How to Become an Occupational Therapist

Becoming an occupational therapist requires completing a bachelor's degree, earning a master's or doctoral degree from an accredited OT program, finishing supervised fieldwork, passing the NBCOT certification exam, and obtaining state licensure. The entire process typically takes 6-7 years after high school.

How to Become an Occupational Therapist icon

On This Page

Jump to a section

Click to Expand
Career Overview Salary Data Education Path Training Breakdown

Did You Know?

OT students must complete a minimum of 24 weeks of full-time Level II fieldwork before they can graduate, giving them extensive hands-on experience across multiple clinical settings before entering practice.

Occupational Therapist Career Overview

The path to becoming an occupational therapist follows a structured educational journey that typically spans 6-7 years after high school. You'll start with a bachelor's degree where you'll complete prerequisite courses, then move on to an accredited program offering either a Master of Occupational Therapy or Doctor of Occupational Therapy degree. During your graduate education, you'll complete at least 24 weeks of supervised Level II fieldwork. After graduation, you must pass the NBCOT certification exam and obtain state licensure. With projected job growth of 12%, this career path offers excellent stability and meaningful work helping others.

This guide walks you through every step of becoming an occupational therapist. You'll learn about undergraduate preparation, which prerequisite courses you need, how to choose the right major, and how many observation hours programs expect. We cover what makes graduate programs competitive, what to expect during your OT education, how the certification process works, and practical strategies to strengthen your application. Whether you're a high school student exploring careers, a college student planning prerequisites, or someone considering a career change, this information will help you plan your journey into occupational therapy.

Occupational Therapist Salary Data

Salary information based on U.S. Department of Labor O*NET data. Select your state and metro area to view localized salary ranges.

National Salary Distribution

Understanding the OT Education Path

Your undergraduate years set the foundation for OT school admission. You can major in almost anything as long as you complete the required prerequisites, which typically include anatomy, physiology, psychology, statistics, and biology. Most programs expect a GPA of 3.0 or higher, though competitive applicants often have higher grades in their science courses. You'll also need to rack up observation hours shadowing licensed occupational therapists in different settings. This experience shows admissions committees that you understand what OTs actually do and that you're committed to this career path.

Graduate OT programs come in two flavors: Master's degrees like the MOT or MSOT that take about 2-2.5 years, and doctoral programs like the OTD that run closer to 3 years. Both prepare you for the same licensure exam and allow you to practice as an OT. Your coursework covers anatomy, neuroscience, therapeutic interventions, and clinical reasoning. The biggest chunk of hands-on training comes through fieldwork, with Level I placements during your coursework and at least 24 weeks of full-time Level II fieldwork where you work directly with clients under supervision.

5 Steps to Becoming an Occupational Therapist

1

Earn a Bachelor's Degree

4 Years

Complete a four-year bachelor's degree at an accredited college or university. While your major can be flexible, you must finish all prerequisite courses required by your target OT programs. Common majors include health sciences, kinesiology, psychology, or biology, but any major works as long as prerequisites are covered. Focus on maintaining a competitive GPA, especially in your science courses, and start accumulating observation hours by shadowing occupational therapists in hospitals, schools, or outpatient clinics.

2

Apply to an Accredited OT Program

Application Cycle

Prepare a strong application package that includes your official transcripts, letters of recommendation from professors or healthcare professionals who know your work ethic, a compelling personal statement explaining why you want to become an OT, and documentation of your observation hours. Most programs use a centralized application service called OTCAS. Applications typically open in the summer for the following fall admission. Programs are competitive, so apply to multiple schools and prepare thoroughly for interviews where they assess your communication skills and understanding of the profession.

3

Complete Graduate OT Program

2-3 Years

Your graduate education combines classroom learning with extensive clinical training. Coursework covers topics like human development, neuroscience, biomechanics, and evidence-based intervention strategies. You'll learn to assess clients, develop treatment plans, and adapt activities to help people participate in daily life. The hands-on component includes Level I fieldwork integrated throughout your courses plus a minimum of 24 weeks of full-time Level II fieldwork where you work directly with clients under the supervision of a licensed occupational therapist. This fieldwork happens in various settings like hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools, or mental health facilities.

4

Pass the NBCOT Certification Exam

2-3 Months Prep

After graduating from an accredited program, you must pass the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy exam to earn your OTR credential. This computer-based exam tests your clinical reasoning and professional knowledge across all practice areas. Most graduates spend 2-3 months preparing using review courses, practice exams, and study groups. The exam covers domains like evaluation, intervention planning, intervention implementation, and outcomes management. Passing this exam is required before you can apply for state licensure and begin practicing independently.

5

Obtain State Licensure

Varies by State

Every state requires occupational therapists to hold a license before practicing. After passing your NBCOT exam, you'll apply to your state's licensing board, submit your exam scores, complete a background check, and pay the required fees. Processing times vary by state from a few weeks to a couple of months. Once licensed, you must maintain your credential through continuing education requirements that vary by state. Most states require between 20-40 hours of continuing education every two years to keep your license active and ensure you stay current with best practices.

OT Education Quick Facts

Total Timeline: 6-7 Years
Degree Required: Master's or Doctorate
Fieldwork: 24+ Weeks Level II
Certification: NBCOT Required
Licensure: Required in All States
Job Growth: 12% projected

Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming an OT

Do you need a doctorate to become an occupational therapist?

No, a master's degree from an accredited program fully qualifies you for NBCOT certification and state licensure. Both master's-level and doctoral-level OTs take the same exam and can practice in all the same settings. A doctorate might benefit you if you're interested in academic positions, research, or certain leadership roles, but it's not required for clinical practice. Choose based on your career goals, timeline, and financial situation rather than feeling pressured to pursue the highest degree.

How competitive are OT programs?

OT programs have become increasingly competitive over the past decade. Most successful applicants have a GPA of 3.3 or higher, particularly in science prerequisites. Programs typically expect 40-100 hours of documented observation time with licensed occupational therapists across different practice settings. Strong letters of recommendation, a well-written personal statement that shows genuine understanding of the profession, and solid interview performance all matter. Some programs accept around 30-40% of applicants, so applying to multiple schools improves your chances significantly.

How long does it take to become an occupational therapist?

The typical timeline is 6-7 years after high school graduation. This includes four years for your bachelor's degree and 2-3 years for your graduate OT program depending on whether you pursue a master's or doctoral degree. Add a few months after graduation for exam preparation and the licensing process. If you already have a bachelor's degree but need to complete prerequisites, factor in additional time for those courses. Career changers should budget 3-4 years from starting prerequisites to becoming licensed.

Can you work while in OT school?

Working during OT school is challenging but possible for some students, particularly during the classroom portion. The coursework is demanding with heavy reading loads and lab components. Part-time work of 10-15 hours weekly might be manageable early in the program. However, during Level II fieldwork rotations, which require 40+ hours weekly at clinical sites, working becomes extremely difficult or impossible. Many students choose to save money beforehand, take out loans, or work during summers to minimize the need for employment during the academic year.

What major should you choose in college?

You can major in anything as long as you complete the required prerequisites for your target OT programs. Popular choices include health sciences, kinesiology, psychology, biology, or exercise science because these majors naturally include many prerequisites. However, majoring in something different like sociology, education, or even art can make your application stand out while giving you unique perspectives to bring to OT practice. The key is completing prerequisites with strong grades regardless of your major. Research specific programs early since prerequisite requirements vary slightly.

The path to becoming an occupational therapist is well-defined and achievable with proper planning. You'll move through clear stages: completing your bachelor's degree with prerequisites, earning admission to an accredited graduate program, finishing your coursework and fieldwork, passing your certification exam, and obtaining state licensure. Each step builds on the previous one, preparing you to help clients overcome challenges and participate fully in their daily lives. With 12% job growth projected and opportunities across healthcare settings, your investment in this education opens doors to a stable, meaningful career.

Success in this journey comes from planning strategically rather than rushing through. Start exploring the profession early through observation hours so you understand what you're committing to. Build relationships with professors and clinicians who can write strong recommendation letters. Keep your grades up, especially in sciences, and prepare thoroughly for program interviews. Understand the financial investment and timeline so you can make informed decisions. The students who thrive in OT programs are those who enter with realistic expectations and genuine passion for helping others engage in meaningful activities.

Education and Training Breakdown

Each stage of your OT education builds specific skills and credentials needed for professional practice. Understanding what each phase involves helps you prepare effectively and know what to expect along the way.

Undergraduate Preparation

Complete prerequisites and gain experience

Your undergraduate years focus on building the academic foundation OT programs require. Complete courses in anatomy, physiology, psychology, statistics, and biology while maintaining strong grades. Shadow occupational therapists to understand the profession and document your hours.

Requirements
  • Complete required science and psychology courses
  • Maintain competitive GPA of 3.0 or higher
  • Document 40-100 observation hours with licensed OTs

Graduate OT Program

Master's or Doctorate required

Graduate programs combine intensive coursework with clinical training over 2-3 years. You'll study human development, neuroscience, and intervention techniques while developing clinical reasoning skills through case studies and supervised practice experiences.

Requirements
  • Enroll in ACOTE-accredited MOT or OTD program
  • Complete 2-3 years of graduate coursework
  • Finish all required fieldwork rotations successfully

Fieldwork Training

Hands-on supervised clinical experience

Fieldwork is where classroom learning becomes real practice. Level I placements during coursework introduce clinical settings, while Level II rotations require 24 weeks minimum of full-time work with actual clients under licensed OT supervision.

Requirements
  • Minimum 24 weeks full-time Level II fieldwork
  • Direct supervision by licensed occupational therapist
  • Experience in multiple practice settings and populations

NBCOT Certification

National exam requirement

The NBCOT exam tests your readiness for independent practice. Most graduates spend 2-3 months studying using review courses and practice tests. Passing earns your OTR credential, which is required before applying for state licensure.

Requirements
  • Graduate from ACOTE-accredited program
  • Pass the NBCOT certification examination
  • Earn the Occupational Therapist Registered credential

State Licensure

Legal authorization to practice

State licensure gives you legal permission to practice occupational therapy. Each state has its own board with specific application requirements, fees, and continuing education mandates you must meet to maintain your active license.

Requirements
  • Submit application with NBCOT exam scores
  • Complete required background check
  • Meet ongoing continuing education requirements

Planning Your Education Strategically

Smart preparation starts well before you apply to graduate school. Research prerequisite requirements for your target programs during your freshman or sophomore year so you have time to schedule courses properly. Start observation hours early rather than scrambling to complete them during application season. Build genuine relationships with professors who teach your prerequisite courses since you'll need strong recommendation letters. If your GPA in science courses isn't where it should be, consider retaking courses or taking additional upper-level sciences to demonstrate your capabilities.

Think beyond just getting admitted to a program. Consider the financial investment and create a realistic budget that accounts for tuition, living expenses during fieldwork when working may not be possible, and exam fees. Look for programs with strong fieldwork placement networks in settings that interest you. Connect with practicing occupational therapists who can mentor you through the process and help you understand what daily practice actually looks like. Students who enter programs with realistic expectations and solid preparation consistently report smoother transitions into their careers with good earnings potential.

Quick Facts

Minimum Degree Master's Required
Fieldwork 24+ Weeks
Certification NBCOT Exam

Did You Know?

The NBCOT exam has a first-time pass rate of about 80-85% for graduates of accredited programs, making thorough exam preparation an important part of your educational journey.

Work Setting Distribution

🎓 Preparing for Success in OT School

Getting into an OT program takes more than meeting minimum education requirements. Competitive applicants show consistent academic excellence, particularly in science prerequisites where programs pay close attention to your performance. Diversify your observation hours across different settings like pediatrics, acute care, and outpatient rehabilitation to demonstrate broad understanding of the profession. Start building relationships with potential recommenders early, giving them time to know your work ethic and character. Craft a personal statement that tells your unique story and explains specifically why occupational therapy fits your goals and values.

Once you're in a program, success requires different skills than undergraduate work. The pace is faster and expectations are higher. Develop strong time management habits early since you'll juggle heavy reading loads, lab work, and eventually fieldwork placements. Form study groups with classmates who motivate you. Approach fieldwork with professionalism and eagerness to learn since supervisors' evaluations significantly impact your progression. Build professional habits now like staying organized, communicating clearly, and seeking feedback constructively. These skills serve you throughout your career, not just during school. Unlike becoming a physical therapist, which requires a doctoral degree, OT programs offer both master's and doctoral pathways.

Education Pathways

🎯 Traditional Undergraduate Path ▼

Program Length: 4 + 2-3 Years

Average Cost: Varies by institution

Who It's For: High school graduates and current college students planning their careers from the start with time to complete prerequisites and gain experience during undergraduate years.

What to Expect:

  • Complete four-year bachelor's degree with prerequisites
  • Apply to accredited OT programs through OTCAS
  • Finish graduate coursework and 24+ weeks fieldwork
  • Pass NBCOT exam and obtain state licensure

Career Outcome: Licensed occupational therapist ready for entry-level positions in hospitals, schools, rehabilitation centers, or other healthcare settings.

📚 Career Change Path ▼

Program Length: Varies

Average Cost: Graduate tuition dependent

Who It's For: Adults with existing bachelor's degrees in other fields who want to transition into healthcare through OT education and can commit to additional education.

What to Expect:

  • Complete any missing prerequisite courses
  • Gain required observation hours while working
  • Enroll in full-time graduate OT program
  • Complete fieldwork, certification, and licensure

Career Outcome: Career transition into occupational therapy, often bringing valuable life experience and previous professional skills to patient care.

🏆 Doctoral Advancement Path ▼

Program Length: 3 Years Graduate Study

Average Cost: Higher tuition than master's

Who It's For: Students interested in academic careers, research, leadership positions, or specialized practice areas who want advanced training beyond entry-level requirements.

What to Expect:

  • Extended doctoral-level coursework and research
  • Capstone project in area of professional interest
  • Expanded leadership and advocacy training
  • Same NBCOT exam and licensure requirements

Career Outcome: Licensed occupational therapist with additional preparation for leadership, teaching, research, or specialized practice roles.

🔍 Find Your Program

Advanced Filters

Enter search terms above or use the advanced filters to find OT schools.

💡 Becoming an OT: Key Tips

💡

Practical Advice

Start observation hours during your sophomore year to avoid last-minute stress during application season.

Practical Advice

Keep a spreadsheet tracking prerequisites, deadlines, and program requirements for each school you're considering.

Practical Advice

Practice answering common interview questions about why you chose OT and how you handle challenges.

Practical Advice

Budget for application fees, exam costs, and potential interview travel expenses which can add up quickly.

Practical Advice

Connect with practicing occupational therapists through professional associations or your observation sites for ongoing mentorship.