In need of insight

[alsh1993]

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Hello,

I'm a pre-OT student doing undergrad. I'm in my Junior year in NJ. I'm having a hard time finding observation hours in order to apply to grad school. Also, I know that depending on what Grad school a person goes to, that is the state that they will be certified to practice in. I DO NOT plan on staying in NJ after I finish my MOT so should I go to grad school out of state even though the tuition prices will be SKY HIGH? Any insight would be very helpful!

Thanks!

 

[Batt007]

Hello

To be certified, each state has a licensing board that evaluates the individual as long as you go to an ACOTE accredited school you can sit for the NBCOT exam, just because you go to a school in a specific state it does not limit you to practice in that state. You can practice in any state following that if you pass and go through their licensure. Picking a school is something to consider, private/out of state/in state...all program have their positives and negatives based on what you individually need. In state are usually the cheapest way to go however many program are looking at the out of state costs and trying to be competitive in that way. Good luck with your choosing I hope that this helps...

 

[jewel11786]

Hello,

I'm a pre-OT student doing undergrad. I'm in my Junior year in NJ. I'm having a hard time finding observation hours in order to apply to grad school. Also, I know that depending on what Grad school a person goes to, that is the state that they will be certified to practice in. I DO NOT plan on staying in NJ after I finish my MOT so should I go to grad school out of state even though the tuition prices will be SKY HIGH? Any insight would be very helpful!

Thanks!

I'm a NJ resident and I attend a weekend program in PA. It doesn't matter where you apply or finish your degree. As soon as you graduate and your degree is conferred you will be eligible to take the NBCOT, which is the exam that gives your the R in the OTR and allows you to practice. You have to be licensed in the state you wish to work (this gives you the L in OTR/L). While license requirements vary by state you will only need to have the degree conferred and passing NBCOT scores and then you can be licensed in whatever state you choose to work, most states will require fingerprinting, references, background checks, etc. depending on requirements.

As for which school to choose, yes consider the costs of tuition, room/board, travel, etc. But I think for most schools, instate or out-of-state tuition doesn't really matter. Most schools charge the same amount for graduate credits, regardless of where you're from.

 

[2514Thega]

For observation, go to your local nursing homes/assisted living facilities. Google OT clinics or try the hospital.

 

[alsh1993]

Hello

To be certified, each state has a licensing board that evaluates the individual as long as you go to an ACOTE accredited school you can sit for the NBCOT exam, just because you go to a school in a specific state it does not limit you to practice in that state. You can practice in any state following that if you pass and go through their licensure. Picking a school is something to consider, private/out of state/in state...all program have their positives and negatives based on what you individually need. In state are usually the cheapest way to go however many program are looking at the out of state costs and trying to be competitive in that way. Good luck with your choosing I hope that this helps...

Oh, thanks! I really did not know that. Its really helpful to know. Are you an OT?

 

[alsh1993]

I'm a NJ resident and I attend a weekend program in PA. It doesn't matter where you apply or finish your degree. As soon as you graduate and your degree is conferred you will be eligible to take the NBCOT, which is the exam that gives your the R in the OTR and allows you to practice. You have to be licensed in the state you wish to work (this gives you the L in OTR/L). While license requirements vary by state you will only need to have the degree conferred and passing NBCOT scores and then you can be licensed in whatever state you choose to work, most states will require fingerprinting, references, background checks, etc. depending on requirements.

As for which school to choose, yes consider the costs of tuition, room/board, travel, etc. But I think for most schools, instate or out-of-state tuition doesn't really matter. Most schools charge the same amount for graduate credits, regardless of where you're from.

Congrats on being in the program! How is it going for you?

Thanks for the help! I really appreciate it. I was going to apply to the top schools for OT but I've realized that no matter where I go, I'll still be able to get a job..