Frequently Asked Questions

When should applications be submitted?
You can download an application and observation form from our website at any time and mail to the address on the application. The due date is usually the last Friday of June. The specific date will be posted on the application.
What is Occupational Therapy?

Occupational therapy is skilled treatment that helps individuals achieve independence in all facets of their lives.

How many students do you admit per year and when?

The OTA program enrolls up to 24 new students each Fall semester and 2 alternates.

How is Occupational Therapy different from Physical Therapy
Occupational therapy practitioners provide unique services by using occupations or activities to promote recovery, health and wellness. For example, while a PT or PTA might work with a client on how to use a walker or cane, an OT or OTA would help that same person figure out how to use that walker or cane safely when doing laundry, preparing meals, accessing tight spaces such as the bathroom, etc.
How do you select students for the OTA program?

Because clinical practicum space is limited, students are admitted on a competitive basis. Preference will be given to applicants who have successfully completed all TASP requirements. Students will be selected based on several factors such as residency, interview performance, and any combination of high school, GPA or equivalent, college GPA and TASP/alternative test scores; see Admission Point System for more details.

Are there any Pre-requisites?
No. However, students who plan to apply are encouraged to take any of the non-OTHA courses that are required in the curriculum. Students who have completed the OTA program insist that they were able to focus more on OTA class content haven previously taken courses such as A & P I & II prior to admission. Again, this is not a requirement.
How do I get my observation hours?
Contact any OTR or COTA and explain to them that you are applying for the OTA program at Panola College and that you have to complete a minimum of 8 hours of observation in different settings. Most OTR's or COTA's will be glad to assist you.
Will I automatically be accepted into the OTA program?
Not necessarily. Admission to the OTA program is on a competitive basis.
What kind of instruction can I expect during OTA classes
Since OT promotes recovery and wellness through "doing", we approach OT education the same way
How long is the program?
The program is two years and eight weeks long.
When I finish the program, I will be a COTA?
Not quite. When you finish the program, you will be eligible to take the National Certification Exam. Upon passing the exam, you will become a COTA.
Do I HAVE to pass the TASP in order to be admitted to the OTA program?
TASP test regulations are subject to change, so you will need to contact the Admissions/Records Office for the most current information regarding the TASP test. For some students, the TASP test or an alternative is required for admission to the College, which must be established before your application to the OTA program can be considered. In any case, OTA students accepted into the program must take and pass all parts of the TASP or otherwise meet TASP requirements prior to the first semester of the second year. There is one exception - student's applying to the OTA program who have earned a bachelor's degree or higher are TASP exempt for the OTA program