If you’re interested in becoming an occupational therapist (OT), you’ll need to apply for a graduate-level program. But what OT prerequisites do you need for admission? While admission requirements can vary by program, there are some common prerequisites to know about before you apply. In this article, we’ll break down OT school prerequisites and what you should know about this academic pathway.
What Degree Do You Need for OT School?
You can become an occupational therapist with either a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT) or an Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) degree. Both types of graduate programs usually require applicants to have a bachelor’s degree.
There’s no specific major you need for acceptance into an occupational therapy program. According to the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA), some common majors for aspiring OTs include:
- Biology
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Anatomy
- Anthropology
- Kinesiology
- Liberal arts
OT schools may require specific prerequisite coursework, so make sure you check those requirements before you apply.
Do You Need Occupational Therapy Experience for OT School?
Some programs may require observation or volunteer experience in occupational therapy settings. At West Coast University, admission requirements for both the MSOT and the OTD programs include at least 40 volunteer or observation hours.
The AOTA says many facilities are familiar with these requirements and able to accommodate requests. Search for healthcare facilities in your area that hire OTs, like hospitals or rehabilitation centers, and contact them directly to ask about observing or volunteering.
What Are Some Common OT School Prerequisites?
OT school prerequisites may depend on the program or degree level. These are some common prerequisites you may find as you research different OT programs:
Bachelor’s Degree
More than likely, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree to get into a master’s or doctorate program for occupational therapy. Schools may also have minimum GPA requirements for acceptance. West Coast University’s OT programs set these GPA expectations:
- 3.0 GPA preferred for the last 60 semester units
- 3.0 GPA for program prerequisite courses
While a bachelor’s degree is a common prerequisite for OT school, you may qualify for an exception if you’re already working as an occupational therapy assistant (OTA). Some programs offer an OTA pathway based on licensure and work experience. WCU’s MSOT program allows OTAs to apply, even if they don’t hold a bachelor’s degree.
Volunteer or Work Experience
As mentioned, some programs may require volunteer or observation hours in OT settings. These hours show you’ve spent time around OTs and have some knowledge of the occupational therapy field. Volunteer coordinators or licensed OTs may also be able to provide references for your application.
If you’re applying via an OTA pathway, you’ll need to show prior work experience in the field. At WCU, the OTA pathway requires 1 year of work experience, which can include fieldwork experience.
References
OT programs may ask for references with your application. References are people who can vouch for your academic or professional skills and provide more insight about your interest in occupational therapy.
WCU’s OT programs require 3 references, which can come from these individuals:
- 1 or 2 occupational therapists
- 1 faculty member or advisor
- 1 professional
Admissions Interview
As part of your application, you may need to complete an interview. During an interview, a faculty member or admissions representative may ask questions about your academic background, your career goals, and your passion for occupational therapy. An admissions interview can also be a chance for you to learn more about the program or ask any questions you may have.
OTA Certification and Licensure
This prerequisite only applies if you’re a professional OTA looking to advance your education. If you apply through an OTA pathway, you’ll need to show proof of your current licensure and certification, in addition to work experience.
What Classes Do You Need to Take to Satisfy OT Prerequisites?
OT schools may have program prerequisites, which are courses you need to complete before applying. This coursework often focuses on science courses, like biology and psychology. However, it can vary by program, so be sure to review these requirements closely.
At WCU, the OTD and MSOT programs both require prerequisite coursework in these subjects:
- 2 courses in humanities or social sciences, such as anthropology, philosophy, ethics, or cultural studies
- 1 statistics course
- 1 course in human anatomy, plus lab
- 1 course in physiology, plus lab
- 1 course in human development or lifespan
- 1 course in abnormal or behavioral psychology
- 1 course in advanced writing
- Medical terminology course
You must have completed these courses through an accredited post-secondary institution within the past 10 years.
Are There Different Prerequisites for OTD Programs?
Generally speaking, OTD prerequisites are often similar to master’s-level prerequisites. You usually need a bachelor’s degree, prerequisite coursework, references, and volunteer or observation hours. However, the exact prerequisites needed can vary by school and program, so always check them carefully before applying.
Both OTD and MSOT programs can help you prepare for a career in occupational therapy through foundational coursework and fieldwork experience. The biggest difference is that an OTD program curriculum includes additional coursework focused on advanced concepts, like clinical practice, research, administration, advocacy, and policy development.
Find Your Path to OT School at West Coast University
OT prerequisites for occupational therapy school can include required coursework, volunteer or observation hours, references, and an admissions interview. Once you’ve found a program, research the admission requirements carefully to identify any you still need to meet before applying.
West Coast University offers two academic pathways into the occupational therapy field: the Master of Science in Occupational Therapy program and the Occupational Therapy Doctorate program. OTAs can also apply to the MSOT program through a designated OTA pathway, which doesn’t require a bachelor’s degree. Want to learn more about WCU’s OT programs? Reach out today to request more details or schedule an information session!
WCU provides career guidance and assistance but cannot guarantee employment. The views and opinions expressed are those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the beliefs or position of the school or of any instructor or student.
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