If you’ve ever wanted a healthcare career that makes a visible difference in people’s lives, occupational therapy might be the one. Occupational therapists help people regain independence, confidence, and the ability to do everyday tasks, whether that’s buttoning a shirt after surgery, learning to write again after a stroke, or helping kids with developmental delays adapt at school.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for occupational therapists is projected to grow 14% from 2024 to 2034, much faster than average for other jobs. That growth is driven by aging populations, rehab needs, and rising awareness of mental health and disability support. In short, the world needs more OTs, and if you’re curious about how to become an occupational therapist, now’s a great time to start.
This guide breaks down the process into 10 practical steps, plus a quick look at what occupational therapists really do.
What Is an Occupational Therapist?
Before diving into the steps, it helps to understand what an occupational therapist (OT) actually does.
An occupational therapist works with people of all ages who face physical, mental, or developmental challenges that affect their ability to perform daily activities. These activities, known as “occupations”, include anything meaningful in a person’s day: self-care, work, school, or leisure.
What They Do:
- Help stroke survivors relearn daily tasks
- Support children with autism in improving sensory and motor skills
- Guide older adults to stay independent at home
- Adapt homes or workplaces to make them more accessible
OTs don’t just treat injuries or disabilities, they help people live better within their circumstances. It’s a mix of science, compassion, and creativity.
Step 1: Learn What the Career Involves
Before jumping in, spend time understanding the field. Occupational therapy blends healthcare, psychology, and education. You’ll work closely with patients, families, and other professionals, so communication skills and empathy are key.
You can start by shadowing an OT or volunteering in hospitals, rehab centers, or schools. This first-hand experience will help you confirm whether the career fits your interests and personality.
Step 2: Earn Your Bachelor’s Degree
To qualify for occupational therapist schooling, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree first. Most students choose majors like:
- Psychology
- Health sciences
- Kinesiology
- Biology
- Sociology
Your major matters less than completing the occupational therapy school requirements set by graduate programs. These typically include:
- Human anatomy and physiology
- Psychology (general and abnormal)
- Statistics
- Sociology or anthropology
- Human development
Maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher, and look for volunteer or shadowing opportunities to strengthen your future application.
Step 3: Complete the Prerequisites
Each OT program sets its own specific prerequisites, so it’s smart to check early. Some schools may require physics or medical terminology, while others focus on behavioral science courses.
In addition to coursework, most programs expect applicants to have documented observation hours under a licensed occupational therapist, usually around 40 to 100 hours. This experience helps you understand the profession’s realities and is often mandatory for admission.
Step 4: Choose the Right Occupational Therapy School
When selecting a graduate program, make sure it’s accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE). Accreditation ensures your degree qualifies you to take the national certification exam later.
Questions to Ask Before Applying:
- What’s the total length and cost of the program?
- How many clinical fieldwork hours will I complete?
- What’s the school’s NBCOT exam pass rate?
- Are there research or specialization opportunities?
Some universities offer Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT) or Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT) programs. Others offer Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) degrees for students aiming for leadership or academic roles.
Step 5: Get Accepted and Begin Graduate Study
Once accepted, you’ll spend 2–3 years in graduate school depending on the degree. This phase combines academic learning with clinical exposure.
You’ll study subjects like:
- Occupational science
- Neuroscience
- Mental health and wellness
- Therapeutic interventions
- Evidence-based practice
This is the heart of your occupational therapist schooling, where you learn to assess clients, plan interventions, and understand how health, environment, and behavior intersect.
Step 6: Complete Fieldwork Experience
Every accredited program includes supervised fieldwork, which gives you real-world experience.
You’ll complete two main levels:
- Level I fieldwork: Early exposure to clinical settings.
- Level II fieldwork: Full-time placements in hospitals, schools, or rehab centers, usually lasting 12 weeks each.
Fieldwork helps you build confidence, apply theory to practice, and refine your communication and problem-solving skills. It’s often the most rewarding part of the program because you get to see your work make a difference.
Step 7: Pass the National Certification Exam
After graduation, you must pass the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam to become a registered occupational therapist (OTR).
The exam tests your knowledge, clinical reasoning, and ethical judgment. You’ll need to:
- Graduate from an ACOTE-accredited program
- Apply for the exam through the NBCOT website
- Pass the test to earn your certification
Once you’re certified, you can apply for state licensure, each state has its own application process and renewal requirements.
Step 8: Understand How Long It Takes to Become an Occupational Therapist
If you’re wondering how long does it take to become an occupational therapist, here’s a realistic timeline:
| Stage | Duration |
| Bachelor’s degree | 4 years |
| Graduate program (Master’s/Doctorate) | 2–3 years |
| Licensure and certification | 3–6 months |
That’s roughly 6 to 8 years total, depending on your pace and whether you study full-time or part-time. Some schools offer accelerated options that shorten the process.
Step 9: Get Licensed and Start Practicing
Once you’ve passed the NBCOT exam and obtained state licensure, you’re officially ready to practice. Most new OTs start in hospitals, rehab centers, or schools to gain experience.
You can later specialize in areas such as:
- Pediatrics
- Mental health
- Geriatric rehabilitation
- Hand therapy
- Assistive technology
Each specialization has its own certifications and continuing education requirements, allowing you to expand your career over time.
Step 10: Keep Learning and Growing
Occupational therapy is a lifelong learning profession. You’ll need to renew your license regularly and complete continuing education hours to stay current.
This could mean attending workshops, pursuing advanced certifications, or even mentoring future OTs. As you gain experience, you can explore roles in education, leadership, or private practice.
Your career will evolve, but the mission stays the same: helping people live their best possible lives.
Why Now Is the Right Time to Start Your Journey
Becoming an occupational therapist isn’t a quick path, it takes years of study, fieldwork, and commitment. But the reward is immense. You’ll enter a profession that changes lives daily and gives you the satisfaction of seeing your work make a real difference.
If you’re serious about how to become an occupational therapist, start planning early. Research programs, complete your prerequisites, and get hands-on experience. Each step brings you closer to a fulfilling career where compassion meets skill, and there’s never been a better time to start.