By: BLS.gov

Job Description
Occupational therapists help patients improve their ability to perform tasks in living and working environments. They work with people who suffer from mentally, physically, developmentally, or emotionally disabling conditions. OTs may specialize in one disability or environment. They work in a variety of settings, from schools to hospitals to mental health treatment centers.

Median Salary
$60,470

Education Requirements
A master’s degree or higher is the minimum requirement for entry into occupational therapy. Coursework includes classes in physical, biological and behavioral sciences, social sciences, and application of skills. Programs also require 6 months of supervised fieldwork. All states require occupational therapists to obtain a license after graduating from an accredited program and passing a national certification exam.

Job Outlook
Employment is expected to grow faster than average, and should be especially good for therapists treating the elderly. Employment is predicted to increase 23% through 2016, driven by the increasing elderly population and the increasing numbers of individuals with disabilities or limited function. Job prospects should be best in hospital, rehabilitation, and orthopedic settings.