Department of Occupational Therapy and Occupational Science

Student Handbook 2011-2012

IV. Department Information: General Operation

G. Certification and Licensure

The National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) is a national credentialing agency that certifies qualified persons as occupational therapists (OTRs) and certified occupational therapy assistants (COTAs). The Board's goal is to promote the health, safety and welfare of the public by establishing, maintaining and administering standards, policies, and programs for certification and registration of occupational therapy personnel. The NBCOT offers examinations and certification to candidates at both the OTR and COTA levels. Passing the NBCOT examination is the final requirement to becoming certified as an OTR. Students are to contact the NBCOT website full details regarding preparation and registration for the examination and procedures for obtaining certification, at www.nbcot.org .

Resources for students to prepare for the NBCOT examination will be communicated regularly to the students throughout the program, particularly during advising sessions and Town meetings. Practice exams facilitated by faculty are scheduled and available for students each spring. Course exams and assignments have been structured to prepare students for the testing format of the certification exam. Additional resources such as study guides and review courses are commercially available for purchase. While the Department faculty believe that review courses are helpful, they do not officially endorse any particular company which offers such courses.

Certification by NBCOT is independent of regulation by states. Most states have regulatory boards that govern the practice of occupational therapy for the purpose of consumer protection. Students are to contact the regulatory boards where they intend to practice upon graduation.
The Maryland Board of Occupational Therapy Practice may be accessed at 410-402-8560 or http://dhmh.maryland.gov/botp/ for more complete information about Maryland practice laws and licensure.