Are there a lot of job opportunities for occupational therapists?

Job opportunities for occupational therapist, physical therapists and speech-language pathologists are outstanding. Its according to what sector you prefer to work. I know in the late 90's with the balance budget amendment passing that things changed a lot in regards to work in nursing and rehabilitation. It continues today with billable minutes in all three fields. What you might want to investigate is the entry level academic requirements. Back when I began to be a pt or ot you needed a bachelor degree. The field has since upped the academic requirement to master degree and here at UT Health Science in San Antonio, PTs must earn their doctorate. Check the requirement for licensure in your state and universities you wish to attend. But your choice of profession is excellent and job opportunities are great. Good luck. I wish you the best luck in your endeavor.

Hi Christine,

Over the five years to November 2019, the number of job openings for Occupational Therapists is expected to be below average (between 5,001 and 10,000). Job openings count both employment growth and turnover (defined as workers leaving their occupation for other employment or leaving the workforce). Further information about job openings and projected employment growth is available on the Help page.

Employment for this occupation rose very strongly (in percentage terms) in the past five years and rose very strongly in the long-term (ten years). Looking forward, employment for Occupational Therapists to November 2019 is expected to grow very strongly.

This is a medium sized occupation (12,800 in November 2014) suggesting that opportunities may be limited in some regions.

Occupational Therapists have a relatively low proportion of full-time jobs (49.6 per cent). For Occupational Therapists working full-time, average weekly hours are 34.2 (compared to 40.9 for all occupations) and earnings are above average - in the seventh decile. Unemployment for Occupational Therapists is below average.

The most common level of educational attainment for Occupational Therapists is Bachelor degree (67.2 per cent).

Occupational Therapists are mainly employed in Health Care and Social Assistance, Public Administration and Safety and Education and Training.

Read more in: http://joboutlook.gov.au/occupation.aspx?code=2524&search=alpha&Tab=prospects

Good Luck!

I have been an OT for 30 years always had a job, and a job that I liked. Look on Indeed .com, plug in Occupational Therapist and target locations where you would want to work, and do some research .....plenty jobs. OT on the list as top 10 professions as the population grows and lives longer.

Hi Christine!

Here are sites that will tell you much about occupational therapy:

https://www.aota.org/about-occupational-therapy.aspx

http://explorehealthcareers.org/en/career/6/Occupational_Therapist

It is a very rewarding and very challenging field.

Please keep me posted. I would like to follow your progress!!