What courses should you take in college to prepare for occupational therapy?

To become an occupational therapist, a bachelor's degree in occupational therapy is required. Prerequisites for admission to an accredited occupational therapy program may include coursework in the following subjects:

Biology: This course provides a foundation in the structure and function of the human body. Topics may include anatomy, physiology, and genetics.

Psychology: This course provides a foundation in human behavior and mental processes. Topics may include cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, and abnormal psychology.

Sociology: This course provides a foundation in the study of society and human interaction. Topics may include social theory, social stratification, and social psychology.

Kinesiology: This course provides a foundation in the study of human movement. Topics may include biomechanics, exercise physiology, and motor development.

Neuroscience: This course provides a foundation in the study of the nervous system and its impact on cognition, behavior, and motor control.

Statistics: This course provides a foundation in the analysis and interpretation of data. Topics may include descriptive statistics, inferential statistics, and regression analysis.

Research Methods: This course provides a foundation in the design, implementation, and analysis of research studies. Topics may include qualitative research, quantitative research, and data collection methods.

Assistive Technology: This course provides a foundation in the use of assistive technology to support individuals with disabilities.

Pediatric Occupational Therapy: This course introduces students to the theory and practice of occupational therapy for children and adolescents.

Geriatric Occupational Therapy: This course introduces students to the theory and practice of occupational therapy for older adults.

Mental Health Occupational Therapy: This course introduces students to the theory and practice of occupational therapy for individuals with mental illness.

Industrial Rehabilitation Occupational Therapy: This course introduces students to the theory and practice of occupational therapy for individuals who are injured or ill and need help returning to work.

In addition to these courses, most occupational therapy programs also require clinical experience hours in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and community clinics.