Blog / How to Become an Occupational Therapist: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
Have you ever wanted a job where you can make a real difference? Occupational therapy offers just that. It's a profession where you help people regain their independence—whether it's teaching a child with sensory challenges how to tie their shoes or helping a stroke survivor learn to use a fork again. It's about little victories that mean the world to someone else.
On the flip side, it's not all roses. OT can be emotionally intense. You'll celebrate with patients when they succeed, but you'll also be there when progress feels frustratingly slow. Still, if you thrive on problem-solving and have a big heart, this career might feel less like work and more like a calling.
Not sure if it's right for you? Many OTs say they were drawn to the field after shadowing professionals. Checking out OT volunteer opportunities might be a great start!
You don't need a specific undergraduate major to become an occupational therapist, but choosing something relevant can give you a head start. Fields like biology, psychology, or kinesiology not only cover many prerequisite courses but also help you wrap your head around concepts you'll encounter later. Imagine this as laying the foundation for your dream home. A solid base makes everything easier.
That being said, don't stress if you're switching gears mid-college or if your major is in, say, English Lit. There's always a way. You might just need to take a few extra courses, like anatomy or human development, to meet grad school requirements. Advisors at your university can help you chart the right path. And, if you're curious about prerequisites, schools usually list them on their websites.
This is where things start to feel real. You'll need to apply to a master's or doctoral program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE). The difference between the two? A master's gets you into the field faster, but a doctorate might offer more leadership or research opportunities.
One thing I wish I'd known? Start gathering application materials early—recommendation letters, your GRE score (if required), and that oh-so-dreaded personal statement. It's a process, but totally worth it when you receive that acceptance letter.
Most programs look for a solid GPA (3.0+ is common), completed prerequisites, and some experience in healthcare. Volunteer hours in an OT setting? Pure gold. Not only does it beef up your application, but it also gives you a taste of the work ahead.
Fieldwork isn't just a requirement—it's your chance to see what being an occupational therapist is really about. It's where textbooks meet reality. The two levels of fieldwork, Level I and Level II, each serve a distinct purpose. Level I is like dipping your toes in the water. You'll observe and assist, learning the ropes in a more structured, low-pressure environment.
But Level II? That's the deep end. It's hands-on, immersive, and sometimes downright challenging. You'll work directly with patients, applying all that knowledge you've been soaking up. This is where growth happens.
A friend once told me that her Level II experience in a pediatric clinic changed her life—it confirmed her passion for working with kids and gave her the confidence she needed.
Fieldwork is equal parts exhilarating and exhausting, but preparation can make a world of difference. Keep a journal—seriously. Write down what you observe, questions you have, and techniques you want to remember. It helps you process everything and impresses your supervisors.
And don't hesitate to ask questions. Supervisors expect it. They'd much rather you clarify something than muddle through a task. Remember: fieldwork is where mistakes are learning opportunities, not dealbreakers.
Feeling nervous? That's normal. Everyone starts somewhere. Focus on being present, staying curious, and soaking up every moment.
Passing the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam is your gateway to becoming a licensed occupational therapist. Study to succeed, and succeed because you studied. This isn't just about memorizing—it's about truly understanding the concepts you've been working on throughout your education.
A solid study plan is non-negotiable. Start early, maybe even before fieldwork ends, and stick to a schedule that balances review with rest. Resources like the NBCOT Exam Study Pack or practice tests on the NBCOT website are lifesavers. Some people swear by study groups, while others prefer solo prep. Either way, consistency beats cramming every time.
The NBCOT exam isn't just long—it's intense. You'll tackle multiple-choice questions, simulations, and scenarios that make you think on your feet. This isn't about tricks; it's about application.
On the big day, bring two forms of ID and get there early. Nervous energy is natural, but remember: you've prepared for this moment, and this moment is what you've prepared for. Treat it like just another step, not the end-all-be-all.
Oh, and here's a tip I wish I'd followed: bring snacks for after. Nothing feels better than a post-exam peanut butter sandwich to celebrate.
You've passed the NBCOT exam—congrats! But hold on, you're not quite done yet. Every state has its quirks, and licensing is no exception. Each has its own set of requirements, fees, and forms. Some states even want you to complete background checks or specific jurisprudence exams. (Texas, I'm looking at you!)
Oh, and here's a curveball: licensing boards can be slow—painfully slow. My friend once waited six weeks for her paperwork to clear. The lesson? Start early and follow up like your career depends on it—because it kind of does.
Here's the catch: licensure isn't a “one and done” deal. Most states require renewal every 1-3 years, and with that comes continuing education requirements. It sounds like a hassle, but honestly, CEUs keep you sharp. For easy options, check out online CEU providers.
First things first: your resume. Keep it sharp, concise, and tailored to occupational therapy. Highlight those clinical hours, certifications, and any special skills (shoutout to fluent Spanish speakers—you're in high demand!). But don't stop there. Networking is your secret weapon. Who you know can matter just as much as what you know.
Ever heard of cold-emailing? It's underrated. Reach out to clinics, schools, or hospitals where you'd love to work. A short, polite note expressing interest can go a long way. I once sent a casual email to a small rehab center—and landed an interview within a week.
The best part? OTs can work almost anywhere: schools, hospitals, private practices, nursing homes—even on cruise ships! Yep, that's a thing.
Not sure where to begin? Check out job boards like AOTA's Career Center or even LinkedIn. Better yet, lean on your fieldwork connections—they know the ropes and might know who's hiring.
Finally, don't underestimate professional organizations. Joining groups like the American Occupational Therapy Association not only boosts your credibility but also keeps you in the loop for conferences, job fairs, and CEU discounts. Plus, it's just plain fun to connect with others who get your passion for OT.
To stay an occupational therapist, you've got to stay a learning occupational therapist. Continuing education isn't just a box to check—it's a way to keep your skills sharp and your practice fresh. Whether it's mastering the latest rehab techniques or diving into a new specialty, CEUs keep you ahead of the curve.
Luckily, there's no shortage of options. Online platforms like OT Mastery or in-person workshops make earning credits flexible and, dare I say, enjoyable. Short on time? Many states allow you to complete most, if not all, CEUs online.
Ever thought about focusing on hand therapy, pediatrics, or mental health? Advanced certifications can open doors, build your reputation, and—yes—boost your salary. Explore pathways like becoming a Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) or a sensory integration specialist to level up your career.
Becoming an occupational therapist is an investment—in your career, your skills, and your future. But let's talk dollars and cents. Tuition alone can run anywhere from $30,000 to $120,000 for your OT degree, depending on the school and program. And don't forget those pesky extras: textbooks, lab fees, and the occasional overpriced coffee to fuel late-night study sessions.
Fieldwork can also come with hidden costs. Need to relocate for a placement? Cha-ching! One friend of mine had to move across the country for her dream internship, and while it paid off in the long run, the short-term expenses were brutal. On the bright side, some employers offer loan repayment assistance for new grads—something worth exploring!
From start to finish, expect to spend about 6-7 years on this journey. A bachelor's degree takes four years, and most OT graduate programs last another two to three. But hey, it's not a race; it's a marathon. And those years fly by when you're learning things you genuinely care about.
Becoming an occupational therapist is a journey—a mix of hard work, heartfelt moments, and yes, a few hiccups along the way. But here's the thing: every step you take, from those early prerequisite classes to passing the NBCOT exam, brings you closer to a career where you change lives every single day. It's not just a job; it's a purpose, a passion, and a chance to truly make a difference. Sure, there are challenges—late-night study marathons, fieldwork nerves, and licensing hoops to jump through—but each one shapes you into a more confident, compassionate professional. So, if OT feels like your calling, lean into it. The world is waiting for your skills, your ideas, your heart. Ready to take that first step? Let's go.