Occupational Therapy Assistant BS
Central Methodist University Campus, United States
Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy Assistant
Central Methodist University
Occupational Therapy
Occupational Therapy Assistant BS Program Overview
The Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy Assistant at Central Methodist University prepares students to assist clients recovering from injury or disability in regaining life skills for independent living. As an ACOTE-accredited baccalaureate-level program, graduates are eligible to sit for the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) examination to become a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA).
The program provides a strong foundation in the liberal arts and sciences with a focus on diversity, evidence-based interventions, and client-centered practice. Students learn to apply occupational therapy interventions addressing physical, cognitive, psychosocial, and sensory aspects of performance to support engagement in everyday life activities.
Offered at the Fayette campus, the program combines the benefits of a four-year liberal arts campus experience with specialized OTA training. Students gain 640 hours of clinical education through four full-time affiliations, blending observation and hands-on experience in real-world healthcare settings.
Key Program Highlights
- ACOTE-accredited baccalaureate-level OTA program with eligibility for NBCOT national certification examination
- 640 hours of clinical education through four full-time fieldwork affiliations combining observation and hands-on experience
- Hands-on learning in classroom laboratories, simulation activities, and community-based clinical experiences
- Option to choose a specialty track that complements the OTA curriculum, setting graduates apart in the job market
Curriculum and Course Modules
The OTA curriculum is designed as a progressive learning ladder organized sequentially through four curricular themes: Practice Foundations, Fundamentals in Development and Functional Intervention, Principles and Practice, and Clinical and Professional Preparation. Students complete 120 credit hours including 54 hours of OTA-specific coursework, general education requirements, and fieldwork experiences.
Practice Foundations
9 creditsIntroduces the history, philosophy, values, and ethics of occupational therapy practice. Students explore foundational theories, professional organizations, and the role of the OTA within healthcare delivery systems.
Human Development and Functional Intervention
9 creditsCovers psychological, neurological, musculoskeletal, and etiological aspects of human development as they relate to client care. Students learn to assess functional performance across the lifespan.
Principles and Practice of Occupational Therapy
12 creditsFocuses on evidence-based occupational therapy interventions addressing physical, cognitive, psychosocial, and sensory performance. Students develop clinical reasoning and therapeutic use of self skills.
Clinical and Professional Preparation
9 creditsPrepares students for entry-level clinical practice through advanced skills training, professional development, and preparation for the NBCOT certification examination.
Level II Fieldwork
9 creditsConsists of 16 weeks of full-time supervised clinical fieldwork in approved healthcare settings. Students apply classroom knowledge in real-world occupational therapy practice environments.
Baccalaureate Project
6 creditsA capstone project demonstrating the ability to synthesize in-depth knowledge in a practice area such as clinical practice skills, administration, leadership, advocacy, or education.
Specialty Track Electives
Admission Requirements
Admission to the OTA program at Central Methodist University is selective, with a limited cohort of 16 students accepted each year. Students are first admitted to CMU to complete general education and prerequisite courses, then apply separately to the OTA program during the Spring semester for each Fall cohort. All applications and inquiries should be directed through Uni4Edu.
Academic Requirements
- Minimum Cumulative GPA2.75 on a 4.0 scale required for program completion and graduation
- University AdmissionMust meet general admission requirements for Central Methodist University
- Prerequisite CoursesCompletion of general education and OTA prerequisite coursework prior to entering the OTA core phase
- Program CapacityThe OTA program accepts 16 students per cohort on a selective, case-by-case basis
- Background CheckA felony conviction may affect ability to sit for NBCOT certification examination or attain state licensure
English Language Requirements
- TOEFL Paper-BasedMinimum score of 550
- TOEFL Computer-BasedMinimum score of 213
- TOEFL Internet-Based (iBT)Minimum score of 77
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
Central Methodist University awards approximately USD 11.5 million in scholarships each year to motivated students on the Fayette campus. Various institutional, state, and federal funding opportunities are available to help make your OTA education more affordable. Contact Uni4Edu for personalized guidance on funding options.
CMU Academic Scholarships
Varies based on academic achievementInstitutional scholarships awarded based on scholastic and personal achievements. The scholarship package accepted prior to enrollment is renewable for up to 10 semesters provided the appropriate GPA is maintained.
Phi Theta Kappa Scholarship
USD 1,000 per yearAvailable to transfer students who are Phi Theta Kappa honor society members. The award is split between two semesters and applied to tuition costs.
Gulstad Achievement Scholarship
Up to USD 1,000 per yearAvailable to transfer students with an associate degree and minimum 2.0 GPA. Full-time students receive USD 500 per semester and part-time students receive USD 250 per semester. Priority deadline is June 1 for fall and November 1 for spring.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects for OTA Graduates
Occupational therapy is one of the fastest-growing professions in the United States. As a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant, you will work under the direction of a licensed occupational therapist in diverse healthcare settings including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools, nursing homes, and community-based programs.
Potential Career Roles
Typical Employment Settings
Rankings and Recognition
Central Methodist University is a private liberal arts institution founded in 1854 in Fayette, Missouri. The university is recognized for its strong regional standing and commitment to social mobility, earning notable rankings from U.S. News and World Report. The OTA program holds accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE).
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Regional Colleges Midwest | U.S. News & World Report | #18 out of 89 |
| Top Performers on Social Mobility | U.S. News & World Report | #16 |
| Occupational Therapy Assistant Program | ACOTE (AOTA) | Fully Accredited |
| Overall University Quality | Higher Learning Commission | Institutionally Accredited |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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