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 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 additional information. South University cannot guarantee each graduate will pass the required licensure examinations. South University does not promise or guarantee licensure, employment or salary amounts.

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.

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Available Locations

Tampa, FL

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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.

Elizabeth Tran

Class of '22

Master of Medical Science in Anesthesia Science – South University, Savannah

“South University definitely challenged me in the clinical setting and the classroom. At first, you learn everything in the classroom. Then you get to apply those things in the clinical setting.”

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.”

Helen Ramirez

Class of '19

Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies, South University, Richmond

“One thing I love about the PA program here is that it's small and really intimate. You know all of your professors and classmates extremely well. You spend a lot of time together throughout the 27 months you're in the program.”

Jason Miller

Class of '17

Associate of Applied Science in Physical Therapy Assistant

“South University pushed me hard - to the limits of my mental capacity - and that brought out the best in me.”

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.”