As an occupational therapist (OT), you have the chance to make a difference in people’s lives. But before you start practicing, you’ll have to complete the required educational path.

Occupational therapy school entails preparation, dedication, and a considerable time commitment. All this hard work pays off for those who become licensed OT, but it’s important to be aware of these steps before entering the profession.

This guide breaks down everything—from answering simple questions like ”How long is OT school?” to the different phases of OT school and their prerequisites, different OT programs, and fieldwork experience requirements. After reading, you’ll know how long OT school is and what to expect in terms of time investment.

The 3 Phases of Occupational Therapy Education

How long is occupational therapy school? The answer depends on how long it takes you to complete the three key phases of OT education:

• Bachelor’s degree
• Master’s degree
• Certification and licensing

Some students finish faster than others—it all depends on the time commitment you can make and your academic pace. Let’s explore each step.

Prerequisites and Undergraduate Studies

It’s very common for prospective occupational therapists to earn a relevant undergraduate degree in a different subject, as many institutions don’t offer a bachelor’s in occupational therapy. Bachelor’s degrees that set up students for a future in OT include biology, psychology, health science, sports science, and education.

Common prerequisites typically needed before entering OT school, such as those required by Alliant International University, include:

• Statistics
• Social science
• Abnormal psychology
• Human anatomy and physiology
• Medical terminology

When selecting classes, make sure that your undergraduate studies fulfill the coursework requirements needed to pursue a master’s degree.

Duration of OT Programs (Associate, Bachelor's, Master's)

A Master in Occupational Therapy (MOT) is the final step in your educational journey—but what comes first?

• Associate’s degree – An associate’s degree is sufficient for becoming an occupational therapy assistant. This degree typically takes 2 years.
• Bachelor’s degree – In order to get an MOT, you must first complete a bachelor’s. Undergraduate degrees typically take 4 years.
• Master’s degree (MOT) – Completing an MOT program is required to become a licensed occupational therapist in the United States. This program typically takes 2-3 years.

Based on this timeline, it could take four to six years to become a registered occupational therapist. Becoming an OT assistant requires a shorter time commitment.¹

Additional Certification and Licensing Requirements

After completing an occupational therapy program, you will need to take a certification exam before you can start practicing. The NBCOT® Certification Examination is the national qualification for practicing occupational therapy in the US.

Some states also require a criminal background check, official transcript, or letters of recommendation alongside a state license application.²

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Factors That Influence the Length of OT School

All academic timelines provide rough estimates of how long an OT program will take. Of course, there are many factors that could shorten or lengthen your educational journey, such as:

• Admission requirements – Each institution has its own admission requirements, including prerequisites and timelines for clinical rotations.
• Full-time vs. part-time study options – If going to school is your full-time job, you will finish faster than a student who works on the side or only takes night classes.
• Accelerated and bridge programs – If you are already a certified occupational therapy assistant, an accelerated program combines a bachelor’s and master’s into one bridge occupational therapy degree, in which you graduate with an MOT. This takes two to three years.
• Internship and fieldwork requirements – All MOT programs include hourly fieldwork experience requirements. The MOT program at Alliant builds clinical rotations into the curriculum to prepare students.
• Specialty certifications in occupational therapy – An MOT program graduates generalists, but if you'd like to pursue a specific specialty, it requires extra time. Depending on the specific area of OT you want to focus on, you may choose to pursue additional specialty certifications in occupational therapy. For instance, those interested in pediatric occupational therapy or want to learn more about occupational therapy and mental health might pursue specialized coursework or certifications in that field.

Planning Your Educational Journey in OT

Before starting your academic career, create a realistic timeline for completing OT school based on personal commitments, side jobs, and career goals. It’s important to consider how the demands of school can impact other areas of your life.

Prepare for a Rewarding Career in OT with Alliant

The length of OT school can greatly vary. Keep in mind how personal commitments, career goals, and former studies will impact your road to an MOT and eventual license. Considering all the factors in this guide will help you make successful and informed decisions.

Jumpstart your career with a Master of Occupational Therapy at Alliant. Our dynamic hybrid program combines online learning, on-campus classes, and fieldwork placements that prepare students with the skills and knowledge for a thriving career in occupational therapy. This 2-year degree prioritizes a client-centered model of practice, with creative treatment options, culturally conscious training, and specialized curricula.

Request information today to get in touch with our admissions team.

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Sources: 

1. “Program admissions criteria and formats.” American Occupational Therapy Association. 2024. https://www.aota.org/career/become-an-ot-ota/start-your-career-journey/…. Accessed September 18, 2024. 
2. “Learn the steps to licensure.” American Occupational Therapy Association. 2024. https://www.aota.org/career/state-licensure/learn-the-steps-to-licensure. Accessed September 18, 2024.