Education and training requirements for Occupational therapistsCurrently, a bachelor�s degree in occupational therapy is the minimum requirement for entry into this field. Beginning in 2007, however, a master�s degree or higher will be the minimum educational requirement. As a result, students in bachelor�s-level programs should complete their coursework and fieldwork before 2007. All States, Puerto Rico, and the District of Columbia regulate the practice of occupational therapy. To obtain a license, applicants must graduate from an accredited educational program and pass a national certification examination. Those who pass the exam are awarded the title �Occupational Therapist Registered (OTR).� In 2003, entry-level education was offered in 38 bachelor�s degree programs, 3 postbaccalaureate certificate programs for students with a degree other than occupational therapy, and 86 entry-level master�s degree programs. There were 48 programs that offered a combined bachelor�s and master�s degree and 5 offered an entry-level doctoral degree. Most schools have full-time programs, although a growing number also offer weekend or part-time programs. Occupational therapy coursework includes physical, biological, and behavioral sciences and the application of occupational therapy theory and skills. Completion of 6 months of supervised fieldwork also is required. Persons considering this profession should take high school courses in biology, chemistry, physics, health, art, and the social sciences. College admissions offices also look favorably at paid or volunteer experience in the healthcare field. Occupational therapists need patience and strong interpersonal skills to inspire trust and respect in their clients. Ingenuity and imagination in adapting activities to individual needs are assets. Those working in home healthcare services must be able to adapt to a variety of settings. More information on Occupational therapists from The U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook Overview of Occupational therapists occupation Number of Occupational therapists in the U.S. Salary and earnings for Occupational therapists Working conditions for Occupational therapists Significant points for Occupational therapists Training requirements for Occupational therapists Labor Information Home | Occupational data by city | Search Rainforests | Madagascar | What's new |