Grossmont College Occupational Therapy Assistant Program
To provide a quality educational program that values the uniqueness of all human beings;
that is committed to producing competent, socially responsive entry level occupational
therapy assistants; and that serves the San Diego community by educating students
to provide occupational therapy services to a complex, culturally diverse population.
This program is also committed to the encouragement of life-long learning as an adaptive
professional "skill" in response to an ever changing society.
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Students today can look forward to dynamic careers working in multiple settings with
people of all ages. And the employment outlook for occupational therapy assistants
is bright! Recent information published by the U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of
Labor Statistics reveals that the job outlook for occupational therapy assistants
will continue to improve steadily for the foreseeable future. Specifically, it states
that: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/occupational-therapy-assistants-and-aides.htm#tab-6
"Employment of occupational therapy assistants...is expected to grow by 33 percent
from 2018 to 2028, much faster than the average for all occupations."
One of the greatest advantages of a career as an occupational therapy assistant is
the wide variety of opportunities available to graduates. Many childhood--learning,
playing, and growing. Some work in schools with students who having learning disabilities,
behavioral problems, cerebral palsy, or Down syndrome.
Occupational therapy assistants also work with individuals in their homes, community
centers, rehabilitation hospitals, and nursing homes. In these settings, they help
people with traumatic injuries, stroke, Alzheimer's disease, or mental health problems
learn to live productive lives through the use of meaningful occupations.
If you are looking for a challenging career and have a desire to learn, achieve, and
give your best to society, a career as an occupational therapy assistant is for you!"
OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY ASSISTANT PROGRAM OUTCOMES/COMPETENCIES
Upon completion of the program, the Grossmont College Associate Degree Occupational
Therapy Assistant graduate will:
- Be eligible to sit for the NBCOT examination
- Value the uniqueness, dignity and rights of the individual
- Exhibit cultural sensitivity during treatment interactions
- Demonstrate ability to utilize purposeful activity to facilitate adaptation and mediate
dysfunction for all age groups, disabilities and occupational roles
- Demonstrate ability to provide quality services in a wide variety of practice environments
including uncharted areas of practice
- Demonstrate the necessary occupational therapy skills to meet the practice needs of
the occupational therapy community
- Exhibit ability to communicate clearly through various means to patients/clients,
family members, peers, administrators and community members to convey education and
treatment as indicated
- Exhibit behaviors consistent with the Occupational Therapy Codes of Ethics and professionalism
while representing the profession.
- Value continuing education, technical advancement, leadership opportunities, career
advancement and community service in occupational therapy
- Advocate and promote the field of occupational therapy