Choosing the right Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) program in Miami requires understanding both the shared goals and unique attributes of each option.
Three schools in Miami offer paths to a rewarding career in occupational therapy, but they differ in approach, structure, and target outcomes:
- Keiser University
- Concorde Career College
- Miami Dade College
Below is a look at the similarities and key differences to help prospective students decide which program best fits their career and academic goals.
Keiser vs Concorde vs Miami Dade
Comparison Table
| Feature | Keiser University | Concorde Career College | Miami Dade College |
|---|---|---|---|
| Program Type | Associate of Science (AS) in OTA | Associate of Science (AS) in OTA | Associate of Arts (AA) in Pre-Occupational Therapy |
| Program Length | 2 years | 20 months (accelerated) | 2 years (transfer pathway to 4-year institution) |
| Accreditation | ACOTE | ACOTE | Not applicable for OTA licensure |
| Hands-On Training | Fieldwork integrated with curriculum | 360 lab hours, 760 clinical hours | No direct OTA clinical work; focus on science basics |
| Career Outcome | Immediate entry into OTA role | Immediate entry into OTA role | Transfer to 4-year institution for advanced OT study |
| Tuition Cost | Higher, includes NBCOT exam prep and attempt fees | Higher, includes NBCOT exam prep and attempt fees | Affordable at $7,093.20 |
| Financial Aid Options | Available, including scholarships and aid | Available, includes certification support resources | Available, including scholarships |
| Ideal for Students Who | Prefer comprehensive support, structured learning | Want quick, immersive training for fast workforce entry | Plan to pursue a bachelor’s in OT at a state university |
| Learning Environment | “Students first” philosophy with strong academic support | Fast-paced, hands-on learning environment | Traditional college experience with transfer resources |
| Certification Preparation | NBCOT exam preparation included in tuition | NBCOT exam preparation included in tuition | Not applicable for OTA licensure |
Shared Goals Across All Programs
All three programs are designed to provide students with foundational knowledge and skills needed in the occupational therapy field.
Whether preparing for immediate entry into the workforce or further education, each program covers essential topics such as anatomy, physiology, and therapeutic techniques.
Hands-On Learning
Keiser and Concorde both emphasize hands-on clinical training as part of their curriculum, while Miami Dade College prepares students for practical work at the bachelor’s level.
Accreditation
Keiser and Concorde’s programs are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE), ensuring students can sit for the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam to become licensed.
Career Readiness
Each program ultimately aims to equip students with skills for diverse healthcare environments, including hospitals, clinics, and schools, though the paths they offer vary significantly.
Key Differences in Program Structure and Focus
Program Length and Format
Keiser University offers a two-year Associate of Science (AS) program that includes classroom learning and fieldwork. The program’s standard duration allows for comprehensive learning with sufficient time to absorb key skills and knowledge.
Concorde Career College offers an accelerated AS program, which students can complete in as few as 20 months. It includes extensive lab and clinical hours, making it ideal for students seeking a faster path to licensure.
Miami Dade College provides an Associate of Arts (AA) degree in Pre-Occupational Therapy, intended as a transfer pathway to a bachelor’s degree.
Unlike Keiser and Concorde, Miami Dade’s program isn’t a direct-to-work OTA program but rather a foundation for advanced studies in occupational therapy.
Target Outcomes and Career Path
Keiser University and Concorde Career College prepare students for immediate entry into the OTA workforce. Keiser’s program emphasizes a “students first” philosophy, focusing on clinical reasoning and professionalism, while Concorde’s curriculum prioritizes a fast-paced route with lab and real-world experience.
Miami Dade College prepares students to transfer to a four-year institution for a bachelor’s in occupational therapy. This program targets students who plan to advance academically rather than immediately join the workforce as OTAs, making it ideal for those interested in pursuing a broader career in occupational therapy.
Hands-On Experience
Both Keiser and Concorde provide extensive clinical and lab experience essential for practical, workforce-ready skills.
- Concorde requires 360 lab hours and 760 clinical hours, which are built into the accelerated timeline.
- Keiser integrates fieldwork with a comprehensive curriculum in therapeutic interventions and patient care.
Miami Dade College, while not offering immediate OTA certification, includes foundational science courses and preparatory coursework that set students up for success in a bachelor’s program.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Miami Dade College stands out as a highly affordable option with a tuition rate of $7,093.20, making it an accessible choice for students aiming to reduce debt while preparing for a four-year degree.
Keiser University and Concorde Career College have higher tuition costs, but both include NBCOT exam preparation and first-attempt fees, which support graduates in meeting licensing requirements.
All three programs provide financial aid options, including scholarships at Miami Dade and exam prep resources at Concorde, catering to students from varied financial backgrounds.
Learning Environment and Support
Keiser University emphasizes its “students first” approach, offering personalized support throughout the program to build student confidence and competencies. This aligns well with students who benefit from a structured and supportive academic environment.
Concorde Caree College offers accelerated, hands-on training and covers certification costs, which is ideal for students who want a direct, immersive experience that leads to quick certification.
Miami Dade College offers a traditional college experience with resources to prepare students for transfer to state universities. This environment supports students who prefer a gradual academic journey and a broader scope of general education.
Summary: Choosing the Right OTA Program in Miami
In summary, Keiser University, Concorde Career College, and Miami Dade College each provide unique benefits tailored to different career and educational goals.
Concorde Career College’s accelerated, hands-on approach may be the best fit for students seeking quick entry into the workforce with direct clinical experience.
Keiser University’s two-year AS degree offers a balanced path with ample fieldwork for those who prefer a comprehensive, supportive, and slightly longer program.
Lastly, Miami Dade College’s AA pathway provides a flexible, affordable foundation with a clear route to further academic advancement for students planning to pursue a bachelor’s in occupational therapy. By assessing individual goals, finances, and preferred pace, prospective students can choose the OTA program in Miami that best suits their future in occupational therapy.