Overview of Occupational Therapy Assistant Programs in Colorado
Colorado has multiple public and private institutions offering occupational therapy assistant programs that prepare graduates for the national certification exam. These programs typically award an Associate of Applied Science degree and include both classroom instruction and supervised fieldwork. The Colorado Community College System and private career colleges are the primary providers of these programs across the state.
Most accredited occupational therapy assistant programs in Colorado take about two years of full-time study to complete. The curriculum covers human anatomy, neuroscience, pediatric and adult rehabilitation, and activity analysis. Students must complete a minimum number of fieldwork hours in clinical settings, which is a standard requirement for accreditation by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education.
Admission Requirements, Costs, and Accreditation
Admission to occupational therapy assistant programs in Colorado generally requires a high school diploma or GED, prerequisite courses in biology and psychology, a minimum GPA, and completion of observation hours in an occupational therapy setting. Some programs also require the Test of Essential Academic Skills or equivalent standardized test scores.
Tuition for occupational therapy assistant programs in Colorado varies by institution, with public community colleges typically charging lower rates than private schools. For example, community college tuition for in-district students often ranges from roughly 3,000 to 6,000 dollars per academic year, while private institutions may charge higher fees. Additional costs include textbooks, clinical supplies, background checks, and immunization records.
Accreditation and Licensure Path
Graduates must complete a program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education to be eligible for the national certification examination administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy. After passing the exam, individuals apply to the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies for licensure as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant.
Colorado Occupational Therapy Assistant Career Outlook and Salary
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects strong job growth for occupational therapy assistants, driven by demand in hospitals, schools, home health agencies, and skilled nursing facilities. In Colorado, employers include major health systems such as Centura Health and SCL Health, as well as outpatient rehabilitation clinics and pediatric therapy centers.
Colorado occupational therapy assistants earn a competitive wage, with statewide averages influenced by cost of living and demand in metropolitan areas like Denver and Colorado Springs. The state's aging population and expanding healthcare infrastructure support continued demand for qualified assistants. For broader labor market data, the Bureau of Labor Statistics provides official occupational employment statistics.
Professional Development and Specialization
After obtaining licensure, occupational therapy assistants in Colorado can pursue continuing education units in specialties such as gerontology, pediatrics, or mental health. Some employers require or prefer candidates with Basic Life Support certification and experience in specific clinical settings like acute care or early intervention programs.