A ribbon cutting ceremony at Shawnee Community College in Ullin, Illinois serves as an announcement for the school’s new occupational therapy assistant program.
This two-year allied health degree is being added to the community college’s academic lineup due to demand in the area. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there is a nationwide need for occupational therapist assistants. This occupational field is projected to grow by a staggering 23% between the years 2022 and 2032.
Occupational therapy assistants also make a highly competitive wage, making these degree programs desirable to students. The BLS reports a median annual wage for these health professionals to be over $67,000.
Shawnee Community College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Its new occupational therapy assistant program is separately accredited by the American Occupational Therapy Association, Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education.
Applications are now open for the program, and the school will select just over two dozen students to be admitted this Fall. Most classes will be delivered in a traditional format on campus, but a few courses are available online.
Once enrolled, students will take specific courses such as:
- Activities of Daily Living
- Occupational Therapeutic Media
- Aging and Impact on Occupational Performance
- Psychosocial Therapy and Practice
- Medical Terminology
A fieldwork experience is also required prior to graduation. Those who successfully complete the program are prepared to sit for the National Board of Certification in Occupational Therapy national certification exam.
Students interested in the program can submit applications on the school’s official website.
Source: Shawnee Community College to Host Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for New Program
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