the Occupation Therapy Assistant program accredited?

Keiser University’s Occupational Therapy Assistant program, Daytona, Fort Myers, Jacksonville, Melbourne, Miami, Pembroke Pines, Tallahassee, Tampa, and West Palm Beach campuses are fully accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA). ACOTE can be reached at the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education, American Occupational Therapy Association: 7501 Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 510E, Bethesda, MD 20814; ACOTE’s telephone number c/o AOTA is (301) 652-6611; website: www.acoteonline.org.

On April 5, 2025, the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) granted a status of Probationary Accreditation—Inactive to the Fort Lauderdale Campus. ACOTE is located at 7501 Wisconsin Ave, Suite 510E Bethesda, MD. 20814. ACOTE’s telephone number c/o AOTA is (301) 652-6611 and its Web address is www.acoteonline.org. This status indicates that the program is not currently enrolling new students and does not plan to enroll new students in the future. While the program is on Probationary Accreditation-Inactive status, the graduates of the program will be eligible to sit for the national certification examination for the occupational therapy assistant administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). After successful completion of this exam, the individual will be a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA). In addition, all states require licensure in order to practice; however, state licenses are usually based on the results of the NBCOT Certification Examination. Note that a felony conviction may affect a graduate’s ability to sit for the NBCOT certification examination or attain state licensure.

Click here to see Keiser University OTA Program Performance Data on the NBCOT® National Certification Examination. When you get to the site, select ‘Florida’ for the state and ‘OTA Level Program’ for the program type and choose the year you’d like to view the results for.

Can I work while attending the OTA program?

The occupational therapy assistant program requires significant time commitment for classroom learning, laboratory practice, and clinical fieldwork. Many OTA students find it challenging to work full-time while enrolled in the program, especially during fieldwork rotations. Part-time employment may be possible during didactic courses, but Level II fieldwork typically requires time and focused work.

How long does it take to complete the occupational therapy assistant program?

The associate degree in occupational therapy assistant typically takes approximately 24 months to complete. This includes time for prerequisite courses, occupational therapy major courses, and Level II fieldwork. The actual timeline varies based on transfer credits and enrollment status.

How much does the OTA program cost?

View OTA Tuition & Costs

Tuition at Keiser University varies by degree program. Keiser University offers financial aid, military and veteran benefits, scholarships, and tuition reimbursement to those who qualify. For more information about the degree cost, please contact an admissions advisor. Get more information about Keiser University’s tuition and costs.

What courses are required in the OTA program?

The curriculum includes prerequisite courses in anatomy and physiology, psychology, mathematics, and general education. Occupational therapy major courses cover human occupation and development, kinesiology, musculoskeletal disorders, neurological disorders, psychiatric disorders, pediatric occupational therapy, aging and performance skills, and therapeutic interventions. Clinical courses include Fieldwork I, a pre-clinical practicum, and Level II fieldwork for hands-on experience in healthcare settings.

What is the NBCOT certification examination?

The National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) offers certification for occupational therapists (OTR) and occupational therapy assistants (COTA). This certification is essential for those seeking to practice as licensed professionals in the field of occupational therapy. The NBCOT certification is recognized nationwide and is often a prerequisite for state licensure.

What happens during Level II fieldwork?

Level II fieldwork involves the attainment of academic, professional, technical, and clinical skills for a period of two, eight-week rotations under the supervision of a licensed occupational therapy practitioner. Fieldwork II is scheduled immediately following completion of academic coursework. All Fieldwork II coursework must be completed within 12 months of a student’s completion of academic courses. Prerequisite: OTH2013C

Can I advance to become an occupational therapist later?

Yes. After working as a certified occupational therapy assistant, you may choose to pursue a bachelor’s degree and then a master’s or doctoral degree in occupational therapy. Some universities offer bridge programs designed for experienced therapy assistants.

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