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Knowing a college degree will deliver a satisfying, high-paying job is a top concern facing those wanting to advance toward a more meaningful future. A first step to that future is to get started on an occupational therapy assistant career path by completing the prerequisites needed to enter an occupational therapy assistant (OTA) degree program. An OTA degree can get you into the workplace in as little as two years.
Prerequisites Are Where to Start
First, a little explanation: prerequisites are simply courses that are needed before entering a professional education sequence. For OTA, these basic prerequisite courses include subjects like
It only takes about two semesters to knock out these prerequisite courses, but they’re important. Prerequisite courses help to prepare you for the next stage of your formal education. By completing prerequisite courses you are demonstrating that you have the basic knowledge needed to enter the more advanced courses in your professional program. After you complete these prerequisite credit hour requirements, you should be prepared to follow the professional OTA coursework.
The Full-time/Part-time Option
When it comes to completing your prerequisites, going full-time or part-time is up to you. The most important thing is to think about is a schedule that’s convenient for you. Because OTA prerequisite courses are basic, there’s plenty of options, and you can pick them up gradually if full-time is not an option right now. More than 70 percent of students who are choosing or re-entering college do so part-time.
Also, remember that driving to campus isn’t always necessary. Universities often set up prerequisites for Occupational Therapy Assistant degree programs, so they are completely online or in a hybrid online/in-class format. Imagine doing most of your prerequisite classwork right from your home.
Guaranteed Admission to the OTA Program
Most universities delivering health care degrees will have a streamlined method to earn the prerequisites for the Occupational Therapy Assistant degree that they offer so there’s no wasted time or effort.
The way to have a streamlined approach to completing your prerequisites is to take advantage of “guaranteed admission” to the OTA program that feels right to you. It’s a smart option because most universities that offer guaranteed admission have designated prerequisite courses that are ideal for maximum success in their occupational therapy assistant degree program.
Just remember to meet all other admissions requirements and that certain grades are expected. Generally, that’s a “C,” plus and at least a “B” in math and science courses.
Prerequisites + OTA Coursework = Wide-open Career
The personal and professional rewards for an OTA career makes the occupational therapy assistant degree well worth the effort. OTAs say they love being part of a health care team and working directly with patients to help them return to a lifestyle or work environment they love. The daily schedule is both interesting and challenging, as they work with people of all ages and backgrounds.
It’s also good to know OTAs are recognized and rewarded for their skills:
Ready for an Occupational Therapy Assistant degree? Come to CUKC
The A.A.S. in Occupational Therapy Assistant is a comprehensive, two-year degree available at Cleveland University-Kansas City (CUKC), a nonprofit, private, healthcare-focused university in Overland Park, Kansas.
Sequential eight-week courses are practical and time-efficient, and extensive fieldwork opportunities get you up to speed on best practices for different OTA workplaces. Prerequisites for Occupational Therapy Assistant are available online or on-campus.
If you find yourself interested in what an occupational therapy assistant degree program can offer, get this free ebook today!
