During the first 2.5 years based in college clinical courses there are major laboratory classes. During the first year, daily clinical visits are made. During the second year, one week clinical fieldwork occurs. The last 6-7 months of the program is all fieldwork in a variety of clinical settings. During class time and as part of class activities there is a high level of community activity working with a variety of community agencies such as Multiple Sclerosis, Impaired Vision, and Stroke support groups.
Occupational therapy is one of the most diverse of health care professions.
Jobs are available in hospitals, public school systems, rehabilitation facilities, home health agencies, hand therapy clinics, assisted living facilities, residential treatment facilities, injured worker clinics, community-based early intervention programs, and in corporations and communities performing preventative health care and wellness programs. The most satisfying aspect of an OT career is making a positive impact in the lives of clients served. Therapists must be excellent observers of human behavior, good problem-solvers, great listeners, and persistent advocates for their clients, in order to diagnose the causes of their clients' limitations and to find the most effective means of collaborating with their clients to achieve meaningful solutions. Effective occupational therapists display a combination of creative and pragmatic approaches, along with excellent interpersonal communication skills, in working with people. There is an abundance of opportunities for specialization in OT once you have graduated, passed the certification exam, and begun entry level practice in the field.