There are two schools with OTA Programs in or near Lakeland:
- Keiser University: 5002 West Waters Avenue Tampa, Florida 33634
- Polk State College: 3425 Winter Lake Road Lakeland, Florida 33803
Both Polk State College and Keiser University offer Associate of Science degrees in Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA), preparing students for entry-level roles under licensed occupational therapists.
Keiser University vs Polk State College
Summary Table
Below is a comparative analysis of the two programs.
| Feature | Polk State College | Keiser University |
|---|---|---|
| Program Credits | 74 credits | 83 credits |
| Program Duration | 2 years | 16 months (accelerated) |
| Curriculum Focus | Emotional, developmental, and physical disabilities | Pediatric, psychiatric, and physical rehabilitation |
| Fieldwork Opportunities | Level I and II fieldwork in local clinical settings | Extensive Level I and II fieldwork (16 credits total) |
| Accreditation | ACOTE-accredited with a 91.66% NBCOT pass rate | ACOTE-accredited (some campuses on probation) |
| Unique Features | Affordable, inclusive, civic literacy requirement | Accelerated timeline, multi-campus availability |
| Location Flexibility | One main campus | Multiple campuses across Florida |
Program Credits and Duration
Polk State College: Requires 74 credits to graduate and spans approximately 2 years, including both classroom instruction and fieldwork components.
Keiser University: Requires 83 credits and is completed in just 16 months, making it more accelerated than Polk State’s program.
Curriculum and Specialization
Polk State College: Focuses on a well-rounded curriculum with an emphasis on emotional, developmental, and physical disabilities, as well as a requirement to meet civic literacy competencies. It supports diverse learners with a flexible approach.
Keiser University: Provides an accelerated curriculum that emphasizes therapeutic interventions in pediatric, psychiatric, and physical rehabilitation settings. Keiser’s program also integrates a “students-first” philosophy with a focus on professionalism and evidence-based practice.
Fieldwork Opportunities
Polk State College: Includes both Level I and Level II fieldwork in local clinical settings, providing hands-on experience tailored to individual community partnerships.
Keiser University: Offers extensive fieldwork opportunities, including two Level II placements (16 credits total), providing more intensive exposure to therapeutic environments.
Accreditation and Outcomes
Polk State College: Accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE), with a 91.66% NBCOT pass rate over three years. The program maintains a strong focus on accessibility and graduation outcomes.
Keiser University: Also ACOTE-accredited, but certain campuses are on probationary accreditation status due to certification exam pass rates. Keiser maintains competitive NBCOT outcomes across its multiple campuses.
Unique Features
Polk State College: Prioritizes affordability, diversity, and inclusion, making it an accessible option for students from all backgrounds. The program also integrates civic literacy into its general education requirements.
Keiser University: Offers an accelerated timeline with more credits, allowing for quicker entry into the workforce. The program is available across multiple Florida campuses, offering flexibility for students in various locations.
Conclusion
Polk State College is a budget-friendly option with a comprehensive curriculum, ideal for students seeking a cost-effective and inclusive education. Keiser University, while more expensive, provides an accelerated pathway with intensive fieldwork and broader campus accessibility. Prospective students should weigh factors like cost, duration, and accreditation when selecting a program that fits their goals and circumstances.