How to Become an Occupational Therapist
How to become an occupational therapist? First, earn a bachelor’s degree. Then, complete a master’s program in occupational therapy.¹ The graduate program usually takes 2–3 years, and Stanbridge University’s MSOT program is structured for completion in about 26–27 months.² After graduation, you’ll take the NBCOT exam and apply for state licensure.³ The process takes time and effort, but it provides the preparation needed to pursue a career supporting people in achieving greater independence.
How to become an occupational therapist? If you’ve ever dreamed about helping people live fuller lives, this question may already be on your mind. Occupational therapists, often called OTs, play a special role in healthcare. They support patients in regaining skills after illness or injury. In addition, they guide them in adapting to everyday challenges.¹
The encouraging news is that the steps are clear. First, you earn a bachelor’s degree. Next, you move into a master’s program in occupational therapy. Along the way, you’ll gain the skills and confidence to sit for licensure. This blog explains each step, answers common questions, and highlights how the MSOT program at Stanbridge University supports future OTs.
How to Become an Occupational Therapist: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Earn a Bachelor’s Degree
The first step is a bachelor’s degree. Although your first degree can be in any discipline, most students come with degrees in health sciences, psychology, or biology. These fields give you a strong foundation in anatomy, human development, and behavior.
Step 2: Complete a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT) Program
After completing your bachelor’s degree, the next step is graduate-level training. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), occupational therapists must earn at least a master’s degree in occupational therapy.¹
The Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT) program at Stanbridge University provides this training. It combines academic knowledge with practical skills.
- Program length: About 26–27 months²
- Format: Classes are offered on campus, online, and in blended formats. Labs take place in modern facilities. Fieldwork is completed at clinical sites.
- Schedule: Most terms include 2–4 days of classes per week. Sessions last 6–8 hours. Fieldwork is full-time, Monday through Friday.
Overall, this stage provides the platform and training for you to grow both as a student and as a future healthcare professional.
Step 3: Pass the NBCOT Exam
Next, you must take the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam. Passing this exam is required before you can apply for a state license.¹ Further, it shows that you have the knowledge and skills needed to practice safely and effectively.
Step 4: Apply for State Licensure
Finally, apply for a license in your state. In California, requirements may include background checks, fees, and official documents.³ Once approved, you can begin practicing as an occupational therapist.
How Many Years Do You Need to Become an Occupational Therapist?
The journey often takes five to seven years in total.¹ You’ll spend about four years earning a bachelor’s degree. After that, you’ll need another two to three years in a master’s program. Stanbridge University’s MSOT program takes about 26–27 months at the graduate level.²
Can you be an OT without a Master’s Degree? No. You cannot become a licensed OT without at least a master’s degree.¹
There is another option, though. If you’re interested in the field but not ready for graduate school, you might consider the Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) role. OTAs support licensed OTs but do not practice independently.⁴
What It Takes to Become an Occupational Therapist
Education is only one part of the journey. To succeed as an OT, you also need personal skills. Empathy helps you connect with patients. Similarly, patience allows you to guide them through setbacks. Problem-solving lets you adjust treatments for each person. Strong communication supports teamwork with families and healthcare professionals.
The MSOT program at Stanbridge is designed to nurture these qualities while preparing students academically and clinically. By the end of the program, students are ready to take the next step toward helping others live fuller, more independent lives.
How Stanbridge University Supports The Journey Toward Becoming an OT
So, how to become an occupational therapist? First, complete a bachelor’s degree. Next, earn a master’s degree in occupational therapy. Then, pass the NBCOT exam and apply for licensure 1,3
The MSOT program at Stanbridge University is structured to prepare you for every stage. While the process requires time and dedication, it also leads to a career where you help others live with greater independence and dignity.
Ready to take the next step toward becoming an occupational therapist? Explore the Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT) program at Stanbridge University. Learn how hands-on labs, clinical fieldwork, and faculty support prepare you for licensure. Connect with us today to plan your future in occupational therapy.
Frequently Asked Questions
The journey often takes five to seven years in total.¹ You’ll spend about four years earning a bachelor’s degree. After that, you’ll need another two to three years in a master’s program. Stanbridge University’s MSOT program takes about 26–27 months at the graduate level.²
No. You cannot become a licensed OT without at least a master’s degree. This education is necessary because occupational therapists evaluate patients, design treatment plans, and supervise assistants.¹
Most occupational therapists need a master’s degree in occupational therapy.¹ Some universities also offer a doctorate, but a master’s is the standard entry point into the field.
Employment for OTs is expected to grow 12% from 2022–2032, much faster than average, due to aging populations and increased demand for rehabilitation services.⁵
Most programs require a bachelor’s degree, prerequisite courses (like anatomy and psychology), and often GPA minimums, recommendation letters, and observation hours.3
Stanbridge University offers healthcare degree programs across its Southern California campuses in Irvine, Alhambra, Riverside, and San Marcos. The university has been recognized for both academic excellence and workplace culture, including recognition in the 2025 Carnegie Classifications as an Opportunity College⁶ and in Research.com’s 2024 Best Healthcare Degree Programs in America.⁷ Its Orange County campus earned the 2024–2025 ACCSC School of Excellence Award,⁸ and in 2025, Georgetown University’s Center on Education and the Workforce ranked Stanbridge among the top 5% of U.S. colleges for 10-year return on investment, based on earnings and tuition data from qualifying programs.⁹ Stanbridge is accredited by Investors in People (London)¹⁰ and certified as a Great Place to Work.¹¹
Footnotes
¹Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Occupational Therapists, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/occupational-therapists.htm. As viewed on September 26, 2025.
²Program duration subject to change. Completion times vary depending on the start and end dates of a cohort and individual circumstances.
³California Board of Occupational Therapy, License Application Requirements. https://www.bot.ca.gov/applicants/application.shtml. As viewed on September 26, 2025.
⁴Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Occupational Therapy Assistants and Aides, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/occupational-therapy-assistants-and-aides.htm. As viewed on September 26, 2025.
⁵Source: State of California Employment Development Department (EDD), Occupational Outlook for Occupational Therapists, https://edd.ca.gov/. As viewed on October 9, 2025.
⁶Source: https://carnegieclassifications.acenet.edu/institution/stanbridge-university/. As viewed on May 21, 2025.
⁷Source: Research.com, 2024 Best Healthcare Degree Programs Ranking in America, https://research.com/rankings/healthcare/best-healthcare-usa/?award=f3d66c8ef200b579. Email communication from Chief Data Scientist and Ranking Editor, Imed Bouchrika, Ph.D. to Director of Marketing, Victoria Sauer. As viewed on December 12, 2024.
⁸Source: Stanbridge University, Orange County campus, Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC) School of Excellence 2025 Award. Email communication from Michelle Ragland, Member Services and Events Manager, ACCSC, to Director of Marketing, Victoria Sauer. As viewed on July 17, 2025.
⁹Source: https://cew.georgetown.edu/cew-reports/roi2025/. As viewed March 19, 2025.
¹⁰Source: Investors in People. https://www.investorsinpeople.com/. As viewed on June 13, 2025.
¹¹Source: Great Place to Work. https://www.greatplacetowork.com/certified-company/7021962. As viewed on September 17, 2025.