Career Overview

Occupational therapists help people develop, recover, improve, and maintain the skills needed for everyday living and working. They evaluate a person’s abilities, create individualized treatment plans, teach practical activities and exercises, and may recommend adaptive equipment or changes to a home, school, or workplace.

Education

Occupational therapists typically need a master’s degree in occupational therapy. Programs generally require a bachelor’s degree for admission and include coursework in areas such as anatomy, neuroscience, and kinesiology, along with supervised clinical fieldwork. Professional licensing or registration is also required to practise.

Work Environment

Occupational therapists work in hospitals, outpatient clinics, schools, rehabilitation settings, nursing facilities, and clients’ homes. The work can involve spending considerable time on their feet and sometimes lifting or moving clients or equipment. Full-time work is common, although part-time schedules are also available.

Future Outlook

Demand for occupational therapy is expected to remain strong as populations age and more people require support with independence, rehabilitation, disabilities, and everyday activities. Occupational therapy also continues to play an important role in supporting children and adults with developmental, neurological, and other conditions. Current employment projections indicate faster-than-average growth for the profession.

Recommended High School Courses

• Chemistry
• Biology
• Psychology
• Math
• Communication
• Anatomy
• Health science