Maine Occupational Therapist School
Steps to Become an Occupational Therapist in Maine
Many students find it beneficial to earn their BS and MS through the same school, although transfer students who meet all requirements are usually accepted, space permitting.
Most OT programs offered by Maine occupational therapy schools have limited space, so applicants are encouraged to note application deadlines and fees and are encouraged to apply early.
During the undergraduate training, most schools require volunteer experience so students see a first-hand view of their intended career. The exact type and number of hours for this volunteer work varies, so check out the specific requirements for the intended MS program.
Maintaining the desired grade point average is important throughout college. Most programs will drop students whose GPA is below 2.75 by the end of their second undergraduate year and most MS programs require at least a 3.0 GPA for admittance.
Professional conduct is also a factor in the admission process and a criminal background check is required.
Those applying for an OT Master’s program without a BS in OT must still have a strong background in human sciences, psychology and sociology, mathematics and statistics, and communication.
Once education and fieldwork is completed, the third step is to become licensed by the state of Maine. OTs must pass the NBCOT certification exam, then apply for a state license to practice in Maine.
To obtain a license, an OT must complete the application form and pay all applicable fees. Maine requires a $60 application fee, $80 licensure fee, and a $21 fee to cover a criminal background check. The application form includes verification of the NBCOT test scores and two references addressing ethics. Application forms are available via the state’s website, maine.gov, clicking on “Agencies�?, then paging down to Office of Licensing and Registration or by entering http://www.maine.gov/pfr/professionallicensing/index.shtmlb.
Licenses are good for two years and must be renewed by March 31 of all even-numbered years. OTs must pay an $80 renewal fee and submit proof of 36 hours of continuing education by the due date.