A master’s degree is required to become an occupational therapist. Students can either earn a bachelor’s degree in a related field, like biology or physiology, before advancing to a master’s program, or they can apply for a combined bachelor’s/master’s program.

What is the education required for an occupational therapist?

OTs must graduate from an accredited occupational therapy program, be licensed to practice and pass the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam. This makes obtaining a master’s degree a vital part of launching a career in the field.

What is an occupational therapist qualification?

To become an Occupational Therapist you need to complete an undergraduate course in occupational therapy and clinical placement. This can be achieved through undertaking a Bachelor degree in the discipline, or by entering into a Masters program with an approved undergraduate degree.

What are the entry requirements for occupational therapy?

A master’s degree or a more advanced degree in occupational therapy is required in order to work as an occupational therapist. Biology, psychology, sociology, anthropology, liberal arts and anatomy are all appropriate majors for those who ultimately want to earn a master’s degree in occupational therapy.

What skills do occupational therapists need?

Occupational therapists should also possess the following specific qualities:

• Communication skills. Occupational therapists must be able to listen attentively to what patients tell them and be able to explain what they want their patients to do.
• Compassion.
• Flexibility.
• Interpersonal skills.
• Patience.
• Writing skills.

Can I become an occupational therapist without a degree?

An accredited degree in Occupational Therapy is generally considered a prerequisite for this profession. However, entry without a degree is possible at assistant, technician, or support worker level, where you could then progress to become a fully qualified Occupational Therapist after further study and experience.

Is physics required for occupational therapy?

In order to become an Occupational Therapist you will need to have an understanding of a variety of topics. It is imperative that you have a working understanding of human anatomy and human physiology before entering graduate school. You must also have an understanding of either Physics or Kinesiology.

What are the core skills of occupational therapy?

Contents

• Analysis of body functions and structures.
• Performance analysis.
• Observational skills.
• Functional activity analysis.
• Standardised and non-standardised assessment skills.
• Outcome measurement skills.
• Listening and interviewing.
• Communication skills.

What are the main responsibilities of an occupational therapist?

An occupational therapist’s job role is to help people of all ages overcome the effects of disability caused by illness, ageing or accident so that they can carry out everyday tasks or occupations. An occupational therapist will consider all of the patient’s needs – physical, psychological, social and environmental.

What does an occupational therapist do in schools?

An occupational therapist will assess not just the child’s motor skills, but assesses other domains such as sensory, visual and cognitive ability, and assess the classroom (and home) environment to find ways to improve the handwriting through play, writing aids and equipment and physical exercises.