Program Overview

Program Overview

The Associate in Science in Occupational Therapy program at Penn State DuBois prepares students to become occupational therapy assistants who are qualified to be employed by agencies that provide occupational therapy services. The program focuses on helping individuals with physical, emotional, or other challenges to regain independence and enjoy life to its fullest.

Program Details

• The program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA).
• Graduates are eligible to sit for the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) Certification exam.
• Successful completion of this exam certifies the occupational therapy assistant as a COTA.
• State licensure is required by all states and is usually based on the results of the NBCOT certification exam.

Careers for Occupational Therapy Program Graduates

Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants (COTA's) work in a variety of settings, under the supervision of occupational therapists. Career opportunities may include working in:

• Public and private schools
• Early intervention programs
• General, psychiatric, and pediatric hospitals
• Day treatment centers
• Hospices and home health agencies
• Rehabilitation hospitals and centers
• Skilled and intermediate care facilities
• Community living programs
• Community wellness centers
• Work hardening and adjustment programs
• Hand therapy clinics

Professional Licensure and Certification Compliance

Many US states and territories require professional licensure/certification to be employed. If you plan to pursue employment in a licensed profession after completing this program, please note that state licensure is required by all states and is usually based on the results of the NBCOT certification exam.

Professional Organizations

• The American Occupational Therapy Association, Inc. (AOTA)
• National Board for the Certification of Occupational Therapy, Inc. (NBCOT)

Program Accreditation

The Occupational Therapy Assistant Program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA).

COVID-19 and Academic Fieldwork

In light of COVID-19, many fieldwork sites are requiring students to be fully vaccinated in order to be on the premises. If you are not fully vaccinated, the academic fieldwork coordinator may not be able to place you on fieldwork in a desired geographic location or setting within the prescribed semester. Not being vaccinated may delay your graduation from the OTA program.

What Would Prohibit a Student from Taking the Certification Exam?

If you have a felony conviction on your record, this may affect your ability to sit for the certification examination administered by NBCOT after you graduate; this can subsequently affect your ability to attain state licensure. Before applying for the OTA program, you can contact NBCOT for information on their early determination program to assess examination eligibility.