Undergraduate Occupational Therapy Assistant Degree
Work Toward Helping Individuals Gain Their Independence
Grand Canyon University offers those seeking employment in the occupational therapy field the opportunity to earn their degree through our on-campus OTA program. This degree presents graduates with the chance to qualify for entry into the occupational therapy field by completing a curriculum designed to meet the requirements for eligibility to sit for the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy’s (NBCOT) Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) exam.
As an occupational therapy assistant student, you will be taught to work with individuals who have emotional, developmental and physical disabilities through implementing research-based practices. As a graduate of this program, you will have been taught:
- Effective communication skills, both verbal and written, appropriate for various practice settings
- Critical thinking skills, which can aid you in selecting evidence-based strategies and interventions in a practice setting
- Leadership skills and best practices through your on-campus experiences, fieldwork and baccalaureate project
- Cultural humility and respect for those of different cultural, societal and personal values
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Take the Next Step With GCU’s OTA Degree
Throughout your program, you will have the opportunity to gain competence and a well-rounded knowledge base in occupational therapy assisting. GCU instills aspects of a Christian worldview in all our programs, helping you understand the importance of delivering ethical, respectable and holistic care to your patients. This also includes looking at client needs, restoration, and the physical, mental and spiritual betterment of the whole person. Graduates will advocate for the advancement of human flourishing.
You will have the opportunity to gain valuable skills and apply occupational therapy concepts and best practices through on-campus experiences, baccalaureate projects and your fieldwork requirements.
The OTA program courses are designed to cover different subject areas, including:
- Anatomy and physiology
- Lifespan development
- Kinesiology
- Medical terminology
- Clinical reasoning
- Evidence-based practices
- Abnormal psychology
- Mental health, geriatric and pediatric practice
- Leadership and management
- Physical and neurological rehab
Foundational Skills To Help Patients
As you work through the curriculum, you will have the opportunity to gain important skills necessary to the occupational therapy assistant profession. These skills include:
- Problem-solving
- Clinical reasoning
- Research
- Patient assessment
- Leadership and management
- Therapeutic and rehabilitation techniques
[Tuition, Fees and Financial Aid]
Online: $485 per credit
[Tuition, Fees and Financial Aid]
Cost of Attendance
Career Paths for OTA Degree Graduates
The goal of this bachelor’s program is to qualify you to work in the occupational therapy field as an occupational therapy assistant. Through studying the scientifically based academic and clinical curricula, you will be taught critical thinking and the application of best practices, allowing you to help others implement useful methods and techniques that can help them lead independent lives. As a graduate of this program, you will be eligible to take the NBCOT exam to become a certified OTA. This program can also be a path to the OT graduate program, as a master's degree is required to become an OT.
Pursue Your Undergraduate at an Accredited University
GCU is an institutionally accredited university, earning continuous accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission since 1968. We are proud to offer programs that meet the high standards established by our accreditor, allowing us to provide a quality education to all students.
The Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy Assistant program at GCU is an Applicant for Candidacy by the American Council on Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA), located at 6116 Executive Boulevard, Suite 200, Bethesda, Maryland, 20852-4929, ACOTE's telephone number is (301) 652-AOTA and its web address is www.acoteonline.org. The program must have a pre-accreditation review, complete an on-site evaluation, and be granted Accreditation Status before its graduates will be eligible to sit for the National Certification Examination for the Occupational Therapy Assistant administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT).
After successful completion of this exam, the individual will be a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA). An occupational therapy assistant is certified for three years. After three years, an occupational therapy assistant may apply for recertification by NBCOT. In addition, all states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico require licensure in order to practice; however, state licenses are usually based on the results of the NBCOT Certification Examination. Please refer to the AOTA State Licensure webpage. For more information on the certification exam, please contact NBCOT. Telephone: 301-990-7979, email: 'Info' info@nbcot.org. Note that a felony conviction may affect a graduate’s ability to sit for the NBCOT certification examination or attain state licensure.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re looking to positively impact people’s lives by becoming an OTA, read through some commonly asked questions to gain more insight into this career path and earning your degree.
Fill out the form on this page to learn more about earning your Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy Assistant degree at GCU.
1 Clinical, practicum and immersion hours completed locally.
General Education Requirements
General Education coursework prepares Grand Canyon University graduates to think critically, communicate clearly, live responsibly in a diverse world, and thoughtfully integrate their faith and ethical convictions into all dimensions of life. These competencies, essential to an effective and satisfying life, are outlined in the General Education Learner Outcomes. General Education courses embody the breadth of human understanding and creativity contained in the liberal arts and sciences tradition. Students take an array of foundational knowledge courses that promote expanded knowledge, insight, and the outcomes identified in the University's General Education Competencies. The knowledge and skills students acquire through these courses serve as a foundation for successful careers and lifelong journeys of growing understanding and wisdom.
Requirements
Upon completion of the Grand Canyon University's University Foundation experience, students will be able to demonstrate competency in the areas of academic skills and self-leadership. They will be able to articulate the range of resources available to assist them, explore career options related to their area of study, and have knowledge of Grand Canyon's community. Students will be able to demonstrate foundational academic success skills, explore GCU resources (CLA, Library, Career Center, ADA office, etc), articulate strategies of self-leadership and management and recognize opportunities to engage in the GCU community.
Course Options
- UNV-103, University Success: 4
- UNV-303, University Success: 4
- UNV-108, University Success in the College of Education: 4
Requirements
Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to construct rhetorically effective communications appropriate to diverse audiences, purposes, and occasions (English composition, communication, critical reading, foreign language, sign language, etc.). Students are required to take 3 credits of English grammar or composition.
Course Options
- UNV-104, 21st Century Skills: Communication and Information Literacy: 4
- ENG-105, English Composition I: 4
- ENG-106, English Composition II: 4
Requirements
Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to express aspects of Christian heritage and worldview. Students are required to take CWV-101/CWV-301.
Course Options
- CWV-101, Christian Worldview: 4
- CWV-301, Christian Worldview: 4
Requirements
Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to use various analytic and problem-solving skills to examine, evaluate, and/or challenge ideas and arguments (mathematics, biology, chemistry, physics, geology, astronomy, physical geography, ecology, economics, theology, logic, philosophy, technology, statistics, accounting, etc.). Students are required to take 3 credits of intermediate algebra or higher.
Course Options
- MAT-154, Applications of College Algebra: 4
- MAT-144, College Mathematics: 4
- PHI-105, 21st Century Skills: Critical Thinking and Problem Solving: 4
- BIO-220, Environmental Science: 4
Requirements
Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to demonstrate awareness and appreciation of and empathy for differences in arts and culture, values, experiences, historical perspectives, and other aspects of life (psychology, sociology, government, Christian studies, Bible, geography, anthropology, economics, political science, child and family studies, law, ethics, cross-cultural studies, history, art, music, dance, theater, applied arts, literature, health, etc.). If the predefined course is a part of the major, students need to take an additional course.
Course Options
- HIS-144, U.S. History Themes: 4
- PSY-102, General Psychology: 4
- SOC-100, Everyday Sociology: 4
Core Courses
Course Description
This course is the first in a two-course sequence examining the structure and function of the human body and mechanisms for maintaining homeostasis within it. This portion includes the study of cells; tissues; genetics; and the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems. Co-Requisite: BIO-201L.
Course Description
This course is a systematic study of human gross anatomy and function. Topics include the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems. Co-Requisite: BIO-201.
Course Description
This is a course in developmental psychology with emphasis on the physical, social, cognitive, personality, and moral developments within an individual. The course is designed to provide an understanding of the transitions of life from conception to death.
Course Description
This course is the second in a two-course sequence examining the structure and function of the human body and mechanisms for maintaining homeostasis within it. This portion includes the study of immunity; metabolism; energetics; fluid, electrolyte and acid-base balance; and the endocrine, hematologic, cardiovascular, lymphatic, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems. Prerequisites: BIO-201 and BIO-201L. Co-Requisite: BIO-202L.
Course Description
This course is a systematic study of human gross anatomy and function. Topics include the endocrine, cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, renal, and reproductive systems. Prerequisites: BIO-201 and BIO-201L. Co-Requisite: BIO-202.
Course Description
This course introduces concepts of occupation, practice framework, ethics, values, and the history and philosophy of occupational therapy practice. In this course, learners gain skills that are central to the practice of an occupational therapy assistant, including activity analysis, documentation, professional behaviors, and regulatory safety training. Prerequisites: PSY-102, BIO-201, BIO-201L, BIO-202, and BIO-202L.
Course Description
This course is an analysis of human movement, integrating knowledge of the skeletal, muscular, and neurological systems with the effects that gravity, friction, internal and external forces, and the laws of motion have on their functions. Topics include biomechanics of human bone, joint, and skeletal muscle; structure and function of the upper extremity, lower extremity, and spine; concepts of linear and angular kinematics and kinetics as applied to human motion; equilibrium and stability on land; and motion through a fluid medium of air or water. Also included is the application of these factors to various types of physical skills. Prerequisites: BIO-155 and BIO-155L, or BIO-201 and BIO-201L, or BIO-210 and BIO-210L. Co-Requisite: EXS-335L.
Course Description
This laboratory course is designed to apply the anatomical, kinesiological, and biomechanical principles learned in the lecture course to human body movement. Movement of all of the major joints of the body is analyzed by relative and absolute joint position and muscle action, and biomechanical terms such as linear and angular kinematics, friction, work, power, energy, and torque are applied to human motion. Prerequisites: BIO-155 and BIO-155L, or BIO-201 and BIO-201L, or BIO-210 and BIO-210L. Co-Requisite: EXS-335.
Course Description
This course covers the language of medicine that will be used as a foundation for understanding upper level undergraduate and graduate level courses to follow. It will include pronunciation, definition, usage and origins of medical terms. Medical terms presented will be used to identify signs, symptoms, diagnoses, and treatment options for selected pathologies. With these skills the student will be able to effectively interpret and communicate in a healthcare setting. Prerequisite: BIO-192 or BIO-202 or BIO-211 or BIO-364.
Course Description
In this course, learners learn about the different types of clinical reasoning and the steps involved in sound clinical decision-making. This course teaches learners how to analyze the clinical decision-making process and to plan and implement occupational and evidence-based treatment plans. This course enables learners to understand how to be reflective practitioners and assess the effectiveness of their intervention approaches. Prerequisites: OTH-100 and admission to the Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy Assistant program.
Course Description
In this writing-intensive course, learners are introduced to basic research concepts and develop skills for becoming an effective evidence-based practitioner in a rapidly changing society. This course focuses on developing a PICO question, understanding levels of evidence, developing effective search strategies, and evaluating evidence to provide the most effective treatment interventions to clients. Learners gain understanding on how evidence-based practice supports client-centered care and supports advocacy of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Learners examine how to be consumers of and contributors to evidence-based practice as OTA practitioners. Prerequisites: OTH-100 and admission to the Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy Assistant program.
Course Description
This is a writing intensive foundation course in the science of abnormal behavior that offers students the opportunity to study the origin and development of abnormal patterns and disorders. This course is designed to assist students in recognizing and understanding mental illness through increased awareness of emotional, functional, and physiological factors influencing mental health. Specific topics include symptoms, diagnoses, etiology, epidemiology, and treatment of various psychological disorders and syndromes.
Course Description
This course examines concepts, theories, and models influencing occupational therapy practice for individuals, groups, and communities across the life span with psychosocial dysfunction. Mental health conditions are discussed, including signs, symptoms, risk factors, and medical management, as well as their effects on meaningful occupation and the role of the occupational therapy assistant in providing interventions. Concepts introduced include therapeutic use of self, client-centered care, advocacy, and group interventions. Learners are required to participate in a Level I on-site fieldwork experience. Practicum/field experience hours: 32. Prerequisites: OTH-100 and admission to the Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy Assistant program. Co-Requisite: OTH-320CE.
Course Description
In this course, learners attend an on-campus experience to participate in simulations and hands-on learning related to the variety of concepts, theories, and models influencing occupational therapy practice for individuals, groups, and communities across the life span with psychosocial dysfunction. Learners provide interventions in simulation labs. Concepts introduced include therapeutic use of self, client-centered care, advocacy, and group interventions. Prerequisites: OTH-100 and admission to the Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy Assistant program. Co-Requisite: OTH-320.
Course Description
This course examines basic management, leadership, and professional development responsibilities of the occupational therapy assistant. Business aspects of the profession are discussed, including billing, ethics, conflict, and quality management. Additional topics include supervisory relationships, the roles and functions of regulatory agencies, ongoing professional development, and the role of the occupational therapy assistant as manager or entrepreneur. Prerequisites: OTH-320 and OTH-320CE.
Course Description
This course examines the processes of aging within cultural, social, demographic, and economic contexts and explores the role of the occupational therapy assistant in working with the aging population. Students develop a better understanding of geriatric conditions and their impact on occupational performance and use client-centered intervention techniques to modify daily occupational tasks through environmental assessments, adaptation, and health promotion. This course provides exploration of dementia care, low vision, self-feeding, driving, home modifications, wheelchair positioning and maintenance, instrumental activities of daily living (IADL), and fall prevention. Students are required to participate in a Level I on-site fieldwork experience. Practicum/field experience hours: 32. Prerequisites: OTH-320 and OTH-320CE. Co-Requisites: OTH-370 and OTH-370CE.
Course Description
This course examines the theories and models of practice used in occupational therapy for people, groups, and populations with physical disabilities, including orthopedic, cardiac, pulmonary, and common medical conditions. Observation skills, problem-solving, critical-thinking, treatment techniques, and documentation are practiced through case studies, laboratory activities, examinations, and discussion. This course provides exploration of assistive technology, modalities, work hardening, ADA compliance, hand injuries, body mechanics, transfers, pain management, and adaptive equipment. Prerequisites: OTH-320 and OTH-320CE. Co-Requisites: OTH-360 and OTH-370CE.
Course Description
In this course, learners attend an on-campus experience to participate in simulations and hands-on learning related to the variety of theories and models of practice used in occupational therapy. Learners implement evidence-based assessments and interventions focusing on adults and older adults. Learners explore concepts such as activities of daily living (ADL), instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) interventions, contraindications and precautions, orthopedic assessments and interventions, and ADA compliance. Prerequisites: OTH-320 and OTH-320CE. Co-Requisites: OTH-360 and OTH-370.
Course Description
This course explores common pediatric conditions and their impact on occupational performance, as well as the theories and models of practice used in occupational therapy for infants, children, and adolescents. Learners apply client-centered, occupational, and evidence-based interventions for pediatric clients addressing motor, sensory, and process challenges. Learners design unique interventions specific to children and adolescents, including approaches for handwriting, eating, animal-assisted therapy, and adaptive technology to ensure equity and inclusion. Learners are required to participate in a Level I on-site fieldwork experience. Practicum/field experience hours: 32. Prerequisites: OTH-370 and OTH-370CE. Co-Requisites: OTH-410 and OTH-410CE.
Course Description
This course examines the theories and models of practice used in occupational therapy intervention for clients with neurological disabilities, such as CVA, SCI, TBI, and neurodegenerative conditions. This course provides exploration of vision therapy, splinting, and cognitive and perceptual treatments. Students discuss etiology, signs/symptoms, and prognoses of various neurologic conditions, and implement a plan of care under the supervision of an occupational therapist that focuses on fostering independence and participation in meaningful occupations. Prerequisites: OTH-370 and OTH-370CE. Co-Requisites: OTH-400 and OTH-410CE.
Course Description
In this course, students attend an on-campus experience to participate in simulations and hands-on learning related to the variety of theories and models of practice used in occupational therapy. Students implement evidence-based assessments and interventions focusing on infants, children, adolescents, and patients with neurological disabilities and neurodegenerative conditions. Prerequisites: OTH-370 and OTH-370CE. Co-Requisites: OTH-400 and OTH-410.
Course Description
This course covers concepts and skills for the competent entry-level occupational therapy assistant. Topics include advocacy, management, and regulations. Additionally, students examine the knowledge and skills necessary to work in emerging practice areas, such as primary care and community-based programs, and learn about occupational injustice in health care systems. Prerequisites: OTH-370 and OTH-370CE.
Course Description
This course provides an in-depth learning experience in one or more of the following areas: clinical practice skills, administration, leadership, advocacy, and education. The course is founded on an individual or group project, which allows students to demonstrate application of evidence-based research and knowledge gained throughout the Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy Assistant program. The course provides students with the opportunity to study an area of interest in depth. In this course, students work with an assigned faculty advisor to create specific project objectives that will be applied in the second Baccalaureate Project course. Prerequisites: OTH-370 and OTH-370CE. Prerequisite: OTH-370 and OTH-370CE.
Course Description
This course builds upon the first Baccalaureate Project course. Students continue to work with their assigned faculty advisor as they further study their area of interest in depth and work toward meeting the objectives of their individual or group project. The course culminates with students presenting a report of the project in which they demonstrate application of evidence-based research and knowledge gained throughout the Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy Assistant program. The second half of the course provides preparation for the NBCOT exam. Students practice reading, interpreting, and answering questions like those on the COTA exam to help assess individual strengths and weaknesses. Prerequisite: OTH-440.
Course Description
In this course, students must complete two 8-week, full-time, in-depth fieldwork opportunities to carry out professional responsibilities under the supervision of qualified occupational therapy practitioners serving as role models. Students apply occupational therapy theory, research, assessments, treatment interventions, and evidence-based practice in the clinical or community setting to address physical and psychosocial factors. Students demonstrate and apply entry-level occupational therapy assistant skills with increasing responsibility and less direct oversight as they demonstrate greater competency. Practicum/field experience hours: 560. Prerequisites: OTH-400, OTH-410 and OTH-410CE.
- GCU cannot and will not promise job placement, a job, graduate school placement, transfer of GCU program credits to another institution, promotion, salary, or salary increase. Please see the Career Services Policy in the University Policy Handbook.
- Please note that this list may contain programs and courses not presently offered, as availability may vary depending on class size, enrollment and other contributing factors. If you are interested in a program or course listed herein please first contact your University Counselor for the most current information regarding availability.
- Please refer to the Academic Catalog for more information. Programs or courses subject to change
Join Grand Canyon University’s vibrant and growing campus community, with daytime classes designed for traditional students. Immerse yourself in a full undergraduate experience, complete with curriculum designed within the context of our Christian worldview.
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