Online OTA Admissions Overview

During the admission process, a counselor will assist you in developing an enrollment plan that works toward your preferred start date out of the three start dates that we offer each year.

While we offer OTA program starts in January, May and September, our university accepts and responds to applications on a rotating basis, which means

You benefit from a longer than usual application period
You don’t have to wait long for an acceptance decision
You may have less competition if you apply early (spots can fill up quickly)

Just remember, the longer you delay your application, the more difficult it becomes to get onto the program in time for your preferred start date.

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Customizable Curriculum

Your counselor will help you understand our two curriculum options, which affect how long it takes to complete the program.

Option One

Complete the entire program in as few as 16 months of study by taking your LAS and OTA courses simultaneously. Choose option one if you’ve already successfully completed the prerequisite courses.

Option Two

Complete some or all of your LAS courses before beginning the OTA coursework. This longer option is good for students who

Need to complete prerequisites
Do not currently meet the minimum GPA required to start OTA courses
Want to ease into online learning
Need additional schedule flexibility

With this option, the program will take longer than 16 months, but you will have a lighter course load each semester.

Dedicated Counselors

We have a dedicated team of admission counselors who work exclusively with online OTA program applicants. Committed to your success, these champions of higher learning go above and beyond to help you understand the full scope of the program and the time commitment involved.

Once you decide to pursue your associate degree as an occupational therapy assistant through St. Catherine University, we assign you a counselor who will help you:

Identify the curriculum option that best applies to you
Stay on task throughout the admissions and application processes
Create an academic plan that works toward your preferred start date

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Admission Process

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1. Speak With An Admission Counselor

Your counselor will work with you personally to determine your program eligibility, help you determine which prerequisites you must complete, and guide you through the admissions process from start to finish. Together, you will also develop an education timeline with a target start date, application due dates, and various other important dates and deadlines to keep you moving forward toward your goal.

2. Complete Your Application

Once you and your counselor have determined that you have met all of the program eligibility requirements, you can apply for the online OTA program.

3. Send Your Official Transcripts

After completing your application, send us your official academic transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended. This includes colleges, universities and professional schools. Transcripts for any advanced placement courses taken in high school should also be included. Transcripts may be sent electronically to [email protected] or via postal mail to:

OTA Online Admissions
St. Catherine University
2004 Randolph Ave #4067
St. Paul, MN 55105

4. Complete Prerequisites

Before starting the online OTA courses, you may need to complete the required college-level prerequisites. Talk to your counselor about any existing college credits you have—some may meet the prerequisite requirements.

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