Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) programs in Tampa offered by South University, AdventHealth University, and Keiser University each offer unique features and structures suited to different student needs and career goals.
- Keiser University Tampa Campus: 5002 West Waters Avenue Tampa, Florida 33634
- South University: 4401 North Himes Avenue Suite 175, Tampa, FL 33614-7095
- AdventHealth University Tampa Campus: 14055 Riveredge Dr # 500, Tampa, FL 33637
Here’s a comparison of their main aspects.
Quick Comparison
South University vs AdventHealth vs Keiser
| Feature | South University | AdventHealth University | Keiser University |
|---|---|---|---|
| Program Name | Associate of Science in Occupational Therapy Assistant | Associate of Science in Occupational Therapy Assistant | Associate of Science in Occupational Therapy Assistant |
| Program Duration | Approx. 8-9 quarters | Approx. 6 trimesters | As few as 20 months |
| Core Curriculum Focus | Patient care, community service, educational leadership | Core areas: adults with disabilities, geriatrics, pediatrics, psychosocial care | Client-centered care, lifespan-based interventions |
| Clinical Component | Extensive hands-on fieldwork | Hands-on clinical experience, focus on rehabilitation settings | Fieldwork with a variety of client age groups and conditions |
| Admission GPA Requirement | Minimum 2.85 in prerequisite coursework | Minimum “C” grade in prerequisites | Minimum 3.0 in prerequisites |
| Accreditation | ACOTE accredited | ACOTE accredited | ACOTE accredited (Tampa campus); other campuses vary by status |
| Certification Exam | Eligible for NBCOT certification exam | Eligible for NBCOT certification exam | Eligible for NBCOT certification exam |
| Graduation Rate | 73% (2021-2023) | 89% (2020-2023) | 73% (2020-2023) |
| Unique Program Strengths | Emphasis on community service and leadership | Compassionate care, focus on diverse patient needs | Holistic, client-centered focus and flexibility in program duration |
Program Structure and Focus
South University offers an Associate of Science in Occupational Therapy Assistant with a comprehensive curriculum focusing on skills for assisting patients of various ages with physical, psychological, and developmental needs.
The program emphasizes community service and educational leadership, including a strong clinical component with extensive hands-on learning opportunities.
AdventHealth University also provides an Associate of Science in OTA, with a curriculum focused on four core practice areas: adults with disabilities, geriatrics, pediatrics, and psychosocial care.
Students at AdventHealth engage in extensive clinical placements, particularly in behavioral health and rehabilitation settings, with a strong emphasis on compassionate patient care.
Keiser University provides a similarly structured Associate of Science in OTA, with the option to complete the program in as few as 20 months. This program is structured to develop entry-level OTAs with a focus on client-centered care in daily living activities and therapeutic interventions.
The curriculum includes fieldwork with patients across the lifespan, preparing students for generalist practice under the supervision of a licensed occupational therapist.
Admission Requirements
South University requires applicants to complete prerequisite coursework with a cumulative GPA of 2.85 or higher, including recent completion of specific science and OTA introductory courses.
AdventHealth University has a sequence that incorporates general education and prerequisite courses, focusing on foundational knowledge in psychology, anatomy, and pathophysiology. Applicants must pass specific prerequisites with at least a “C” grade.
Keiser University expects a cumulative GPA of 3.0 in prerequisite courses such as anatomy, physiology, math, and psychology. Additional requirements include a university entrance exam score of at least 18, and students must clear background checks and drug screenings.
Accreditation and Certification Preparation
All three programs are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE), enabling graduates to sit for the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam to become a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA). While South University and AdventHealth University maintain standard ACOTE accreditation, Keiser University’s program status is complex, with specific campuses, including Tampa, currently maintaining full accreditation. In contrast, others have probationary or inactive accreditation status.
Graduation and Pass Rates
- South University reports a 73% graduation rate across its Tampa campus from 2021 to 2023.
- AdventHealth University boasts a substantial 89% graduation rate from 2020 to 2023.
- Keiser University presents varied graduation rates by campus, with Tampa showing a 73% graduation rate over the last three years, aligning with its accreditation status.
Career Preparation and Outcomes
Each program prepares students for diverse OTA careers across healthcare settings. South University emphasizes leadership and community service, AdventHealth focuses on empathetic care, particularly for underserved populations, and Keiser centers on client-centered care and holistic approaches. This variety offers prospective OTA students in Tampa several paths, depending on their specific career aspirations and financial considerations.
Nearby Cities