OTA Plan of Study 2011
Sample Course Sequence
OTA Class Schedule
Course Check List
1. How long does it take to graduate and what kind of a degree do I get?
2 ½ years, including pre-requisites (Gen. Psy, Eng. I, Int. Alg., Hum. Anat, Med. Term.). You will be earning an Associate of Science (A.S.) degree with a major in OTA.
2. How hard is it to get accepted?
If you fill out the application forms very carefully, successfully complete (with a “C” or better) or are enrolled in all (5) pre-requisites, have a good GPA, and use good grammar and spelling skills, your chances of being accepted are excellent.
3. When do I need to apply?
Apply no later than September. First-round selections are made on the basis of applications received by October 1. Applications received by Nov. 1 will be ranked and added to a waiting list. Be sure you have also applied (on-line or in person) to and been accepted by Newman University, by that date.
4. Do I need to take my pre-requisites at Newman?
No. It is possible to take virtually all the required pre-req., co-req., and gen ed. elsewhere. However, points towards
acceptance into the OTA Program are awarded for those pre-req., co-req., and gen ed. courses taken at Newman.
5. Do I need to take all of the co-requisites and general education courses before beginning OTA courses?
No. Unlike some other health care programs, only five (pre-requisite) courses must be completed before beginning OTA studies—and they need not be completed at the time of application (but must be completed, with a “C” or better, and transcripts sent to Newman, before starting OTA courses).
6. Is getting my Associates in OTA required before getting my Master’s in OT?
No. But for some students, it’s a good route to take—especially if they can’t leave Wichita & vicinity right now. See the www.acoteonline.org listing of “Educational Programs for OTAs seeking OT Degrees.”
7. When is Newman going to start an OT Master’s program?
The need of OTs in the Wichita area is strong ,and it is almost inevitable that Newman will someday start an MS OT program. However, is no exact timeline for starting such a program at this time. You might also wish to ask about NU’s 3+2 and 3+3 arrangements with Washington University in St. Louis.
8. What do OTAs get paid?
OTAs are well paid, but salaries vary widely from one type of institution (hospital, school, nursing home) to another, and are generally higher in rural areas. See the Dept. of Labor “Occupational Outlook” web site for the latest figures.
9. Are there any jobs?
Nationally, the market is strong. Check the “Occupational Outlook” site for information about current and projected job demand (which is high). Locally, OTA hiring has become more competitive, of late.
10. I’m over 30 years old. Will I feel comfortable being in class with all those young people?
Not a problem. The majority of OTA students—locally and nationally—are “non-traditional” aged.
11. What percentage of NU OTA graduates pass the OTA national board exam on the first try?
Newman’s NBCOT first-time pass rate is typically higher than that of the national average. Please see our NU OTA Applicant Handbook for information about eligibility to sit for the NBCOT exam and become licensed to practice in the State of Kansas.
12. What is an “OTA Applicant Handbook,” and... do I need one?
Yes, you do. Make sure you have a copy of the current year’s Handbook, as admission requirements, forms, and procedures change from year to year. Inside you’ll find all the information—and forms—you need in order to apply. It’s also available on-line at the NU OTA web site, but please call (316) 942-4291 Ext. 2238 to have our program assistant send you a bound copy, as well.