Working as an occupational therapists can be a rewarding and well paying position in the field of health care. Occupation therapists are there to help patients overcome physical and mental hurdles that prevent them from living a relatively normal life.
The U.S Department of Labor states that the median salary for occupation therapists is $54,660. The lowest salary is $37,430 and the highest reported is $81,600. This number is expected to rise as the demand for occupation therapists is larger than the supply. Major factors play a role in determining the salary. Location, industry and expertise are all contributing factors to the level of compensation. Typically occupational therapists working in schools will earn less than those working in hospitals. Additionally those with higher certifications will earn more than average.
To begin the qualification process, a future occupational therapists must first earn a bachelors degree in science or liberal arts from an accredited institute of higher learning. This can be a traditional four year college or an online degree from a quality internet university. Upon graduation, it is important to enroll in a master’s program. In order to be employed as an occupational therapist, it is mandatory that you earn a master’s degree and acquire a state issued license. Coursework in college is an important choice. Taking a wide variety of classes can be beneficial to a budding occupational therapist. Anatomy and Physiology, Gross Anatomy, Kineisology all are topics that cover the function of the human body. These classes typically will involve laboratory time, possibly with a cadaver. Other classes involve the human mind, such as Psychology and Life skills.
Occupational Therapists are in a high demand. The growth of the health sector will keep those currently working in the field comfortably employed and make it easier for new graduates to secure a position as well. With the elderly becoming one of the larger segments of the population of the United States, health related issues will be more frequent and the demand for professionals will increase. In addition to the excellent job prospects for the future, the “U.S. News and World Report” has stated that working in the field of occupational therapy is the 9th least stressful career.
With a minimum of a high school degree, it is possible to work as an occupational therapist aide. The primary function of this job is to assist the certified OT with daily activity and assignments. This job will also be influenced by strong demand but the salary is not as high as a certified OT. The median salary is around $25,000. Becoming a occupational therapist requires commitment but the rewards are good.