Becoming an Occupational Therapist
Occupational therapists are university-trained professionals who look at the whole person, including the physical, emotional, cultural, social and spiritual aspects of the person’s life.
Occupational therapy students study psychology, sociology, anatomy, physiology and statistics. They learn biological, behavioural and health sciences and theories on person – environment - occupation interactions. They also conduct research and are continually upgrading their knowledge.
To become an occupational therapist, a person must:
- Graduate from an accredited university program with either a baccalaureate degree or master’s degree in occupational therapy
- Complete 1000 hours of fieldwork education
- Pass the national certification exam and meet provincial qualifications
- Maintain competency to practise occupational therapy, according to the requirements of the province’s regulatory organization.
For more information on what is required to become and occupational therapist, visit the University of Manitoba, School of Medical Rehabilitation.