Essential Information
Few public or private, not-for-profit schools in Kentucky offer degree programs in occupational therapy. Students can train to become occupational therapy assistants (OTAs) by completing an associate's program or occupational therapists (OTs) by earning a master's. Post-professional and doctoral degrees, which focus on research, are also available. The majority of occupational therapy programs include practicum elements, such as clinical experiences or internships. Master's degree-seeking students must first possess a bachelor's degree; a transition option is available for those who hold an award in another field. Part-time schooling and online courses are available at some Kentucky schools.
Eastern Kentucky University
Located close to several major highways, this Richmond university is easily accessible to students in the surrounding areas of Cincinnati, Lexington and Louisville. Students interested in pursuing advanced study can enroll in a master's or doctorate program in occupational therapy. The university offers a master's transition option for students who do not have a bachelor's degree in occupational science. Students who select this option are required to complete undergraduate prerequisite courses prior to beginning the graduate curriculum. Those who have undergraduate education in occupational therapy can enroll in the post-professional master's degree program, which can be completed with a research or thesis option. The doctorate program in occupational therapy is offered solely online and can be completed on a part-time schedule in two years. This degree program is geared toward master's-educated occupational therapists seeking career advancement.
Jefferson Community and Technical College
This Louisville school is the largest institution within the Kentucky Community and Technical College System. Students can enroll in an Associate of Applied Science program that prepares them for careers in occupational therapy assisting. The program accepts a limited number of applicants each year. Prerequisites include human anatomy and physiology, math, psychology and English. The 67-credit hour curriculum addresses topics such as pediatric and elderly occupational therapy, mental health occupational therapy, physical dysfunction and professional management. Students must finish all fieldwork training within 18 months of completing the didactic portion of the curriculum. Graduates are eligible to sit for the NBCOT occupational therapy assistant certification exam.
Madisonville Community College
Also a part of the Kentucky Community and Technical College System, this Madisonville college prepares students to become occupational therapy assistants through its associate's degree program. Students who wish to attend classes full-time can complete this degree program in 18 months (three 16-week semesters). The curriculum consists of 64-67 credit hours that include 41 credits of occupational therapy assisting classes. During the summer sessions, students participate in fieldwork training. Graduates are eligible to take the certification exam and obtain state licensure.
Spalding University
This university is the only school in the Louisville metro area that offers a master's degree program in occupational therapy. The program runs for 30 months and is designed to prepare students for entry-level employment in the field. Students gain hands-on training through several fieldwork experiences. During the second year of study, students participate in 20 weeks of part-time level I fieldwork training. After completing level I training, students are required to complete 24 weeks of full-time level II fieldwork experience. Training is conducted at various community and healthcare facilities throughout the city and surrounding areas.
The university also offers a combined Bachelor of Science/Master of Science in Occupational Therapy for individuals who do not have an undergraduate degree. After completing the undergraduate portion of the program, students receive a Bachelor of Science in Health Science and continue on to complete the 30-month professional phase of the program.
Career Requirements
To practice occupational therapy in the state, graduates must obtain licensure from the Kentucky Board of Licensure for Occupational Therapy. To become eligible for licensure, applicants must receive a passing score on the OTA or OT exam from the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). Applicants must also submit proof of certification and an official college transcript. NBCOT requires that applicants renew licensure every year.
School Comparison: At a Glance
| School Name | School Type and Setting | Occupational Therapy Programs Offered | Tuition and Fees (2018-2019) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eastern Kentucky University | 4-year, public; distant town | Master of Science in Occupational Therapy, Doctor of Occupational Therapy | $10,570 in-state; $15,070 out-of-state* |
| Jefferson Community and Technical College | 2-year, public; large suburb | Associate of Applied Science - Occupational Therapy Assistant | $4,328 in-state; $14,480 out-of-state* |
| Madisonville Community College | 2-year, public; fringe rural | Associate of Applied Science - Occupational Therapy Assistant | $4,248 in-state; $14,400 out-of-state* |
| Spalding University | 4-year, private not-for-profit; large city | Master of Science in Occupational Therapy, Bachelor of Science/Master of Science in Occupational Therapy | Undergraduate: $24,500 Graduate: $13,166* |
Source: *NCES College Navigator
