FAQs

What is an Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA)?
An Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) helps people regain their independence by working with an Occupational Therapist to assess needs, set goals, and create treatment plans. OTAs support people dealing with injuries, illnesses, developmental challenges, or age-related issues.

How can I learn more about Occupational Therapy?
You can start by visiting Join AOTA to Fuel Your Passion | AOTA to learn about the profession. You can also search for 'Occupational Therapy' on YouTube or browse the internet for more resources and videos.

What’s the difference between Occupational Therapy (OT) and Physical Therapy (PT)?
Physical Therapy (PT) helps people improve their movement and reduce pain through exercises and treatment plans. Occupational Therapy (OT) focuses on helping people become more independent in their daily activities, like getting dressed, cooking, or working.

How long does it take to complete the OTA program?
It takes about 2 years to complete the OTA program, starting each Fall semester.

Is the OTA Program a day or evening program?
It’s an evening program with classes Tuesday through Friday from 2:00 PM - 9:00 PM. However, fieldwork require daytime hours.

What degree will I receive after completing the OTA program?
You’ll receive an Associate in Science (A.S.) degree in Occupational Therapy.

Is the OTA Program accredited?
Pending approval from the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) has assigned the College a December 16, 2024, Candidacy Application due date. The College will be notified of the ACOTE Candidacy Decision in April 2025. At this time students may be notified of acceptance into the program and the first class will begin in August 2025. For more information about ACOTE please go to:
https://acoteonline.org/

What prerequisites do I need before applying to the OTA Program?
You’ll need to finish these classes with at least a C and a 2.5 GPA:
- English Composition (ENGL 101)
- Medical Terminology (HLHSCI 249)
- Anatomy & Physiology Lecture/Lab (BIOSCI 201 & 202 or BIOSCI 204 & 205)
- Developmental Psychology (PSYCH 172)
- Intro to Psychology, Abnormal Psychology, Sociology, or Cultural Anthropology
- Public Speaking (COMS 105)
- Statistics (MATH 140)
Note: Anatomy and Physiology Lecture/Lab (BIOSCI 201 & 202 or BIOSCI 204 & 205) classes must be completed within 5 years of your application date.

Can I take prerequisites at another school?
Yes, you can take prerequisites at any accredited school. If you're taking Anatomy & Physiology Lecture/Lab as a 2-part series, it's best to take both parts at the same school. Contact the College of the Canyons counseling department to check if your courses transfer prior to starting the courses.

Can I apply to the OTA program if I have a bachelor's degree but still need to take Anatomy and Physiology Lecture/Lab?
No. You must complete all prerequisite courses — including Anatomy and Physiology Lecture/Lab — before applying to the program.

Do I have to take the TEAS test to apply to the OTA program?
Yes, the TEAS exam is required for the OTA Program.

Do I need to submit immunization proof with my application?
Yes, proof of immunizations is required at the time of application.

I’m not a College of the Canyons student. Who can I talk to about general education courses?
Talk to a counselor at your current school or contact the College of the Canyons Counseling Department at (661) 362-3288. Counseling Department Counseling Appointments (canyons.edu)

How do I set up a Counseling appointment?
Steps to make a counseling appointment:
1. Log into your MyCanyons portal
2. Select 'Canyons Connects'
3. Click the three lines on the upper left-hand side
4. Select 'My Success Network'
5. Scroll down and click the gray button 'Show Other Services'
6. Click on the blue 'schedule' link under 'Academic Counseling'

If you are part of a specific program such as Canyons Promise, Ujima Scholars, Athletics, etc., you can click on that box and schedule an appointment with the program's counselors.

Is a drug test required to be admitted into the OTA program?
Yes, a drug test is required prior to being admitted into the OTA program and before starting fieldwork.


Does the program have a policy on marijuana use?
Yes, clinical sites will not accept students who use marijuana, even if it's for medical reasons. Since clinical rotations are required for graduation, students who use marijuana cannot be accepted into the program.

What technology do I need for the OTA Program?
You’ll need:

• A computer/laptop with a camera and microphone
• Internet access
• A smartphone
• Skills in Zoom, Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Google Docs
  The program uses the Canvas platform for assignments and online learning.

Can I work during my Level II Fieldwork rotation?
It’s not recommended. During Level II Fieldwork, you'll be required to work 40 hours per week at your assigned facility, leaving little to no time for other work commitments.

How is my fieldwork site determined?
Students are placed at fieldwork sites that offer a variety of learning experiences to ensure they graduate as well-rounded, entry-level OTAs.

Where will my fieldwork site be located?
Placements are typically within an 80-mile radius of your home if you live in Los Angeles or nearby counties (Kern, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, or San Diego). Placements outside these counties are not guaranteed.

What if I don’t drive? Can I still complete my fieldwork?
You must have access to reliable transportation. Fieldwork sites may be up to 80 miles away (one-way). If you can’t arrange transportation, you may not be able to complete the program.

Do I have to take a certification exam after the program?
Yes, you must pass the NBCOT certification exam to become a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA). NBCOT Occupational Therapy Certification

 
Do I need a license to work as an OTA?
Yes, after passing the NBCOT exam, you must apply for a state license to work as an OTA.