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Minnesota Occupational Therapist School
By allied health world contributing writer
Published: April 21th, 2010
Steps to Become an Occupational Therapist in Minnesota
Programs offered by Minnesota occupational therapy schools can include online or in-person classes or a combination of the two. When looking into the available programs, prospective students should note that many of them start with the fall term only and often accept a limited number of students.
Applicants to Occupational Therapy programs in Minnesota must pass a criminal background study. Also, those planning on entering into this field should be aware that sitting for the national exam and or obtaining a license might be unavailable to anyone with a felony conviction.
All Minnesota universities and colleges require that students be up to date with immunization records. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), Center for Disease Control (CDC) and Academic Health Center policies require that all students in health fields have a health clearance, which includes a Tuberculin Skin Test. After the educational requirements are met, aspiring OTRs must pass the qualifying examination with a minimum score. This requires applying for the exam, paying all applicable fees, and having the exam scores sent to the Minnesota Board of Health. These steps are the sole responsibility of the applicant. The final step is to complete the application process for a license. OTRs should note that the state of Minnesota requires that all licenses be renewed every two years. To renew a license, an OTR must complete the renewal application, pay the applicable fees, and submit proof of 24 contact hours of continuing education.
Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) must complete an occupational therapy assistant program that is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy and pass the credentialing exam for occupational therapy assistants. They also must pay all applicable fees involved with the testing process and apply for a license through the state of Minnesota’s Department of Health. COTAs are required to renew their licenses every two years, pay the applicable fees for license renewal, and meet the continuing education requirements of at least 18 contact hours every two years.
Through campus based and online programs, aspiring Occupational Therapists in Minneapolis, St. Paul and Rochester, Minnesota may be able to prepare themselves for the possibility of employment in some of the largest hospitals and healthcare facilities in the state including the United Hospital, Abbott Northwestern Hospital, Children’s of Minnesota and St. Mary’s Hospital.