Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours)

Enable people across the lifespan to do the things they want and need to do through the therapeutic use of daily activities to ensure they live a healthy and full life.

The University of Newcastle's Occupational Therapy program trains world-class occupational therapists. Our graduates work worldwide, working with people and communities to overcome unique challenges to get the most out of everyday life activities. You'll learn about working with children to reach developmental milestones or to participate fully in school and social situations. You'll learn approaches to facilitate recovery, inclusion and participation in their communities for people experiencing mental health difficulties. You'll study how to assist clients to return to their daily lives after a stroke or hip replacement. Plus, you'll learn interventions to return people back to work following an accident.

As an occupational therapist, your skills will be invaluable as you work closely with individuals to assess their unique situation, determine goals and put together a plan for success.

Your occupational therapy studies at the University of Newcastle will teach you theoretical knowledge in biomedical, behavioural and occupational sciences. You will also have plenty of opportunities to hone your skills through hands-on professional placements. You will study a variety of courses to:

• Gain professional occupational therapy skills through case-based training and interactive team work activities designed to help you become a creative thinker and self-directed learner.
• Learn exceptional communication and interpersonal skills needed to work one-on-one with patients as an occupational therapist.
• Develop critical research skills that will set you in good stead for life-long learning in the field of occupational therapy.

Within your courses your areas of study will include:

• Anatomy and physiology
• Biomedical, behavioural and occupational sciences and therapy
• Mental health
• Psychology
• Sociology and community development

All University of Newcastle occupational therapy students graduate with Honours, giving you a distinct advantage when seeking employment. As part of the Honours component you can choose from two study pathways.

View the full course list

Our graduates are well prepared and enjoy great employment prospects with 97% securing jobs within four months of completing their degree. Careers in occupational therapy are immensely rewarding as you work closely with individuals to assess their unique situation, determine goals and put together a plan for success.

Take a look below for some common roles for occupational therapy graduates.