COURSE CURRICULUM

The Occupational Therapy programme provides a comprehensive curriculum that combines theoretical knowledge, professional development and clinical practice to prepare students for successful careers as occupational therapists. During the first year, students study Contexts of Health, a module that explores occupational perspectives of health across different settings and populations while examining the role of occupation in promoting public and global health. Students consider important issues such as health inequalities, human rights, occupational justice and health policy, while recognising the value of multidisciplinary collaboration across health, social care, education and criminal justice environments. Practice of Occupational Therapy develops students’ understanding of the complexity of occupational therapy interventions and provides opportunities to work directly with service users, focusing on how meaningful occupations can empower individuals to gain independence and improve their quality of life. Self as an Occupational Being encourages critical reflection on individuals as occupational beings and examines how occupational performance influences development, health and wellbeing, while exploring concepts such as occupational disruption, deprivation and dysfunction. Theories of Occupational Therapy introduces the philosophical foundations and theoretical frameworks that underpin professional practice, enabling students to integrate scientific knowledge with occupational theories and apply models that guide assessment and intervention. During the second year, Dissertation Preparation for Health Professionals develops advanced research skills by introducing research methodologies, evidence appraisal, data analysis techniques and ethical considerations necessary for designing and managing healthcare research projects. Enhancing Professionalism, Leadership and Service Improvement Skills for the Future Ready Practitioner focuses on healthcare policy, professional standards, leadership and service improvement while encouraging critical reflection and personal development through the use of an electronic portfolio. The programme concludes with the Major Project for Health Professionals, where students demonstrate advanced research and analytical abilities by critically evaluating a topic relevant to occupational therapy, considering ethical issues and producing a research paper that contributes to professional knowledge and evidence-based practice. Together, these modules prepare graduates with the knowledge, practical skills and professional confidence required for registration and employment as future-ready occupational therapists.