Frequently Asks Questions
 What is an Occupational Therapy Assistant?
Occupational Therapy Assistants work with registered OTs in assessing patient's needs, determining therapeutic goals, planning and
implementing treatment. COTAs provide treatment to people who are limited by physical injury/illness, mental health problems,
developmental disabilities, or the aging process.
What is the length of the Occupational Therapy Assistant Program?
Two years (beginning in the fall semester).
What are the prerequisite courses?
Biology 144 & 145 or Biology 140 & 141 or
equivalent. Total minimum (8 units).
A grade of "C"
or better is required in all prerequisite courses.
Can prerequisites be completed at a school other than Grossmont College?
Prerequisites may be taken at any accredited college. The
Counseling Office can tell you what course numbers at other
local schools correspond with those at Grossmont or see the
Equivalencies Web page.
When may I apply for admission to the OTA Program?
After you have completed at least one of the prerequisites ( Anatomy or Physiology) you may submit an application for the
program. To request an application, please contact the OTA secretary at (619) 644-7304 or you may download one on this
website and submit it to Grossmont College, OTA program.
Is the OTA program a day or evening program?
The OTA program begins as an evening program. Classes are usually held Monday through Thursday from 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM;
however, there are fieldwork requirements during the daytime hours (approximately
20 hours each semester. The final semester
is full time clinical work during the day.
I have a degree from another country. Can those credits be applied toward prerequisite courses at Grossmont College?
Prospective students who completed their education in another country must have their transcripts evaluated by the
CREDENTIALS EVALUATION SERVICE. Applications can be obtained from the OTA secretary.
Are there jobs available?
Yes, there are jobs both locally and nationally.
What are the current salary levels?
The salary range varies for a newly graduated COTA; however, the starting rate is approximately $22.00 - $27.00
an hour for an entry level position, depending on the facility.
Are the graduates required to pass a national certification?
Yes, the graduated needs to pass a National Certification Exam through NBCOT. Additionally, licensure is required by most states.
What is the pass rate of the OTA Certification exam?
The total number of graduates who passed the certification exam
as first-time new graduate test takers in 2005-2007 was 32 out
of 37, which is an 86.5% pass rate. During that 3-year time
period, the program had 40 graduates.
Degrees/Certifications
An Associate in Science Degree in Occupational Therapy. To find out what the G.E. requirements are, you will need to contact the Grossmont College Counseling Department.
Are the OTA courses transferable to another college/university?
Yes, however, you should check with the college or university that you are interested in transferring to for course acceptance.
What is the approximate cost of the program?
| Resident Tuition |
$20.00/Unit |
Books, Lab Coat, Malpractice Insurance,
Background Check
& Drug Screen, AOTA membership, goniometer, gait
belt Etc. |
$1,000.00 |
| Nonresident Tuition |
$156.00
+$20.00/Unit + $1,000 |
| International Student |
$156.00
+$20.00/Unit + $1,000 |
Check the current class schedule for other costs (Health Fee, Student Benefit Card, Parking Fee, etc.) that may be incurred each semester. |
Grossmont College
8800 Grossmont College Drive
El Cajon, CA 92020
Counseling Office
(619)644-7208
Admissions & Records Office
(619)644-7186 Occupational Therapy Assistant
(619) 644-7304 Email
Occupational Therapy
Assistant
Health Professions Home Page |
