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I spent several years at home when my kids were babies, and then worked part-time for a few years. Now that the kids are older I'm thinking about getting some sort of training or certification in a new career, since my pre-kid field didn't do well in the recession. One area that interests me is occupational therapy.
However, I can't afford to spend a lot of time and money on a program that is unlikely to lead to a job. Does anyone know about job prospects in the Triangle for OTs? I think I'd most enjoy working with children, but am open to all possibilities at this point.
I'd be almost 50 by the time I would finish a program. Will my age count against me, either in getting admitted or later getting hired?
My wife is an OT. I see lots of post cards and delete lots of phone messages from recruiters looking for OTs. The most in-demand parts of the field seem to be home health, skilled nursing facilities, and pediatrics.
Maybe you can look into an OTA (COTA) program, which is usually a 2-year program. I believe that OT's these days requires a master's degree, but don't quote me on that. My wife is a pediatric OT.
I write for Today in OT magazine, among others, and one of the constant themes is how much in demand OTs are as the Baby Boomers age. That trend will only accelerate in the next few years.
I write for Today in OT magazine, among others, and one of the constant themes is how much in demand OTs are as the Baby Boomers age. That trend will only accelerate in the next few years.
That seems to go in line with my observation that home health and SNFs are the in-demand areas of this field, based on recruiter phone calls and post cards received at our house.
Thanks for the replies. It's encouraging to hear that there seem to be jobs. Looks like Durham Tech has a 2 year program to become a COTA. The website mentioned a waiting list for classes---not sure how long that waiting list is. UNC has a 2 year masters program which appears to have very competitive admissions, and would require some prerequisites. Lots to think about...
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