Degree Overview
The associate degree in Occupational Therapy prepares students for careers as certified occupational therapy assistants. These professionals work in a variety of settings such as assisted living and skilled nursing facilities, rehabilitation centers, schools, hospitals, psychiatric centers, work hardening and adjustment programs; home health, hand centers; as well as community and wellness settings
The Occupational Therapy program includes courses specific to the major as well as general education courses to help students develop a general knowledge base. The program includes courses in psychology, anatomy, physiology, human development and family studies, as well as others.
In addition, students are required to complete two eight-week internships at healthcare facilities under the supervision of qualified occupational therapy personnel.
Penn State's Occupational Therapy program is fully accredited by the Accreditation Council of Occupational Therapy Education of the American Occupational Therapy Association. Upon graduation, students sit for the certification examination administered by the National Board for Certification of Occupational Therapy. After successfully completing this examination, the graduate will be a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant. Most states require a license to practice, which is granted based on the results of the NBCOT certification examination.
This degree program is offered at the Berks, Mont Alto, Shenango, and Dubois campuses.