# How Long Does it Take to Become an Occupational Therapy Assistant?
Occupational therapy assistants (OTAs) are healthcare professionals who assist occupational therapists in providing services to people with physical, mental, or emotional disabilities. Becoming an OTA requires specialized education and training, and the amount of time it takes to complete the process varies depending on the individual’s situation. In this article, we’ll discuss how long it takes to become an occupational therapy assistant, the educational requirements, and the certification process.
## Educational Requirements
Most states require OTAs to hold an associate’s degree in occupational therapy assisting, which typically takes two years of full-time study to complete. In some states, individuals may be able to earn certification as an OTA with a diploma or certificate in occupational therapy assistant from an accredited program. The program content should include courses in anatomy and physiology, psychology, and medical terminology.
In addition to the educational requirements, students must also complete a certain number of hours of fieldwork. This may include participating in supervised clinical experiences in a variety of settings. Most states also require OTAs to pass a certification exam administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT).
## Certification Process
After completing all of the educational requirements and fieldwork, the individual must pass the certification exam administered by the NBCOT. The exam is composed of multiple-choice questions, and the candidate must demonstrate an understanding of the knowledge and skills required to be an OTA. The exam typically takes two to three hours to complete.
Once the individual passes the exam, they will receive a certification as an occupational therapy assistant. This certification must be renewed every two years, and OTAs must complete continuing education courses to maintain their certification.
## Frequently Asked Questions on How Long Does it Take to Become an Occupational Therapy Assistant
### How much education is required to become an OTA?
Most states require OTAs to hold an associate’s degree in occupational therapy assisting, which typically takes two years of full-time study to complete. In some states, individuals may be able to earn certification as an OTA with a diploma or certificate in occupational therapy assistant from an accredited program.
### Do I need to take a certification exam?
Yes, all states require OTAs to pass a certification exam administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). The exam is composed of multiple-choice questions, and the candidate must demonstrate an understanding of the knowledge and skills required to be an OTA.
### How often do I need to renew my certification?
OTAs must renew their certification every two years and must complete continuing education courses to maintain their certification.
### How can I prepare for the certification exam?
The best way to prepare for the certification exam is to review the material covered in your OTA program. You can also find study guides and practice tests online to help you prepare for the exam.
## Conclusion
Becoming an OTA requires specialized education and training. Most states require an associate’s degree in occupational therapy assisting, which typically takes two years of full-time study to complete. After completing all of the educational requirements and fieldwork, the individual must pass the certification exam administered by the NBCOT. The exam typically takes two to three hours to complete. Once the individual passes the exam, they will receive a certification as an occupational therapy assistant, which must be renewed every two years.
