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 must also take additional courses to meet graduation requirements of the college. 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, with the exception of clinical fieldwork, which is scheduled during weekday business hours.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

✔ recognize the theoretical frames of reference from which the practice of occupational therapy is derived.

✔ demonstrate fundamental skills in the use of evidence to guide practice and participate in research activities as directed.

✔ describe current and emerging areas of occupational therapy practice and OTA scope of practice in these settings.

✔ analyze tasks and environments to assess their therapeutic qualities, constraints, and modifications for safe and effective occupational performance.

✔ perform evaluation procedures selected according to OTA practice guidelines.

✔ assist in developing occupational therapy intervention plans in collaboration with the supervising OT.

✔ implement an intervention plan to engage clients in purposeful activities related to occupational performance and established treatment goals.

✔ document client-related perspectives and factual data for oral and written communication, using either traditional methods or digital platforms.

✔ maintain records and reports including counter-signatures, as guided by regulations for scope of practice, confidentiality, reimbursement, and quality assurance.

✔ revise and implement OT intervention plans in ongoing collaboration with the supervising OT.

✔ assess factors that warrant change or discontinuation of an established intervention plan, and need for further consultation, in collaboration with the supervising OT.

✔ manage supplies and equipment necessary for OT intervention, demonstrating safety and appropriate infection control procedures.

✔ access, reference, and abide by all state and federal regulations, including HIPAA and ADA guidelines.

✔ apply the OT Code of Ethics as an element of all professional interactions and service provision.

✔ adhere to all OT department and agency policies and procedures.

✔ explain the definition and role of occupational therapy and the distinct nature of occupation to consumers, families, inter-professional team members, third-party payors, legislators, and other stakeholders.

✔ discuss how socio-cultural diversity and social determinants of health may influence the therapeutic process.

✔ demonstrate actions that reflect therapeutic use of self and non-judgmental attitudes and values toward patient/clients, staff, and family members in professional situations.

✔ exhibit behaviors that respect the client’s basic rights to quality service with minimum risk of further injury or insult.

✔ demonstrate an attitude of professional responsibility for self-directed learning as a life-long process for acquiring new knowledge, abilities, attitudes, and refining clinical reasoning.

✔ demonstrate active involvement in professional development, leadership, and advocacy.