Admission Requirements and Selection Process

Admission Requirements

• Students who have previously accepted a program seat but did not begin the program may not apply again.
• Applicants must be admitted into Nashville State Community College before applying to the program.
• Applicants must attend an informational session. The date of the session attended will be required on the application.
• Applicants must have a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher to apply to the NSCC OTA Program. A cumulative GPA of 2.5 is preferred.
• Applicants must complete five required General Education courses with a grade of "C" or better by the beginning of the first fall semester of the OTA program. These courses include:
  • BIOL 2010 Anatomy and Physiology I (must be completed within 5 years before beginning the program - since Fall 2016)
  • ENGL 1010 English Composition I
  • PSYC 1030 Intro to Psychology (must be completed no later than the first Fall semester of the program)
  • Humanities Elective
  • COMM 2025 Fundamentals of Communication or COMM 2045 Public Speaking or PSYC 2130 Lifespan Development Psychology
• Applicants that are accepted into the program, but are unable to complete the required pre-requisite courses before entering the fall semester of the program will lose their seat in the program. Applicants will need to reapply for admission next year. The applicant is not guaranteed program admission upon reapplication.

(In accordance with our mission as a Tennessee Community College, Nashville State does not award priority or preferential status based on where a student completed General Education coursework. All transferring institutions are treated equally.)

• As applicable, an ESOL student must complete all coursework as recommended by the Michigan Test prior to acceptance into the NSCC OTA program. Students who waive ESOL recommended coursework are ineligible for the NSCC OTA Program.
• Per guidelines of the TN Department of Health Related Boards and the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT), applicants need to review the "Questions of Moral Character" and the information provided regarding NBCOT exam eligibility and Tennessee Licensure eligibility. A felony conviction may affect a graduate's ability to sit for the NBCOT certification examination or attain state licensure. This information can be found on the OTA Program Application and at www.nbcot.com and tn.gov/heatlh/article/OT-about.
• CPR certification, criminal background checks, and drug screens are NOT required for program application. If selected to participate in the program, you will be provided with additional information for CPR certification, background checks, drug screens, and the timeline for completion.

Information Regarding Program Selection Process

• Applications will be scored based on a rubric. The rubric will be available in January.
• Application scores will be ranked from highest to lowest. Applicants with the top 30 scores will be selected for program admission.
• Applicants will be notified mid-May regarding acceptance status via the email address provided on the application.

Criminal Background Checks

Prospective students will be required to provide a copy of a background check and drug screening. NSCC does not use the background check or drug screening as criteria for admission to the program. Background checks and drug screenings are required by clinical sites as a condition of participation. Students are required to participate in a variety of clinical experiences to successfully complete the program. For questions regarding the background check, please call 615-353-3708.

Important Information for Students Applying to the 2021 NSCC OTA Program

NBCOT Examination:

Graduates of our program must successfully complete the NBCOT Examination before they are eligible for licensure in the State of Tennessee. All OTA licensure applicants must have a criminal background check completed before licensure will be granted. A felony conviction may affect a graduate’s ability to sit for the NBCOT certification examination or attain state licensure. If students have questions or concerns regarding criminal history and employment eligibility, please contact NBCOT at 301-990-7979 (www.nbcot.org) and the Tennessee Board of Occupational Therapy at 615-532-3202 or 800-778-4123

ESOL and Learning Support Course Requirements

Printable PDF of ESOL and Learning Support Course Requirements for OTA Program Application

Computer Literacy

The Program requires that students be proficient in the use of as well as have ready access to a personal computer and dependable internet and/or identify alternative computer resources, such as the computer labs at NSCC. Students should be prepared to access and submit documents through Desire2Learn (D2L), use PowerPoint, and be proficient with email. The Program utilizes an online testing format.

• Information about accessing NSOnline
• If an applicant is not familiar with online testing, course delivery, email, online assignment submissions, etc. the OTA Program recommends completing the NSCC Online Orientation.

Functional Requirements for Program Participation

The role of an Occupational Therapy Assistant is both rewarding and demanding. The following essential functions are required of all students who enroll in the Nashville State Occupational Therapy Assistant Program.

Motor

• Independently move from room to room and maneuver in small spaces
• Participate in transfers of patients (children to adult) from a variety of heights and surfaces
• Guard and assist patients with functional mobility
• Be able to physically manage self so as not to be a danger to others
  • Trunk control adequate for independent balance and function
  • No muscle spasms that consistently affect movement or stability
• Manipulation skills adequate to make notations, participate in clinic maintenance, adjust equipment, assist in patient/client movement, etc.
• Perform CPR
• Travel to and from academic and clinical sites
• Physically participate in an active, 8–10 hour school/work day, consistently.

Communication Skills

• Use verbal, non-verbal, and written communication to effectively explain and/or demonstrate tasks and techniques to others
• Communicate effectively in English with patients, families, and other healthcare providers, both verbally and in written form
• Effectively adapt communication for the intended audience
• Speak with enough volume to be reasonably heard by the intended audience
• Perceive, understand, and appropriately act on non-verbal communication, such as changes in mood, activity, facial expressions, and postures
• Assume the role of an effective member of a healthcare team
• Function effectively under supervision, including collaboration as well as effectively receiving and providing feedback
• Interact and establish rapport with individuals and groups from a variety of social, emotional, cultural, and intellectual backgrounds

Problem Solving/Critical Thinking

• Function effectively under stress
• Respond appropriately to emergencies
• Use sound judgment to adhere to infection control and safety procedures
• Demonstrate problem-solving skills that reflect consideration of multiple forms of information: written, verbal, observation, etc. Must be able to reason, measure, calculate, prioritize and synthesize information
• Address problems or questions to the appropriate person at the appropriate time
• Consistently follow policies and procedures required by clinical and academic settings, governmental regulations, and requirements of reimbursement sources
• Demonstrate the capacity to consistently, effectively, and efficiently plan, organize, and perform job duties within limited time frames according to current industry standards

Academic Ability

• Read and understand information from textbooks, online resources, and other materials
• Synthesize information effectively to be able to demonstrate knowledge and skills through written work, tests, and demonstrated performance: Students should be able to synthesize this information from a variety of formats. These formats include but are not limited to text, lecture, video/computer, and demonstration.
• Data collection from a variety of sources and interpretation of materials that include, but are not limited to text, notes, online resources, observation, and clinical records
• Pay attention, without prompting, to teachers, guest speakers, and other classmates during verbal presentations
• Effectively use a computer and computer programs. These include, but are not limited to email, PowerPoint, search engines, up/downloading of documents, YouTube, and other online resource sites.

Sensory Capability

• Visually observe with enough acuity (in a variety of lighting conditions) to participate in lab activities, lectures, and clinical experiences
• Read small print information—such as that can be found on medical equipment
• Hear sufficiently to perceive the normal tone of voice to follow directions, participate in conversations, answer phones and intercoms
• Assess and treat all assigned clients, including palpation of the client
• Monitor vital signs
• Auditory, visual, and tactile abilities sufficient to assess patient status and perform treatments
• Perform responsibilities while in close proximity or in physical contact with others

Professional Behaviors

• Emotional health and stability sufficient to complete complex patient care responsibilities within an allotted time
• Flexibility to function and remain calm under stressful conditions, including emergency situations, taxing academic, and clinical workloads
• Consistently demonstrate compassion, empathy, tact, honesty, responsibility, integrity, and strong work ethic
• Follow safety precautions
• Perform tasks and interventions within competency level and seek assistance and training when additional knowledge or competency skills are required
• Actively seek and participate in continuing professional education opportunities in order to maintain and improve knowledge and competence
• Utilize evidence and OT theories, models, and frames of reference to provide the most effective interventions for clients and patients
• Independently track and complete multiple tasks, meeting deadlines and priorities as set by self and others
• Effectively interact with diverse populations and personalities
• Document and report activities accurately according to the requirements of the setting as well as external regulations, policies or procedures, and professional ethics

Application

The deadline to submit applications for the Fall 2021 OTA program has passed.

Applications for the incoming Fall 2021 class are being processed. Applicants will be notified of acceptance status via the email address provided on the application by May 28, 2021. The program will not respond to emails regarding acceptance status sent by applicants prior to May 28th.

Advising Sheets

Occupational Therapy A.A.S. Degree

2021-22 Advising Sheet
2020-21 Advising Sheet
2019-20 Advising Sheet

Program Requirements

Cost

Estimated Expenses

In an attempt to keep expenses at a reasonable cost to the student, the faculty at NSCC research the OTA budget annually. Per this goal, estimated expenses vary at an approximate 2-year expenditure of $10,000 for all tuition and fees and additional expenses.

Additional Expenses include but are not limited to:

• Textbooks and Lab Materials (approximately $500 a semester)
• Fieldwork Attire
• Criminal Background & Drug Screen
• Liability Insurance
• CPR Certification Course
• Physical Exam
• Vaccinations
• Travel to Clinical Sites

Updated information regarding current tuition and fees may be found here. For financial aid information, please contact our financial aid office.

FAQ

OTA Frequently Asked Questions

Separate OTA program application required.
Learn about the separate OTA program application and selection process below and by clicking Requirements to the right.

When will OTA program applications be available?
Applications will be available and accepted from January 1- April 1. Applications must be postmarked by April 1st. The application procedures are clearly outlined in the application packet, including selection criteria, notifications, etc. Incomplete applications will not be accepted.

How many students are selected for the program?
30 seats are available for incoming students.

How many people apply?
Over the past several years the OTA program has received over 200 applications for each application period.

Are volunteer hours required?
No, volunteer hours are not required.

What courses do I need to take in order to be able to apply?
Course information is outlined in detail on our program advising sheet (PDF).

What about Learning Support coursework or English as a Second Language?
Download PDF of ESOL and Learning Support Requirements for OTA Program Application

Must I complete all General Education coursework before I apply to the OTA Program?
No. However, if you require Learning Support coursework (new NSCC students are notified via the Admissions office), those courses must be completed prior to application.
Points are awarded during the application review process for any required General Education course that is completed or in progress (proof via transcript required at time of application).

How long is the Program?
The NSCC OTA Program is two years in length (fall and spring semesters only), regardless of the prior completion of general education coursework. Students will spend three semesters in campus-based OTA coursework and one semester in internships.

I’ve already completed a degree (at any level). Will it still take two years?
Yes.

Are evening classes available? Where can I take the classes?
All OTA classes are day classes on the Nashville State Main Campus, there are no evening or weekend options available. While some of our courses are offered online, students can expect to spend 2–4 days a week on campus the first three semesters (schedule varies by semester) and must complete two eight-week internships (full time, days only) the last semester in the program.

How much does it cost to go through the OTA Program?
Updated information regarding current tuition and fees may be found here. For financial aid information, please contact our financial aid office. Students can expect to spend approximately $500 per semester for books and supporting materials.

What skills do I need to be successful in the OTA Program and as an OTA?
The skills necessary to practice as an Occupational Therapy Assistant will be learned through the OTA Curriculum. However, there are certain skills and abilities that are required of all students who enroll in the OTA Program. View OTA Functional Requirements.

Additional questions?
Call 615-353-3383 or email ota@nscc.edu

Employment

Certification Exam

Graduates of the program are eligible to sit for the National Certification Examination For The Occupational Therapy Assistant administered by the National Board For Certification In Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). A felony conviction may affect a graduate’s ability to sit for the NBCOT certification examination.

After successful completion of this exam, the individual will be a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA).

State Licensure

Tennessee requires licensure to practice as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant. All applicants for Tennessee licensure must pass the NBCOT certification examination, in addition to other requirements. A felony conviction may affect a graduate’s ability to attain state licensure.

If students have questions or concerns regarding criminal history and employment eligibility, please contact NBCOT at 301-990-7979 and the Tennessee Board of Occupational Therapy at 615-532-3202 or 800-778-4123.

Occupational Therapy Assistant Employment

An Occupational Therapy Assistant works under the direction of an Occupational Therapist in hospitals, schools systems, nursing homes, psychiatric programs, rehabilitation centers, outpatient clinics and in the community. Occupational Therapy Assistants have been trained to use “occupations” or activities of daily life to help people of all ages participate in their activities of choice to their fullest potential.

• Employment and Salary Statistics
• Bureau of Labor Statistics for Occupational Therapy Assistants - Visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics for more information on employment for Occupational Therapy Assistants, the nature of the work, job outlook, wages, related occupations and more.
• Business Insider Occupational Therapist - Best Jobs in Healthcare
• U.S. News Best Healthcare Jobs - Occupational Therapist
• Future Job Outlook for Occupational Therapists
• American Occupational Therapy Association - Workforce Trends in Occupational Therapy

OTA Program Student Handbook/Policies and Procedures

Policies and Procedures

Chapter I – Introduction

1. Introduction
2. Historical Overview
3. Mission Statement
4. Program Philosophy

Chapter II – OTA Program and Student Objectives

1. General Program Objectives
2. Student Objectives

Chapter III – OTA Curriculum

1. Curriculum Design
2. Content Sequence

Chapter IV – OTA Program and NSCC Policies

1. Classroom Dress and Behavior Policy
2. Professional Behavior Requirements
3. Use of Cell Phones
4. OTA Course Policies
5. OTA Program Probation
6. OTA Program Retention
7. OTA Program Retention - Approved 3-year Students
8. Transferring from another OTA Program
9. Withdrawal from OTA Program
10. OTA Program Readmission Policy
11. OTA Program Advising
12. Health and Liability Insurance
13. OTA Program Dues and Fees
14. Grievance and Appeal Procedure
15. Prior Work Experience

Chapter V – General Information

1. OTA Student Organization
2. OTA Advisory Council
3. General Contact Information
4. Student Disability Services
5. NSCC Library and Learning Center

Chapter VI – Resources

1. AOTA
2. AOTA Assembly of Student Delegates
3. ACOTE
4. TNOTA
5. Preparing for Graduation
6. NBCOT
7. NSCC Career Services
8. Lifelong Learning
9. OTA Program Evaluation
10. SQ3R Study Method
11. Test Taking Hints

Chapter VII – Appendix

1. OTA Curriculum Schedule
2. OTA Curriculum
3. Scheduling Chart
4. OTA Course Policies
5. Professional Behavior Competence Document

OTAP Fieldwork Information and Manual

OTA Fieldwork Manual

Chapter I – Introduction

1. Introduction
2. Mission Statement
3. General Program Objectives
4. Philosophy and Purpose of the Program
5. Curriculum Design
6. Fieldwork within the Curriculum
7. Level I and Level II Fieldwork Placement Policy
8. Communication During Fieldwork Experience
9. Special Consideration Request
10. Fieldwork Cancellations
11. Fieldwork Sites and Supervisors
12. Academic Fieldwork Coordinator Roles and Responsibilities
13. Student Responsibilities During Fieldwork
14. Dress Code

Chapter II – Level I Fieldwork

1. Level I Fieldwork Objectives
2. General NSCC OTA Program Level I Fieldwork Purpose
3. Level I Fieldwork
4. Level I Fieldwork Grading Policies
5. Level I Fieldwork Site Evaluation
6. Student Evaluation of Fieldwork Site

Chapter III – Level II Fieldwork

1. Level II Fieldwork
2. Level II Fieldwork Supervision
3. Level II Fieldwork Grading Policies
4. Level II Fieldwork Site Evaluation
5. Professional Behaviors Expectations
6. Level II Fieldwork Termination
7. Tips for a Successful Fieldwork Experience

Chapter IV – Additional Resources

1. ADA Statement
2. Student Grievance and Appeal Procedure

Chapter V – Appendix

1. Curriculum Course Sequence
2. Curriculum Course Sequence 2
3. Course Descriptions
4. Level I Objectives
5. Level I Fieldwork Site Evaluation
6. Level I Fieldwork Site Evaluation 2
7. Student Evaluation of Level I Fieldwork
8. Level II Fieldwork Objectives
9. Student Evaluation of Level II Fieldwork
10. What Happens If...

OTA Fieldwork Resources

• Level I Fieldwork - AOTA
• COE Guidelines for an Occupational Therapy Fieldwork Experience - Level II
• AOTA OT-OTA Student Supervision and Medicare Requirements

Accreditation and Outcomes

Program Accreditation

Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education

The NSCC Occupational Therapy Assistant Program is accredited by: ACOTE

ACOTE c/o AOTA
6116 Executive Boulevard, Suite 200
North Bethesda, MD 20852-4929

Phone: 301-652-AOTA or 301-652-2682 or 301-652-6611

www.acoteonline.org | aota.org

Information about the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education

ACOTE® accredited occupational therapy and occupational therapy assistant educational programs satisfy the states’ educational requirements in all states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. Students graduating from an ACOTE® accredited occupational therapy and occupational therapy assistant educational program are eligible to take the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) certification exam and apply for licensure in all states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. For more information regarding state qualifications and licensure requirements, please refer to the AOTA State Licensure webpage.

OTA Program Outcomes

All students graduating from the Nashville State Occupational Therapy Assistant Program are eligible to sit for the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy Certification Exam. Proof of successful completion of this exam is required for a license to practice as an Occupational Therapy Assistant in the state of Tennessee.

NBCOT examination comparison pass rates from schools across the country (including NSCC OTA students).

NSCC OTA Program NBCOT examination student pass rate information and NSCC OTA Program graduation rates.

First-Year Students

Information for First-Year OTA Students

• Orientation/My Record Tracker Information
• White Bridge Campus Map
• Fall 2021 Course Schedule – First-Year
• Book List
• CPR Information
• Logo for Fieldwork Shirts
• CPR Class Schedule

Second Year Students

Information for Second Year OTA Students

• Second Year Book List - Fall 2021
• Second Year Cohort Class Schedule - Fall 2021 (updated May 24, 2021)
• Logo for Fieldwork Shirts