Occupational Therapy Assistant

Physical therapist holding patient's arm in cast

Degree Overview

Associate of Science in Occupational Therapy Assistant

OTA students learning in classroom setting — Compassionate Care: Occupational Therapy Assistant Overview at South University

South University’s Associate of Science in Occupational Therapy Assistant program prepares students to pursue entry-level careers* as a rehab professional. Those who work as an occupational therapy assistant (OTA) act as part of a patient’s recovery process, working with people of all ages who have physical, psychological, or developmental conditions to promote health, well-being, and their ability to participate in the important activities in their life. This includes taking care of themselves and their families, working, volunteering, and going to school, among many others. The Occupational Therapy Assistant program further seeks to lead the profession and community through its contributions in educational leadership, community and professional service, learning, and scholarship.

South University’s OTA program meets the requirements for state licensure in Florida and Virginia. Graduates are required to sit for and pass the national certification exam and obtain a state license in order to work in the field. (Exam names vary by program) Please refer to the State Professional Licensure Determination and National Certification/Licensure section of the University catalog for program and state specific information. South University cannot guarantee each graduate will pass the required licensure examinations. Outside agencies control the requirements for taking and passing certification/licensing exams and are subject to change without notice to South University. Students must pass the required licensure to work in their respective field.

NBCOT Certification Exam Program performance data on the NBCOT certification examination is available for public viewing by state and program level: https://www.nbcot.org/Educators-Folder/SchoolPerformance.

*South University does not promise or guarantee licensure, employment, or salary amounts.

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Outstanding Education for Remarkable Careers

Success Stories

We're committed to helping our graduates make an impact in their professional and personal lives. We applaud our alumni and the difference they make. Check out what some of our healthcare graduates have to say.

Demitrius Archie
Class of '20
Master of Healthcare Administration-South University, Online Programs
“I was the first in my family to go into the military, and the first person of my siblings to graduate with a degree.”

Michela Lambert Mazard
Class of ‘11 and ‘16
Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Master of Science in Nursing-South University, Online Programs
“I wanted an education that would prepare me to build relationships and treat patients and families throughout their lifespan with interaction among their physical, emotional, and mental systems. I chose South University because I was confident that I would receive a well-rounded education that ensures I am armed with the skill set I need to provide the best care possible. Read more”

Robyn Smith
Class of '07
Associate of Science in Physical Therapist Assistant-South University, Montgomery
“I had only heard good things about their PTA program and I knew I wanted to be a part of it. I find it very rewarding and emotional when a patient of mine who hasn't walked in a while takes steps again. It makes going to work everyday worth it to know that i can help improve the quality of life for some of these people.”

Allyson Obluck
Class of '17
Associate of Science in Occupational Therapy Assistant-South University, Tampa
“I wanted to make a difference and I knew occupational therapy was a hands-on way to improve quality of life for many people. My professors always made the effort to ensure that I understood the material and were constantly encouraging me to be better and do better. All of my experiences throughout my clinical rotations challenged me to think outside the box and to trust my instincts.”

Stephanie Brendel-Schicchi
Class of '15
Associate of Science in Allied Health Science-South University, Online Programs
“By enrolling at South University, I was recognized as being promotable by having my Associates degree along with the goal of earning my Bachelors of Science in Health Sciences by 2016. With the Associates degree in hand, I went from an administrative assistant to a Quality Specialist. I wish I could have started college right out of high school, but it wasn’t in my life’s plan at that moment. Going back to school was a big decision and hard choice to make, but after enrolling I knew I couldn’t give up, because education is the most important aspect of my life right now.”