Florida offers Occupational Therapy Assistant programs at public colleges, private universities, and career-focused schools throughout the state.
Most OTA programs lead to an associate degree and combine classroom instruction, hands-on training, and supervised fieldwork. After completing an accredited program, graduates can take the NBCOT certification exam and pursue Florida licensure.
Use this guide to compare OTA schools in Florida or find programs near you by city.
Florida OTA Programs at a Glance
| Program Type | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Typical Degree | Associate degree |
| Program Length | Often about 2 years |
| Accreditation | Look for ACOTE-accredited programs |
| Clinical Training | Supervised fieldwork is part of OTA education |
| Certification | Graduates of eligible programs can take the NBCOT exam |
| Florida Licensure | A Florida license is required to practice as an OTA |
Compare OTA Schools in Florida
Choosing an OTA program involves more than finding the closest campus. Tuition, program length, admission requirements, accreditation, and degree structure can vary by school.
Our complete guide to OTA schools in Florida brings these options together so you can compare programs and find schools that fit your goals.
Find an OTA Program Near You
OTA programs are available in several regions of Florida. Select a city below to see local schools, program details, and nearby options.
Daytona Beach
Compare OTA programs in the Daytona Beach area, including options at Daytona State College and Keiser University.
Fort Lauderdale
Find OTA programs serving Fort Lauderdale and the surrounding South Florida area.
Fort Myers
Compare Occupational Therapy Assistant programs available to students in the Fort Myers area.
Jacksonville
Explore OTA programs available at Keiser University and Florida State College at Jacksonville.
Miami
Compare occupational therapy education options available to students in the Miami area.
Orlando
Explore Occupational Therapy Assistant programs in Orlando and Central Florida.
Tallahassee
Learn about the Occupational Therapy Assistant program available to students in Tallahassee.
Tampa
Compare Occupational Therapy Assistant programs available in the Tampa area.
West Palm Beach
Learn about the Occupational Therapy Assistant program available to students in West Palm Beach.
How to Become an Occupational Therapy Assistant in Florida
The path to becoming an OTA in Florida generally includes five steps:
- Complete an accredited OTA program. Choose an Occupational Therapy Assistant program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE).
- Complete your fieldwork. OTA programs include supervised fieldwork that gives students experience working with clients in clinical settings.
- Earn your degree. Graduate from your Occupational Therapy Assistant program after completing its academic and fieldwork requirements.
- Take the NBCOT exam. Eligible graduates can take the national certification examination administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy.
- Apply for Florida licensure. Occupational Therapy Assistants must meet Florida’s licensing requirements before practicing in the state.
What Does an Occupational Therapy Assistant Do?
Occupational Therapy Assistants work with occupational therapists to help people improve the skills they need for everyday life.
OTAs may help patients recover from injuries, adapt to disabilities, improve mobility, develop fine motor skills, or learn new ways to complete daily activities.
The work can include helping someone regain the ability to dress independently, return to work, participate in school, prepare meals, or take part in hobbies and other meaningful activities.
OTAs work with children, adults, and older adults in settings such as hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools, skilled nursing facilities, outpatient clinics, and home health settings.
For students who enjoy hands-on patient care and practical problem-solving, Occupational Therapy Assistant programs provide a direct path into the occupational therapy field.
Start Your Search for an OTA Program
The right OTA program depends on your location, budget, academic background, and career goals.
Start by comparing our complete list of OTA schools in Florida or use the city guides above to find programs near you.