Students looking for Occupational Therapy Assistant programs in Orlando have two local options: AdventHealth University and Keiser University. Students willing to travel outside the Orlando area can also consider Polk State College in Winter Haven.
These programs offer associate-level Occupational Therapy Assistant education designed to prepare graduates for OTA practice and the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam.
OTA Schools in Orlando
AdventHealth University
Location: Orlando, Florida
Degree: Associate of Science in Occupational Therapy Assistant
Program Length: 76 credits
AdventHealth University offers its Occupational Therapy Assistant program at its Orlando campus.
The curriculum covers areas such as adult rehabilitation, pediatrics, geriatrics, and psychosocial care. Students combine classroom instruction with hands-on training and complete two eight-week clinical internships during the final semester.
AdventHealth University may be a good option for students who want to complete their OTA education at a health sciences-focused university in Orlando.
Learn more: AdventHealth University OTA Program
Keiser University – Orlando
Location: Orlando, Florida
Degree: Associate of Science in Occupational Therapy Assistant
Program Length: 83 credits
Keiser University offers an Occupational Therapy Assistant Associate of Science program at its Orlando campus.
The program focuses on client-centered occupational therapy across the lifespan. Students study how occupational therapy can help people with physical, developmental, and psychosocial conditions while completing fieldwork and practical training.
Keiser may appeal to students who want a private university option and a curriculum with substantial hands-on training.
Learn more: Keiser University OTA Program
OTA Program Near Orlando
Polk State College
Location: Winter Haven, Florida
Degree: Associate in Science in Occupational Therapy Assistant
Program Length: 74 credits
Polk State College provides another option for Central Florida students who are willing to travel outside Orlando.
The 74-credit program covers occupational therapy for people with physical, developmental, and mental health conditions. Students also complete clinical fieldwork in settings such as hospitals and rehabilitation facilities.
As a public state college, Polk State may be especially worth comparing with Orlando’s private university programs for students concerned about college costs.
Learn more: Polk State College OTA Program
Comparing Orlando-Area OTA Programs
| School | Location | Degree | Program Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| AdventHealth University | Orlando | Associate of Science | 76 credits |
| Keiser University | Orlando | Associate of Science | 83 credits |
| Polk State College | Winter Haven | Associate in Science | 74 credits |
The biggest differences involve location, cost, school type, admissions requirements, and program structure.
AdventHealth University and Keiser University allow students to attend an OTA program in Orlando. Polk State requires a longer commute but gives Central Florida students a public-college alternative.
Students should compare current tuition, admissions requirements, schedules, and fieldwork requirements directly with each school before applying.
OTA Program Accreditation and Certification
Graduating from an ACOTE-accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant program is an important step toward becoming a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant.
After completing an accredited OTA program, graduates can apply to take the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) examination. Florida also requires Occupational Therapy Assistants to obtain state licensure before practicing.
Students should confirm each program’s current accreditation status before enrolling.
How to Choose an OTA Program in Orlando
Cost is an important consideration, but students should also compare:
- Commute and campus location
- Program length and credit requirements
- Tuition and additional fees
- Admission prerequisites
- Fieldwork requirements
- Class schedules
- Current accreditation status
- Graduation and NBCOT exam outcomes
For students who want to remain in Orlando, AdventHealth University and Keiser University provide the most direct options. Students who are willing to travel farther may want to compare Polk State College as well.
Explore More Florida OTA Programs
Orlando is one of several Florida areas with Occupational Therapy Assistant programs. You can also explore programs in:
Students who are open to attending school elsewhere in the state can compare additional options in our complete guide to Occupational Therapy Assistant programs in Florida.