After fieldwork and all academic work have been successfully completed, students earn a Master of Science Degree in Occupational Therapy. They are then eligible to sit for the National Certification Examination in Occupational Therapy. Consistent with NBCOT expectations, students must sit for the certification examination within three years of completion of coursework and fieldwork. A felony conviction may affect a graduate’s ability to sit for the NBCOT certification examination and/or obtain licensure.
Graduates from an accredited program are eligible to sit for the Certification Examination for the Occupational Therapist administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy, Inc. (NBCOT). After successful completion of this exam, the individual will be a certified occupational therapist (OTR). All states require licensure in order to practice; however, state licenses are usually based on the results of the NBCOT Certification Examination.
The National Certification Board in Occupational Therapy contains forms, important dates, exam-taking tips, and online practice exams for the NBCOT exam.
NATIONAL CERTIFICATION BOARD IN OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY
