Make a difference in people’s lives with a career as an Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA). OTAs collaborate with occupational therapists to support individuals across the lifespan—from birth to end of life—helping them regain independence and improve their physical, emotional and mental well-being.
Through our program, you’ll learn key skills in rehabilitation, therapeutic techniques and holistic care. Hands-on clinical training prepares you to assist individuals, groups and communities in achieving their goals.
With growing demand and diverse job opportunities, becoming an OTA offers a rewarding, in-demand career.
Growth rate for occupational therapy assistants (2023-2033)
Bureau of Labor statistics, Occupational Outlook, 2023 data.
New students applying to Black Hawk College should select the General Occupational and Technical Studies (GOTS) AAS until such time as they have been officially accepted by the department into this program.
Meet with a BHC advisor to complete placement testing and course review.
Applications for the OTA program are received through the Occupational Therapy Assistants Centralized Application Service (OTACAS). Create an account and complete an application following the steps provided on that site.
As part of the application, you will be asked to submit the following:
Schedule an HSRT test in the Testing Center. There is a time limit of 50 minutes. Bring the following items:
Scores are sent directly to the program director. Following the test, students will complete a writing prompt in the testing center.
Applications will be accepted from Oct. 1, 2026 through March 1, 2027 for program start in August 2027.
Students will need an internet-capable device or laptop to connect to Canvas for all classwork.
See Online Learning Tech Requirements
Students must successfully complete all required general education and OTA-specific courses, including successful completion of all fieldwork experiences, as outlined in the OTA Handbook to be eligible to graduate from the program.
The OTA Program is currently pursuing programmatic accreditation through ACOTE and is in Candidacy status (see FAQ above about accreditation). The program must be granted Accreditation status before its graduates will be eligible to sit for the national certification examination for the occupational therapy assistant administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). We anticipate achieving Accreditation status as of December 2027. However, until Accreditation is achieved, data regarding each state’s acceptance of our OTA program meeting their licensing requirements is not available.
At Black Hawk College, the journey to academic success and personal growth is just a step away. Contact Admissions to schedule a tour, receive more information or ask a question about your program of interest.
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Maintaining CAAHEP accreditation ensures that Black Hawk College’s EMS program continues to meet rigorous academic and clinical training standards, preparing graduates for success in the field and eligibility for professional certification.
The 2025 Black Hawk College 5K Hustle raised $10,030.49 to benefit students in the BHC Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) Program.
The Surgical Technology program is accepting applications through Tuesday, March 31 for its Fall 2026 start.
309-796-5341 or
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