2026 How to Become an Occupational Therapist in Alaska

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Share

Alaska offers a rewarding career path for occupational therapists, with employment projected to grow 16% through 2030, outpacing the national average. The state's demand arises from its aging population and rural communities requiring specialized rehabilitation services. Salaries for occupational therapists in Alaska typically exceed the national median, reflecting the critical need for professionals who can improve patients’ quality of life amid unique environmental challenges.

This article outlines the essential steps to become an occupational therapist in Alaska. Developed by career planning experts, it provides clear guidance on education requirements, licensing, and employment opportunities. Readers will gain practical advice to navigate their path effectively and make informed decisions about this career in Alaska.

Key Things to Know About Becoming an Occupational Therapist in Alaska

What are the education requirements to become an occupational therapist in Alaska?

Formal education is critical for occupational therapists, as it delivers the specialized knowledge and hands-on skills needed to support patients' physical, emotional, and developmental challenges. Thorough academic and clinical training prepares therapists to apply evidence-based practices effectively in diverse healthcare settings.

The following outlines the key educational steps required to meet Alaska occupational therapy degree requirements.

• Earn a Bachelor’s Degree: Admission to graduate occupational therapy programs requires a bachelor’s degree, which may be in any field. Essential prerequisite courses often include anatomy, psychology, and statistics to build a solid groundwork for advanced occupational therapy study.
• Complete an Accredited Graduate Program in Occupational Therapy: Prospective therapists must graduate from ACOTE-accredited occupational therapy programs. In Alaska, the University of Alaska Anchorage collaborates with Creighton University to offer the state’s only accredited Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) program. This 2.5-year program combines coursework, labs, and clinical rotations, fulfilling the standards of accredited occupational therapy programs in Alaska.
• Fulfill Supervised Fieldwork Requirements: Graduate education includes two intensive Level II fieldwork experiences of at least 12 weeks each. Alaska’s OTD program integrates clinical fieldwork throughout the curriculum, ensuring practical experience necessary for licensure.
• Pass the National Certification Examination: After graduation, passing the NBCOT exam is mandatory to obtain licensure and the professional title OTR/L, marking full qualification to practice.
• Meet State-Specific Licensing Requirements: Alaska’s licensure process requires NBCOT certification verification and completion of a jurisprudence questionnaire. Applicants may also need to show proof of recent occupational therapy service or participation in board-approved internships.

For prospective students exploring academic timelines, understanding how long is schooling for medical billing and coding can offer perspective on program durations compared to occupational therapy education paths.

How do you get a state license to practice occupational therapy in Alaska?

Obtaining a state license is a crucial step for occupational therapists to establish professional credibility and meet legal requirements in Alaska. Without this licensure, practicing occupational therapy in the state is not permitted, making it essential to follow the required application process carefully.

Below is a clear outline of the steps you need to take to meet Alaska occupational therapy license requirements.

• Graduate from an Accredited Occupational Therapy Program: You must complete a bachelor’s or master’s degree from a program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) or recognized by the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA). In Alaska, Creighton University at the University of Alaska-Anchorage offers the only accredited program, providing a key pathway for local students.
• Complete Required Fieldwork or Service Hours: You need to fulfill hands-on experience by completing at least 60 hours of occupational therapy service, 24 contact hours of related coursework, or a 150-hour internship approved by the Alaska State Board. This ensures you are ready to provide competent care in real-world settings.
• Pass the NBCOT Exam: Passing the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) Occupational Therapist Registered exam is mandatory. This national exam evaluates your entry-level competency and is a critical step in how to apply for an occupational therapist license in Alaska.
• Submit a State Licensure Application: You must submit a notarized application to the Alaska State Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy Board along with supporting documents such as NBCOT certification verification and professional references. The current fees include a $150 application fee and a $200 initial licensure fee.
• Complete Fingerprinting and Criminal Background Check: All applicants must undergo fingerprinting and submit to a criminal background check, per recent Alaska law changes. This step is vital to protect patients and maintain high ethical standards.
• Provide Professional References: At least one professional reference from a qualified supervisor or professor is required to demonstrate your competence and professionalism in occupational therapy practice.
• Pass the Alaska Jurisprudence Exam: You must successfully complete an exam covering Alaska state laws and regulations related to occupational therapy, ensuring you understand the legal and ethical standards specific to the state.
• Verify Licensure from Other Jurisdictions (if applicable): If you have previously practiced elsewhere, you need to provide verification of your good-standing occupational therapy license from those states as part of the application process.

For those interested in exploring additional healthcare career paths, consider reviewing medical biller and coder career options as a related field with strong demand.

How often do you need to renew an OT license in Alaska?

License renewal is a vital process for occupational therapists in Alaska, serving to maintain professional standards, ensure accountability, and keep practitioners aligned with current state regulations and best practices. This ongoing requirement supports practitioners in staying informed about new evidence-based methods and ethical guidelines that shape effective patient care. By confirming continued competence, renewal processes protect both therapists and the patients they serve.

In Alaska, occupational therapist licenses must be renewed every two years, with expiration fixed on June 30 of even-numbered years. Practitioners receive renewal notices at least 30 days prior to the deadline, providing adequate time to submit necessary documentation. Renewal typically involves demonstrating continued competence, frequently through proof of completed continuing education credits, as mandated by the Alaska State Physical Therapy & Occupational Therapy Board.

If the license is not renewed by the deadline, it lapses. Licenses that remain lapsed for over three years require therapists to furnish additional evidence of competency before reinstatement. This biennial renewal schedule ensures occupational therapists consistently meet eligibility requirements and remain updated on evolving professional and legal standards within the state.

When I spoke with an occupational therapist from Alaska who graduated locally, he shared how the renewal process felt at first like a demanding checkpoint but ultimately became a routine part of professional life. “The reminder emails gave me enough time to gather my continuing education certificates and double-check all paperwork,” he explained. He noted occasional challenges in tracking all continuing education activities amidst a full workload but appreciated how the renewal requirements encouraged ongoing learning. “It’s reassuring to know that the system supports both patient safety and helps me stay current—it’s part of growing as a clinician here.”

What continuing education is required for OT license renewal in Alaska?

Continuing education is vital for occupational therapists in Alaska to maintain professional competence, comply with regulatory standards, and stay updated with evolving therapeutic techniques. Meeting these requirements ensures practitioners provide high-quality care tailored to the diverse needs of Alaska’s communities.

Fulfilling the Alaska occupational therapist continuing education requirements also supports ethical practice and responsiveness to new healthcare challenges.

• Biennial Renewal Cycle: Alaska requires occupational therapists (OTs) and occupational therapy assistants (OTAs) to renew their licenses every two years, with deadlines on June 30 of even-numbered years. This schedule promotes consistent professional development and readiness to meet current practice standards.
• Minimum Continuing Education Hours: Both OTs and OTAs must complete 24 contact hours of approved continuing education during each two-year renewal period. These hours should relate directly to occupational therapy practice to ensure practical knowledge and skills advancement.
• Acceptable Course Topics and Formats: Continuing education should focus on clinical skills, evidence-based practices, ethics, and emerging interventions. Approved formats include live seminars, online courses, self-study modules, and professional conferences offered by recognized providers or meeting board standards.
• Documentation and Reporting Procedures: Practitioners must submit proof of completed continuing education with their renewal applications, such as certificates or transcripts. Keeping thorough records is important since the Alaska State Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy Board may audit these documents.
• Jurisprudence Requirements: Completion of a jurisprudence questionnaire covering Alaska’s relevant statutes and regulations is mandatory during renewal. This ensures that license holders understand and comply with local legal and ethical standards.
• Renewal Application and Fees: Renewal requires submitting an official application with a fee of $200 for the two-year period. Missing the deadline or failing to provide complete documentation may lead to license expiration or disciplinary measures.
• Requirements for OTAs: Occupational therapy assistants must meet the same continuing education and jurisprudence questionnaire requirements as OTs, ensuring uniform standards across the profession.
• Cultural Competence and Ethics Training: Including coursework on cultural sensitivity and ethics is encouraged to better serve Alaska’s diverse population. These topics support professional responsibility and respectful care.
• Additional Skills Awareness: Understanding related healthcare roles is beneficial; for example, familiarity with what is the role of medical billing and coding in healthcare can enhance administrative coordination in occupational therapy practice.

How much does it cost to become an occupational therapist in Alaska?

The total cost of becoming an occupational therapist in Alaska varies based on education, examination, and licensing fees. Knowing the breakdown of these expenses helps students plan and seek financial support effectively.

• Tuition and University Fees: Tuition at programs like the University of Alaska Anchorage can surpass $37,000 for the first year, with total three-year costs exceeding $150,000 when including mandatory fees and technology charges. Planning for this significant expense early allows for exploring scholarships and financial aid options.
• NBCOT Examination Fees: The certification exam costs $500 online or $540 on paper, and retakes require paying the fee again. Budgeting for these exam fees in advance ensures there are no surprises during the licensing process.
• State Licensure Application Fees: Initial licensure in Alaska includes a $200 fee plus a $150 nonrefundable application charge. Temporary permits or limited licenses add $65, so applicants should prepare for these costs alongside the exam fees.
• Background Checks and Compliance: A required background check typically ranges from $50 to $100, depending on the provider. Scheduling this early prevents delays in the overall licensing timeline.
• Professional Memberships: Optional memberships like the American Occupational Therapy Association cost around $75 annually, offering networking and educational benefits. Joining early can support career development and discounted resources.

What financial aid options are available for OT students in Alaska?

Financial aid is essential for occupational therapy students in Alaska due to the high costs associated with tuition, travel, and clinical placements, especially in rural areas where healthcare workforce shortages exist. These financial supports help reduce barriers and make it feasible for students to complete their education and training. Below are key financial aid options available to OT students in Alaska.

• Federal Grants and Loans: By completing the FAFSA, students can access Pell Grants and Direct Student Loans based on financial need and enrollment status. Graduate students may also qualify for Federal Direct PLUS Loans to cover additional expenses like tuition and living costs.
• Alaska State Loans and Scholarships: Alaska residents can apply for state programs such as the Alaska Supplemental Education Loan and Alaska Family Education Loan through the Alaska Commission on Postsecondary Education. These provide flexible funding to cover costs not met by federal aid.
• University-Based Scholarships and Awards: The University of Alaska campuses offer scholarships targeting merit, financial need, or commitment to practice in underserved areas. Some awards fund clinical placements, with UAA offering up to $7,000 for rotations in rural or out-of-state locations.
• Clinical Placement and Internship Support: OT students required to complete extended clinical placements may receive financial help for travel, relocation, and living expenses through targeted University of Alaska programs, with awards ranging from $500 to $7,000.
• National and State Occupational Therapy Scholarships: The American Occupational Therapy Foundation offers over 50 scholarships nationwide for full-time OT students, ranging in value and including opportunities for occupational therapy assistants.
• Workforce Development Grants: Students under 25 facing employment barriers may qualify for grants through Alaska’s Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act program, which helps cover tuition, tools, housing, and transportation costs.
• Veterans, Alaska Native Corporations, and Vocational Rehabilitation: Additional funding is available for qualifying veterans, Alaska Natives, and individuals with disabilities via programs from the Department of Veterans Affairs, Alaska Native Corporations, the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, and the Bureau of Indian Affairs.

Can out-of-state occupational therapists work in Alaska?

Out-of-state occupational therapists can work in Alaska, but they must obtain an Alaska state license before practicing. Alaska does not participate in the Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact and does not offer automatic reciprocity for licenses from other states.

This means therapists licensed elsewhere must complete the full Alaska licensure application process, which includes submitting a notarized application, paying required fees, providing professional references, and undergoing a criminal background check with fingerprinting. Verification of current and past licenses, along with disclosure of any disciplinary actions, is also necessary to ensure all practitioners comply with Alaska’s licensing standards.

Applicants must prove their national certification through the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy and pay fees specific to either occupational therapists or assistants. Once approved, licensure generally takes four to six weeks, and a temporary permit might be granted to begin practicing during this period.

An occupational therapist from Alaska, who graduated locally, shared reflections after navigating this process herself. She described feeling both relieved and proud once securing her Alaska license, noting the thorough verification was reassuring but required careful attention. “There’s no shortcut — every detail matters,” she said, emphasizing how the licensing steps confirm the profession’s quality statewide while welcoming out-of-state professionals who meet Alaska’s standards.

Can occupational therapists enhance their practice with caregiver certification in Alaska?

Occupational therapists in Alaska may further enrich their clinical practice by acquiring caregiver certification. Expanding professional credentials can provide a competitive edge in patient care, particularly in underserved and rural communities where versatile skills are especially valuable. This additional certification supports interdisciplinary collaboration and can improve overall care strategies by integrating elements of direct caregiving into therapeutic practices. For detailed information on certification pathways, refer to how to become a caregiver in Alaska.

What skills do you need to be a successful occupational therapist in Alaska?

To be an effective occupational therapist in Alaska, professionals must develop a specialized skill set that enables them to support clients' independence, enhance quality of life, and collaborate effectively within Alaska’s distinctive healthcare landscape. Given the state's diverse populations, including many rural and Alaska Native communities, therapists face unique challenges that require targeted competencies.

Mastering these skills is essential for delivering personalized, culturally sensitive care and navigating the often isolated and resource-limited environments of Alaska. Key skills that contribute to success include:

• Clinical Reasoning and Evaluation: The ability to conduct thorough assessments and apply clinical reasoning ensures accurate identification of client needs and tailored interventions, critical for measurable progress in daily activities.
• Cultural Competence: Understanding and respecting local traditions and health beliefs fosters trust and engagement, which is especially vital when working with Alaska Native populations and in remote communities.
• Communication and Interpersonal Skills: Clear communication with clients, families, and interdisciplinary teams enhances collaboration and advocacy, supporting coordinated care across diverse settings.
• Adaptability and Problem-Solving: Flexibility to modify interventions and creatively address challenges like geographic isolation and limited resources is essential for effective service delivery in nontraditional environments.
• Professional Competency and Continuing Education: Staying current through approved continuing education ensures adherence to Alaska’s regulatory standards and integration of evidence-based practices to improve outcomes.

What specializations are available for occupational therapists in Alaska?

Specialization allows occupational therapists in Alaska to deepen their expertise by focusing on specific populations, conditions, or practice settings. This strategic focus broadens career possibilities and enhances the quality of care delivered across Alaska’s unique and varied communities.

Below are several common occupational therapy specializations in Alaska that offer targeted paths for professional growth and impact.

• Pediatrics: Pediatric occupational therapists support children and adolescents facing developmental delays, sensory processing challenges, and difficulties with everyday tasks such as dressing or participating in school activities. These specialists are often employed in schools, outpatient clinics, early intervention programs, and infant learning centers, making pediatrics a key option for those pursuing pediatric occupational therapist Alaska roles.
• Geriatrics: This specialization focuses on assisting older adults to maintain independence and manage age-related changes. Geriatric OTs frequently work in skilled nursing facilities, assisted living centers, hospitals, and home health agencies where they adapt environments and provide therapeutic interventions to improve safety and function.
• Mental Health: Occupational therapists working in mental health help clients manage psychiatric conditions and develop coping strategies that improve engagement in social and occupational activities. Alaska-based mental health OTs practice mainly in hospitals, community mental health programs, and rehabilitation centers.
• Hand Therapy: Hand therapists concentrate on rehabilitating the upper extremities after injuries, surgeries, or chronic illnesses such as arthritis. Their expert care is typically sought in outpatient clinics, orthopedic centers, and hospital settings requiring specialized upper limb rehabilitation.
• Physical Rehabilitation: OTs specializing in physical rehabilitation address impairments from stroke, spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injury, or other medical conditions. They deliver adaptive strategies and therapeutic interventions across hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and outpatient clinics statewide.

For occupational therapists seeking additional credentials or career flexibility, combining specialization with supportive skills such as billing and coding online classes can enhance job prospects and administrative efficiency.

What is the average salary of an occupational therapist in Alaska?

Several key factors influence the average occupational therapist salary in Alaska, including experience level, the type of work environment, and geographic location. These elements can create a wide salary range for occupational therapists across the state. Below are some important factors that directly impact the Alaska occupational therapist salary range.

• Years of Experience: Typically, occupational therapists with more years of practice earn higher salaries. Entry-level therapists often start at a lower salary near $61,790, while those with advanced expertise can make over $121,000 annually. Employers recognize clinical skills and specialized certifications when offering increased pay.
• Type of Employer: The organization where an OT works significantly affects earnings. Hospitals and specialty rehabilitation centers usually offer higher pay compared to schools or nonprofit organizations. Travel OTs filling temporary positions can earn weekly rates about 14% above the national average, making these roles lucrative for short-term work.
• Geographic Location within Alaska: Salaries vary widely depending on location. Anchorage-based OTs tend to earn near $119,236 per year, reflecting higher demand and urban living costs. More remote areas may offer different salary scales based on local needs and cost of living.
• Work Setting: Hospital-based and acute care occupational therapists generally receive more compensation compared to those in educational or community settings. This reflects differences in funding and required skill levels.
• Full-Time, Part-Time, and Temporary Roles: Full-time employees usually have higher annual pay and benefits, whereas temporary assignments pay more hourly or weekly but may lack stability. These short-term roles may provide strong financial rewards but fewer long-term benefits.
• Specialization and Certifications: Pursuing advanced certifications or specializing in areas like hand therapy or pediatrics can increase an OT’s salary potential, setting practitioners apart in a competitive job market.

The salary figures place Alaska among the top-paying states for occupational therapists; however, considering financial aid options when pursuing relevant education is essential. If you are wondering does financial aid pay for medical billing and coding or related healthcare programs, exploring available resources could help offset training costs.

What Do Occupational Therapists in Alaska Say About Their Career?

References:

• OT CEU Requirements and Licensure Renewal by State https://otpotential.com/ot-continuing-education-requirements
• Alaska CEU Requirements for PT, OT, SLP & RN – Medbridge Help Center https://support.medbridge.com/hc/en-us/articles/17313572215955-Alaska-CEU-Requirements-for-PT-OT-SLP-RN
• OT/OTA Licensure Applications & Fees by State https://triagestaff.com/ot-ota-licensure-applications-fees-by-state/
• Occupational Therapy - Reading Write https://readingwritealaska.com/occupational-therapy/
• Occupational Therapy Program | Occupational Therapy | University of Alaska Anchorage https://www.uaa.alaska.edu/academics/college-of-health/departments/preventive-and-therapeutic-sciences/occupational-therapy/index.cshtml
• Applications & Forms, Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy, Professional Licensing, Division of Corporations, Business and Professional Licensing https://www.commerce.alaska.gov/web/cbpl/ProfessionalLicensing/PhysicalTherapyOccupationalTherapy/ApplicationsForms.aspx
• Alaska Occupational Therapy Licensure Board | AMN Healthcare https://www.amnhealthcare.com/careers/allied/resources/state-boards/therapy/alaska/
• Occupational Therapy Alaska: Alaska Occupational Therapy CE Requirements | Westernschools Learning https://www.westernschools.com/occupational-therapy/alaska/requirements/
• 12 Essential Skills for Occupational Therapy Assistants | Brookline College https://www.brooklinecollege.edu/blog/essential-skills-for-occupational-therapy-assistants/
• Continuing Education – AKOTA https://akota.org/ce-course-approval-application/

Other Things You Should Know About Becoming an Occupational Therapist in Alaska