COURSE CURRICULUM

The Occupational Therapy curriculum combines theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and extensive practice-based learning to prepare students for professional registration and a successful career as an occupational therapist. In the first year, students develop a strong foundation through core modules including An Introduction to Occupational Therapy: The Art and Science, Understanding Occupational Performance, Practical Skills, Communication Skills for Practice, Life Changes and Pathologies – Impact on Occupational Performance, and Placement 1. The introductory module explores the concept of occupation, human development, health and wellbeing, the history and philosophy of occupational therapy, and the profession’s values and principles. Students also learn the occupational therapy process, including assessment, problem identification, intervention planning, and evaluation, while developing essential communication and practical skills through classroom learning and their first supervised placement. In the second year, students build on this knowledge through Application of Occupational Therapy, Understanding the Evidence Base, Placement 2, Practice Influences, and Group Work in Occupational Therapy. The Application of Occupational Therapy module develops the ability to select, implement, evaluate, and critically analyse occupational therapy assessments, interventions, and outcome measures across a range of physical, mental, and psychosocial conditions. Learning is supported through case studies that integrate theory with professional practice while strengthening clinical reasoning and evidence-based decision-making. In the final year, students prepare for professional practice through Placement 3, Transitioning to Practice, Future Focused Practice, Research Design, and Specialisms in Practice. Placement 3 provides an opportunity to consolidate professional competence in a different clinical setting, allowing students to refine their occupational therapy practice, communication, leadership, interpersonal, management, reflective, and critical evaluation skills under the supervision of qualified practitioners. The remaining modules develop advanced research capabilities, prepare students for emerging areas of practice, and support the transition from student to registered professional. Throughout the programme, academic learning is integrated with three supervised practice placements, ensuring students gain extensive real-world experience while developing the knowledge, practical skills, professional judgement, and confidence required to deliver person-centred, evidence-based occupational therapy. This comprehensive curriculum prepares graduates for careers in hospitals, community healthcare, mental health services, rehabilitation, social care, education, private practice, and other health and wellbeing settings.