Occupational therapy is one of the most rewarding and fast-growing careers in healthcare — offering a chance to help people regain independence, function, and quality of life. If you’re considering a future in this field, understanding the available occupational therapy courses is the first step.
This guide breaks down the types of OT courses, what they cover, where to study, and how to choose the path that fits your goals.
What Is Occupational Therapy?
Occupational therapy (OT) helps individuals of all ages overcome physical, cognitive, or emotional challenges that limit their ability to perform everyday activities.
Occupational therapists work in:
- Hospitals and rehab centers
- Schools and pediatric clinics
- Mental health facilities
- Skilled nursing and long-term care settings
- In-home and community-based programs
OTs assess patient needs, develop treatment plans, and use adaptive techniques to improve daily function and independence.
Types of Occupational Therapy Courses Available
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to advance your skills, there are several paths you can take:
🔹 Undergraduate Prerequisites
Before entering a graduate-level OT program, students typically complete:
- Anatomy & Physiology
- Psychology & Human Development
- Statistics or Research Methods
- Sociology or Anthropology
You don’t need a bachelor’s in OT — degrees in biology, psychology, kinesiology, or health sciences are common.
🔹 Master’s-Level OT Programs (MOT or MSOT)
These are the most common entry points into the field for aspiring OTs.
Key facts:
- Duration: 2–3 years (after undergrad)
- Includes both academic coursework and clinical fieldwork
- Prepares you to take the NBCOT licensing exam
🔹 Doctoral Programs (OTD)
Doctorate programs are becoming increasingly popular and may eventually become the standard.
Key facts:
- Duration: 3 years (post-bachelor’s)
- Includes advanced leadership, research, or specialty training
- Often required for academic or clinical leadership roles
🔹 OTA to OT Bridge Programs
If you’re already a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA), there are bridge programs to help you become a full OT.
Key facts:
- Duration: 2–3 years
- Builds on existing hands-on experience
🔹 Continuing Education & Certifications
For licensed OTs and OTAs looking to specialize or meet CEU requirements.
Common topics:
- Hand therapy
- Pediatrics
- Geriatrics
- Sensory integration
- Assistive technology
Many CEU courses are available online and take only a few hours to complete.
Course Topics Typically Covered in OT Programs
Occupational therapy courses are diverse and hands-on. You’ll learn to think clinically, work with patients, and apply scientific knowledge to real-world challenges.
Typical subjects include:
- Human anatomy and movement science
- Neuroscience and neurorehabilitation
- Mental health and psychosocial intervention
- Therapeutic techniques and activity analysis
- Assistive devices and adaptive strategies
- Clinical documentation and ethics
- Fieldwork in real clinical settings
Programs emphasize both academic knowledge and practical experience.
How Long Do Occupational Therapy Courses Take?
General timelines:
- Bachelor’s degree (prereqs): 4 years
- Master’s in OT (MOT/MSOT): 2–3 years
- Doctorate (OTD): 3–4 years total after undergrad
- Bridge programs (OTA to OT): 2–3 years
- Short-term CEU courses: a few hours to several weeks
You’ll need at least 5–7 years of combined education and training to become a fully licensed occupational therapist.
Where to Find Accredited Occupational Therapy Courses
To become licensed, you’ll need to complete a program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE).
In the U.S.:
- Use the AOTA or ACOTE website to find approved programs
- Public universities, private colleges, and health science institutions offer OT degrees
Internationally:
- Look for programs recognized by the World Federation of Occupational Therapists (WFOT)
Online CEU Courses:
- MedBridge, OccupationalTherapy.com, AOTA Learning Center, and university-based platforms
Be sure to verify accreditation before enrolling — especially for licensing-track programs.
What to Look for in a Quality OT Program
Not all programs are equal. Consider these factors when choosing:
- Accreditation status
- NBCOT pass rates
- Fieldwork opportunities and partner sites
- Faculty experience and support
- Class size and program culture
- Cost and financial aid options
- Program flexibility (especially for working students or parents)
Cost and Financial Aid for OT Courses
Occupational therapy programs vary widely in price:
- Public universities: $10,000–$30,000/year
- Private schools: $30,000–$80,000+ total
- Online/accelerated programs: may offer lower or bundled pricing
Financial aid options:
- FAFSA (federal loans and grants)
- State aid and school-based scholarships
- Loan forgiveness programs (especially for OTs working in underserved areas)
- Employer tuition reimbursement
Be sure to calculate the total cost, including books, fieldwork travel, and licensing exam fees.
Final Thoughts: Choose the Right Path for Your Goals
Occupational therapy is a meaningful, in-demand career — but the journey starts with choosing the right education path.
Whether you’re starting from undergrad, switching from another health field, or leveling up your credentials, there’s a course or program that fits your goals. Focus on accreditation, fieldwork quality, and long-term career fit — and you’ll be well on your way to joining one of the most impactful professions in healthcare.
