undergraduate
Occupational therapy
Best schools with occupational therapy
What is an occupational therapy major?
Occupational therapy programs prepare individuals to assist patients limited by physical, cognitive, psychosocial, mental, developmental, and learning disabilities, as well as adverse environmental conditions, to maximize their independence and maintain optimum health through a planned mix of acquired skills, performance motivation, environmental adaptations, assistive technologies, and physical agents. Courses concentrate on the basic medical sciences, psychology, sociology, patient assessment and evaluation, standardized and non-standardized tests and measurements, assistive and rehabilitative technologies, ergonomics, environmental health, special education, vocational counseling, health education and promotion, and professional standards and ethics.
of students said hands-on experience was a highlight of this major.
of students found this major to be difficult.
of students said they were motivated to select this major because it fit their passion & interest.
of students and alumni plan on being or are currently employed in an occupation related to this major.
of students said difficult exams/assessments were a challenging aspect of the major.
How much do occupational therapy majors make?
This data isn't currently reported, but we're working on it!
How popular is occupational therapy as a major?
Each year, around 830 students obtain a bachelor’s degree and around 120 students obtain an associate degree in occupational therapy. In 2021, 793 students received a bachelor's degree and 95 students received an associate degree. This is 3% fewer occupational therapy majors than there were in 2020. Occupational therapy is a relatively popular major compared to other kinesiology and physical therapy majors.
Advice from occupational therapy majors
Share your experienceKeep on pushing through, even when it's hard. The reward of helping others is worth all the time and effort in the programs for it.
WHEN HEADING INTO OT, DO NOT GOT FRUSTRATED BUT STICK WITH IT. AS YOU GO THROUGH THE PROCESS IT BECOME SO REWARDING IN KNOWING YOU WILL BE ABBLE TO HELP SOMEONE WITH SKILLS THEY WILL TAKE AND UTILIZE THE REST OF THEIR LIVES.
Study hard and never forget why you got into occupational therapy! Sometimes it can be hard not to get lost in the theory and concepts, but there is always application to future patient care and development as an effective practitioner!
