Find Your Perfect Program:
More Academic Opportunities Available for Occupational Therapy Students
By Catherine Groux
Posted December 29, 2011 03:06 PM
Although it is a lesser-known sector of the healthcare industry, there is a growing demand for professionals who work in the occupational therapy (OT) field. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of jobs in this area is expected to increase by about 26% through 2018.
In order to prepare more individuals to enter this fast-growing field, colleges and universities across the country are launching new OT degree programs. For instance, beginning in the fall 2012 semester, students will be able to earn an associate's degree in OT at Penn State University's Shenango campus, the Business Journal Daily reports. This course of study will be identical to that offered by the university's DuBois, Mont Alto and Berks campuses.
Additionally,
There are many program options for students who wish to become occupational therapists. Georgia's Chattahoochee Technical College recently welcomed its first class of 12 students to the OT assistant program that was launched last month, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports. These students will earn an associate's degree at the end of the five-semester program.
Officials from the school said they have seen many younger students as well as career changers enroll in the new program. Additionally, the course of study attracts those who have earned an allied health degree in other subjects, like physical fitness, and want to enhance their skills.
