Occupational Therapy Assisting
Overview
Occupations are the meaningful activities of our daily lives, in areas of self-care, work, and leisure. The activities we identify as occupations in our lives are based on our values, beliefs, needs, and desires. Some occupations are necessary for day-to-day functioning, such a bathing and cooking. Other occupations are tasks related to our roles, such as parent, child, spouse, student, worker, or community volunteer. Physical, cognitive, and social skills are required to perform these occupations. Occupational therapy aims to help individuals and groups maximize these needed skills and abilities to participate in meaningful and purposeful daily activities. Occupational therapy helps people with living life to its fullest.
The Sacramento City College OTA program is cohort-based. Students are expected to advance through the required curriculum each semester in the established sequence. The Allied Health and OTA courses are offered Monday through Thursday in the evening and on Saturdays, except for clinical fieldwork, which is scheduled during weekday business hours.
Courses are scheduled sequentially for four semesters and two summer sessions. The OTA program is cohort-based. Students are expected to advance through the required curriculum each semester in the established sequence. The Allied Health and OTA courses are offered Monday through Thursday in the evening and on Saturdays, except for clinical fieldwork, which is scheduled during weekday business hours.
Supervised clinical fieldwork experiences are integrated throughout the program. Students must complete fieldwork as a corequisite to academic courses. The introduction to clinical practice courses, OTA 122, 132, and 142, require 40 hours of fieldwork (with 14 hours seminar for each class); OTA 152 requires 20 hours of fieldwork (with 7 hours seminar). There are two required full-time fieldwork experiences that take place during the student’s final two semesters, requiring completion of 320 hours in each assigned setting, to be completed during regular business hours, Monday-Friday. Students must be prepared to begin these rotations on a full-time basis in accordance with the program sequence.
This program prepares the student for employment as an occupational therapy assistant. Occupational therapy assistants work with people of all ages who, because of physical, cognitive, developmental, social, or emotional problems, need specialized assistance in order to lead independent, productive, and satisfying lives. They may work in a wide variety of settings including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, skilled nursing facilities, home health agencies, school systems, psychiatric hospitals, private practice outpatient clinics, and emerging practice areas.
Sample salary, entry to mid-level: $61,000.
Portion of Degree | Units | $ per Unit | Fees |
---|---|---|---|
Required Courses* | 22 – 29 | $46.00 | $1012.00 - $1334.00 |
Additional GE required for degree* | 16 (min.) | $46.00 | $736.00 |
Total | $1748.00 - $2070.00 |
* Total fees are based on current Los Rios tuition. Books, supplies, parking, and other associated student fees are additional. Visit Tuition and Fees for a detailed COA breakdown.
Current Cost | Semester 1 | Semester 2 | Semester 3 | Annual Costs Year 1 |
---|---|---|---|---|
Tuition | 10u @ 46.00 = $460.00 | 4u @ $46 = $184.00 | 8u @ $46 = $368.00 | $1012.00 |
Clinical Prep Fees* | $130.00 | $130.00 | ||
Lab Fees (Approx.) | $150.00 | $25.00 | $50.00 | $225.00 |
Malpractice Fees | $15.00 | 0 | $15.00 | $30.00 |
Books (Approx.) | $670.00 | $290.00 | 0 | $960.00 |
Parking Permit (Auto) | $41.00 | $26.00 | $41.00 | $108.00 |
Student Fees** | $52.00 | $13.00 (Flat Fee) | $46.00 | $111.00 |
Student Loan Fees | 0 | 0 | 0 | |
Distance Ed Fees | 0 | 0 | 0 | |
Total | $2576.00 |
*Plus cost of physical exam and/ or immunizations. Additional costs may be required to meet additional clinic requirements such as an updated drug screen or background check.
**Visit Tuition and Fees for a detailed COA breakdown.
All fees are subject to change. Students may be eligible for financial aid or other fee waivers. Please contact the SCC Financial Aid office for additional information and help.
Current Cost | Semester 1 | Semester 2 | Semester 3 | Annual Costs Year 2 |
---|---|---|---|---|
Tuition | 9.5u @ 46.00 = $437.00 | 1u @ $46 = $46.00 | 6.5u @ $46 = $299.00 | $782.00 |
Clinical Prep Fees* | $25.00 | $25.00 | ||
Lab Fees (Approx.) | 0 | 0 | 0 | |
Malpractice Fees | 0 | 0 | $15.00 | $15.00 |
Books (Approx.) | $353.00 | 0 | 0 | $353.00 |
Parking Permit (Auto) | $41.00 | $26.00 | $41.00 | $108.00 |
Student Fees** | $50.50 | $13.00 (Flat Fee) | $41.50 | $105.00 |
Student Loan Fees | 0 | 0 | 0 | |
Distance Ed Fees | 0 | 0 | 0 | |
Total | $1388.00 |
*Plus cost of physical exam and/ or immunizations. Additional costs may be required to meet additional clinic requirements such as an updated drug screen or background check.
**Visit Tuition and Fees for a detailed COA breakdown.
Year # | Program Costs |
---|---|
Year 1 | $2,576.00 |
Year 2 | $1,388.00 |
Total | $3,964.00 |
All fees are subject to change. Students may be eligible for financial aid or other fee waivers. Please contact the SCC Financial Aid office for additional information and help.
Reviewed Spring 2025
An Associate in Science Degree can be obtained by completion of the required Occupational Therapy Assistant program requirements.
The degree includes:
- Occupational Therapy Assistant courses (43.5 units)
- Allied Health courses (5 units)
- and specific general education and science courses required for the program (18.5-25.5 units).
Students may need additional courses to meet the graduation requirements of the college. Courses are scheduled sequentially for four semesters and two summer sessions.
Fieldwork Requirements
Supervised clinical and/or virtual fieldwork experiences are integrated throughout the program and are required. Introduction to clinical practice courses, OTA 122, 132, and 142 require 40 hours, OTA 152 requires 20 hours, and the two full-time fieldwork experiences in the student’s final semesters require 320 hours each.
In-person fieldwork start dates and hours may vary. Students are responsible for being prepared to attend all clinical fieldwork activities as well as provide all transportation and housing.
In-person fieldwork is full-time Monday through Friday during daytime; business hours and part-time fieldwork placement are not available, except with documented medical accommodations.
While students have up to 18 months to complete their Level II fieldwork after the completion of the didactic (classroom) portion of the program. Prompt completion of this requirement supports students' success on the national certification exam.
Upon successful completion of the program, graduates must successfully complete a national certification exam. This is administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). Sacramento City College's program performance can be viewed on the national annual testing results. NBCOT is located at 12 South Summit Avenue, Suite 200, Gaithersburg, MD, 20877. They can be contacted by phone at (301) 990-7979, and their web address is www.nbcot.org.
After passing the NBCOT exam, the graduate is a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA). In order to practice, a license is required. The California Board for Occupational Therapy (CBOT) issues licenses to qualified applicants. CBOT is located at 1610 Arden Way, Suite 121, Sacramento, CA, 95815. They can be contacted by phone at (916) 263-2294, and their web address is www.bot.ca.gov.
Note: Character review questions are required as part of the application process. For additional information about this requirement go to the CBOT Applicants web page.
Graduation Year | Students Entering / Graduating | Graduation Rates |
---|---|---|
2022 | 0/0* | N/A |
2023 | 24/24 | 100% |
2024 | xx/26** | TBD |
Total: | 24/24 | 100% |
* No cohort enrolled due to impact of pandemic.
** Results pending: five students on track to graduate in 2025 (reasons: 3 personal, 2 academic).
A felony conviction may delay clinical fieldwork placement and/or affect eligibility to sit for the national exam and /or complete the licensure process in California. For more information about an early determination review for the national exam, contact the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). For more information about California licensure, contact the California Board of Occupational Therapy (CBOT).
- Dean Paulette Lopez
- Program Coordinator Ada Boone Hoerl
- Program Details Occupational Therapy Assistant Program Details
- Phone (916) 558-2271
- Email SCC-OTAInfo@scc.losrios.edu
Associate Degree
A.S. in Occupational Therapy Assistant
The Occupational Therapy Assistant Associate in Science degree provides students with an understanding of human occupations as the valued and necessary skills of daily living across the lifespan. Injury, illness, disease, and developmental delays can prevent optimal performance in daily life tasks. Students will learn methods and interventions to establish or restore functioning with a range of populations with physical and behavioral conditions in a variety of settings. Also addressed are the essential professional skills of therapeutic communication, activity analysis and adaptation, assistive technology, client and caregiver education, cultural humility and health practices, and occupational justice, among many others. Through a rigorous learning program, students are provided training through lectures, labs, and fieldwork experiences. A significant portion of the program is offered through synchronous distance education when appropriate. With successful degree completion, students are eligible to pursue national certification and state licensure. To practice as an entry-level occupational therapy assistant, under the supervision of an occupational therapist, requires certification and licensure. Practice with an Associate of Science degree provides certified and licensed graduates with gainful employment with competitive salaries and job opportunities and does not require additional degrees unless desired.
The program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA), located at 7501 Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 510E, Bethesda, MD 20814. ACOTE’s telephone number, c/o AOTA, is (301) 652-6611, and its web address is www.acoteonline.org.
Catalog Date: August 1, 2025
Degree Requirements
Course Code | Course Title | Units |
---|---|---|
Courses Required for Program Application in addition to the Graduation Requirements listed in the Enrollment Limitations: | ||
AH 106 | Communication for Allied Health Careers | 2 |
AH 301 | Health Care in a Multicultural Society (3) | 3 |
or SOC 300 | Introductory Sociology (3) | |
or ANTH 310 | Cultural Anthropology (3) | |
or ANTH 481 | Honors Cultural Anthropology (3) | |
AH 311 | Medical Language for Health-Care Providers | 3 |
BIOL 100 | Introduction to Concepts of Human Anatomy and Physiology (3) | 3 - 101 |
or [ BIOL 430 | Anatomy and Physiology (5) | |
and BIOL 431 ] | Anatomy and Physiology (5) | |
LIBR 307 | Medical Information Resources | 1 |
NUTRI 300 | Nutrition (3) | 3 |
or NUTRI 480 | Nutrition Honors (3) | |
or HEED 300 | Health Science (3) | |
OTA 100 | Introduction to Occupational Therapy | 1 |
PSYC C1000 | Introduction to Psychology (3) | 32 |
or PSYC 480 | Honors General Principles (3) | |
PSYC 370 | Human Development: A Life Span (3) | 3 |
or EDUC 300 | Human Development: A Life Span (3) | |
Semester 1 (Spring): | ||
OTA 123 | Fundamentals of Clinical Documentation | 1.5 |
OTA 131 | Occupational Therapy Theory and Process in Psychosocial Dysfunction | 5 |
OTA 132 | Introduction to Clinical Practice in Psychosocial Dysfunction (1) | 1 |
or OTA 122 | Introduction to Clinical Practice in Non-Traditional Settings (1) | |
OTA 150 | Occupational Therapy Process and Practice in Developmental Disabilities and Pediatric Conditions | 2.5 |
Semester 2 (Summer): | ||
OTA 110 | Functional Biomechanics for the OTA | 3 |
OTA 111 | Functional Biomechanics Lab for the OTA | 1 |
OTA 152 | Introduction to Clinical Practice in Pediatric Conditions | 0.5 |
Semester 3 (Fall): | ||
OTA 140 | Theoretical Foundations of Physical Dysfunction | 3 |
OTA 141 | Occupational Therapy Process in Physical Dysfunction | 4 |
OTA 142 | Introduction to Clinical Practice in Physical Dysfunction (1) | 1 |
or OTA 122 | Introduction to Clinical Practice in Non-Traditional Settings (1) | |
Semester 4 (Spring): | ||
OTA 120 | Fundamentals of Occupational Therapy Assistant Practice | 2.5 |
OTA 160 | Fieldwork Level II First Rotation for the Occupational Therapy Assistant | 6 |
OTA 162 | Practice Skills for First Rotation OTA Level II Fieldwork | 0.5 |
Semester 5 (Summer): | ||
OTA 121 | Contemporary Models of Practice in Occupational Therapy | 1 |
OTA 163 | Practice Skills for Second Rotation OTA Level II Fieldwork | 0.5 |
Semester 6 (Fall): | ||
OTA 161 | Fieldwork Level II Second Rotation for the Occupational Therapy Assistant | 6 |
Total Units: | 61 - 68 |
1Ten year recency required.
2Ten year recency required.
The Occupational Therapy Assistant Associate in Science (A.S.) degree may be obtained by completion of the required program, and either (a) the Local General Education Pattern or (b) the California General Education Transfer Curriculum (Cal-GETC), plus sufficient electives for a total of at least 60 units. See SCC graduation requirements.
Enrollment Eligibility
To be eligible for enrollment in the program, the student must meet the following criteria:
- Interested students should attend a program information meeting prior to applying to the program.
- Students may seek application assistance through the Health Professions Information, Application & Program Assistance (https://scc.losrios.edu/academics/health-professions-assistance).
- Official transcripts for coursework outside of the Los Rios Community College District must be on file with the SCC Admissions & Records office at the time of application.
- Students must have an overall GPA of 2.5 or higher. Courses passed with a grade "P" or "CR" will be calculated into the student's GPA as a "C" grade.
- Students must be eligible for graduation except for OTA coursework but may apply with in-progress coursework during the semester of application with proof of enrollment.
- Completion of courses required for the program: AH 106, AH 311, AH 301 or ANTH 310 or SOC 300, BIOL 100 or BIOL 430 and BIOL 431, LIBR 307, NUTRI 300 or HEED 300, OTA 100, PSYC C1000 or PSYC 480, and PSYC 370 or EDUC 300 with grades of “C” or better. BIOL 100 or BIOL 430 and BIOL 431 and PSYC 300 or equivalent courses must have been completed within the last 10 years at the time of application to and/or the time of enrollment into the program.
- Completion of courses required for the program: AH 106, AH 311, AH 301 or ANTH 310 or SOC 300, BIOL 100 or BIOL 430 and BIOL 431, LIBR 307, NUTRI 300 or HEED 300, OTA 100, PSYC C1000 or PSYC 480, and PSYC 370 or EDUC 300 with grades of “C” or better. Completion of a local General Education pattern. See SCC graduation requirements.
Enrollment Process
Eligible students are selected for the program according to the following steps:
- Applications are accepted twice a year for one new cohort of 30 students entering each January.
- Qualified applicants from each application period are added to the program waitlist with the order determined by random selection.
- Students are notified of their projected enrollment date at the completion of each application period.
- If an earlier waitlist seat opens, the next eligible waitlist student will be offered the option to enroll early or retain their original enrollment date.
- Students on the waitlist may defer enrollment for one enrollment cycle.
- Students must maintain recency of BIOL 100 and PSYC C1000 within the last 10 years at both the time of application and program entry.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:
- ensure the safety of self and others during all professional activities, in compliance with all safety regulations and required documentation.
- comply with all federal, state, and facility practice regulations and abide by professional codes of ethics.
- articulate the profession’s values, beliefs, and the distinct nature of occupation, and its impact on health, wellness, and engagement in necessary and meaningful daily life activities.
- communicate clearly and effectively with clients and their care partners, with consideration for psychosocial factors, health literacy, diversity factors, and cultural differences.
- report accurate client status to supervising occupational therapist, client’s care partners, the inter-professional team, other relevant parties, and in written documentation.
- demonstrate therapeutic use of self as a foundation of establishing effective therapeutic relationships with clients and their care partners.
- administer assigned assessments using correct procedures and protocols, accurately reporting client’s expressed needs, and demonstrated occupational performance.
- implement client-centered and occupation-based intervention plans, selecting effective therapeutic activities appropriate for the individual and the established goals.
- modify therapeutic tasks and/or environments to maximize the client’s performance.
- participate in and provide relevant recommendations for the discharge process, and related client and care partner education, and equipment needs.
- articulate a clear and logical rationale for clinical decision-making, based on scope of practice, client status, treatment goals, professional evidence, and other relevant factors.
- interact with members of an intra- and inter-professional care team, demonstrating knowledge of differences in scope of practice, levels of training, and professional roles.
- demonstrate accurate billing and productivity procedures for occupational therapy services, in compliance with rules for federal, state, third party, and private payers.
- demonstrate professional work behaviors and attitudes, and the ability to receive and apply constructive feedback for professional growth.
- understand systems, legislation, regulations, and compliance requirements for certification, licensing, and continuing education.
Career Information
Occupational therapy assistants (OTA) work in a wide variety of settings including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, skilled nursing facilities, home health agencies, school systems, hand therapy clinics, community-based care programs, psychiatric hospitals, private practice outpatient clinics, education, and emerging practice areas. Under the supervision of an occupational therapist, the OTA may provide direct client care, training, and education; physical and cognitive rehabilitation; functional and community mobility training; fall prevention; contribute to home modification; adaptive equipment training; early intervention services; health, wellness, and prevention; and social/emotional skills training.
Occupational Therapy Assisting (OTA) Courses
OTA 100 Introduction to Occupational Therapy
- Units:1
- Hours:18 hours LEC
- Prerequisite:None.
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2025
The student is introduced to human occupation as a fundamental aspect of and for participation in everyday life activities. The course addresses how health, wellness, disease, and disability affect engagement in daily life tasks across the lifespan and how occupational therapy (OT) interventions are used to maximize performance in these activities. The role of the Occupational Therapy Assistant is defined in partnership with that of Occupational Therapists. Historical aspects of OT are presented as well as current and emerging practice settings and populations. Professional activities, requirements, ethics, and behaviors are also discussed. Students will complete a virtual clinical observation activity. This course has been designed to provide the student with information needed to determine if OT is a suitable career option.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- apply knowledge of occupational therapy history and the profession's philosophical base. (B.2.2 part)
- demonstrate knowledge of and apply the interaction of occupation and activity, including areas of occupation, performance skills, performance patterns, context, and client factors. (B.2.3)
- explain to the community of interest (e.g., consumers, potential employers, colleagues, third-party payers, regulatory boards, policymakers, and the public) the distinct nature of occupation and the evidence that occupation supports performance, participation, health, wellness, and well-being. (B.2.3)
- demonstrate activity analysis in areas of occupation, performance skills, performance patterns, context, and client factors to implement the intervention plan. (B.2.3)
- create and implement a plan to address individualized personal and professional responsibilities that are consistent with current accepted standards and long-term professional goals and aligned with current accepted norms in occupational therapy practice. addressing: personal well-being; the roles of client advocate, occupational therapist, or occupational therapy assistant; long-term career objectives; and a strategy to evaluate, refine, and update the plan over time. (B.2.9)
- demonstrate knowledge of the current published American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) Occupational Therapy Code of Ethics and AOTA Standards of Practice and use them as a guide for ethical decision making in professional interactions, client interventions, employment settings, and when confronted with personal and organizational ethical conflicts. (B.2.10)
- explain the role and responsibility of the practitioner to advocate for occupational therapy including changes in service delivery policies, effecting changes in the system, recognizing opportunities in emerging practice areas, and advocating for opportunities to expand the occupational therapy assistant’s role. (B.4.2)
- articulate the distinct knowledge and skills of occupational therapy practitioners to the community of interest. (B.4.5)
OTA 110 Functional Biomechanics for the OTA
- Units:3
- Hours:54 hours LEC
- Prerequisite:OTA 150 and 152 with grades of "C" or better
- Corequisite:OTA 111
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2025
In this course the occupational therapy assistant student will explore components of human movement, including joint structure and function, muscle action, motor and reflex development, and balance and sensory influence. In addition to the body structures involved in movement, students will examine the motor and process skills and sensory and neuromusculoskeletal client factors required for engagement in occupation across the lifespan. Students will complete a formal biomechanical activity analysis as it relates to occupational performance. Professional reasoning for the collection and use of functional performance data will also be addressed.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- demonstrate knowledge of the structure and function of the human body that must include the biological and physical sciences, neurosciences, kinesiology, and biomechanics. (B.1.1 partial)
- demonstrate activity analysis in areas of occupation, performance skills, performance patterns, context, and client factors to implement the intervention plan. (B.2.3)
- report, under the direction of an occupational therapist, on data for evaluation of client outcomes, which are occupation-based, client centered, culturally relevant, reflective of current occupational therapy practice, and based on available evidence. (B.3.5)
- monitor and reassess, in collaboration with the client and care partner, the effect of occupational therapy intervention and the need for continued or modified intervention and communicate the identified needs to the occupational therapist. (B.3.7)
- explain the need for orthotics, and design, fabricate, apply, fit, and train in orthoses and devices used to enhance occupational performance and participation. (B.3.16)
OTA 111 Functional Biomechanics Lab for the OTA
- Units:1
- Hours:54 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:OTA 150 and 152 with grades of "C" or better
- Corequisite:OTA 110
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2025
In this course the occupational therapy assistant student will develop skills in assessment of and intervention for impairments in biomechanical movement that limits occupational performance. Through hands-on laboratory activities students will experience a range of scenarios in which they can apply these skills as a foundation for learning more advanced practice skills in patient care. Students will use an analysis and problem-solving approach to functional human movement.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- demonstrate sound judgment regarding safety of self and others and adhere to safety regulations throughout the occupational therapy process as appropriate to the setting and scope of practice. This must include the ability to assess and monitor vital signs (e.g., blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory status, and temperature) to ensure that the client is stable for intervention. (B.2.8)
- demonstrate therapeutic use of self, including one’s personality, insights, perceptions, and judgments, as part of the therapeutic process in both individual and group interaction. (B.3.1)
- provide, in collaboration with the occupational therapist, direct interventions and procedures to persons, groups, or populations to enhance safety, health and wellness, chronic condition management, and performance in occupations, including occupation as therapeutic intervention and therapeutic exercise. (B.3.6 partial)
- assess, grade, and modify the way persons, groups, and populations perform occupations and activities by adapting processes, modifying environments, implementing assistive technology or adaptive equipment, and applying ergonomic principles to reflect the changing needs of the client, sociocultural context, and technological advances. (B.3.8)
- provide training in techniques to enhance functional mobility, including physical transfers, wheelchair management, and mobility devices. (B.3.12)
OTA 120 Fundamentals of Occupational Therapy Assistant Practice
- Units:2.5
- Hours:45 hours LEC
- Prerequisite:LIBR 307 and OTA 123 with grades of "C" or better
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2025
In this course the occupational therapy assistant student will gain knowledge of the various contexts and parameters in which occupational therapy services are provided. The role of practitioners as professionals will be examined from a variety of perspectives, including ethics, leadership, policy, and advocacy. The use of evidence to inform and improve practice as a fundamental skill is addressed. Business aspects of practice and quality management are also included.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- apply and analyze scientific evidence to explain the importance of balancing areas of occupation, the role of occupation in the promotion of health and wellness, and the prevention of disease, illness, and dysfunction for persons, groups, and populations. (B.2.5)
- demonstrate knowledge of the current published American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) Occupational Therapy Code of Ethics and AOTA Standards of Practice and use them as a guide for ethical decision making in professional interactions, client interventions, employment settings, and when confronted with personal and organizational ethical conflicts. (B.2.10)
- demonstrate knowledge of effective leadership styles. (B.2.11)
- identify personal and professional strengths and areas for growth to become an effective leader.
- demonstrate awareness of the principles of intraprofessional and interprofessional team dynamics to perform effectively in different team roles to plan, deliver, and evaluate patient- and population-centered care as well as population health programs and policies that are safe, timely, efficient, effective, and equitable. (B.3.22)
- identify and analyze the influence of contextual factors and current federal, state, and local policy issues and structures on the delivery of occupational therapy services for persons, groups, or populations and social systems as they relate to the practice of occupational therapy. (B.4.1)
- explain the role and responsibility of the practitioner to advocate for occupational therapy including changes in service delivery policies, effecting changes in the system, recognizing opportunities in emerging practice areas, and advocating for opportunities to expand the occupational therapy assistant’s role, and articulate the distinct knowledge and skills of occupational therapy practitioners to the community of interest. (B.4.2)
- understand the business aspects of practice including, but not limited to, the development of business plans, financial management, reimbursement, program evaluation models, strategic planning, and liability issues under current models of service provision including providing services on a contractual basis. (B.4.4)
- identify the need and demonstrate the ability to participate in the development, support, promotion, and management of service delivery options. (B.4.7)
- participate in ongoing processes for quality management and improvement (e.g., outcome studies analysis and client engagement surveys) and implement program changes as needed to demonstrate quality of services. (B.4.9)
- define effective, competency-based legal and ethical supervision of occupational therapy assistants and non–occupational therapy personnel. (B.4.9)
- explain how scholarly activities and literature contribute to the development of the profession, and locate and demonstrate understanding of professional literature, including the quality of the source of information, to make evidence-based practice decisions in collaboration with the occupational therapist. (B.5.1)
- understand how quantitative and qualitative research studies inform occupational therapy practice. (B.5.3)
OTA 121 Contemporary Models of Practice in Occupational Therapy
- Units:1
- Hours:18 hours LEC
- Prerequisite:OTA 120 with a grade of "C" or better
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2025
This course will provide the occupational therapy assistant student with a foundation of knowledge to support practice in community-based, non-traditional, and evolving practice settings. The role of occupational therapy in developing service provision, in conjunction with existing disciplines, is examined. Socio-cultural, diversity, inclusion, access, and advocacy will be highlighted as key variables in program design. Funding sources for non-traditional services will also be addressed.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- apply and analyze the role of sociocultural, socioeconomic, and diversity, equity, and inclusion factors, as well as lifestyles in contemporary society to meet the needs of persons, groups, and populations. Course content must include, but is not limited to, introductory psychology, abnormal psychology, and introductory sociology or introductory anthropology. (B.1.2)
- apply knowledge of occupational therapy history, philosophical base, theory, and sociopolitical climate and their importance in meeting society’s current and future occupational needs as well as how these factors influence and are influenced by practice. (B.2.2)
- apply and analyze scientific evidence to explain the importance of balancing areas of occupation, the role of occupation in the promotion of health and wellness, the prevention of disease, illness, and dysfunction for persons, groups, and populations. (B.2.)
- identify and communicate to the occupational therapist the need to design community programs to support occupational performance for persons, groups, or populations. (B.2.20)
- demonstrate effective communication with communities, and members of the intra-professional and inter-professional teams in a responsive and responsible manner that supports a team approach to promote client outcomes. (B.3.21 partial)
- identify and analyze the influence of contextual factors and current federal, state, and local policy issues and structures on the delivery of occupational therapy services for persons, groups, or populations and social systems as they relate to the practice of occupational therapy. (B.4.1)
- explain the role and responsibility of the practitioner to advocate for occupational therapy including changes in service delivery policies, effecting changes in the system, recognizing opportunities in emerging practice areas, and advocating for opportunities to expand the occupational therapy assistant’s role. Articulate the distinct knowledge and skills of occupational therapy practitioners to the community of interest. (B.4.2)
- demonstrate knowledge of care coordination, case management, and transition services in traditional and emerging practice environments, the consultative process with persons, groups, programs, organizations, or communities in collaboration with inter- and intra-professional colleagues. (B.4.6)
- identify the need and demonstrate the ability to participate in the development, support, promotion, and management of service delivery options. (B.4.7)
- participate in ongoing processes for quality management and improvement (e.g., outcome studies analysis and client engagement surveys) and implement program changes as needed to demonstrate quality of services. (B.4.8)
OTA 122 Introduction to Clinical Practice in Non-Traditional Settings
- Units:1
- Hours:54 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:AH 106 with a grade of "C" or better
- Enrollment Limitation:Students must have completed all degree and college graduation requirements with the exception of OTA courses and be officially accepted into an OTA program cohort.
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2025
Through Level I fieldwork experiences, students will be introduced to occupational therapy (OT) process for individuals, groups, and populations in non-traditional and/or evolving practice settings for those with conditions that limit or affect engagement in occupations. Students will have the opportunity to observe and interact with various types of clients, assessments, and interventions, and team members, accessed through supervised in-person pediatric settings. Students will complete 40 hours of in-person fieldwork in clinical environments and attend 14 hours of synchronous online discussion groups. Students must complete on-boarding requirements established by the program and facility. Students are responsible for their own transportation to/from the fieldwork site.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- explain to the community of interest (e.g., consumers, potential employers, colleagues, third-party payers, regulatory boards, policymakers, and the public) the distinct nature of occupation and the evidence that occupation supports performance, participation, health, wellness, and well-being. (B.2.4)
- apply and analyze scientific evidence to explain the importance of: balancing areas of occupation, the role of occupation in the promotion of health and wellness, the prevention of disease, illness, and dysfunction for persons, groups, and populations. (B.2.5)
- demonstrate professional reasoning to inform occupation-based interventions that focus on: client factors, performance patterns, and performance skills. (B.3.2)
- identify and communicate to the occupational therapist the need to design community programs to support occupational performance for persons, groups, or populations. (B.3.20)
- identify the need and demonstrate the ability to participate in the development, support, promotion, and management of service delivery options. (B.4.7)
OTA 123 Fundamentals of Clinical Documentation
- Units:1.5
- Hours:27 hours LEC
- Prerequisite:See enrollment limitations
- Enrollment Limitation:Students must have completed all degree and college graduation requirements with the exception of core OTA courses and be officially accepted into an OTA program cohort.
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2025
In this course the occupational therapy assistant student will develop basic skills in clinical documentation. Students will be introduced to various documentation formats and methods, both paper and digital, as required by different treatment settings and reimbursement systems. Students will be required to distinguish between subjective and objective reporting and the development of a clinical opinion of client performance and a plan based on intervention session performance. Reimbursement requirements for and legal aspects of documentation will be examined. Professional and medical terminology, as well as assessment data reporting will also be addressed.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- demonstrate knowledge of and apply the interaction of occupation and activity, including areas of occupation, performance skills, performance patterns, context, and client factors. (B.2.3)
- explain to third-party payers the distinct nature of occupation. (B.2.4 partial)
- report on data for evaluation of client outcomes as directed by the occupational therapist. (B.3.5 partial)
- demonstrate knowledge of the use of technology in practice through electronic documentation systems. (B.3.18 partial)
- demonstrate knowledge of various reimbursement systems and funding mechanisms (e.g., federal, state, local, third party, private payer), appeals mechanisms, treatment/diagnosis codes (e.g., CPT®, ICD, DSM® codes), and durable medical equipment coding (e.g., HCPCS) and documentation requirements (e.g., equipment justifications) that affect consumers and the practice of occupational therapy. Documentation must effectively communicate the need and rationale for occupational therapy services. (B.4.3)
OTA 124 Introduction to Electronic Documentation for the OTA
- Units:0.5
- Hours:9 hours LEC
- Prerequisite:OTA 120 and 123 with grades of "C" or better
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2025
The use of electronic medical record (EMR) is an expected skill in health care practice as service providers establish compliance with federal mandates for medical information management. This course will provide the occupational therapy assistant student with an introduction to EMR formats, methods, reimbursement requirements, and legal issues. This course prepares the student for learning the basics of the EMR in preparation for Level II fieldwork.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- report evaluation and outcome data under the supervision of an occupational therapist.
- demonstrate knowledge of technology in OT practice, to include electronic documentation systems.
- identify and describe factors related to common reimbursement and coding systems, and explain documentation requirements that include justification for OT services.
- demonstrate basic skills in accessing various features of electronic documentation as related to occupational therapy service provision by the occupational therapy assistant.
- demonstrate how to enter specific data into the electronic medical record, including minutes and type(s) of service provided and billing codes.
- demonstrate how to enter relevant narrative information into the electronic medical record, including patient feedback and clinical assessment.
OTA 131 Occupational Therapy Theory and Process in Psychosocial Dysfunction
- Units:5
- Hours:72 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:See enrollment limitations
- Corequisite:OTA 132
- Enrollment Limitation:Students must have completed all degree and college graduation requirements with the exception of OTA courses and be officially accepted into an OTA program cohort.
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2025
This course examines the role of the Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) when working with individuals who have mental health conditions, cognitive impairments, trauma histories, and/or disregulated behaviors in a range of settings and contexts. Students will explore areas of occupation, performance skills, performance patterns, contexts, activity demands, and client factors that affect engagement in occupation throughout the lifespan and how these are influenced by psychosocial factors. Occupational Therapy (OT) process will be addressed to include an understanding of an occupational profile, analysis of occupational performance, intervention planning and implementation, and methods to elicit therapeutic outcomes. Students will also advance their skills in activity analysis and the use of professional literature and resources, as well as their awareness of the theoretical models that influence clinical decision-making.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- demonstrate knowledge of human development of adults and older adults as related to concepts of developmental psychology. (B.1.1 partial)
- apply and analyze the role of sociocultural, socioeconomic, and diversity, equity, and inclusion factors, as well as lifestyles in contemporary society to meet the needs of persons, groups, and populations, and address abnormal psychology. (B.1.2)
- demonstrate knowledge of the social determinants of health for persons, groups, and populations with or at risk for disabilities and chronic health conditions and distinguishes the epidemiological factors that impact the public health and welfare of populations. (B.1.3)
- apply scientific evidence, theories, models of practice, and frames of reference that underlie the practice of occupational therapy to guide and inform interventions for persons, groups, and populations in a variety of practice contexts and environments. (B.2.1)
- apply knowledge of occupational therapy history, philosophical base, theory, and sociopolitical climate and their importance in meeting society’s current and future occupational needs as well as how these factors influence and are influenced by practice. (B.2.2)
- demonstrate knowledge of and apply the interaction of occupation and activity, including areas of occupation, performance skills, performance patterns, context, and client factors. (B.2.3)
- understand how occupational performance is affected by the effects of disease processes including heritable diseases, genetic conditions, mental illness, disability, trauma, and injury. (B.2.6)
- demonstrate activity analysis in areas of occupation, performance skills, performance patterns, context, and client factors to implement the intervention plan. (B.2.7)
- create and implement a plan to address individualized personal and professional responsibilities that are consistent with current norms in practice and long-term professional goals, and also addresses: personal well-being, advocacy related to clients, occupational therapy, or the role of occupational therapy practitioners; and a strategy to evaluate, refine, and update the plan over time. (B.2.9)
- demonstrate the application of principles of instructional design and teaching and learning in content related to occupational therapy which includes at minimum: development of learning objectives and assessment, delivery of professional presentation, and self-reflection of process. (B.2.12)
- demonstrate therapeutic use of self, including one’s personality, insights, perceptions, and judgments, as part of the therapeutic process in both individual and group interaction. (B.3.1)
- demonstrate professional reasoning to inform occupation-based interventions that focus on client factors, performance patterns, performance skills, creation, promotion, establishment, restoration, maintenance, modification, and prevention. (B.3.2)
- contribute to the evaluation process of client(s)’ occupational performance by completing an occupational profile and administering standardized and non-standardized screenings and assessment tools as delegated by the occupational therapist, and explain the importance of using psychometrically sound assessment tools when considering client needs, and cultural and contextual factors. (B.3.3)
- provide direct interventions and procedures to persons, groups, or populations to enhance safety, health and wellness, chronic condition management, and performance in occupations, including the ability to collaborate with the occupational therapist related to interventions and selecting and delivering occupations and activities, and addresses occupations as a therapeutic intervention, and interventions to support well-being ( complementary and integrative health); to support self-advocacy related to persons, groups, or populations; and virtual interventions. (B.3.6)
- design and implement occupation-based interventions using the strategies of establish, restore, and modify approaches to address deficits in performance skills. (B.3.9)
- demonstrate knowledge of the use of technology in practice in virtual environments. (B.2.18 partial)
- demonstrate awareness of the principles of intra-professional and interprofessional team dynamics to perform effectively in different team roles to plan, deliver, and evaluate patient- and population-centered care as well as population health programs and policies that are safe, timely, efficient, effective, and equitable. (B.3.22)
OTA 132 Introduction to Clinical Practice in Psychosocial Dysfunction
- Units:1
- Hours:54 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:See enrollment limitations
- Corequisite:OTA 131
- Enrollment Limitation:Students must have completed all degree and college graduation requirements with the exception of OTA courses and be officially accepted into an OTA program cohort.
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2025
Through virtual Level I fieldwork experiences, students will be introduced to occupational therapy (OT) process for individuals, groups, and populations with conditions in psychosocial dysfunction affecting occupational performance in various stages of late adolescence and adulthood. Students will have the opportunity to observe and interact with various types of clients, assessments, and interventions, and team members, all accessed in virtual environments. Students will complete 40 hours of asynchronous fieldwork activities accessed through online simulation and will attend 14 hours of synchronous online discussion groups to address OT methods and scope of practice.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- understand how occupational performance is affected by psychosocial disease processes including heritable diseases, genetic conditions, mental illness, disability, trauma, and injury. (B.2.6)
- contribute to the evaluation process of client(s)’ psychosocial occupational performance by completing an occupational profile and administering standardized and non-standardized screenings and assessment tools as delegated by the occupational therapist. (B.3.3)
- explain the importance of using psychometrically sound assessment tools when considering client needs, and cultural and contextual factors. (B.3.3)
- demonstrate professional reasoning to inform occupation-based psychosocial interventions that focus on client factors, performance patterns, and performance skills, and address the approaches of creation, promotion, establishment, restoration, maintenance, modification, and prevention. (B.3.2)
- design and implement psychosocial occupation-based interventions using the strategies of establish, restore, and modify approaches to address deficits in performance skills. (B.3.9)
- demonstrate knowledge of principles of techniques to enhance community mobility, and address alternative means of transportation in community settings, including driver rehabilitation and other community access options. (B.3.11)
- demonstrate awareness of intra-professional and inter-professional team dynamics to perform effectively in different team roles to plan, deliver, and evaluate patient- and population-centered care as well as population health programs and policies that are safe, timely, efficient, effective, and equitable. (B.3.22)
OTA 140 Theoretical Foundations of Physical Dysfunction
- Units:3
- Hours:54 hours LEC
- Prerequisite:OTA 110 and 111 with grades of "C" or better
- Corequisite:OTA 141 and 142
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2025
This course introduces the Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) student to neurological, orthopedic, and medical conditions that result in physical disabilities. Students will explore areas of occupation, performance skills, performance patterns, contexts, activity demands, and client factors that affect engagement in occupation throughout the lifespan and how these are influenced by physical dysfunction. Students will also develop skills in the use of professional literature and resources, as well as an awareness of the theoretical models that influence clinical decision-making.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- demonstrate knowledge of the structure and function of the human body that must include the biological and physical sciences, neurosciences, kinesiology, and biomechanics. (B.1.1 partial)
- demonstrate knowledge of the social determinants of health for persons, groups, and populations with or at risk for disabilities and chronic health conditions and distinguishes the epidemiological factors that impact the public health and welfare of populations. (B.1.3)
- apply scientific evidence, theories, models of practice, and frames of reference that underlie the practice of occupational therapy to guide and inform interventions for persons, groups, and populations in a variety of practice contexts and environments. (B.2.1)
- demonstrate knowledge of and apply the interaction of occupation and activity, including areas of occupation, performance skills, performance patterns, context, and client factors. (B.2.3)
- apply and analyze scientific evidence to explain the importance of balancing areas of occupation, the role of occupation in the promotion of health and wellness, and the prevention of disease, illness, and dysfunction for persons, groups, and populations. (B.2.5)
- understand how occupational performance is affected by the effects of disease processes including heritable diseases, genetic conditions, mental illness, disability, trauma, and injury. (B.2.6)
- demonstrate activity analysis in areas of occupation, performance skills, performance patterns, context, and client factors to implement the intervention plan. (B.2.7)
- implement a discharge plan from occupational therapy services that was developed by the occupational therapist in collaboration with the client and members of the interprofessional teams by reviewing the needs of the client, caregiver, family, and significant others; available resources; and discharge environment. (B.3.10)
- define the safe and effective application of superficial thermal agents, deep thermal agents, electrotherapeutic agents, and mechanical devices as a preparatory measure to improve occupational performance. This must include indications, contraindications, and precautions, and California regulations. (B.3.14)
- identify and communicate to the occupational therapist the need to refer to specialists both internal and external to the profession, including community agencies. (B.3.17)
- demonstrate knowledge of care coordination, case management, and transition services in traditional and emerging practice environments as well as the consultative process with persons, groups, programs, organizations, or communities in collaboration with inter- and intra-professional colleagues. (B.4.6)
- explain how scholarly activities and literature contribute to the development of the profession, and locate and demonstrate understanding of professional literature, including the quality of the source of information, to make evidence-based practice decisions in collaboration with the occupational therapist. (B.5.1)
OTA 141 Occupational Therapy Process in Physical Dysfunction
- Units:4
- Hours:54 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:OTA 110 and 111 with grades of "C" or better
- Corequisite:OTA 140 and 142
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2025
This course examines the role of the Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) when working with individuals who have orthopedic, neurological, or medical conditions. Occupational Therapy (OT) process will be addressed, to include an understanding of an occupational profile, analysis of occupational performance, as well as intervention planning, implementation, and approaches. Students will also develop skills in selected assessments, clinical documentation, and the selection and use of therapeutic activities and media to elicit engagement in occupation and therapeutic outcomes.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- demonstrate sound judgment regarding safety of self and others and adhere to safety regulations throughout the occupational therapy process as appropriate to the setting and scope of practice. This must include the ability to assess and monitor vital signs (e.g., blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory status, and temperature) to ensure that the client is stable for intervention. (B.2.8)
- contribute to the evaluation process of client(s)’ occupational performance by completing an occupational profile and administering standardized and non-standardized screenings and assessment tools as delegated by the occupational therapist, and explain the importance of using psychometrically sound assessment tools when considering client needs, and cultural and contextual factors. (B.3.3)
- collaborate in the development of occupation-based intervention plans and strategies that must be client centered, culturally relevant, reflective of current occupational therapy practice, and based on available evidence; under the direction of an occupational therapist, report on data for evaluation of client outcomes. (B.3.5)
- provide direct interventions and procedures to persons, groups, or populations to enhance safety, health and wellness, chronic condition management, and performance in occupations, including the ability to collaborate with the occupational therapist related to interventions and selecting and delivering occupations and activities, and addresses occupations as a therapeutic intervention, and interventions to support well-being ( complementary and integrative health); to support self-advocacy related to persons, groups, or populations; and virtual interventions. (B.3.6)
- monitor and reassess, in collaboration with the client and care partner, the effect of occupational therapy intervention and the need for continued or modified intervention and communicate the identified needs to the occupational therapist. (B.3.7)
- assess, grade, and modify the way persons, groups, and populations perform occupations and activities by adapting processes, modifying environments, implementing assistive technology or adaptive equipment, and applying ergonomic principles to reflect the changing needs of the client, sociocultural context, and technological advances. (B.3.8)
- design and implement occupation-based interventions using the strategies of establish, restore, and modify approaches to address deficits in performance skills. (B.3.9)
- provide training in techniques to enhance community mobility, and address alternative means of transportation in community settings, including driver rehabilitation and other community access options. (B.3.11)
- provide training in techniques to enhance functional mobility, including physical transfers, wheelchair management, and mobility devices. (B.3.12)
- demonstrate interventions that address dysphagia and disorders of feeding and eating, and train others in precautions and techniques while considering client and contextual factors. (B.3.13)
- describe the collaboration process with the occupational therapist to identify appropriate features of assistive technologies and durable medical equipment to support the client’s participation as well as demonstrate strategies with assistive technologies and devices (e.g., aids for communication, mobility, sensory loss, computer access, seating, and positioning systems) used to enhance occupational performance. (B.3.15)
- explain the need for orthotics, and design, fabricate, apply, fit, and train in orthoses and devices used to enhance occupational performance and participation, and train in the safe and effective use of prosthetic devices used to enhance occupational performance. (B.3.16)
- demonstrate knowledge of the use of electronic documentation systems. (B.3.18 partial)
- demonstrate the principles of the teaching–learning process using educational methods and health literacy education approaches to design activities and clinical training for persons, groups, and populations and to instruct and train the client, caregiver, family, significant others, and communities at the level of the audience. (B.3.19)
- demonstrate knowledge of various reimbursement systems and funding mechanisms (e.g., federal, state, local, third party, private payer), appeals mechanisms, treatment/diagnosis codes (e.g., CPT®, ICD, DSM® codes), and durable medical equipment coding (e.g., HCPCS) and documentation requirements (e.g., equipment justifications) that affect consumers and the practice of occupational therapy. Documentation must effectively communicate the need and rationale for occupational therapy services. (B.4.3)
OTA 142 Introduction to Clinical Practice in Physical Dysfunction
- Units:1
- Hours:54 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:OTA 110 and 111 with grades of "C" or better
- Corequisite:OTA 140 and 141
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2025
Through Level I fieldwork experiences, students will be introduced to occupational therapy (OT) process for individuals, groups, and populations with conditions in physical dysfunction affecting occupational performance in various stages of adulthood. Emphasis will be on development of skills required of an OT practitioner: safety awareness; observation of a client's occupational performance skills and deficits; identification of appropriate therapeutic interventions; intra- and inter-professional collaboration; and professional behaviors. Students will complete 40 hours of asynchronous fieldwork in simulated virtual clinical environments and attend 14 hours of synchronous online discussion groups.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- understand how occupational performance is affected by physical disease processes including heritable diseases, genetic conditions, mental illness, disability, trauma, and injury. (B.2.6)
- contribute to the evaluation process of client(s)’ occupational performance in physical activities by completing an occupational profile and administering standardized and non-standardized screenings and assessment tools as delegated by the occupational therapist. (B.3.3)
- explain the importance of using psychometrically sound assessment tools when considering client needs, and cultural and contextual factors. (B.3.3)
- demonstrate professional reasoning to inform occupation-based interventions for physical disabilities that focus on client factors, performance patterns, and performance skills, and address the approaches of creation, promotion, establishment, restoration, maintenance, modification, and prevention. (B.3.2)
- design and implement occupation-based interventions for physical disabilities using the strategies of establish, restore, and modify approaches to address deficits in performance skills. (B.3.9)
- demonstrate knowledge of principles of techniques to enhance community mobility, and address alternative means of transportation in community settings, including driver rehabilitation and other community access options. (B.3.11)
- demonstrate awareness of intra-professional and inter-professional team dynamics to perform effectively in different team roles to plan, deliver, and evaluate patient- and population-centered care as well as population health programs and policies that are safe, timely, efficient, effective, and equitable. (B.3.22)
OTA 150 Occupational Therapy Process and Practice in Developmental Disabilities and Pediatric Conditions
- Units:2.5
- Hours:36 hours LEC; 27 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:See enrollment limitations
- Enrollment Limitation:Students must have completed all degree and college graduation requirements with the exception of OTA courses and be officially accepted into an OTA program cohort.
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2025
This course introduces the occupational therapy assistant student to developmental disabilities and common conditions of children and adolescents who are referred for occupational therapy treatment. The scope of occupational therapy, the types of practice settings, and the role of the occupational therapy assistant in pediatrics and developmental disabilities are also covered. Common frames of references, evaluation tools and procedures, and intervention methods used in pediatric occupational therapy practice are presented.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- demonstrate knowledge of human development in infants, children, and adolescents, including developmental psychology. (B.1.1 partial)
- apply scientific evidence, theories, models of practice, and frames of reference that underlie the practice of occupational therapy to guide and inform interventions for persons, groups, and populations in a variety of practice contexts and environments. (B.2.1)
- demonstrate knowledge of and apply the interaction of occupation and activity, including areas of occupation, performance skills, performance patterns, context, and client factors. (B.2.3)
- understand how occupational performance is affected by the effects of disease processes including heritable diseases, genetic conditions, mental illness, disability, trauma, and injury. (B.2.6)
- demonstrate sound judgment regarding safety of self and others and adhere to safety regulations throughout the occupational therapy process as appropriate to the setting and scope of practice. This must include the ability to assess and monitor vital signs (e.g., blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory status, and temperature) to ensure that the client is stable for intervention. (B.2.8)
- contribute to the evaluation process of client(s)’ occupational performance by completing an occupational profile and administering standardized and nonstandardized screenings and assessment tools as delegated by the occupational therapist; explain the importance of using psychometrically sound assessment tools when considering client needs, and cultural and contextual factors. (B.3.3)
- collaborating in the development of occupation-based intervention plans and strategies that must be client centered, culturally relevant, reflective of current occupational therapy practice, and based on available evidence; under the direction of an occupational therapist, report on data for evaluation of client outcomes. (B.3.5)
- provide, in collaboration with the occupational therapist, direct interventions and procedures to persons, groups, or populations to enhance safety, health and wellness, chronic condition management, and performance in occupations, including occupations as a therapeutic intervention, and virtual interventions. (B.3.6 partial)
- monitor and reassess, in collaboration with the client and care partner, the effect of occupational therapy intervention and the need for continued or modified intervention and communicate the identified needs to the occupational therapist. (B.3.7)
- assess, grade, and modify the way persons, groups, and populations perform occupations and activities by adapting processes, modifying environments, implementing assistive technology or adaptive equipment, and applying ergonomic principles to reflect the changing needs of the client, sociocultural context, and technological advances. (B.3.8)
- design and implement occupation-based interventions using the strategies of establish, restore, and modify approaches to address deficits in performance skills. (B.3.9)
- demonstrate interventions that address dysphagia and disorders of feeding and eating, and train others in precautions and techniques while considering client and contextual factors. (B.3.13)
- describe the collaboration process with the occupational therapist to identify appropriate features of assistive technologies and durable medical equipment to support client's participation, and demonstrate strategies with assistive technologies and devices (e.g., aids for communication, mobility, sensory loss, computer access, seating, and positioning systems) used to enhance occupational performance. (B.3.15)
- identify and communicate to the occupational therapist the need to refer to specialists both internal and external to the profession, including community agencies. (B.3.17)
OTA 152 Introduction to Clinical Practice in Pediatric Conditions
- Units:0.5
- Hours:27 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:OTA 150 with a grade of "C" or better
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2025
Through Level I fieldwork experiences, students will be introduced to occupational therapy (OT) process for individuals, groups, and populations with pediatric conditions and developmental disabilities affecting occupational performance in various stages of early human development. Students will have the opportunity to observe and interact with various types of clients, assessments, and interventions, and team members, accessed through supervised in-person pediatric settings. Students will complete 25 hours of in-person fieldwork in clinical environments and attend 2 hours of synchronous online discussion groups. Note: this course may be converted to 100% online using virtual environments should conditions warrant.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- understand how occupational performance is affected by pediatric and developmental disease processes including heritable diseases, genetic conditions, mental illness, disability, trauma, and injury. (B.2.6)
- demonstrate therapeutic use of self, including one’s personality, insights, perceptions, and judgments, as part of the therapeutic process in both individual and group interaction. (B.3.1)
- provide direct interventions to persons or groups to enhance safety and performance in occupations. This must include the ability to collaborate with the occupational therapist related to interventions and selecting and delivering occupations and activities. (B.3.6 partial)
- demonstrate effective communication with clients, care partners, communities, and members of the intra-professional and inter-professional teams in a responsive and responsible manner that supports a team approach to promote client outcomes. (B.3.21)
- demonstrate knowledge of documentation requirements that affect consumers and the practice of occupational therapy. Documentation must effectively communicate the need and rationale for occupational therapy services. (B.4.3 partial)
OTA 160 Fieldwork Level II First Rotation for the Occupational Therapy Assistant
- Units:6
- Hours:324 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:OTA 131 and 132 with grades of "C" or better
- Corequisite:OTA 162
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2025
This course concentrates on the clinical application of knowledge and skills for the occupational therapy assistant (OTA) student. Under supervision and guidance, the student will complete 320 hours of direct client care, working with those who have physical, cognitive, psychosocial, and/or developmental impairments across the lifespan. To be trained as generalists as required by the program’s accreditation, students must experience two distinctly different settings and populations through their Level II fieldwork experiences in OTA 160 and OTA 161. Fieldwork sites are assigned by the program’s academic fieldwork coordinator (AFWC). On-boarding requirements vary from one facility to another and are provided to the student from the AFWC. Students are required to complete these requirements promptly to remain eligible for the offered placement. Proof of automobile insurance may be required if driving is involved as part of the clinical experience. Students are responsible for their own housing and transportation to/from the fieldwork site. The program handbook provides additional guidance for eligible students. No part of Level I fieldwork can count towards the required 320 hours for Level II fieldwork. This course is graded Pass/No Pass.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- demonstrate sound judgment in regard to safety of self and others, including adherence to precautions, infection control, and other regulations, in all academic and practice settings.
- incorporate consistent application of therapeutic use of self, ethical decision-making, and professional reasoning as a foundation of all occupational therapy practice.
- demonstrate effective skills in collection, organization, and reporting of evaluation data under the supervision of and as assigned by an occupational therapist.
- recognize and communicate occupational needs and concerns through effective collaboration with clients, their care providers, and the inter professional team in a responsive and responsible manner.
- facilitate client-centered and culturally relevant occupation-based interventions that enhance occupational performance and also address promotion, compensation, adaptation, and prevention when indicated, based on current evidence.
- implement a discharge plan designed by the OT that includes client and care provider resources, education, and training, and considers the discharge environment.
- apply knowledge and understanding of essential core documents from the American Occupational Therapy Association, as well as certification, state licensing requirements and regulations, and how these guide ethical practice, supervision, and decision-making.
- integrate effective written and verbal reporting skills, for documentation, reimbursement, and intra- and inter-professional collaboration.
- demonstrate work behaviors, self-care, and self-regulation skills that reflect the professional nature of OT practice, including the ability to accept professional feedback and modify behavior and actions based on feedback.
OTA 161 Fieldwork Level II Second Rotation for the Occupational Therapy Assistant
- Units:6
- Hours:324 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:OTA 121, 141, and 142 with grades of "C" or better
- Corequisite:OTA 163
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2025
This course concentrates on the clinical application of knowledge and skills for the occupational therapy assistant (OTA) student. Under supervision and guidance, the student will complete 320 hours of direct client care, working with those who have physical, cognitive, psychosocial, and/or developmental impairments across the lifespan. To be trained as generalists as required by the program’s accreditation, students must experience two distinctly different settings and populations through their Level II fieldwork experiences in OTA 160 and OTA 161. Fieldwork sites are assigned by the program’s academic fieldwork coordinator (AFWC). On-boarding requirements vary from one facility to another and are provided to the student from the AFWC. Students are required to complete these requirements promptly to remain eligible for the offered placement. Proof of automobile insurance may be required if driving is involved as part of the clinical experience. Students are responsible for their own housing and transportation to/from the fieldwork site. The program handbook provides additional guidance for eligible students. No part of Level I fieldwork can count towards the required 320 hours for Level II fieldwork. This course is graded Pass/No Pass.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- demonstrate sound judgment in regard to safety of self and others, including adherence to precautions, infection control, and other regulations, in all academic and practice settings.
- incorporate consistent application of therapeutic use of self, ethical decision-making, and professional reasoning as a foundation of all occupational therapy practice.
- demonstrate effective skills in collection, organization, and reporting of evaluation data under the supervision of and as assigned by an occupational therapist.
- recognize and communicate occupational needs and concerns through effective collaboration with clients, their care providers, and the inter professional team in a responsive and responsible manner.
- facilitate client-centered and culturally relevant occupation-based interventions that enhance occupational performance and also address promotion, compensation, adaptation, and prevention when indicated, based on current evidence.
- implement a discharge plan designed by the OT that includes client and care provider resources, education, and training, and considers the discharge environment.
- apply knowledge and understanding of essential core documents from the American Occupational Therapy Association, as well as, certification, state licensing requirements and regulations, and how these guide ethical practice, supervision, and decision-making.
- integrate effective written and verbal reporting skills, for documentation, reimbursement, and intra- and inter-professional collaboration.
- demonstrate work behaviors, self-care and self-regulation skills that reflect the professional nature of OT practice, including the ability to accept professional feedback and modify behavior and actions based on feedback.
OTA 162 Practice Skills for First Rotation OTA Level II Fieldwork
- Units:0.5
- Hours:27 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:None.
- Corequisite:OTA 160
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2025
This course, taken in conjunction with OTA 160, provides the OTA student with structured activities to support success in Level II fieldwork and preparation for entry-level practice. Students use a project-based approach to advance skills in clinical and professional expectations that go beyond direct client care. This course provides real-world scenarios to aid the student in effective reasoning, decision-making, and problem-solving. National certification exam and licensing preparation information is also included.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- explain to the community of interest (e.g., consumers, potential employers, colleagues, third-party payers, regulatory boards, policymakers, and the public) the distinct nature of occupation and the evidence that occupation supports performance, participation, health, wellness, and well-being. (B.2.4)
- create and implement a plan to address individualized personal and professional responsibilities that are consistent with current accepted standards and long-term professional goals, including: personal well-being; alignment with current accepted norms in occupational therapy practice; advocacy related to clients; occupational therapy, or the role of the occupational therapist or occupational therapy assistant; long-term career objectives; a strategy to evaluate, refine, and update the plan over time. (B.2.9)
- demonstrate knowledge of the current published American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) Occupational Therapy Code of Ethics and AOTA Standards of Practice and use them as a guide for ethical decision making in professional interactions, client interventions, employment settings, and when confronted with personal and organizational ethical conflicts. (B.2.10)
- demonstrate knowledge of effective leadership styles and identify personal and professional strengths and areas for growth to become an effective leader. (B.2.11)
- demonstrate the application of principles of instructional design and teaching and learning in content related to occupational therapy which includes at minimum: development of learning objectives, design of material, development of learning assessment, delivery of professional presentation, and self-reflection of process. (B.2.12)
- demonstrate effective communication with clients, care partners, communities, and members of the intra-professional and inter-professional teams in a responsive and responsible manner that supports a team approach to promote client outcomes. (B.3.21)
- demonstrate knowledge of applicable national requirements for credentialing and requirements for licensure, certification, or registration consistent with federal and state laws. (B.4.5)
OTA 163 Practice Skills for Second Rotation OTA Level II Fieldwork
- Units:0.5
- Hours:27 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:None.
- Corequisite:OTA 161
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2025
This course, taken in conjunction with OTA 161, provides the OTA student with structured activities to support success in Level II fieldwork and preparation for entry-level practice. Students use a project-based approach to advance skills in clinical and professional expectations that go beyond direct client care. This course provides real-world scenarios to aid the student in effective reasoning, decision-making, and problem-solving. National certification exam and licensing preparation information is also included.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- explain to the community of interest (e.g., consumers, potential employers, colleagues, third-party payers, regulatory boards, policymakers, and the public) the distinct nature of occupation and the evidence that occupation supports performance, participation, health, wellness, and well-being. (B.2.4)
- demonstrate professional reasoning to inform occupation-based interventions that focus on: client factors, performance patterns, and performance skills, as well as, creation, promotion, establishment, restoration, maintenance, modification, and prevention. (B.3.4)
- identify and communicate to the occupational therapist the need to design community programs to support occupational performance for persons, groups, or populations. (B.3.20)
- demonstrate effective communication with clients, care partners, communities, and members of the intra-professional and inter-professional teams in a responsive and responsible manner that supports a team approach to promote client outcomes. (B.3.21)
- demonstrate knowledge of applicable national requirements for credentialing and requirements for licensure, certification, or registration consistent with federal and state laws. (B.4.5)
- demonstrate knowledge of care coordination, case management, and transition services in traditional and emerging practice environments, and the consultative process with persons, groups, programs, organizations, or communities in collaboration with inter- and intra-professional colleagues. (B.4.6)
- define effective, competency-based legal and ethical supervision of occupational therapy assistants and non–occupational therapy personnel. (B.4.9)
OTA 295 Independent Studies in Occupational Therapy Assistant
- Units:1 - 3
- Hours:54 - 162 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:None.
- Enrollment Limitation:Only students officially enrolled in the Occupational Therapy Assistant Program, and in good-standing, are eligible for this course.
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2025
This course allows an individual student enrolled in the Occupational Therapy Assistant Program to study, research, and participate in clinical or community activities beyond the scope of regularly offered classes, pursuant to an agreement among the college, faculty members, and the student.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- produce work independently on occupational therapy related topics.
OTA 299 Experimental Offering in Occupational Therapy Assistant
- Units:0.5 - 4
- Prerequisite:None.
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2025
This is the experimental courses description.
Faculty
Programs and Majors
More About the Program
Accredited By
Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education
7501 Wisconsin Avenue
Suite 510E
Bethesda, MD 20814
Phone: (301) 652-6611
Health and Health Professions
This program is part of the Health and Health Professions meta major.