Occupational Therapy

BSc (Hons)

Occupational Therapists work with people of all ages who have physical, mental or social problems because of an accident, illness or ageing. They enable people to engage in activities that are meaningful to them and make a difference to their lives. This programme is intended for people who wish to become eligible to apply for registration as an Occupational Therapist with the Health Professions Council.

Overview
Content
Additional information
How to apply
Fees and funding
International

Course level

Undergraduate

Modes of study

Part time, Full time

Attendance

Three years full-time (Monday-Friday) or four years part-time (two days per week).

For part-time students the course is taught on Thursdays and Fridays during years one, two and three, and on Mondays and Tuesdays for year four.

Location

Park Campus

Entry requirements

Five GCSEs including Maths and English at Grade C or above and one of the following:

260-300 UCAS Tariff points including two GCE A level/AVCE awards at a minimum grade C (in subjects other than General Studies
BTEC: 18 units; graded DMM: ACCESS.30 out of 45 credits at level 3 - Merit;
Scottish Applicants: 260-280 Tariff points as above to include at least three Highers;
Irish Applicants: Highers at 260-280 tariff points;
Open University minimum 60 credits.

Other recognised professional courses maybe considered. Mature student entry is encouraged. Each application is considered on its own merit. Evidence of successful recent study at degree entry level is required.

Applicant's first language will be English or achieved level 7 in IELTS with no one component to be less than 6.5. Applicants must have a clear understanding of the work of occupational therapists and are strongly recommended to visit an occupational therapy department prior to applying and demonstrate their knowledge through the personal statement.

UCAS details

UCAS code: B930

UCAS description: BSc/OT

School

School of Health

Course content

The course aims to equip students to become competent occupational therapists by enabling development of lifelong learning skills, providing opportunities for students to study occupational and human sciences and facilitating the professional skills required for practice. We also provide professional practice opportunities within a variety of health and social care settings to promote the use of evidence-based practice and enabling the study of the context of service delivery.

Students gain an understanding of how occupational therapy is used as both a means and outcome of intervention. Theoretical knowledge is applied within the practice setting and students undertake both theoretical modules and professional practice at each stage. Upon graduation students are eligible to apply for full professional membership of the College of Occupational Therapists. Successful completion of the programme provides an academic degree and also allows the graduate to apply for registration with the Health Professions Council to gain a licence to practice.

Stage one

Students will be introduced to the foundations of occupational therapy alongside studies of the scientific basis of human occupation. Practical sessions include a range of activities including the application of communication skills, problem-solving theories, working in groups, moving and handling and the use of mobility equipment. Students also explore the professional context in which occupational therapy takes place.

Stage two

Stage two begins with a practice module and is followed by university-based studies. A number of modules are revisited at greater depth and students are enabled to analyse occupational dysfunction, studying this from a range of disciplines. Practical sessions are used as a vehicle to develop skills in the therapeutic use of self, occupational analysis, assessment and evaluation. Students are introduced to research methods in preparation for their dissertation at stage three.

Stage three

Students bring together their learning using case studies to explore, justify and evaluate their practice. Studies are broadened to include study of occupational therapy within both health and social care and non-traditional settings. The impact of policy and legislation within practice is also evaluated at this stage. In their final term, students are given the opportunity to demonstrate their skills, understanding and theoretical knowledge of occupational therapy within their final professional practice.

Special course features

One of the longest established Occupational Therapy Schools in Britain
A range of exciting local, national and international professional placement opportunities
Strong academic and research profile supported by a professor and reader in Occupational Therapy
Modern purpose-built facilities including a daily living suite

Typical modules

Human health; anatomy and physiology, psychology and sociology
Understanding occupational beings
Professional practice
Personal and professional skills
Research

Assessment

The programme is assessed in both theory and practice, using a variety of methods, including self and peer assessment, written assignments and examinations.

Career opportunities

Employment opportunities are available, both in the UK and abroad with a wide range of career opportunities within the National Health Service, Social Services, private practice, special education, the prison service and the voluntary sector.

For undergraduate application information please see our how to apply page.

Full time fees

Full time and part time undergraduate ‘Home’ and EU students who have a place on a NHS-funded course will normally have their tuition fees paid on their behalf provided they meet the eligibility criteria for the NHS Bursary scheme.

For further information on the eligibility criteria, please refer to the ‘Eligibility’ section on the NHS Student Bursaries website.