Patsy H. Haslam School of Health Sciences


    Occupational Therapy Assistant

    Mountain State University's associate in occupational therapy assistant provides students with a strong hands-on background in the methods and techniques of occupational therapy. Students who excel in the program are creative individuals with a strong interest in health care.

    The OTA program at MSU is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education.

    Why choose MSU for OTA?

    • Unique. Mountain State University offers the only OTA program in the state of West Virginia, and our program is designed for maximum flexibility. Students who cannot attend classes on a full-time basis are able to complete the program on a part-time schedule.
    • Active student organization. The MSU student OTA group is very active and travels to national OTA conventions on a regular basis. Our students are our best ambassadors to the community, and we send them out proudly.
    • Award-winning faculty and staff. Our Academic Fieldwork Coordinator for the OTA program was awarded with the West Virginia "2011 Elizabeth Devereaux Lectureship." She will deliver the keynote Elizabeth Devereaux Lecture during the 2012 conference.
      Our Program Director has also been honored with the award. She received the "2005 Elizabeth Devereaux Lectureship" in West Virginia. With over 25 years of OT experience, she is a frequent presenter at national conventions.
    • Good practice opportunities. We keep the size of our classes small, so as you move from book-learning to hands-on, you gain real experience. Multiple sections of the hands-on portions of our classes ensure that you'll get enough time to practice the various methods and techniques.

    Career opportunities

    The job market for OTA graduates is excellent. As the only OTA program in the state, MSU graduates have opportunities around West Virginia to work in a range of settings and with a variety of populations.

    From the elderly to the young, from psychiatric patients to injured workers, graduates work in wellness centers, rehab organizations, outpatient clinics, and university settings. Some students pursue a master's degree directly from the associate degree; several bridge programs in the area make this possible.