Program Information:
The Associate of Applied Science in Occupational Therapy Assistant degree program prepares students with the knowledge and skills required of competent entry-level practitioners. Working in collaboration with occupational therapists, occupational therapy assistants provide skilled therapeutic interventions that are evidence-based and grounded in theory. Leadership, community, health, and occupational approaches are core to the program’s philosophy. It is a two year 61 credit program preparing students for employment in a variety of health care settings.
- This program begins in the spring semester.
- Hours include 640 hours of Fieldwork II experience. Level II Fieldwork assignments must be completed within 18 months of completion of academic preparation.
- Occupational therapy students must earn a minimum grade of C in all courses with a prefix of OTA, to remain in the program. Students leaving the program before completing it may apply for readmission based on space availability and in accordance with guidelines as determined by the Dean, Program Director and faculty. In the case of readmission, credit will be allowed for courses previously completed with a minimum grade of C. Only one readmission is allowed.
- A criminal background check and drug testing are mandatory prior to entering the program.
- Prior to the start of the end of the first semester of OTA classes, all students accepted into the program must show evidence of current CPR certification for healthcare provides (Must be CPR for adults and infants with first-aid training).
- This applied science program of study must be taken in its entirety, and in sequence, to meet degree requirements. There is no part time option, at this time.
- This course is conducted on a limited-enrollment basis. Admission to this program involves additional procedures, as described, herein.
For Program Information Contact:
Health Professions Department at 217-786-2872 or 217-786-2449 or see a Health Professions Student Success Coach.
Admission requirements:
- HS transcript with proof of graduation or GED certificate or college degree with documentation on file in Admissions and Records Office.
- Attend an OTA Program Informational Session.
- Official transcripts from all colleges ever attended evaluated by Admissions and Records Office. Students who neglect to do this, or delay doing this, may jeopardize their ability to be accepted to, or remain enrolled in a the program.
- Demonstrate placement into a college-level Mathematics course (MAT 104, its equivalent or above).
- Two years of high school lab sciences with grades of "C" or above within the last five years or two semesters of college lab sciences (BIO 101, BIO 175) with grades of “C” or above within the last five years.
- Placement into EGL OR complete all appropriate developmental courses.
- Overall GPA of 2.5 or higher for all previous college courses.
- Complete the ATI-TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills). A Basic score is required, Proficient score (55% or higher) is preferred. The TEAS score must be within 36 months of the end date of candidacy.
- Submit the OTA program application. Students should submit the OTA program application after all requirements are met.
- Completion of seven hours of observation with an OT or OTA, and submission of the OTA observation form.
Health Physical
Students must show proof of CPR training for healthcare providers prior to end of the first semester. Training is provided at orientation for students who do not have previous training or need renewal of current certification.
Re-Application
If a prospective student is not selected for admission to the program, they may re-apply, at a later date. The Health Occupations Aptitude exam score, required for admission, is valid for two years from the date of the exam. However, students may re-take the exam, at any time, if they choose. The exam is provided at student expense, in the LLCC testing center, though the cost is reasonable. Students who re-apply must attend the one-day OTA Seminar.
Re-Admission
If a student enrolled in the program withdraws or is dismissed from the program, the student may apply for re-admission one time. The application will be reviewed by the Dean, Program Director and faculty.
Transfer Students
The program does not waiver any coursework previously taken in other occupational therapy assistant programs. All enrolled students must complete all required OTA courses through LLCC OTA program. However, many students transfer general education credits that will apply to the OTA degree plan and this is acceptable.