Upcoming OTA Info Session OTA Application Program Expectations
Fall 2025 OTA applications are now being accepted.
Prerequisite courses for the OTA application have now been added. Please see the Program Admission section below for details.
Watch additional videos about the OTA Program at RCC.
Why Study Occupational Therapy?
Do you want to make a difference in the lives of individuals facing challenges due to life circumstance, illness, injury or disability?
Do you like to be creative, solve problems or be physically active?
Are you looking for a challenging and rewarding career with an excellent job outlook?
If yes, then a career as an Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) could be for you.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics the job prospects for Occupational Therapy Assistants is excellent with a projected growth of 25% from 2021- 2031.
US News ranked OTA as #19 on the 100 Best Jobs in the US. Occupational Therapy Assistants (OTA) work with people to improve their ability to participate in the daily activities they want and need to do. OTA sessions focus on what is meaningful and valuable to a given patient. Daily life activities (occupations) are used during treatment sessions to promote health, well-being and participation in life.
Occupational Therapy Assistants work with people of all ages and in many different settings such as public schools, hospitals, outpatient clinics, home health care and mental health programs.
OTAs are trained to intervene with all ages and in all settings but once working, an OTA can choose a specialty or change their specialty to meet their career needs.
OTAs work under the supervision of an Occupational Therapist and are licensed health care providers in NY and NJ.
Sixteen weeks of fulltime clinical fieldwork prepares students to be “Real World Ready” upon finishing the program.
Learn more about careers in occupational therapy at Why Choose OT?
Why Choose RCC?
VALUE – Affordable, nationally accredited program with small class sizes. Financial aid and scholarships available to both full and part-time students.
OTA Program Cost
| Current Cost | OTA Program 2025-2026 Full-Time Semester | OTA Program 2025-2026 Part-Time Per Credit | Total Program Cost 2025-2026 4 semesters and Fieldwork A/B |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition – NYS Residents with Certificate of Residency, Out of State Residents, F1 Visa Students * | $2,832.00 | $236.00 per credit | $13,688.00 |
| Tuition – NYS Residents Living Outside Rockland County Without Certificate of Residency | $5,664.00 | $472.00 per credit | $27,376.00 |
| Student Activities Fees | $100.00 per semester | $6.00 per credit | $460.00 |
| Liability Insurance** | $13.50 per course** | $13.50 per course** | $121.50 |
| Technology Fee | $25.00 per credit | $25.00 per credit | $1,600.00 |
| Books & Supplies | Full-Time 15-16 credit hour load approx. $700 | Part-Time 7-8 credit hour load approx. $350 | $2,800.00 |
Total Program Cost 2025-2026: 4 semesters and Fieldwork A/B, including Student Activities Fees, Liability Insurance, Technology Fee and Books & Supplies:
- NYS Residents with Certificate of Residency, Out of State Residents, F1 Visa Students *: $18,669.50
- NYS Residents Living Outside Rockland County Without Certificate of Residency: $32,357.50
*Rockland County Residents, NYS Residents Living Outside Rockland County with a Certificate of Residency, Out of State Residents and F1 Visa International Students.
Fall and Spring Only: Out of State Residents will be charged an additional $10 per credit up to $150 per semester for the capital chargeback revenue fee.
**Minimum of 9 OCC core courses (courses designated OCC)
PLEASE NOTE: TUITION, FEES AND COSTS FOR BOOKS AND SUPPLIES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE.
***Tuition and fees effective Fall 2025
FLEXIBLE – Both full-time and part time schedules are available to accommodate work, family and other commitments. On campus childcare is available.
PRACTICAL EXPERIENCE – Hands on learning experiences are provided throughout the program in the OT labs, and in diverse community and in OT practice settings.
DEDICATED FACULTY – Highly skilled and experienced faculty from all areas of practice. Free learning support offered for all classes.
PROVEN RESULTS – RCC students perform exceptionally well on the National OTA Certification Examination.
| Year | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 | 2021 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| % passing exam | 100% | 100% | 100% | 96% |
Program results from the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy can be found online at: https://www.nbcot.org/Educators-Folder/SchoolPerformance
NBCOT
One Bank Street, *Suite 300
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
301-990-7979
Accreditation
*The OTA Program was awarded ACOTE Accreditation with Conditions for a period of 10 years from 2023/2024 to 2033/2034.
The Occupational Therapy Assistant Program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA), located at 7501 Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 510E, Bethesda, MD 20814. ACOTE’s telephone number, c/o AOTA, is 301-652-6611. (www.acoteonline.org)
Certification
Graduates of the program are prepared to sit for the national certification examination for the occupational therapy assistant administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). https://www.nbcot.org
After successful completion of this exam, the individual will be a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA).
Licensure
In addition to national certification, New York State, New Jersey and most other states, require licensure in order to practice occupational therapy. Individuals who have successfully completed the National Certification Examination are qualified to become licensed as an occupational therapy assistant.
https://www.op.nysed.gov/occupational-therapy-assistants
Graduates
100% of graduates responding to our survey in 2020 – 2022 were employed following completion of the OTA program and the certification examination.
OTA Graduation Rates
The total number of graduates from the OTA program at Rockland Community College during the 3-year period of 2022-2024 was 32 with an overall graduation rate of 55%.
| Graduation Year | Students Graduating | Graduation Rate |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 18 | 53% |
| 2023 | 7 | 48% |
| 2024 | 7 | 64% |
| Total | 32 | 55% |
School of Nursing, Health and Wellness
Degree Tracks & Course Sequence
Associate of Applied Science (AAS): Occupational Therapy Assistant
Real World Ready
Listening to workforce needs
Graduates of Rockland Community College are provided with a clear path to meaningful careers that meet the needs of businesses and industry in the communities we serve. Our students are trained in specific skills that are needed by employers, and guided through a career path that leads directly to workforce opportunities. With affordable tuition, students who begin their college careers at RCC are ready to meet the demands of the real world.
Free Career Exploration Assessment [ACCESS CODE: pathways]
Student Success
At Rockland Community College, you are provided with a Student Success Team that will help you with your academic journey, career exploration, transfer planning, support service referrals, and more! Your Team includes your Dean, Program Director, Faculty Advisor, Student Success Advisor, Connection Center Counselor, Financial Aid Advisor, Peer Mentors, and if you’re involved in any of these special programs, your Athletics, Honors, TRiO, and Veterans Advisors. During your first semester, you will take an ‘Introduction to the School’ course that will outline the various College offices and departments that can help you on your path.
Career Outlook
OTA graduates develop the skills necessary to work in a variety of healthcare settings, schools, out-patient clinics, pediatric settings, and home care settings.
Job Roles
Under the supervision of an Occupational Therapist, Occupational Therapy Assistants work with people, groups or populations to address those aspects of their performance that affect health, well-being and quality of life.
Industries
Opportunities for change and variety characterize the outstanding range of career options in occupational therapy. You will be welcomed by employers including public schools, rehabilitation hospitals, mental health centers, nursing homes, physician practices, and home health agencies.
Careers
Occupational Therapists
Occupational Therapy Assistants
Employment and wage data by occupation are based on the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) survey, which collects information from approximately 51,000 businesses. bls.gov
Alumni Spotlight
Occupational Therapy Practitioner
Program Admission
Fall 2025 OTA applications are now being accepted.
The Occupational Therapy Assistant program has a separate admission process that must be completed prior to beginning the OTA course of study. To be considered for acceptance into the OTA program students must:
- Have a High School Diploma or HSE
- Be a current RCC student or have applied to RCC.
- Complete and earn a C or higher in the following courses prior to starting the program: ENG 10100, PSY 10110, CST 10100, and BIO 11000. BIO 11000 must have been completed with a C or higher within the last 5 years.
- Attend an OTA information session
- Complete the online OTA application
- Submit transcript from high school and/or previous colleges
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 77% or 2.5 or higher for high school applicants
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 for college students
- *In-person observation of OT clinical practice is strongly encouraged but not required.
Applications will be rated by the admissions committee using a rubric which scores the following areas: academic performance, life experience, recommendations, essays, and responses to practice videos.
Information Sessions are held virtually throughout the year to provide interested individuals with current information about the program, curriculum, and application process. Sessions are usually one hour in length. Please register for an information session by clicking on the link below.
To reach The OTA Program faculty and staff please call 845-574-4436.
Please note: As per new RCC guidelines, there is a minimum enrollment requirement for the OTA Program each semester. If the minimum enrollment is not reached, students accepted to the program will be advised to complete OTA related general education courses during their first semester in the program. OTA courses (OCC designated) will begin during second semester of the program.
Prepare to Apply for the OTA Program
- Apply and be accepted to Rockland Community College if not currently attending RCC.
- Meet with your RCC advisor to get assistance with course selection, testing, and the OTA application process.
- If necessary, take the Accuplacer test to determine English placement.
- Request transcripts from other colleges you have attended or if new to college, your high school transcripts.
- Select two (2) people that you would like to complete a letter of recommendation on your behalf.
- Register and attend a virtual OTA Program Information Meeting.
- Watch these online clinical treatment session videos to learn more about occupational
therapy:
Please click below to start your application. More detailed instructions are provided in the application. No paper applications will be accepted.
The OTA Program Expectations
In order to prepare students for the fast-paced and complex nature of OT practice, the OTA Program maintains the highest educational standards and is academically demanding. Accurate writing and critical thinking are required in coursework, fieldwork and clinical practice.
Professional behavior is taught and then expected in all aspects of the program, including verbal interactions in the classroom and written communication with instructors and clinical sites.
The practice of occupational therapy requires many interpersonal skills. Students and therapists are expected to consistently meet the needs of others and to manage the feelings that arise when working with individuals that are ill, injured, disabled and/or emotionally upset. Therapist and students alike are expected to accept and respect the diverse ideas, beliefs, values, backgrounds and identities of all persons.
FAQs
Occupational Therapy Assistant Program FAQs
- How do I apply to the OTA program?
- If you are not already admitted to the college, you must apply to the college first. The first step is attending an online OTA Information Session held at the College each month. The goal of these sessions is to review the application process, learn about the program curriculum and expectations. Please call 845-574-4436 for more information or e-mail [email protected].
- How many students are accepted each year?
- Applications are accepted once a year for Fall semester enrollment in the OTA program. Visit the Application Process page for more details.
- How long will the program take me?
- The OTA program is 63 credits, which includes general education courses, such as ENG 10100 and BIO 11000, and requires a commitment of 5 semesters. However, many students complete the program at a slower pace due to the demanding nature of the coursework and their personal lives. We require students to complete the program in no longer than 8 semesters to ensure their knowledge is current. This policy also supports students’ success when taking the national certification examination.
- Can I complete the program by only attending at night or day?
- All of the program’s courses are given one time during a semester. Some are day and some are evening classes. The program tries to meet the needs of those who prefer a day or evening class. Typically, students attend classes one day a week on campus.
- Do I need to take the English and Math Assessments?
- Students are required to establish College Placement Level in English and Mathematics either by transfer credit, placement exemptions or assessment examinations (ACCUPLACER Exam/s). Placement to ENG 10100 is required. Students accepted to the program who need remedial math may enroll in occupational therapy courses while completing the requirement.
- I already have college credits. Can they be applied to the program?
- Yes, once admitted to the college, the Records department will review your transcript and notify you regarding which courses will transfer to the program. An official college transcript should be sent to the Records Office for evaluation.
- I already have my bachelor’s degree, what do I do?
- If you hold a bachelor’s degree, you may have already completed the general education requirements of the OTA program. For further information, please refer to the Degree Tracks & Course Sequence section of the OTA webpage for course requirements.
- What other expectations are there for students beyond the academic ones?
- Given that occupational therapy is a healthcare profession, students are expected to demonstrate empathy, respect for others and the interpersonal skills required to work with people who have disabilities, injuries or disorders. Above average interpersonal and communication skills are essential to the profession and therefore are an integral part of the program. Students are provided education and mentoring to develop these abilities. However, if a student demonstrates a significant lack in these areas, they may be dismissed from the program.
- Is it true no grade lower than C+ is accepted by the program?
- All courses in the OT curriculum require a passing grade of C+. The reason for this policy is to ensure that graduates of the program are competent practitioners and are sufficiently prepared to pass the national certification (NBCOT) examination. For further information, please refer to the Grading Policy section of the OTA webpage.
- What is Level I fieldwork?
- All education programs for health professionals require clinical or fieldwork experiences. These experiences tie what is taught in class to actual experiences students have with clients (patients) in treatment settings. Level I Fieldwork experiences are completed during the daytime hours. It is part of many of the core OTA courses in the curriculum and these clinical experiences are completed in addition to the semester coursework.
- What is Level II fieldwork?
- Level II Fieldwork is experienced at the end of the program when all the academic courses are completed. The student spends the minimum of 16 weeks (full time, unpaid) in two different sites supervised directly by an OTR or COTA, and treating patients/clients in an occupational therapy treatment program. This Level II Fieldwork experience are courses OCC 28000/17100 and OCC 29000/17200 for which the student earns a grade, receives credits and pays tuition. Fieldwork sites are selected to provide the student with strong clinical experiences and are an extremely important part of the occupational therapy education. Students are given 18 months to complete Level II Fieldwork experiences.
- Are there additional costs or fees associated with the program?
- Yes, there is a nominal liability insurance fee and fees for materials in several OTA courses.
- Can I take courses in the summer and winter sessions?
- You can take the liberal arts and sciences courses that are offered in the summer and winter sessions. If appropriate, one Level II Fieldwork course may be offered during these times.
CAREER IN OT
- What Does An Occupational Therapy Practitioner Do?
Occupational therapy uses everyday activities as the means of helping people to achieve independence.
For the person with a physical disability, the first focus is on performing critical daily activities, such as dressing, grooming, bathing, and eating. Once these skills are mastered, the occupational therapy program is built around the skills needed to perform a person’s daily responsibilities, such as caring for a home and family, participating in education, seeking and holding employment and participating in the social structure of the community.
The goals for a client with mental illness are also based on the ability to function independently. In treating mental or emotional problems, the occupational therapy program often includes practice in managing time, working productively with others, and enjoying leisure.
- What Tasks Would I Be Performing During a Work Day?
Depending on your employer or the setting in which you work, your occupational therapy career may include:
- aiding the growth and development of premature babies,
- enhancing learning environments for the social, emotional, educational or physical challenges of school age children,
- adapting home environments for the aging population,
- analyzing job task requirements for an injured worker, or
- participating in research to measure the effectiveness of treatment activities.
- Where Do Occupational Therapy Practitioners Work?
- Opportunities for change and variety characterize the outstanding range of career options in occupational therapy. You will be welcomed by employers, including public schools, rehabilitation hospitals, mental health centers, nursing homes, physician practices, and home health agencies. As your career progresses, you will want to consider advancement opportunities in management, clinical specialization, teaching, education, research, or private practice.
- Does Occupational Therapy Offer Opportunities For Individuals Of Culturally Diverse Backgrounds?
- The Occupational Therapy profession is actively seeking to expand the number of practitioners representing the many aspects of cultural diversity in our society. Currently, target populations include African Americans, Asian Americans, Hispanics, Pacific Islanders, people with disabilities, and men – all of whom are underrepresented in the field.
- How Do I Prepare For An Occupational Therapy Career?
To become an occupational therapist, you may choose one of two routes: a post baccalaureate master’s program, or a professional master’s degree program. All Occupational Therapy educational programs include a period of supervised fieldwork experience.
To become an occupational therapy assistant, you must complete either a two-year associate degree or a Baccalaureate OTA degree. These programs also include supervised fieldwork experience.
Because entrance requirements, prerequisites, and program components differ from school to school, it is important to get specific information from those programs to which you are interested in applying.
- How Can I Learn Which Colleges And Universities Offer Occupational Therapy Education Programs?
A nationwide listing of all levels of education programs offered by colleges and universities is available from the American Occupational Therapy Association. The education programs are available on AOTA’s website at www.aota.org; click on Education for complete listing of schools nationwide.
Source: American Occupational Therapy Association
Policies and Procedures
Please refer to the College Policies for information on policies and services applicable to all students at Rockland Community College. Please refer to this website and the OTA Student Manual for policies and procedures applicable to OTA students and applicants.
Because the health field changes so rapidly, adjustments to the curriculum, requirements and policies are sometimes necessary, this may require changes in the information and policies on this website without prior notice.
Grading Policy
C is the minimum passing grade required for all prerequisite and general education courses required in the occupational therapy curriculum.
- If student earns a C- or below in a required pre-requisite or general education course, the course must be repeated until a Grade of C or above is earned.
- Repetition of general education courses may delay the student’s progression in the OTA Program and could potentially jeopardize completion of the program.
- C+ is the minimum passing grade in all core OT courses (courses designated OCC).
- If a student fails three core OT courses (courses designated OCC) or if a student fails the same core OT course twice, the student will be dismissed from the program.
- Any student repeating a core OT course (course designated OCC) must earn a grade of B- (80) or higher to pass the course. In cases of approved leave of absence from the program there may be an exception to this policy granted by the Program Director.
| Numerical grade % | Equivalent letter grade |
|---|---|
| 94-100 | A |
| 90-93 | A- |
| 87-89 | B+ |
| 84-86 | B |
| 80-83 | B- |
| 77-79 | C+ |
| 74-76 | C (Not a passing grade) |
| 70-73 | C- |
| 60-69 | D |
Final Grades are determined by the Evaluation Methods documented on each course syllabi.
- No extra credit assignments will be provided.
- Incomplete/Pass (I/P) Grades must be requested/discussed with the course instructor before the final class meeting. The granting of an I/P grade is at the discretion of the course instructor.
- Coursework necessary to resolve an I/P grade must be completed within one (1) month of the end of the semester unless approved in advance by the instructor.
- Timeframe for completing I/P grades in a Level II Fieldwork will be determined by the AFWC or PD in collaboration with the fieldwork site.
Any student wishing to appeal a grade should refer to RCC Grade Appeal Policy for instructions on how to proceed.
Program Progression Policy
The OTA Program at Rockland Community College, State University of New York, maintains the highest educational standards. The study of occupational therapy is academically demanding. Much detailed information must be learned, retained, and applied to new situations. The health field changes so rapidly that adjustments in curriculum and policies are sometimes necessary to ensure that the most current and up to date information is taught and that ACOTE standards and NBCOT certification requirements are met. Student learning support is provided by faculty and staff throughout the semester to ensure the success of students.
For this reason, the OTA Program requires that all core OT courses (courses designated as OCC) be completed within eight (8) consecutive semesters (fall/spring).
Level II Fieldwork must be completed within eighteen (18) months following completion of academic preparation.
In the rare instance that student needs to exceed the 8-semester limit, the student must meet with the program director to determine the benefits and detriments to the request and its impact on the student’s academic success and program’s goals. Sufficient documentation is required for the request to be considered. All decisions are at the discretion of the OTA Program Director and the student request may not be granted.
Withdrawal from a Core OT Course
A student enrolled in the OTA Program may withdraw from a core OT course (course designated OCC) only one (1) time throughout his/her curriculum.
To withdraw (course grade of W) a student MUST notify the OTA program in writing when requesting withdrawal from an OTA course and it must be approved by the instructor of the course. Re-admittance to a course will be granted on a space available basis.
Any student wishing to withdraw from a CORE OTA course during week 13 or later in the semester must follow RCC policy for Late Withdrawal which includes providing requested documentation and approval by the provost (see Late Withdrawal Request )
Withdrawal from only one (1) core OTA course (course designated as OCC) is permitted while enrolled in the OTA Program. Subsequent withdrawals will result in dismissal from the program.
For information regarding receiving a tuition refund after withdrawal from a course please see the RCC Refund Policy.
Repeating a Core OTA Course after Withdrawal
When repeating a core OTA course after withdrawal from the course, a student must earn a minimum grade of B- (80) to pass the course. If the required passing grade is not earned the student may not repeat the course and will be dismissed from the program.
Repeating a Core OTA Course after Failure
Students who plan to repeat a core OT course (course designated as OCC) following a failure in a previous semester must meet with OTA faculty for advisement prior to registering for the course. Re-admittance to a course will only be granted on a seat available basis. To pass a course on the second opportunity after failing a student must earn a final grade of B- (80) or higher. If a passing grade of B- is not earned, the student may not repeat the course again and will be dismissed from the program.
Requesting a Leave of Absence
A student in good academic standing (2.5 GPA) may request a leave of absence from the OTA Program for one semester by submitting a request in writing and supporting documentation to the program director. A Leave of Absence will only be approved for serious situations such as hospitalization, death of a loved one, accident or illness, family crises or disasters. The amount of time approved for a leave of absence and the requirements to return to OTA program will vary depending on the date the request is made and the length of the leave. (Please see table below)
| Leave of absence request was received by PD | Length of approved leave from OTA program | Expected return to OTA program | Requirements to return to the program |
|---|---|---|---|
| Before the start of the 8th week of semester | Remainder of the current semester | Start of the next semester | Request return in writing to PD prior to start of semester. Complete advisement with OTA faculty. |
| 8th week or later in the semester | Remainder of the current semester and the following semester | Same semester of request of the following year | Prior to the start of classes submit a written request to the PD to return to the program. Earn a passing grade on Challenge Exams for all core OTA courses completed prior to leave of absence. |
If a student does not return from an approved leave of absence within the designated time, they will be dismissed from the program.
If the student then desires to return to the program, they must re-apply to the program and follow the procedures outlined below in Re-application to the Program Following Withdrawal or Failure/Dismissal.
Please note that students taking a leave of absence will still be required to complete the program in 8 semesters from their start date in the program.
Re-Application to Program Following Withdrawal or Dismissal
Students may only re-apply to the OTA program one time after withdrawing or being dismissed from the program. A student may only attempt to complete the OTA program twice.
Students who have withdrawn or were dismissed and wish to re-apply must wait at least twelve (12) months from the date of dismissal or withdrawal to begin the process of re-applying.
A new application must be submitted. In addition to the typical application requirements, a re-applying student will be required to interview with OTA faculty and/or complete an essay at the time of the interview. It is suggested the student meet with an OTA advisor prior to beginning this process.
If re-accepted to the program, students may either re-take all core OTA courses (courses designated OCC) beginning with OCC 101 or sit for the challenge exams for all the core OTA courses for which they previously received a passing grade. Any course that has not been passed previously must be repeated.
Policy for Taking Challenge Exams
- All exams must be successfully completed with one attempt within a six-month time frame and prior to beginning core OTA courses. Students may only attempt a Challenge exam one time.
- All exams will be a Final Cumulative Exam of the course. Competency in practical examinations must also be demonstrated.
- The program will provide a current course syllabus upon request. No course content (lecture notes, power points, etc.) will be provided.
- All exams must be taken in the following order and successfully passed with a B- (80) or higher: OCC 10100; OCC 10200; OCC 10500; OCC 10300; OCC 10700; OCC 20100; OCC 20200; OCC 20400; OCC 20500; OCC20700; OCC20900
Ethical and Professional Behavior
The practice of occupational therapy is governed by ethical principles which provide a guide to proper conduct for all members of the profession, including students and faculty. These are reviewed and must be adhered to in core OT courses (courses designated OCC). All OTA faculty and OTA students are expected to be knowledgeable of the principles and abide by them. Please review the code of conduct in the AOTA Occupational Therapy Code of Ethics (2020) adopted by the Representative Assembly of the American Occupational Therapy Association on the AOTA website.
Professional and ethical behavior is expected to be practiced on the college campus, in classes and in all fieldwork sites. This includes written and verbal communication, emails, texts, and discussion boards, demonstrating respect for others and participation in classes, meetings, and group discussions.
Skills which are essential to the COTA’s role will be continuously evaluated by the faculty. A Professional Behavioral Summary will be completed by faculty each semester for every student and shared with them in writing. This evaluation is not graded and is used as a feedback tool to promote student growth.
When there are concerns regarding professional behavior, demeanor, or interpersonal skills, they will be discussed with the student. Specific areas for improvement may be identified for development.
If a student’s performance in the areas of concern has not improved by midterm of the following semester, the following actions may be taken:
- A formal plan for remediation will be developed with the student
- The student may be given a Progression Warning
- The student may be dismissed from the program
Any behavior that violates the RCC Student Code of Conduct will be referred to the Coordinator of Judicial Affairs and managed according to RCC policy. Please refer to the RCC Code of Conduct.
Communication
Effective communication is essential for occupational therapy practitioners and students. The OTA Program encourages students to reach out to faculty and staff with any questions, concerns, or ideas. It is expected that all forms of communication be respectful and professional. It is suggested that clarification regarding exam questions, assignments and any other feedback should be discussed on a one-to-one basis with the faculty members to preserve privacy and not disrupt the learning process.
The OTA faculty are available to discuss academic concerns or questions with students during office hours, or during mutually agreed upon times with an appointment. Each faculty has a different work schedule and preferences for communication with students.
Please refer to the course syllabus for information on the best way to contact your instructor. Students can reach full-time OTA faculty and staff via email or by calling 845-574-4436 from the hours of 8:00 am – 4:30 pm.
All students must utilize their RCC e-mail for any/all communication in the OTA program. Personal e-mail will not be used by the department once admitted to the OTA Program.
On the occasion that a student meets with a faculty via video conferencing, the faculty is to initiate the video conference using only RCC approved applications/programs and the RCC single sign-on connection and verification server.
If a student is unable to reconcile a concern with the faculty involved, they should schedule a time to discuss the issue with the Program Director. Any grievances should be made according to the RCC Student Grievance Policy.
Graduation Requirements
- A grade of C must be earned for all pre-requisite courses for the OTA Program. A grade of C must also be earned for all general education courses which are pre-requisite courses for an OTA course (courses designated as OCC). If a grade below a C is earned, the course must be repeated.
- All core OT courses must be completed with a grade of C+ (77) or higher. Any repeated core OT course (course designated as OCC) must be completed with a grade of B- (80) or higher.
- Although math is not a curriculum requirement for OT, a math placement of MAT 10110 or 10010 indicates that a student has met the graduation requirement and no additional math courses are required.Please note: that should a student pursue an advanced degree a higher level of math course may be required.
- All Level II fieldwork must be completed within eighteen (18) months following completion of academic preparation.
- All core OT courses (courses designated as OCC) must be completed within eight (8) consecutive semesters (fall/spring).
- All course and/or degree requirements on the OTA degree sheet in effect at the time of a student’s admission to the program are required for graduation.
- Students must submit a completed Application for Graduation to the Records Office and pay the required graduation fee prior to the last date to apply for graduation, as stated in the college calendar, in order to be eligible for graduation.
- Students must wait until after the end of the semester and final grades have been received by the Records Office before requesting a transcript which reflects graduation transcript. If students need earlier verification of graduation, they can request this by contacting the Registrar.
Lab and Equipment Safety Policies and Procedures
General
The OTA program is responsible for maintaining a safe environment for students in the lab and during completion of other educational activities.
All old and new equipment will be inspected at the beginning of a semester and again before use.
Students will receive instruction on proper equipment use before engaging in a peer learning activity.
Any toxic and/or aerosol materials will be used only in open, well-ventilated spaces.
Students are responsible for thoughtful care of all equipment utilized in lab instruction. Any student willfully damaging equipment will be financially responsible for repair or replacement. If equipment is accidentally damaged by a student or a student discovers it and reports it to the instructor, the student will not be financially responsible.
General Laboratory & Clinical Safety
Standard Precautions
During classroom lab activities, hands should be washed between sessions of working with different class members or faculty members. Gloves must be worn if a student or instructor has unhealed skin lesions on his/her hands. All used gloves must be properly disposed of in a container. If any surface in the lab becomes contaminated with body fluids, appropriate clean up procedures will be implemented, including any assistance needed from maintenance personnel.
Students receive instruction and assessment in Standard Precautions. These concepts are reinforced throughout the program and reviewed if needed.
Infection Control
The program is responsible for maintaining a safe and healthy environment for students and faculty while in the classroom setting and during any relevant learning activities. General cleaning and maintenance procedures, performed on a regular basis, include the following:
- The classroom area will be cleaned and maintained in accordance with the policy developed by Rockland Community College.
- Disposable protective coverings will be used on equipment such as pillows and treatment tables whenever possible.
- Program equipment will be cleaned with an antiseptic solution/wipe available in the classroom; this includes all mat tables, wheelchairs, canes, walkers, tub benches, therapy balls, etc.
- If linens are used in class, they are to be washed at the completion of each session of use.
- Kitchen equipment is to be washed, dried, and put away following classroom use.
College Safety Policies
Upon entry into the program students are expected to review the published materials of all Rockland Community College safety policies and procedures addressing emergency procedures and reporting of incidents. Copies of all these materials are maintained in the OTA classroom/lab for reference. Program faculty will assume responsibility for assisting or directing assistance for any person with a disability who needs to relocate due to safety issues.
Certification
Certification is awarded by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy. It allows a student to use the identifying initials “COTA” after his/her name. It is granted as the result of passing the national certification examination. A committee of OTRs and COTAs selected by NBCOT who have a diverse practice background prepare the examination questions. The examination consists of 200 multiple choice questions to be completed in four hours. The examination is offered on-line by a testing service at sites throughout the United States.
Each student is responsible for completing his/her application and paying the fee/s. As of 2024, the online fee for the Certification Examination is $540 ($595 for a paper application). An official transcript verifying graduation is required. For complete examination information including how to schedule a web-based practice examination contact:
The National Board for Certification in Occupational TherapyOne Bank Street, Suite 300
Gaithersburg, MD 20878*
301-990-7979
www.nbcot.org
License
Licensure allows a student to be legally authorized to practice in a particular state or jurisdiction. An individual cannot practice in New York State without this credential and certification by NBCOT. A renewal application and fee will be required every three years for as long as one remains in practice. Most other states and jurisdictions have laws that also require legal licensure, certification and/or registration to practice. Most states issue a temporary license which allows the individual to practice in the interim between graduation and the passing of the initial certification examination.
As of May 2016, new OTA licensure will take effect in New York State. Please refer to the address below for specific requirements/ additional fees.
It is the graduate’s responsibility to secure the proper credentials prior to practice. To receive an application contact:
NYS EDUCATION DEPARTMENTOffice of the Professions
Division of Professional Licensing Services
Occupational Therapy Unit
89 Washington Avenue
Albany, NY 12234-1000*
518-474-3817
Notification of Disclosure
Federal Law limits the issuance of professional licenses, registrations and limited permits to United States citizens or qualified aliens. Those students who are not US citizens or qualified aliens should contact the NY State Education Department at 518-474-3817 or www.op.nysed.gov for further assistance.
All applicants should be made aware that when making an application to the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) you will be asked to answer questions regarding any felony convictions. NBCOT will consider any felony convictions on a case by case basis. If you have a history of a felony conviction it is strongly recommended you contact NBCOT immediately, (One Bank Street, Suite 300, Gaithersburg, MD 20878 or call 301-990-7979) or www.NBCOT.org to see if you will eligible to take the certification exam.
OTA Fieldwork Expectations
Level I
Level I fieldwork experiences provide students with meaningful opportunities to interact with clients, OT practitioners and staff. During Level I fieldwork students are required to visit specific sites outside of their regularly scheduled class time. These visits are designed to enhance understanding of basic course content and provide opportunities for developing professional behaviors, competent observation skills and therapeutic affective skills.
Level I fieldwork is required for 6 OTA courses (OCC 10100, OCC 10200, OCC 20100, OCC 20200, OCC 20400, OCC 20500). Additional time in a variety of community settings may also be required in other OTA courses, as requested by the course instructor. Students must successfully complete the fieldwork component of each course in order to earn a passing grade for the course. Travel is required, as is the ability to schedule and attend fieldwork so that it does not interfere with class attendance.
Level II
Level II fieldwork is the final step in the academic program and occurs after all other course work has been successfully completed. Level II fieldwork consists of two separate 5 credit experiences (OCC 28000, OCC 29000). Each fieldwork experience requires the student to spend a minimum of 8-10 weeks full time at a facility where the academic knowledge learned in the classroom will be applied in an occupational therapy setting. Students in Level II fieldwork are supervised and evaluated by a licensed OTR or COTA. All level II Fieldwork must be completed within 18 months following completion of academic preparation coursework.
Important Facts
- Fieldwork sites are located throughout the tri-state area (within a 65 mile radius of the Suffern campus) Level I placements are distributed by lottery. Level II placements are made at the discretion of the academic fieldwork coordinator after student preferences have been considered.
- Due to the nature of the occupational therapy profession, students should expect to attend fieldwork weekdays between the hours of 8:00-4:30 (not including travel).
- Students must maintain current Health Clearance and provide proof of such to all fieldwork sites.
- Students should be prepared to undergo criminal background checks, drug testing and finger printing prior to fieldwork as these may be required by fieldwork sites.