OTA AAS Degree: What to Expect
An online Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Occupational Therapy Assistant prepares students to provide hands-on care under the supervision of licensed occupational therapists. This program equips graduates to help individuals regain independence after injury, illness, or disability. Designed for flexibility, most OTA AAS programs combine online coursework with scheduled in-person labs and supervised clinical rotations.
What You Study
Students complete a structured curriculum covering foundational science, therapy techniques, and clinical reasoning. The program typically includes 70 to 82 credit hours.
Sample courses may include:
- Introduction to Occupational Therapy – Covers the profession’s history, ethics, and practice framework.
- Therapeutic Media – Teaches how to design purposeful activities using various treatment tools.
- Functional Anatomy I & II – Introduce musculoskeletal structure and movement assessments.
- Intervention Courses – Focus on patient care across mental health, pediatrics, geriatrics, and physical or neurological rehabilitation.
- Health Promotion and Population Care – Discusses broader healthcare trends and interventions for diverse communities.
- Clinical Fieldwork – Includes at least 600 hours of supervised patient care split across multiple sessions.
Students also complete general education requirements such as English composition, anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, psychology, and public speaking.
Admissions Requirements
Admission into an OTA AAS program is competitive. Common requirements include:
- High school diploma or GED
- Minimum GPA (often 2.5 or higher)
- Completion of prerequisite courses in biology, psychology, and algebra
- Up to 20 hours of observational experience in occupational therapy settings
- Background check, immunizations, drug screening, and CPR certification
Some colleges, like Maricopa Community Colleges, also require documented observation hours in pediatric and adult therapy settings.
Fieldwork and Certification
All OTA students must complete Level I and Level II fieldwork as required by accreditation standards. These hands-on training sessions take place at hospitals, rehabilitation centers, or community clinics and are required to graduate.
Graduates are eligible to sit for the NBCOT exam to become a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA). Licensure is also required in most states and is typically based on passing the NBCOT exam.
Typical Program Costs
Costs vary by institution and residency status. Below are sample total program costs:
- LaGuardia Community College (NY residents): ~$12,243
- LaGuardia (Out-of-state students): ~$21,843
- Jamestown Community College (JCC): Competitive rates; see JCC OTA program details
- Maricopa Community Colleges: Varies by college and credit load
Additional expenses may include:
- Books and materials: $1,000–$1,500
- Memberships (AOTA, state-level organizations): $100–$150/year
- NBCOT exam prep and test fees
- Costs for background checks, CPR certification, and uniforms
Program Accreditation
All legitimate OTA programs are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE). This ensures eligibility for licensure and certification exams.
Career Outlook
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for occupational therapy assistants is approximately $63,000. Graduates often find employment in:
- Hospitals and clinics
- Skilled nursing and long-term care facilities
- Schools and community centers
- Home healthcare services
- Mental health and pediatric rehabilitation centers
Top Schools
The programs highlighted below represent some of the top accredited OTA Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degrees across the United States, offering a mix of online flexibility, hands-on training, and strong certification preparation. Whether you’re interested in hybrid learning options, in-person campus experiences, or transfer pathways to further your education, these institutions provide rigorous, career-focused training to help you become a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) and make a meaningful impact in healthcare and rehabilitation settings.
| School | Location(s) | Program Format | Certification Eligibility (NBCOT) |
|---|---|---|---|
| St. Catherine University | CA, MN, TX, VA | 80% Online / 20% In-Person | Yes |
| Lone Star College | Texas (Kingwood, Tomball) | In-Person & Hybrid | Yes |
| Northland Community & Technical College | East Grand Forks, MN | In-Person | Yes |
| South University | Richmond, VA | In-Person | Yes (FL & VA) |
| Minnesota West Community & Technical College | Worthington, MN | Gen Ed: Online/Hybrid/In-Person, OTA: In-Person | Yes |
| Hawkeye Community College | Waterloo, IA | In-Person | Yes |
| Jamestown Community College | Jamestown, NY | In-Person | Yes |
| Durham Technical Community College | Durham, NC | In-Person | Yes (NC) |
| LaGuardia Community College | Long Island City, NY | Day & Evening Options | Yes (NY) |
| Maricopa Community Colleges | Tempe, AZ | In-Person | Yes |
St. Catherine University
https://otaonline.stkate.edu/occupational-therapy-assistant-program
California, Minnesota, Texas, Virginia
The Online Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) Program at St. Catherine University offers a hybrid learning model that blends 80% online coursework with 20% in-person instruction, preparing students to earn an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in OTA.
Designed for flexibility, the program has three start dates per year (January, May, and September) and provides lab locations in California, Minnesota, Texas, and Virginia for hands-on training.
The curriculum includes online theoretical learning, in-person skills labs, and fieldwork experiences, ensuring students gain the knowledge, practical skills, and job readiness required to become a certified OTA. The program length varies based on academic history and selected coursework options, offering a customized approach to education.
Career Path and Certification
Graduates of the program will be well-prepared to sit for the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT®) Examination, a critical step toward entering the workforce as an Occupational Therapy Assistant.
The hands-on fieldwork component allows students to train under experienced professionals in real-world settings, further reinforcing their skills. With a rigorous yet flexible structure, this accredited OTA program provides a comprehensive education that equips students with the expertise needed for a successful and fulfilling career in occupational therapy.
Lone Star College
https://www.lonestar.edu/programs-of-study/occupational-therapy-aas.htm
The Woodlands, Texas
The Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Program at Lone Star College is a two-year program designed to prepare students for careers in the healthcare field. The program is offered at LSC-Kingwood, LSC-Tomball, and the LSC-Tomball Health Science Building and features a mix of in-person and hybrid course delivery.
Students will develop the skills necessary to assist occupational therapists in treatment planning, activity programs, and patient progress documentation. Upon completion, graduates will be eligible to sit for national certification exams through the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) and meet state licensure requirements through the Executive Council of Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy Examiners (ECPTOTE).
The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning, patient interaction, and the use of adaptive equipment to help individuals regain independence.
Additionally, students will develop essential skills in active listening, social perceptiveness, and effective communication. By the end of the program, graduates will be fully equipped to work in healthcare facilities, rehabilitation centers, and home healthcare settings, making a meaningful impact in patients’ lives.
Northland Community & Technical College
https://www.northlandcollege.edu/academics/programs/occupational_therapy_assistant_aas/
East Grand Forks, MN
The Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) program at Northland Community & Technical College is a 72-credit program designed to prepare students for careers in occupational therapy. Offered at the East Grand Forks campus, this program provides students with the skills to assist individuals facing physical, mental, or developmental challenges in regaining independence in daily activities. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including work, play, leisure, education, and communication, ensuring that students are well-equipped to support occupational therapists in various healthcare and community settings.
Career Opportunities and Certification
Graduates of this accredited program will be prepared for careers in acute and long-term care facilities, schools, and community agencies as Occupational Therapy Assistants (OTAs). Additionally, OTAs can work independently as Directors of Activities Programs. The program is fully accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE), ensuring that graduates meet industry standards and are eligible to pursue professional certification. With a strong career outlook and diverse job opportunities, this program provides a solid foundation for those looking to make a meaningful impact in the field of occupational therapy.
South University
https://www.southuniversity.edu/degree-programs/healthcare/occupational-therapy-assistant-aas
Richmond, VA
The Associate of Applied Science in Occupational Therapy Assistant program at South University prepares students to support individuals of all ages facing physical, psychological, or developmental challenges.
Through hands-on training, students will develop the skills needed to improve a patient’s strength, coordination, perception, cognition, and balance. The program also emphasizes professional leadership, community service, and educational contributions to the field.
Certification and Career Opportunities
Graduates of this accredited OTA program are eligible to sit for the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam, which is required for state licensure in Florida and Virginia. South University does not guarantee licensure or employment but ensures that students are well-prepared to meet industry standards.
The program provides a strong foundation for a rewarding career in occupational therapy, equipping students with the knowledge and skills necessary to improve the quality of life for patients in healthcare, rehabilitation, and community settings.
Minnesota West Community & Technical College
https://catalog.mnwest.edu/current/all-programs/occupational-therapy-assistant-aas.php
Worthington, MN
The Associate of Applied Science in Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) program at Minnesota West prepares students for a rewarding career helping individuals of all ages regain independence in daily activities.
This growing healthcare field is ideal for those who enjoy problem-solving, creativity, and hands-on patient care to help individuals achieve their personal goals and improve their quality of life.
Curriculum and Career Path
The OTA curriculum consists of six general education courses and 18 specialized OTA courses, with general education classes available online, in-person, or in hybrid formats through Minnesota West. However, OTA-specific courses must be completed in person at the Worthington campus. This structured program provides students with foundational knowledge and hands-on experience necessary to succeed in the field. Graduates will be equipped with the skills to assist occupational therapists in rehabilitation settings, hospitals, schools, and community agencies, making a meaningful impact on the lives of their clients.
Hawkeye Community College
https://www.hawkeyecollege.edu/programs/occupational-therapy-assistant
Waterloo, IA
The Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) AAS Degree program at Hawkeye Community College equips students with the skills and hands-on experience needed to help individuals regain independence in daily activities. OTAs work closely with occupational therapists, patients, and families in hospitals, clinics, schools, and rehabilitation centers to implement therapy plans. The curriculum focuses on functional therapy techniques, communication strategies, assistive technology, and health education. Students gain valuable hands-on experience through patient scenario simulations that replicate real rehabilitation settings, preparing them for a career in diverse healthcare environments.
Practical Experience and Transfer Options
This career-focused program includes 600 hours of real-world work experience, ensuring graduates are job-ready upon completion. The program offers flexible transfer options for students who wish to continue their education, including partnerships with Des Moines University and the University of Cincinnati, where coursework can be applied toward bachelor’s or doctoral degrees in occupational therapy. Graduates find employment with top healthcare providers in Iowa, such as Mercy Medical Center, UnityPoint—Allen Hospital, and Blue Stone Therapy. With financial aid options like the Last-Dollar Scholarship, this program provides an affordable and direct path to a rewarding healthcare career.
Jamestown Community College
https://www.sunyjcc.edu/programs/occupational-therapy-assistant-aas
Jamestown, NY
The Occupational Therapy Assistant (A.A.S.) program at Jamestown Community College (JCC) prepares students for a rewarding career in helping individuals regain independence through activity modification, rehabilitation, and wellness strategies. This two-year accredited program provides hands-on training from licensed occupational therapy practitioners and access to real-world experience through JCC’s Jayhawk Explore & Soar Occupational Therapy Clinic for Families.
Graduates are eligible to sit for the National Certification Examination for Occupational Therapy Assistants (NBCOT), leading to certification as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA). The program also offers pathways for students to continue their education toward becoming a licensed occupational therapist through transfer agreements with other institutions.
Career Opportunities and Employment Outlook
With an affordable tuition structure, JCC provides an accessible entry point into the healthcare field. The program prepares students for high-demand careers in various settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, schools, and home healthcare. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OTAs earn a median salary of $65,450 per year, making it a promising career choice. Courses are primarily held at JCC’s Jamestown Campus, and applicants must complete both the JCC application and a supplemental OTA application. Upon completion, graduates must pass the NBCOT exam and meet state licensure requirements to practice professionally.
Durham Technical Community College
https://www.durhamtech.edu/programs-pathways/occupational-therapy-assistant
Durham, NC
The Occupational Therapy Assistant program at Durham Tech is designed to equip students with the skills needed to work under the supervision of a licensed occupational therapist in various healthcare and community settings. This comprehensive curriculum covers essential topics such as human growth and development, occupational therapy theory and processes, activity analysis, and therapeutic techniques.
Students gain hands-on experience in screening, assessing, planning, and implementing treatments to help clients regain independence in daily activities. Graduates of this accredited program are prepared to take the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam, a crucial step toward becoming a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA).
Career Opportunities and Licensure
The program offers career opportunities in diverse settings, including hospitals, rehabilitation facilities, long-term care centers, schools, and community programs. Graduates must also meet North Carolina’s state licensure requirements to practice as a COTA.
While Durham Tech provides a strong foundation for certification and employment, students should be aware that felony convictions may impact their ability to sit for the NBCOT exam or obtain state licensure. With an emphasis on practical training and professional preparation, this program is an excellent pathway for those seeking a rewarding career in occupational therapy assistance.
LaGuardia Community College
https://www.laguardia.edu/majors/occupational-therapy-assistant/
Long Island City, NY
The Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) A.A.S. program at LaGuardia Community College prepares students to work under the supervision of licensed occupational therapists, helping individuals with physical, psychiatric, and developmental challenges regain independence in daily activities.
The program consists of a pre-clinical phase covering general education and key courses, followed by a competitive clinical phase where students receive hands-on training in occupational therapy techniques. Graduates are eligible to sit for the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam and obtain New York State licensure, allowing them to work in diverse healthcare and community settings.
Program Structure and Costs
The two-year program offers both day and evening course options, with tuition estimated at $12,243 for in-state students and $21,843 for out-of-state students. Additional OTA program fees cover textbooks, professional memberships, and certification exam preparation. Students gain practical experience through coursework and fieldwork requirements, including CPR certification and background checks.
With its strong academic foundation, affordable tuition, and pathway to licensure, LaGuardia’s OTA program is an excellent option for those seeking a rewarding career in occupational therapy assistance.
Maricopa Community Colleges
Tempe, AZ
The Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) Associate in Applied Science (AAS) program prepares students to support occupational therapists in delivering therapeutic services to individuals of all ages with physical, psychiatric, and developmental impairments. The program provides the knowledge and hands-on skills necessary to help clients regain independence and improve their participation in daily activities.
Students are trained in assessing clients’ performance, adapting activities and environments, and working collaboratively with healthcare teams. The 72.5–82.5 credit hour program covers core coursework in subjects such as human anatomy, therapeutic techniques, and client communication, with a focus on applying therapeutic frameworks and strategies.
Certification, Career Path, and Tuition
Upon graduation, students are eligible to sit for the National Occupational Therapy Certification Examination (NBCOT) and apply for state licensure. The program requires the completion of general education courses with a minimum 3.0 GPA, as well as 20 hours of observation in pediatric and adult settings. The tuition cost for this program is dependent on in-state or out-of-state residency, with estimated costs for Arizona residents typically in line with community college tuition rates. Students are also required to maintain a grade of B or better in all OTA courses.
Conclusion: Estimating Student Loan Payoff Time for OTA Programs
Pursuing an Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree is a smart investment in a high-demand healthcare field. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average starting salary for a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) is approximately $61,000 per year. This makes OTA programs one of the more affordable and practical paths into a healthcare career.
To estimate how long it might take to pay off student loans, assume a typical tuition range of $10,000 to $22,000, based on in-state rates from public colleges like LaGuardia Community College or Maricopa Community Colleges.
Here’s a breakdown of how long it would take to pay off a $20,000 student loan based on different annual income contributions:
| % of Annual Salary Committed to Loan Repayment | Annual Payment | Years to Pay Off $20,000 Loan |
|---|---|---|
| 5% ($61,000 × 0.05) | $3,050 | ~6.5 years |
| 10% | $6,100 | ~3.3 years |
| 15% | $9,150 | ~2.2 years |
| 20% | $12,200 | ~1.7 years |
These estimates assume no interest for simplicity. With typical student loan interest rates (around 4%–6%), the time may be slightly longer, but the general range holds.
Summary: Even with a modest income commitment of 10%, most OTA graduates can expect to pay off their education costs in under 4 years. With higher income dedication, repayment can happen in less than 2 years, making an OTA degree both accessible and financially sustainable for many students.