COURSE CURRICULUM

The MSc in Occupational Therapy (Pre-registration) at Queen Margaret University is an intensive two-year programme designed for graduates who want to become qualified occupational therapists and help people live more independent and meaningful lives. The course combines academic study, practical placements, and real-world learning experiences to develop professional knowledge, clinical reasoning, creativity, leadership, and compassionate care skills. In Year One, students explore the theoretical foundations of occupational therapy, evidence-informed practice, professional preparation, assessment methods, and interventions that support rehabilitation and occupational performance. They also complete two practice-based learning placements, gaining experience in observing, participating, and contributing to occupational therapy services while developing communication, problem-solving, and professional reasoning skills. In Year Two, students advance their understanding of complex interventions and occupational therapy practice in different contexts, undertake further placements with increasing responsibility and autonomy, and complete a master's dissertation on a topic of professional relevance. The programme also focuses on leadership, innovation, evidence-based decision-making, and working effectively within unpredictable and rapidly changing healthcare environments. Four integrated placements allow students to apply theory in practice and gradually manage their own caseloads under supervision, preparing them for professional employment. The course is taught by experienced academics and clinicians and includes learning from people with lived experience of occupational therapy, providing a rich and practical educational environment. Graduates are eligible to apply for registration with the Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC) and can also join the Royal College of Occupational Therapists and the World Federation of Occupational Therapists. The qualification opens opportunities to work across the UK and internationally in hospitals, community services, rehabilitation centres, schools, charities, and a wide range of health and social care settings.