2026 How to Become an Occupational Therapist in North Dakota

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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North Dakota’s demand for occupational therapists is projected to grow by 18% over the next decade, reflecting expanding healthcare needs in rural and urban communities alike.

This growth offers a compelling case for pursuing a career in occupational therapy within the state, but prospective students should carefully evaluate factors such as licensure requirements, educational pathways, and local job market conditions. While North Dakota provides promising opportunities, considerations about cost of living and access to clinical placements may influence career decisions.

This article offers a thorough guide on how to become an occupational therapist in North Dakota. Prepared by experts in career planning, it delivers clear, critical insights and practical information to help readers navigate education, certification, and licensing processes effectively. The goal is to empower individuals with the knowledge necessary for informed career planning in this growing healthcare field.

Key Things to Know About Becoming an Occupational Therapist in North Dakota

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

Formal education plays a critical role in preparing occupational therapists to address the complex physical, emotional, and developmental needs of their patients. Such education provides the clinical knowledge and therapeutic skills necessary to design effective interventions tailored to diverse populations.

In North Dakota, meeting the occupational therapist education requirements involves multiple stages that ensure both academic rigor and practical experience.

• Bachelor's Degree Foundation: Prospective occupational therapists must first complete a bachelor's degree, often with coursework in anatomy, physiology, psychology, chemistry, and biology. A minimum GPA of 2.75 is typically expected, and students should accumulate at least 90 semester hours including science and humanities subjects to establish a solid academic base.
• Accredited Graduate Program: To advance, candidates must graduate from an occupational therapy program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education. In North Dakota, options include Master of Science in Occupational Therapy or Doctor of Occupational Therapy degrees, which combine theory and clinical practice to hone specialized skills.
• Supervised Fieldwork Experience: Graduate study includes extensive supervised clinical placements where students apply their learning in real-world settings. Prior to admission, applicants often undertake volunteer observation hours in multiple occupational therapy environments to demonstrate commitment and gain insight into the profession’s demands.

Evaluating the pathway to become an occupational therapist in North Dakota includes practical considerations like balancing educational demands with personal and financial circumstances, which can influence the timeline and approach. For those comparing career options, guidance on medical billing and coding career salary might also provide useful context when assessing educational investments.

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

Obtaining state licensure is a critical step for occupational therapists aiming to practice in North Dakota, as it establishes both professional credibility and legal permission to provide care within the state. Meeting the North Dakota occupational therapy licensure requirements ensures compliance with specific state laws and safeguards public health by confirming that therapists meet standardized qualifications.

The following outlines the main steps involved in becoming an occupational therapist in North Dakota.

• Complete an Accredited Occupational Therapy Program: Graduating from a program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) or holding a comparable foreign degree recognized by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) is essential. This foundational education prepares candidates with the knowledge and skills expected by the state regulatory board.
• Pass the NBCOT Certification Exam: Candidates must successfully pass the Occupational Therapist Registered (OTR) exam administered by NBCOT. This national certification verifies that therapists possess the professional competency required to practice safely and effectively. Official verification of passing scores, obtained within 18 months of application, must be sent to the North Dakota licensing board.
• Submit a State License Application: Applicants must complete and notarize an application form provided by the North Dakota State Board of Occupational Therapy Practice. The application requires detailed personal and professional information, along with an application fee of $50 and a licensure fee that varies from $75 to $150 depending on submission timing. Notably, military spouses may qualify for a waiver of the initial licensure fee.
• Pass the North Dakota Jurisprudence Examination: This exam assesses understanding of state-specific laws and ethical standards that govern occupational therapy in North Dakota, ensuring practitioners are well-informed about legal obligations.
• Complete Background Check and Provide Additional Documentation: A background check may be required, alongside submission of documents such as verification of licensure from other states or clarifications as requested by the board. Applicants should remain responsive throughout the process to facilitate timely approval.

Applicants interested in exploring the job functions of a medical biller and coder may find certain parallels in licensure rigor, which reflects broader healthcare standards. By following these steps carefully, individuals ensure they meet all conditions for legally practicing occupational therapy and contributing to North Dakota’s healthcare system.

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

Maintaining a valid license is a critical aspect of professional practice for occupational therapists, as it ensures adherence to evolving standards, accountability, and alignment with current regulations. Regular license renewal processes encourage practitioners to remain knowledgeable about advances in the field and ongoing legal requirements, fostering public trust and the safe delivery of care.

This ongoing obligation serves not just as a bureaucratic formality but as a vital mechanism supporting the integrity and competence of the occupational therapy workforce in North Dakota.

In North Dakota, occupational therapists are required to renew their licenses every two years during even-numbered years. Renewal notices are typically sent by the state board by early April, and all materials—including continuing education documentation and fees—must be submitted by June 1. If materials are late, practitioners face late fees, and failure to complete renewal by June 30 results in license expiration.

The state provides a grace period of up to three years for reinstatement, contingent on fulfilling continuing education requirements and paying associated fees. This biennial cycle promotes consistent professional development, ensuring therapists remain legally authorized and informed about regulatory changes and best practices within the state.

When I spoke with an occupational therapist from North Dakota who graduated locally, he reflected on his license renewal experience as a meaningful, though occasionally stressful, process. He noted, “It’s more than just paperwork; it’s a moment to assess where I am professionally and what new knowledge I need. The deadlines are strict, so planning ahead is crucial to avoid penalties.” He shared that balancing work responsibilities with the required continuing education can sometimes be challenging but ultimately rewarding, emphasizing that the renewal process reinforced his commitment to quality care and professional growth in his practice. This reflective approach highlights how renewal requirements integrate with career development rather than merely marking administrative upkeep.

What continuing education is required for OT license renewal in North Dakota?

Continuing education is integral for occupational therapists to preserve their professional competence, fulfill the evolving standards set by the state, and adapt to new therapeutic techniques and regulatory changes in North Dakota. These requirements ensure that practitioners remain knowledgeable and provide safe, effective care throughout their careers, directly impacting patient outcomes and professional credibility.

• Biennial Renewal Cycle: Occupational therapy licenses in North Dakota must be renewed every two years by June 30 of even-numbered years. Renewal reminders are issued by April 1, emphasizing the importance of timely compliance to prevent lapses or disciplinary consequences.
• Minimum Continuing Education Hours: Both occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants (OTAs) need to complete at least 20 contact hours (2.0 CEUs) of approved continuing education within the 24 months preceding renewal. These hours have to focus on occupational therapy practice and align with the professional’s current or intended practice area.
• Special Provisions for New Licensees: Professionals first licensed between July 1 and December 31 of an odd-numbered year must complete only 10 contact hours for their initial renewal. Those licensed on or after January 1 of an even-numbered year have no continuing education hours mandated during the first cycle but must meet standard requirements afterwards.
• Acceptable Course Topics and Formats: Education activities should directly support occupational therapy practice, covering clinical skills, ethics, or professional growth. Notably, there is no cap on hours earned through online or distance learning, offering flexibility for busy practitioners adapting to modern learning methods.
• Documentation and Reporting: Licensees must submit evidence such as certificates listing the participant’s name, course title, date, and hours completed. If a certificate isn’t available, a signed attendance form from a supervisor suffices, ensuring verifiable accountability.
• Additional Requirements for OTAs: Occupational therapy assistants need to provide proof of supervision during the renewal period, verified by their supervising occupational therapist, underscoring the support structure essential for quality care.

These continuing education requirements for OT license renewal in North Dakota underscore the profession’s commitment to maintaining high standards. Professionals seeking to understand what is the function of coding in medical billing may also appreciate the regulatory rigor applied across healthcare fields to ensure competence and quality.

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

The total cost of becoming an occupational therapist in North Dakota depends on various key expenses, including education, certification exams, and licensing fees. Having a clear picture of these costs allows prospective students to plan their financial path more effectively.

• Graduate Occupational Therapy Tuition: Tuition for graduate OT programs in North Dakota typically represents the largest expense. For example, the University of North Dakota charges around $11,916 annually for OT students. Costs can vary depending on the chosen university and program format.
• NBCOT Exam Fees: Passing the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy exam is required for licensure. The fee for this exam is $515 nationwide, a fixed cost candidates must budget for regardless of location.
• State Licensure Application Fee: Applying for an occupational therapy license in North Dakota generally costs about $200. This fee covers administrative processing and may not include additional fees for renewals or verifications.
• Background Check and Related Fees: Criminal background checks are a standard requirement, costing between $40 and $60 in North Dakota. Some programs may require extra screenings before clinical placements, adding to overall expenses.
• Additional Costs: Textbooks, supplies, and fieldwork-related expenses such as travel or housing can amount to $500–$1,000 yearly. Optional membership in professional organizations like the American Occupational Therapy Association costs about $75 annually, offering potential career benefits.

What financial aid options are available for OT students in North Dakota?

Financing occupational therapy education in North Dakota can be challenging due to significant tuition costs and related expenses. Access to financial aid is therefore a critical factor for many students aiming to enter this profession. Various aid options provide different levels of support, making it essential to understand which opportunities align with one’s qualifications and career goals.

Below are the primary financial aid options available for occupational therapy students in North Dakota:

• Federal Grants and Student Loans: These aid programs, accessed through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), include Pell Grants and Federal Direct Loans. They are generally available to students who demonstrate financial need or meet enrollment criteria, helping to cover tuition, fees, and living costs.
• State-Specific Scholarships: North Dakota offers scholarships targeted at occupational therapy students, often requiring academic merit or specific career interests such as pediatric OT. These awards can be limited in number and may prioritize residents or students enrolled in state institutions.
• University-Based Scholarships: Institutions like the University of North Dakota provide scholarships specifically for OT students, such as the Gail Shimer Bass OT Scholarship. These are usually merit-based or awarded based on departmental recommendations, easing the financial burden of tuition.
• Professional and Association-Sponsored Awards: Organizations such as the American Occupational Therapy Foundation offer scholarships to students enrolled in accredited programs, including those in North Dakota. Beyond financial support, these awards often foster professional connection and development opportunities.
• Tuition Payment Plans and Financial Planning Tools: For students unable to pay tuition upfront, many universities offer installment plans that spread out payments over time. Additionally, financial planning resources can assist students in managing debt and making informed decisions about their educational expenses.

Can out-of-state occupational therapists work in North Dakota?

Out-of-state occupational therapists can practice in North Dakota, but only after obtaining a full state license. The state requires all practitioners, regardless of their original licensing location, to hold a current North Dakota license before providing services. Out-of-state applicants may qualify for licensure by reciprocity if their existing license is in good standing and the other state’s requirements are comparable to North Dakota’s.

This process demands detailed verification, including submitting licensure history and possible waivers for exams or experience based on equivalency. North Dakota’s Board of Occupational Therapy carefully reviews each application to ensure standards are met, supporting workforce quality and public safety.

Additionally, North Dakota participates in the Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact, which simplifies practice for therapists already licensed in member states. However, this requires holding an active, unencumbered license from a Compact state beforehand. Temporary permits during application reviews are not available, meaning licensed status or Compact eligibility must be secured before starting work. This system balances increasing professional mobility with careful regulation to maintain high practice standards.

When speaking with an occupational therapist from North Dakota who graduated locally, she reflected on how the strict licensing process served both as a challenge and an opportunity. Though she considered practicing elsewhere, she recognized the state’s thorough verification procedures helped maintain professional credibility and public trust. She described the initial wait as stressful but ultimately rewarding because it reinforced her commitment to the profession and her patients. Her experience highlighted that while the route for out-of-state therapists requires patience and careful preparation, it ensures that only well-qualified practitioners contribute to North Dakota’s occupational therapy landscape.

Can complementary certifications enhance occupational therapy practice in North Dakota?

Expanding your professional toolkit with targeted certifications can diversify your clinical abilities and broaden service offerings. Pursuing complementary training, such as specialized caregiver certification, provides occupational therapists with additional strategies to address complex patient needs and integrate holistic care methods into their practice. This additional credential can serve to enhance patient outcomes, improve communication with interdisciplinary teams, and offer competitive advantages in diverse healthcare settings. For detailed guidance on certification pathways, see how to become a caregiver in North Dakota.

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

Occupational therapists in North Dakota must develop a diverse set of skills to effectively support clients in regaining independence, enhancing quality of life, and collaborating within healthcare teams. These capabilities are crucial given the state’s varied healthcare settings and the complexity of challenges faced by patients ranging from physical disabilities to cognitive impairments.

Successfully navigating these demands requires both technical expertise and interpersonal acumen. Key skills central to achieving these goals include:

• Clinical Assessment and Evaluation Skills: Accurate and comprehensive assessments allow therapists to identify specific client challenges and tailor intervention plans, ensuring targeted and effective treatment.
• Communication and Interpersonal Abilities: Clear, empathetic communication fosters trust and understanding with patients, families, and multidisciplinary teams, which is vital for treatment adherence and positive outcomes.
• Therapeutic Use of Self: Utilizing personal insight and empathy helps therapists engage clients deeply, adapting approaches to meet individual motivations and barriers throughout rehabilitation.
• Adaptability and Problem-Solving: Flexible thinking and creative solutions enable practitioners to modify interventions dynamically, addressing unexpected challenges in client progress and environmental factors.
• Documentation and Regulatory Compliance: Maintaining precise records and adhering to state regulations safeguard professional standards and ensure proper reimbursement, which supports sustainable practice within North Dakota’s healthcare system.

What specializations are available for occupational therapists in North Dakota?

Specialization allows occupational therapists to focus their expertise on specific populations, conditions, or practice areas, strengthening both career opportunities and the quality of care provided in North Dakota. By developing skills in specialized areas, therapists can address unique challenges and better meet community needs. Below is a list highlighting key occupational therapy specializations in North Dakota.

• Pediatrics: Pediatric occupational therapists work with infants, children, and adolescents facing developmental or learning challenges due to conditions like autism or cerebral palsy. They often practice in schools, early intervention programs, and outpatient clinics, helping young clients improve motor skills and daily functioning.
• Geriatrics: This specialization supports older adults in maintaining independence amidst aging-related issues, chronic illnesses, or recovery from injuries. Geriatric OTs commonly work in nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, and home health settings, addressing concerns such as fall prevention and dementia care.
• Mental Health: Occupational therapists in mental health focus on individuals with psychiatric or behavioral challenges, providing therapeutic activities to improve coping and social participation. These professionals are found in psychiatric hospitals and community mental health centers, reflecting a growing integration of OT in mental health services.
• Hand Therapy: Specialists in hand therapy rehabilitate injuries affecting the hands and upper extremities, such as fractures and tendon damage. They typically practice in outpatient clinics and collaborate closely with surgeons and rehabilitation teams.
• Rehabilitation: Rehabilitation therapists assist patients recovering from stroke, brain injury, or spinal cord damage, working in inpatient units and acute care hospitals. Their interventions focus on restoring independence in mobility, self-care, and cognitive function.

For those exploring these specialized areas for occupational therapists North Dakota offers strong educational pathways, though understanding the difference between bachelors degree and medical billing and coding certificate can also inform decisions about additional certifications or training that complement their OT careers.

What is the average salary of an occupational therapist in North Dakota?

Occupational Therapist Salary in North Dakota is influenced by multiple factors, including experience level, work environment, and geographic location within the state. These variables cause salaries to span a broad range rather than a fixed figure, making it important to understand what drives compensation in this field. Below are key factors shaping the average occupational therapist pay in ND.

• Years of Experience: Salary increases as therapists gain more experience and specialized certifications. Entry-level OTs may earn near the lower end of the range, while seasoned professionals often command higher wages and leadership opportunities.
• Type of Employer and Work Setting: Hospitals, schools, private practices, and staffing agencies all offer different pay scales. For example, staffing agency positions might yield higher hourly pay, whereas educational roles can provide benefits like pensions and more predictable hours.
• Geographic Location Within North Dakota: Urban centers such as Dickinson or Minot generally provide higher wages due to demand and cost of living, while rural areas may offer incentives like loan repayment but typically lower base salaries.
• Education and Specialization: Advanced degrees and specialty certifications, particularly in pediatrics or hand therapy, often lead to better-paying roles, reflecting the value of specialized skills.
• Market Demand and Economic Conditions: The overall activity and need for occupational therapists within the state affect salary growth. Some regions currently show moderate job market activity, which tempers rapid wage increases despite competitive average salaries.
• Benefits and Additional Compensation: Beyond base pay, benefits such as health insurance, bonuses, and relocation assistance can add substantial value to total compensation packages.

For those interested in expanding their healthcare career options, programs offering medical billing and coding online financial aid may provide useful complementary skills alongside occupational therapy expertise.

What Do Occupational Therapists in North Dakota Say About Their Career?

References:

• 12 Essential Skills for Occupational Therapy Assistants | Brookline College https://www.brooklinecollege.edu/blog/essential-skills-for-occupational-therapy-assistants/
• Pre-Occupational Therapy | Bismarck State College https://bismarckstate.edu/academics/programs/occupational/
• Graduate Occupational Therapy | University of South Dakota https://www.usd.edu/Academics/Graduate-Programs/Occupational-Therapy
• OT compact: What occupational therapists need to know https://comphealth.com/resources/ot-compact
• 18 Occupational Therapist Skills Required for Success https://www.alliant.edu/blog/occupational-therapist-skills
• Apply to Occupational Therapy (O.T.D.) Program | University of North Dakota https://und.edu/programs/occupational-therapy-otd/apply.html
• North Dakota Scholarships - Access Scholarships https://accessscholarships.com/scholarships-by-state/north-dakota-scholarships/
• How to Become an Occupational Therapist: Complete Guide | USAHS https://www.usa.edu/blog/how-to-become-an-occupational-therapist/
• Career Opportunities in OT | University of North Dakota https://med.und.edu/education-training/occupational-therapy/career-opportunities.html
• Application: Start - ND State Board of Occupational Therapy Practice https://www.ndotboard.com/apply/address.asp

Other Things You Should Know About Becoming an Occupational Therapist in North Dakota