Occupational Therapy Assistant

Occupational Therapy Assistant is a selective admission. In addition to MCC's general admission requirements, OTA program candidates must complete the Selection Process requirements listed below.

1. Official transcript of all postsecondary education, if courses were not taken in the Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS).
2. Documentation of completion of all prerequisite courses, including OTA 101, with a “C” or better before beginning program coursework.

Students seeking admission into the Occupational Therapy Assistant program are required to complete the OTA Application form and mandatory writing assignment. 

To see the full OTA pre-admission conference presentation, please click here.

1. The selection process is complete the week after spring grades are posted by the OTA Admission Committee.
2. Applicants are notified via KCTCS email. 

OTA 101 Introduction to Occupational Therapy. OTA 101 requires successful completion of ENG 101. OTA 101 is offered only online in the fall and spring semesters.

The OTA Application will automatically submit your application. The mandatory writing assignment must be printed and mailed to:

Dr. Kim Qualls  
Madisonville Community College
750 N. Laffoon Street
Madisonville, KY 42431

The OTA program is only offered as a full-time program. Student can complete the program in 18 months. Courses are offered during three 16-week semesters (August-December and January-May).

Progression in the Occupational Therapy Assistant Program is contingent upon the achievement of a minimum grade of a “C” or higher in each OTA course and prerequisite courses.

Portions of the OTA Program may be online/hybrid. Access to internet is required. Technology requirements are listed on the OTA Webpage for each program. 

MCC uses Blackboard, a web-based learning management system (LMS). Students and faculty use it to access and manage online courses and to communicate about course content, assignments, exams, and more. To deliver online courses and to enhance on-ground and hybrid classes. 

Blackboard:  If you have problems with Blackboard, please contact the GO KCTCS Student Service Centertoll-free at 1-855-554-6622 or online here: GO KCTCS Student Service Center.

Just log in to https://MyPath.kctcs.edu and click the Blackboard icon on the Welcome page. That’s how easy it is to take MCC OTA online hybrid courses. 

Students will take courses both online and on campus to complete OTA degree requirements

Hybrid Definition

Classes combine classroom and online coursework and typically meet only once weekly online.

Technical Requirements

If you’re planning to enroll in MCC’s OTA program, you’ll need regular access to a computer with internet access. The following suggested and required computer standards can help you avoid some common technical problems.

• Internet Access
  • DSL, cable, or higher bandwidth is required
    If you have dial-up (56K or less for bandwidth), you may need to use the computers at a local library or MCC OTA Program home campus computer labs to download large documents required by some OTA courses.
• Hardware
  • Windows or Mac-based computer (Chromebooks are not recommended)
    • 8GB or higher RAM
    • 256GB or higher Solid State Hard Drive (SSD)
    • Speakers, Microphone, and Webcam
  • iOS or Android tablets can be used but are not recommended for coursework.
  • Software
    • Windows 10/11 or Macintosh OS
    • Browser and plugin support
      • Chrome, Firefox, or Edge Recommended
    • Microsoft Word/Office is suggested for most courses and required for others; review each course syllabus for specific course requirements
      • Adobe Acrobat Reader
    • Security software – Keep all your definitions for both spyware and virus software update

The Occupational Therapy Assistant, under the supervision of a licensed occupational therapist, works to promote and maintain the holistic health of individuals in the community. The program strives to fill a growing need for professionals able to contribute to all facets of occupational therapy, from assessment to treatment termination. Therefore, in order to work successfully with clients, all applicants should possess sufficient performance skills in the areas of:

• sensory functions including visual acuity, such as observation skills necessary for administering client care and reading equipment gauges and settings used in treatments;
  sensory functions including auditory perception to receive verbal communication and to execute client care through the use of monitoring devices;
• strength and gross and fine motor coordination and motor praxis skills to respond promptly and to implement client care skills, such as the manipulation of equipment, and positioning and lifting clients;
• communication and social skills (speech, reading, writing) to interact with the individuals and to communicate their needs promptly and effectively, as may be necessary in the client’s interest, and
• Intellectual, cognitive, and emotional function to implement the plan of care.

OTA Projected Program Cost

Item Cost

• Tuition (3+ semesters at current in-state tuition rates) - $7,626
• In-State Students - $186/Credit hour
• Non-resident students - $250/Credit hour
• Mandatory Fee - $8/Credit hour
• Distance Learner Fee - $20/Credit hour
• Textbooks/Supplies - $2,000.00

Liability insurance, background check, drug screening - $125.00

Program shirt - $50.00

Hepatitis vaccine - $100.00

AOTA and KOTA dues - $95.00

NBCOT certification fees - $625.00

Cap, gown, and diploma cover for graduation - $100.00

Miscellaneous Items (transfer belt, goniometer, craft materials etc.) - $150.00

Total instate estimate $10,846

This is an estimated cost. Actual costs could be higher or lower than this total depending on the cost of books and materials and changes in tuition and fees charged by the college.