COURSE DESCRIPTIONS: CAREER/TECHNICAL DISCIPLINES
OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY ASSISTANT (OTA)
CIP CODE: 51.0803
Title: Occupational Therapist Assistant.
Definition: A program that prepares individuals, under the supervision of occupational
therapists, to direct patient participation in skill-enhancing, learning, and motivational tasks;
correct or diminish pathologies; and to provide direct health education and promotion services.
Includes instruction in human life span development, occupational therapy principles and
practice skills, treatment planning and implementation, record-keeping and documentation,
patient education and intervention, activity and program direction, and assistive services
management.
DRAFT 01/09/12
This course directory has been reviewed by the OTA Curriculum
Committee and is approved for use. It must be implemented no later than
??????
Date
CRS #
SUMMARY OF CHANGES
COURSE TITLE
RECENT CHANGES
Mm/dd/yy
COMMENTS:
ACCS Copyright© 2012
All rights reserved
1
Occupational Therapy Assistant Course Directory
DPT
CODE
CRS
#
COURSE TITLE
OTA
200
OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY
FUNDAMENTALS
THEORY
3
Course Description
PREREQUISITE: As required by program.
CREDIT HOURS
LAB
COURSE
0
Updated
3
Mm/dd/yy
This course introduces the origin of occupational therapy, roles of practioners, the history of AOTA, and
the philosophy of the profession. Topics include ethics, communication skills, the occupational therapy
process, uniform terminology, occupational performance model, frames of reference, overview of the
healthcare system and other related topics. Upon completion, students should have a foundation of
theory, concepts, roles and functions of occupational therapy on which to build clinical knowledge and
skills. CORE
DPT
CODE
OTA
CRS
#
COURSE TITLE
205
PRACTICAL ANATOMY AND
KINESIOLOGY
THEORY
2
CREDIT HOURS
LAB
COURSE
2
Updated
Course Description
PREREQUISITE: As required by program.
4
Mm/dd/yy
This is an in-depth theory and laboratory course emphasizing function and movement of the upper body.
Theory stresses skeletal landmarks, muscle origins, insertions, functions and innervations of the upper
body while laboratory develops skills in palpation of bony landmarks, range of motion, goniometry, gross
manual muscle testing and basic transfer skills. Upon completion, students should be able to transfer a
patient, measure all joint motions and major muscle strength of the upper body, and range joints through
all applicable phases of movement. CORE
DPT
CODE
CRS
#
COURSE TITLE
OTA
208
DEVELOPMENT ACROSS THE LIFE
SPAN
Course Description
PREREQUISITE: As required by program.
THEORY
2
CREDIT HOURS
LAB
COURSE
1
Updated
3
Mm/dd/yy
This course is a study of the sensorimotor, cognitive, and psychosocial factors of human development
across the life span for OTA programs that do not require PSY 210 or equivalent. Emphasis is on both
normal and abnormal development from conception to death, with labs providing opportunities to develop
basic patient observation and interaction skills. Upon completion, students should be able to describe the
sequence of developmental milestones, and demonstrate skills in observation and interviews of patients
and families.
ACCS Copyright© 2012
All rights reserved
2
Occupational Therapy Assistant Course Directory
DPT
CODE
CRS
#
COURSE TITLE
OTA
210
PURPOSEFUL ACTIVITY
THEORY
1
Course Description
PREREQUISITE: As required by program.
CREDIT HOURS
LAB
COURSE
1
Updated
2
Mm/dd/yy
This course provides students with fundamental knowledge of purposeful activity and how activity is used
in assessment and therapeutic intervention of persons served by the occupational therapy practitioner.
Lecture and laboratory experiences emphasize the importance of human occupation (i.e., crafts,
computer technology, ADL, work, school, play and leisure) across the life span in promoting and restoring
mental and physical health and well-being. Upon completion, students should be able to identify and
appreciate a variety of purposeful activities used in assessment and treatment of pediatric, adolescent
and adult populations with physical or psychosocial dysfunction. CORE
DPT
CODE
CRS
#
COURSE TITLE
OTA
211
ACTIVITY ANALYSIS
THEORY
1
CREDIT HOURS
LAB
COURSE
1
Updated
Course Description
PREREQUISITE: As required by program.
2
Mm/dd/yy
This course develops skills in reasoning, analysis and problem-solving related to the appropriate
selection of therapeutic activities. Focus will be on identification of performance components, ways of
adapting and grading purposeful activities across the life span, along with the development of skill and
proficiency in activity analysis. Upon completion, students should be able to describe, analyze and
document the use of activities in the practice of occupational therapy. CORE
DPT
CODE
CRS
#
COURSE TITLE
OTA
220
REFERRAL AND ASSESSMENT
TECHNIQUES
Course Description
PREREQUISITE: As required by program.
THEORY
2
CREDIT HOURS
LAB
COURSE
1
Updated
3
Mm/dd/yy
This course presents skills and procedures utilized in the initial phase of the occupational therapy
process. Lecture emphasis is on the COTA's role in referral, data collection, evaluation, and
interpretation, while laboratory experiences focus on the familiarization with standardized tests and
screening procedures and the relationship to performance areas and components. Upon completion,
students should be able to collect pertinent data, administer basic standardized tests or screenings, and
collaborate with a registered occupational therapist in evaluation and interpretation of results. CORE
ACCS Copyright© 2012
All rights reserved
3
Occupational Therapy Assistant Course Directory
DPT
CODE
OTA
CRS
#
COURSE TITLE
221
DOCUMENTATION FOR THE OTAS
AND COTA
THEORY
2
Course Description
PREREQUISITE: As required by program.
CREDIT HOURS
LAB
COURSE
0
Updated
2
Mm/dd/yy
This course includes an introduction to current forms of documentation within the profession, and
provides in-depth study and practice of effective documentation skills. Emphasis is placed on recognizing
basic technical requirements, writing treatment goals and objectives, utilization of approved terminology
and abbreviations, the COTA role in documentation and/or computer technology in documentation. Upon
completion, students should be able to effectively write an initial note, progress note and discharge
summary incorporating basic technical requirements currently recognized within the profession. CORE
DPT
CODE
CRS
#
COURSE TITLE
OTA
222
TREATMENT PLANNING AND
IMPLEMENTATION
THEORY
2
CREDIT HOURS
LAB
COURSE
2
Updated
Course Description
PREREQUISITE: As required by program.
4
Mm/dd/yy
This course develops knowledge and skills necessary for the COTA's role in planning and implementing
treatment. Emphasis is on design and implementation of treatment plans utilizing appropriate purposeful
activities, therapeutic exercise, physical agent modalities, adaptive equipment, enhanced patient transfer
skills and facilitating techniques. Upon completion, student should be able to design and implement an
individualized treatment plan incorporating appropriate adjunct, enabling and purposeful activities and
demonstrate a variety of patient transfer techniques. CORE
DPT
CODE
CRS
#
COURSE TITLE
OTA
223
PROFESSIONAL SKILLS
DEVELOPMENT
Course Description
PREREQUISITE: As required by program.
THEORY
3
CREDIT HOURS
LAB
COURSE
0
Updated
3
Mm/dd/yy
This course includes the final phase of the occupational therapy process and promotion of the profession.
Topics include the role of the COTA in discharge planning, reassessment, home program planning and
equipment dispensing. Upon completion, students should be able to present an in-service, design an
activity program and/or prepare a home program. CORE
ACCS Copyright© 2012
All rights reserved
4
Occupational Therapy Assistant Course Directory
DPT
CODE
OTA
CRS
#
COURSE TITLE
224
SERVICE OPERATIONS
MANAGEMENT
THEORY
3
Course Description
PREREQUISITE: As required by program.
CREDIT HOURS
LAB
COURSE
0
Updated
3
Mm/dd/yy
This course introduces the student to administration, credentialing and employment opportunities and
skills. Topics include: computer usage, scheduling, staffing, supervision, budgeting, inventory and
purchase of equipment, work setting safety/maintenance, reimbursement, program evaluation, quality
assurance, licensure/certification, malpractice and research. Upon completion, students should be able to
design a treatment schedule, order supplies, recognize safety/maintenance requirements, complete a
resume' and cover letter, describe licensure and certification requirements, and recognize all levels of
supervisory requirements. CORE
DPT
CODE
CRS
#
COURSE TITLE
OTA
230
THE PSYCHIATRIC ENVIRONMENT
AND O.T.
THEORY
2
CREDIT HOURS
LAB
COURSE
0
Updated
Course Description
PREREQUISITE: As required by program.
2
Mm/dd/yy
This course is a study of abnormal behavior and related disorders commonly seen in occupational
therapy. It focuses on causes, theory, evaluation and treatment techniques used in the field, therapeutic
use of self, communication skills, leadership styles, and an introduction to group techniques and media
activities. Upon completion, students should be able to recognize practice models and settings in the
mental health field, understand diagnostic and statistical manuals, communicate with and respond to
psychiatric patients. CORE
DPT
CODE
CRS
#
COURSE TITLE
OTA
231
GROUP PROCESS IN O.T
Course Description
PREREQUISITE: As required by program.
THEORY
1
CREDIT HOURS
LAB
COURSE
0
Updated
1
Mm/dd/yy
This course provides the student with the basic dynamics of the group process and develops strong
observation skills. Participation in group activities promotes development of therapeutic use of self,
problem-solving, leadership and communication skills. Upon completion, students should be able to lead
and adapt a therapeutic group, recognize roles of various group members, identify community resources
and perform program evaluation. CORE
ACCS Copyright© 2012
All rights reserved
5
Occupational Therapy Assistant Course Directory
DPT
CODE
CRS
#
COURSE TITLE
OTA
240
MEDICAL CONDITIONS IN O.T.
THEORY
3
Course Description
PREREQUISITE: As required by program.
CREDIT HOURS
LAB
COURSE
0
Updated
3
Mm/dd/yy
This course presents conditions across the life span seen in occupational therapy settings. The emphasis
is on neurophysiological and anatomical changes, direct implication for function, common assessment
and treatment approaches, and the impact on psychological needs, cultural differences and role
performance. Upon completion, students should be able to describe currently recognized occupational
therapy assessment and treatment protocols for a variety of medical conditions. CORE
DPT
CODE
CRS
#
COURSE TITLE
OTA
245
SPLINTING
THEORY
0
Course Description
PREREQUISITE: As required by program.
CREDIT HOURS
LAB
COURSE
2
Updated
2
Mm/dd/yy
This clinical practice course develops critical thinking and problem solving skills in the actual production
of hand splints utilizing current technology and theory. Emphasis is on production techniques and
application of splinting to prevent deformities, facilitate function and promote recovery from injury or
illness. Upon completion, students should be able to fabricate a hand splint, identify commonly
prescribed splints, design a wear schedule, recognize cautions and precautions, teach patient care of a
splint and describe the purposes of splints. CORE
DPT
CODE
CRS
#
COURSE TITLE
OTA
250
LEVEL I FIELDWORK - A
Course Description
PREREQUISITE: As required by program.
THEORY
0
CREDIT HOURS
CLINICAL
COURSE
1
Updated
1
Mm/dd/yy
This course is designed to enrich the student's observation and professional interaction skills within a
structured, supervised practicum. The student will be supervised by qualified personnel to include, but
not limited to: occupational therapy practitioners initially certified nationally, psychologists, physician
assistants, teachers, social workers, nurses and physical therapists (Section B.9.0.) Upon completion,
students should be able to successfully communicate with allied health professionals and present
observed behaviors of an assigned population, in a professional oral and/or written manner. CORE
ACCS Copyright© 2012
All rights reserved
6
Occupational Therapy Assistant Course Directory
DPT
CODE
CRS
#
COURSE TITLE
OTA
251
LEVEL I FIELDWORK - B
THEORY
0
Course Description
PREREQUISITE: As required by program.
CREDIT HOURS
CLINICAL
COURSE
1
Updated
1
Mm/dd/yy
This course provides opportunity to perform selected procedures under direct supervision. Observation
and professional interactions skills are strengthened under supervision of the following qualified
personnel to include, but not limited to: occupational therapy practitioners initially certified nationally,
psychologists, physician assistants, teachers, social workers, nurses and physical therapists (Section
B.9.0). Upon completion, students should be able to collect and present pertinent data in a professional
manner, effectively communicate with allied health professionals, and interact with assigned populations.
CORE
DPT
CODE
CRS
#
COURSE TITLE
OTA
252
LEVEL II FIELDWORK - A
THEORY
0
CREDIT HOURS
CLINICAL
COURSE
4
Updated
Course Description
PREREQUISITE: As required by program.
4
Mm/dd/yy
This course is designed to provide the student with full-time, in-depth fieldwork experience which
enhances and develops clinical skills and knowledge with patients across the life span. The student will
be supervised by experienced OTRs and/or COTAs in physical or psychosocial dysfunction settings.
Upon completion, students should be able to satisfactorily demonstrate entry-level clinical skills as
indicated on the AOTA Fieldwork Evaluation Form for Occupational Therapy Assistant Students. CORE
DPT
CODE
CRS
#
COURSE TITLE
OTA
253
LEVEL II FIELDWORK – B
Course Description
PREREQUISITE: As required by program.
THEORY
0
CREDIT HOURS
CLINICAL
COURSE
4
Updated
4
Mm/dd/yy
This course, combined with OTA 252, completes a minimum of 16 weeks full-time accreditation
requirement for Level II Fieldwork. Settings are chosen to compliment learning experiences from
previous Level I and II experiences and continues to develop clinical skills and knowledge under
supervision of an experienced OTR and/or COTA. Upon completion, students should be able to
successfully demonstrate a majority of entry-level clinical skills as indicated on the AOTA Fieldwork
Evaluation Form for Occupational Therapy Assistant Students. CORE
ACCS Copyright© 2012
All rights reserved
7
Occupational Therapy Assistant Course Directory
DPT
CODE
CRS
#
COURSE TITLE
OTA
260
OTA REVIEW SEMINAR
THEORY
1
Course Description
PREREQUISITE: As required by program.
CREDIT HOURS
LAB
COURSE
0
Updated
1
Mm/dd/yy
This course is designed as an intensive review of the curriculum content in preparation for entry into the
work environment. Content includes preparation for and taking of a mock certification examination,
overview of the occupational therapy process, and procedures for certification and licensure. Upon
completion, students should be able to obtain a passing score (70%) on the mock certification
examination and be aware of application requirements for licensure and certification for practice. CORE
DPT
CODE
CRS
#
COURSE TITLE
OTA
261
SPECIAL TOPICS IN O.T.
THEORY
2
Course Description
PREREQUISITE: As required by program.
CREDIT HOURS
LAB
COURSE
0
Updated
2
Mm/dd/yy
This OTA elective course includes specialized study of current topics and issues in the occupational
therapy profession. This is designed to provide more in-depth coverage of topics introduced elsewhere in
the curriculum. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate knowledge of presented topics
through discussion, report writing, obtaining a successful (70%) score on an examination, and/or physical
application of a skill.
DPT
CODE
CRS
#
COURSE TITLE
OTA
262
ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY IN O.T.
Course Description
PREREQUISITE: As required by program.
THEORY
1
CREDIT HOURS
LAB
COURSE
1
Updated
2
Mm/dd/yy
This is an OTA elective course designed to meet the computer science requirement when an OTA
program does not require a computer science competency test or integrate Area III topics throughout the
curriculum. Focus is on introduction to and application of computer technology with disabled individuals
across the life span. Upon completion, students should be able to identify components of assistive
technology, recognize ways of adapting existing technology to meet specific patient needs and the
current systems commonly utilized in the occupational therapy profession.
ACCS Copyright© 2012
All rights reserved
8
Occupational Therapy Assistant Course Directory
DPT
CODE
OTA
CRS
#
COURSE TITLE
263
INTRODUCTION TO PHYSICAL
AGENT MODALITIES
THEORY
1
Course Description
PREREQUISITE: As required by program.
CREDIT HOURS
LAB
COURSE
1
Updated
2
Mm/dd/yy
This OTA elective course is designed to introduce a more concentrated level of instruction in physical
agent modalities based on the entry-level clinical skills requirements of OTA students during Level II
Fieldwork assignments. Focus is on the use of physical agent modalities as an adjunct therapy within the
occupational therapy process. Upon completion, students should be able to recognize the theories,
principles and therapeutic uses of physical agent modalities within the occupational therapy profession.
DPT
CODE
CRS
#
COURSE TITLE
THEORY
CREDIT HOURS
LAB
COURSE
OTA
Course Description
PREREQUISITE: As required by program.
DPT
CODE
CRS
#
COURSE TITLE
Updated
THEORY
Mm/dd/yy
CREDIT HOURS
LAB
COURSE
OTA
Course Description
PREREQUISITE: As required by program.
ACCS Copyright© 2012
All rights reserved
Updated
Mm/dd/yy
9