Central Penn College OTA Program earns ACOTE re-accreditation
The occupational therapy assistant (OTA) program at Central Penn College has been recertified by the Accreditation Council of Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) for the 2020–2021 academic year.
ACOTE recently approved the annual report for Central Penn College’s OTA program and found that there were no areas of noncompliance or deficit areas. The accreditation body is responsible for reviewing and accrediting nearly 600 occupational therapy and OTA educational programs in the United States.
“Our OTA faculty worked diligently to gather the necessary data for the report based on the 2019 calendar, including graduation rates, certification exam pass rates, job placement rates and other information about the program,” said Dr. Kimberly Tanish , OTA program director at the college. “This report is ACOTE’s seal of approval for the program.”
“Congratulations to Dr. Tanish, instructors Amber Ferree and Hope Devore!” said Dr. Krista Wolfe, interim vice president of academic affairs at the college. “The accreditation process requires an immense amount of work, and their commitment to the OTA program and our students shines through once again.”
Background about OTAs
“OTAs are basically problem-solvers,” said Tanish, who holds a doctorate in occupational therapy. “They help patients—many of whom are dealing with an injury or a disability—maintain their independence and a high quality of life.”
“If you want a career where you can make a difference, becoming an OTA might be for you,” said Tanish. “It’s a physically demanding job, and it’s not without its challenges, but if you’re the kind of person who likes to see the positive impact you’re having on others, then I recommend learning more about this critical healthcare profession.”
Central Penn College launched its OTA program in 2012, and it is currently the only accredited OTA program in the capital region. The two-year program requires 18 months of coursework and 16 weeks of internship before graduation. Students who successfully complete the program earn an associate degree.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for an OTA is $59,200. “The salary of OTAs is highly dependent on the setting they choose to work, but OTAs are healthcare professionals in high-demand and compensated accordingly,” said Tanish.
