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Step 1
In order to apply to a graduate program in occupational therapy, first you need to earn a bachelor degree.If you are still in college, you may start to take science courses, like chemistry, biology, anatomy, psychology.English and speech courses can be very helpful, because as a occupational therapist you will work with people and you need to have excellent communicational skills.Try to maintain a high GPA as almost all occupational therapy programs require an at least 3.0 general GPA and 3.5 GPA in science courses.
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Step 2
While still in college or after that try to volunteer or even work in a healthcare environment.During this time, try to obtain at least two recommendation letters, because you will need them in the application process.Occupational therapy programs give priority to people with degrees or experience in the healthcare field in the admission process ,so the best combination would be to have a degree in healthcare (for example nursing) and some work experience when you apply.
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Step 3
Once admitted in the program, keep in mind that the academic schedule can be quite intensive, and you might not be able to work fulltime in order to keep up.Occupational therapy programs can be completed in 2 and a half years to 3 years full time (75-80 credits).In addition to classroom work, students must complete an equivalent of 24 weeks of supervised experience working with clients.
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Step 4
Once you finished your masters or doctoral degree and your supervised work, there is one more step before you can actually work as a occupational therapist: certification.To be certified, you need to take and pass the NBCOT exam.After passing this exam you will be given the designation Registered Occupational Therapist and you can put the initials OTR after your name.
