College of Health Sciences

Occupational Therapy

Required OT-Related Activities for Application to the OTA Program

Students must complete each of the following activities. Documentation of each activity and verification signatures and information must be completed and must follow the format described below.

  • Eight (8) hours of observation of an Occupational Therapy session performed by an O.T.R. or a C.O.T.A. The applicant may choose to spread the hours out over different facilities or to perform all 8 hours at one facility. Documentation of observations and signature verification must be completed as described below. Observations completed more than two years prior to application date WILL NOT be accepted.

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  • One (1) interview with a practicing OTR or COTA following the questions, documentation procedure, and signature verification described below. Interviews completed more than two years prior to application date WILL NOT be accepted.

NOTE: The OTA Program strongly recommends that the observation hours and interview be performed outside of the Monroe/West Monroe area whenever possible so that the limited number of local practitioners will not be overwhelmed with requests. For this reason, students who live in out-of-town/state areas should  plan to do their observations in those areas during University breaks and holidays.

Students who live in out-of-town areas should plan to do their observations in those areas during university break periods or holidays.


Questions for Interviewing OT Practitioners

1. Why did you choose the profession of occupational therapy?

2. Describe your typical work day?

3. What type of clients do you work with?

4. What type of treatment activities do you use in your sessions?

5. What other settings have you worked in?

6. What is the least favorite part of your job?

7. Based on your experiences, what personality traits do you feel are important in a person who is interested in the OT profession?

Remember: Documention and Signature Verification Required

  • Observations – A two page double spaced description of what was observed, and the applicant's reaction to the observations.
  • Interviews with practitioners– Typed responses to the provided questions must be included

Signature verifications and contact information for EACH activity must be completed using the provided "Verification Form for Required Activities."