2026 How to Become an Occupational Therapist in Wisconsin

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Share

Wisconsin employs over 3,400 occupational therapists, with a projected job growth of 15% through 2030, making it a promising state for this career. The demand rises from an aging population and increased awareness of therapy benefits. Occupational therapists in Wisconsin earn a median annual wage above the national average, reflecting the state's investment in healthcare services. Pursuing this career offers stability and meaningful patient impact.

This article guides readers through the step-by-step process to become an occupational therapist in Wisconsin. Prepared by career planning experts, it provides clear, practical information on educational requirements, certification, and licensing. The goal is to equip prospective students and graduates with precise insights to make informed career decisions effectively.

Key Things to Know About Becoming an Occupational Therapist in Wisconsin

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

Formal education is essential for preparing occupational therapists to support patients' physical, emotional, and developmental needs effectively. This foundation ensures practitioners possess the scientific knowledge, clinical skills, and ethical understanding required to work in diverse healthcare settings.

Below is an overview of the key Wisconsin occupational therapist education requirements to guide you step-by-step.

• Earn a Bachelor’s Degree: Begin with a bachelor’s degree in any field, although majors like biology, psychology, or sociology are common. You should complete prerequisite courses such as statistics, general biology with lab, human anatomy and physiology, and introductory psychology to build a strong foundation.
• Complete an Accredited Graduate Program: Next, enroll in an accredited occupational therapy program in Wisconsin, typically offering a Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD). This advanced program includes rigorous coursework and clinical training designed to meet state licensing standards and prepare you for practical challenges.
• Fulfill Supervised Fieldwork Requirements: A minimum of six months of supervised fieldwork under a licensed occupational therapist is mandatory. This hands-on experience integrates real-world skills into your education and is a prerequisite for licensure in Wisconsin.
• Pass National and State Exams: After graduation, successfully pass the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam for the OTR credential and a Wisconsin-specific open-book exam covering state laws and regulations.
• Maintain Continuing Education: To keep your license active, complete 24 hours of continuing education every two years, keeping your skills current and aligned with evolving professional standards.

For those exploring related career paths, resources on medical billing and coding jobs offer additional options in healthcare support roles.

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

Obtaining state licensure is a critical step for occupational therapists in Wisconsin to establish professional credibility and fulfill legal requirements for practice. Without this license, you cannot legally provide occupational therapy services in the state. The process requires careful attention to each requirement to ensure compliance with Wisconsin occupational therapy license requirements. Below are the essential steps to secure your license.

• Complete an Accredited Occupational Therapy Program: Begin by earning a bachelor's or master's degree in occupational therapy from a program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE). This formal education equips you with the foundational knowledge and skills necessary to advance.
• Meet Clinical Experience Requirements: Occupational Therapists must complete at least six months of supervised clinical internship, while Occupational Therapy Assistants require a minimum of two months. This hands-on experience prepares you for real-world practice.
• Pass the NBCOT Exam: You must pass the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy exam to demonstrate your competency. The exam certifies you as either an Occupational Therapist (OTR) or Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA).
• Submit a State Application: After certification, submit your Wisconsin licensure application along with the $60 credential fee. Include all necessary documents such as transcripts and NBCOT certification verification.
• Pass the Wisconsin State Jurisprudence Exam: This open-book test covers state laws and regulations related to occupational therapy practice, ensuring you are familiar with Wisconsin-specific professional standards.
• Background Check and Verification: A criminal background check is mandatory, and you may need to provide verification of licensure from other states if applicable. This step helps maintain public safety and compliance.

For those interested in related certifications, you can learn more about is there a difference between cpc and cbcs certification as part of broadening your healthcare credentials.

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

License renewal plays a vital role in maintaining professional standards and ensuring occupational therapists in Wisconsin remain accountable and up to date with clinical practices and regulatory requirements. By renewing licenses on a regular schedule, the state supports ongoing competence and alignment with evolving healthcare expectations, ultimately safeguarding clients and the profession as a whole.

In Wisconsin, occupational therapists must renew their licenses every two years, with renewal deadlines set for May 31 of odd-numbered years. Each renewal requires submitting an application and paying the associated fee by this date. If a license lapses, practitioners have up to five years to apply for late renewal, which involves paying an additional late fee and meeting continuing education requirements.

During any lapsed period, legal authority to practice is suspended until renewal is complete. The state’s Board of Occupational Therapy processes applications within about 30 business days, providing timely responses to licensees. This consistent biennial routine, combined with the obligation to complete 24 hours of continuing education per cycle, ensures that occupational therapists remain qualified and informed of changes affecting their profession.

When I asked a Wisconsin occupational therapist who graduated from a local university about renewing his license, he shared how staying organized was key. “The renewal date is something I always mark well in advance because juggling patient care and continuing education can get hectic.” He recalled a year when unexpected personal events made meeting the deadline stressful, but the option for late renewal was a crucial backup. “It wasn’t ideal, but knowing the process allowed me to handle the situation without jeopardizing my ability to practice.” His experience highlights how understanding the renewal system not only eases administrative burdens but supports continuous professional growth in a demanding field.

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

Continuing education plays a vital role in maintaining professional competence for occupational therapists in Wisconsin. It helps practitioners keep pace with changing therapeutic techniques, meet state standards, and deliver the highest quality care. Staying up to date through ongoing learning supports compliance with Wisconsin OT continuing education requirements and advances career development.

• Biennial Renewal Cycle: Licenses for occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants (OTAs) must be renewed every two years, with a deadline of May 31 in each odd-numbered year. Renewal involves submitting an application and paying fees to the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS).
• Continuing Education Hours Required: Both OTs and OTAs must complete 24 points (hours) of continuing education within each two-year renewal period. New licensees are exempt from this requirement during their first renewal cycle.
• Acceptable Course Topics and Formats: Coursework should be relevant to occupational therapy practice, covering subjects like clinical skills, ethics, patient safety, and new treatment methods. Wisconsin recognizes in-person, interactive online, and mail-based courses approved by the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA), allowing flexibility in how credits are earned.
• Approved Activity Types: Acceptable continuing education includes workshops, seminars, formal academic classes, self-study programs, and occupational therapy conferences. Credit is generally awarded on a one-hour-to-one-point basis and must come from accredited providers.
• Documentation and Reporting: License holders must keep certificates and transcripts for at least four years after their renewal. Although documentation is not submitted during renewal, the DSPS may audit files randomly and request proof of compliance.
• Requirements for OTAs: Occupational therapy assistants follow the same continuing education rules as therapists, including topics, required hours, and recordkeeping.
• Special Considerations: Service members and spouses may qualify for extensions or waivers of continuing education obligations under Wisconsin Act 210 by submitting documentation to the DSPS.
• No Credit Carryover: Credits earned beyond the 24-hour requirement in one period cannot be applied to future renewal cycles, so each two-year period is evaluated separately.

For practical guidance on managing education alongside other professional responsibilities, exploring resources such as the introduction to medical billing and coding may also be beneficial for some occupational therapists interested in expanding their healthcare expertise.

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

The total cost of becoming an Occupational Therapist (OT) in Wisconsin depends on various factors, including your chosen educational program, exam fees, and licensing expenses. Knowing these costs upfront allows you to plan your finances carefully and avoid surprises along the way.

• Tuition and Program Fees: Accredited Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) programs in Wisconsin typically range from about $78,850 to $111,320 for the full degree. Costs vary by institution and residency status, with some schools offering scholarships to reduce tuition for in-state students.
• NBCOT Exam Fees: After graduation, you’ll need to pass the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy exam, which currently costs $515. Budget extra for study materials or potential retakes.
• State Licensure Application Fees: Applying for your Wisconsin OT license generally costs around $90. Additional charges for background checks and fingerprinting can add $50 to $100.
• Additional Expenses: Plan for costs such as textbooks, technology, lab fees, travel for clinical immersions, and professional memberships like AOTA student dues, which run about $75 annually. These expenses can add several thousand dollars over your program duration.

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

Paying for occupational therapy education in Wisconsin requires careful planning due to the high cost of tuition for professional programs such as the Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD). Fortunately, students can access a variety of financial aid resources that reduce the burden of educational expenses.

Below are the primary aid options to explore for those pursuing occupational therapy in Wisconsin.

• Wisconsin Resident Automatic Scholarship: This scholarship automatically supports Wisconsin residents enrolled in state occupational therapy programs, offering $5,000 annually. It directly reduces tuition costs without the need for a separate application, making it an easy first step to lower your education expenses.
• Wisconsin Grant Program: This need-based grant helps Wisconsin residents attending eligible colleges and universities, including UW System schools and technical colleges. Awards are based on financial need determined through the FAFSA and are prorated by enrollment, providing valuable support for those with demonstrated financial need across up to ten semesters.
• University-Specific Occupational Therapy Scholarships: Many Wisconsin schools offer scholarships targeting OT students, such as the Mildred Averill and Linda M. Anderson Memorial Scholarships. Applicants submit a single application on the Wisconsin Scholarship Hub by March 18, competing for awards based on academic merit, professional involvement, or financial need.
• American Occupational Therapy Foundation (AOTF) Scholarships: Wisconsin residents in AOTA-accredited programs can apply for a wide range of scholarships through AOTF. These awards often require one online application and prioritize factors like financial need, minority status, and community involvement, serving both entry-level and post-professional students.
• Federal Student Aid and Loans: Completing the FAFSA unlocks eligibility for federal grants, work-study, and subsidized or unsubsidized loans. While some assistantships may not be available, federal loan programs remain accessible to cover tuition and living expenses.
• Professional Development and Continuing Education Awards: Practicing occupational therapists and assistants in Wisconsin can receive ongoing funding, such as the Lila Daut-Allan Jacobson award, which provides $500 annually to support continuing education and skill development.

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

Out-of-state occupational therapists can work in Wisconsin, but they must first obtain a Wisconsin state license. This requires completing an application, paying fees, passing the Wisconsin jurisprudence exam, and providing verification of national certification and professional education. If already licensed in another state, therapists may qualify for reciprocity if their credentials match Wisconsin’s standards.

They must also submit verification letters from all previous licenses showing credentials and any disciplinary history. Wisconsin’s Department of Safety and Professional Services reviews these materials and requires the out-of-state license to remain active during the process.

Wisconsin also participates in the Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact, which allows eligible therapists from Compact member states to practice in Wisconsin without a new license. However, eligibility requires that the therapist’s home state is part of the Compact and other criteria are met. This offers a streamlined option but applies only to select professionals.

An occupational therapist from Wisconsin, who graduated locally, shared her experience working with colleagues moving from other states. She noted that while the reciprocity process "felt thorough and sometimes slow," it ensured everyone met the same high standards. She recalled advising one therapist, who appreciated the clear steps but was "a bit surprised by the detailed verification required." The Compact option was promising for others, yet she pointed out that "not everyone qualified, which sometimes meant extra paperwork and waiting." Her perspective highlights the balance Wisconsin maintains between facilitating workforce mobility and protecting the quality of care delivered statewide.

Can occupational therapists explore caregiving roles in Wisconsin?

Occupational therapists may consider expanding their clinical expertise by integrating aspects of caregiving into their practice. This alternative pathway can complement traditional therapy methods and meet increasing demand for personalized home care. Pursuing dual roles can also offer additional career flexibility and improve patient engagement through a more holistic care approach. For detailed guidance on certification and career transition, refer to how to become a caregiver in Wisconsin.

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

Becoming a successful occupational therapist in Wisconsin requires a focused set of skills that directly impact clients’ ability to regain independence, enhance their quality of life, and effectively contribute within interdisciplinary healthcare teams. These skills enable therapists to navigate diverse client needs and healthcare environments statewide.

Understanding and developing these core competencies are essential for both professional growth and compliance with Wisconsin’s licensing standards. Below are key skills that distinguish effective occupational therapists in the state:

• Clinical Reasoning: Enables accurate assessment and tailored intervention planning, ensuring therapy is responsive to client progress across diverse settings such as hospitals and schools.
• Effective Communication: Facilitates clear dialogue with clients and healthcare teams, essential for explaining treatment goals and documenting care precisely to meet regulatory requirements.
• Adaptability and Problem-Solving: Supports flexible approaches to unique client challenges, allowing therapists to modify interventions in dynamic healthcare contexts.
• Empathy and Cultural Competence: Builds trust with clients from varied backgrounds, ensuring respectful and individualized care that accommodates Wisconsin’s urban and rural populations.
• Organization and Documentation: Helps manage caseloads efficiently while maintaining thorough records required for licensing and quality assurance.

What specializations are available for occupational therapists in Wisconsin?

Specializing in occupational therapy enables practitioners to deepen their expertise by focusing on specific populations, conditions, or practice areas. This targeted approach not only broadens career opportunities in Wisconsin but also allows therapists to address critical healthcare needs more effectively. Below are several key specializations that occupational therapists can pursue within the state.

• Pediatrics: Pediatric occupational therapists work with children facing developmental, sensory, or physical challenges. They typically practice in schools, early intervention programs, and pediatric clinics, helping young clients develop essential skills for independence.
• Geriatrics: This specialization supports older adults coping with age-related declines, chronic illness, or recovery from surgery. Geriatric OTs often work in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, or home health settings, focusing on maintaining seniors’ quality of life.
• Mental Health: Mental health occupational therapists assist individuals dealing with psychological or emotional disorders by promoting engagement in meaningful daily activities. These therapists frequently practice in community mental health centers, psychiatric hospitals, and residential programs.
• Hand Therapy: Hand therapists address conditions affecting the upper extremities, such as injuries or repetitive strain issues. Wisconsin OTs in this area usually work in outpatient clinics or orthopedic and rehabilitation hospitals using advanced techniques to restore function.
• Rehabilitation and Physical Disabilities: Practitioners in this area help clients recovering from strokes, injuries, or surgery regain mobility, strength, and independence. They commonly serve in acute care hospitals, rehab centers, or community programs.
• Assistive Technology and Accessible Design: This emerging field involves using specialized equipment and technology to enhance daily living for individuals with disabilities. Occupational therapists focusing on assistive technology occupational therapy Wisconsin often work in labs, schools, and community organizations designing adaptive solutions.

For those exploring related healthcare fields, understanding how much is medical billing and coding school can also be useful when considering allied health career paths or supporting roles within occupational therapy settings.

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

The average occupational therapist salary in Wisconsin depends on multiple factors such as experience level, work setting, and geographic location. These elements influence how much occupational therapists make in Wisconsin, creating a broad range of potential earnings. Below are the key factors that affect occupational therapist pay in Wisconsin:

• Years of Experience: Occupational therapists with more experience generally earn higher salaries. Entry-level therapists often start at lower pay rates, while those with ten or more years in the field command salaries toward the higher end of the scale due to advanced skills and specialized knowledge.
• Type of Employer: The employer’s nature greatly impacts pay. For example, occupational therapists working in home health care typically earn more, with average salaries around $98,392, compared to about $84,406 in schools or nonprofit settings.
• Geographic Location within Wisconsin: Urban centers like Milwaukee and Madison usually offer higher pay due to higher living costs and demand, whereas rural areas tend to have lower salaries. Location can significantly affect salary expectations.
• Level of Education and Specialization: Advanced degrees or certifications, such as board-certified specialties or doctorates, help increase earning potential. Specialization also supports advancement into leadership roles with better compensation.
• Work Setting and Hours: Different clinical settings affect pay levels. Travel occupational therapists and those working in high-demand environments report some of the highest wages, sometimes nearing $99,798 annually.
• Market Demand and Job Openings: Although Wisconsin ranks lower nationally for occupational therapist salaries, steady demand offers room for salary growth over time as the profession evolves and job openings remain consistent.

What Do Occupational Therapists in Wisconsin Say About Their Career?

References:

• Tuition, Scholarships and Financial Aid – Occupational Therapy – UW–Madison https://occupationaltherapy.education.wisc.edu/admissions/tuition-scholarships-and-financial-aid/
• Occupational Therapy Dual-Degree | WLC https://www.wlc.edu/academics/programs/occupational-therapy.html
• Wisconsin Legislature: 448.05(5m) https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/document/statutes/1995/448.05(5m)
• ELO Application Directions for New OT/PT/OTA/PTA | Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction https://dpi.wi.gov/licensing/apply-educator-license/other/ot-pt
• New Financial Aid for Wisconsin OT/COTA Practitioner... https://www.aotf.org/About-AOTF/News/new-financial-aid-for-wisconsin-otcota-practitioner-coursework
• Occupational Therapy Licensure Guide - Trusted Health https://www.trustedhealth.com/allied-career-guide/occupational-therapy/licensure-guide
• WOTA - For OT and OTA students https://wota.net/page-18127
• Learn the steps to occupational therapy state licensure. | AOTA https://www.aota.org/career/state-licensure/learn-the-steps-to-licensure
• Wisconsin Therapy State Boards | AMN Healthcare https://www.amnhealthcare.com/careers/allied/resources/state-boards/therapy/wisconsin/
• Wisconsin CEU Requirements for PT, OT, SLP & RN – Medbridge Help Center https://support.medbridge.com/hc/en-us/articles/18410595869459-Wisconsin-CEU-Requirements-for-PT-OT-SLP-RN

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