Full-time tuition
In-state: $8,910;
Out-of-state: $26,250 (30 credit hours per year). See details and other costs
Financial aid
Average offer covers a large portion of tuition & fees.
In-state: nearly 100%;
Out-of-state: nearly 70%.
May include scholarships, grants, waiver, & work-study. Explore aid
Program duration
Typical completion time: 4 years. Flexible options may save time. Explore options
Admissions
Expecting to accept applications in January 2024 for the fall 2024 semester. View application process & deadlines
Program Highlights
Hands-on training
Build clinical skills during three fieldwork experiences. As you advance, you’ll work under supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist. Our fieldwork education is closely governed by the standards of the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE).
A broad career path
Prepare for an Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) position in a variety of settings such as mental health, physical disability, pediatrics, and management. You’ll also gain a strong foundation to pursue graduate study in the healthcare field.
Scholarship opportunities
Scholarships offer valuable financial aid that doesn’t need to be repaid. You’ll be automatically considered for Merit Scholarships when you apply for admission by the deadline. Additional opportunities are available.
Engaged, dedicated faculty
Our faculty are committed to the success of our students. Faculty research areas include hoarding disorder, pediatric mental health, and the effects of sensory room use on stress in students.
Considering transferring to USM?
Our new OTA major begins in Fall 2024 for students on track to graduate in Spring 2028, or later. If you are transferring from another four-year university or community college, our knowledgeable Admissions Counselors will help you explore your options.
Get the best of each campus
During your first and second years, you will take courses on our Portland and Gorham campuses. In your third and fourth years, you’ll transition to our Lewiston campus, where you can take advantage of a comprehensive suite of clinical learning facilities.
Learning spaces
Our Lewiston campus features a dedicated pediatric clinic space with sensory integration equipment. A separate space for adults includes modalities and exercise equipment, and a lab space with a kitchen and bathroom to practice activities for daily living.
OTA licensure
As a graduate of our program, you will be eligible to sit for the national certification examination administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). After successful completion, you will be a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) and eligible to practice.