Course structure

Course Structure

The course uses a combination of traditional and scenario-based learning and teaching methods. Students develop expertise in working cooperatively to seek out information and applying their learning to situations relevant to occupational therapy practice. The curriculum incorporates knowledge from the disciplines of occupational science (the study of humans as occupational beings), as well as biomedical, behavioural and social sciences.

At the commencement of the course, students study foundation units in occupational science, anatomy, physiology, psychology and occupational therapy practice. This knowledge is then developed and applied to the intervention process used by occupational therapists with individuals, groups and communities.

Students also undertake annual fieldwork placements, and an inter-professional education block each semester. The latter involves working with students in other health science courses (for example, physiotherapy, health science/social work) around structured academic content focused on collaboration and teamwork.

Units undertaken in the first and second years are common to all students. There are some differences in the units undertaken at third and fourth years depending on whether the student is undertaking the pass or research honours level of the degree.

For a list of units studied in the Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours), please click here.

Research Honours

Students who obtain a minimum 75 per cent cumulative grade average during years one and two of the Occupational Therapy course, and who are ranked in the top 10 per cent of the course for their respective year will be eligible to be admitted into the Research Honours course. No additional period of study is required for the awarding of research honours in this degree.