Occupational Therapist
According to the Bureaus of Labor Statistics, career opportunities for occupational therapists, (OT), are expected to continue to grow in the coming years. Occupational therapy spans both physical and mental impairments and is focused on helping patients complete day-to-day activities so that patients can live an independent life. To become an OT, one must earn a Master’s Degree in Occupation Therapy through a program approved by the Accreditation Council of Occupational Therapy Education and pass a national certification exam.
The licensing requirements for occupational therapists vary by state. For instance, in the state of New York an applicant must also be of good moral character to receive an occupational therapist’s license, but in California no such requirement exists. An OT can expect to earn between $60,000 and $90,000 depending on the location and sector of employment. With the population aging, OT jobs assisting elderly patients are especially in demand and will continue to be in the future.