Science Courses:
* Anatomy & Physiology I & II: Crucial for understanding the human body's structure and function. Expect a significant time commitment and potentially lab components.
* Biology: A foundational course covering basic biological principles. Sometimes, a specific human biology course might be required.
* Chemistry: Generally, a foundational course is sufficient. Organic chemistry is *usually not* required for OTA programs.
* Microbiology: Understanding infection control is essential in healthcare settings.
Humanities and Social Sciences:
* Psychology: Understanding human behavior, development, and mental health is vital for working with patients.
* Sociology: This helps you understand the social context of illness and disability.
* Possibly other electives: Some programs may require additional humanities or social science courses to fulfill general education requirements.
OTA Specific Courses:
These are the core courses that will prepare you for the specific skills and knowledge needed as an OTA. The exact titles may differ, but the content will be similar:
* Occupational Therapy Assistant Practice: This is typically a series of courses covering the theoretical foundations of occupational therapy, assessment techniques, and intervention strategies. Expect a mix of classroom learning and potentially lab experiences simulating real-world scenarios.
* Therapeutic Modalities: You'll learn about various treatment techniques and equipment.
* Rehabilitation Techniques: Focuses on restoring function and improving independence.
* Clinical Practice: This involves fieldwork and supervised clinical experience in various settings (hospitals, schools, rehab centers, etc.). This is a crucial part of the program, often requiring several hundred hours.
* Medical Terminology: Essential for understanding medical records and communicating effectively with healthcare professionals.
* Ethics in Healthcare: Covers the ethical considerations and professional responsibilities of an OTA.
* Community Health: This might cover the social determinants of health and how they impact a patient's ability to participate in occupation.
Important Considerations:
* Program Prerequisites: Many OTA programs have prerequisites, such as a minimum GPA, specific science courses completed with a certain grade, and possibly a prerequisite course in psychology or human development. Check with the specific community college's OTA program for their precise requirements *before* you begin your coursework.
* Program Accreditation: Ensure the OTA program you choose is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE). This is essential for eligibility for national certification and licensure.
* Advising: Meet with an academic advisor at the community college to create an educational plan that aligns with the specific requirements of the OTA program you intend to apply to. They can help you sequence your courses effectively.
In summary, while the exact course names and sequence might vary, the core subjects listed above are fundamental to any OTA AAS program. Always check the specific program requirements of the community college you are considering attending. Their website or an advisor is your best resource for detailed information.