University of Newcastle Bachelor of Occupational Therapy

The University of Newcastle’s Occupational Therapy degree program trains world-class occupational therapists. Newcastle graduates work worldwide, helping people and communities overcome unique challenges to get the most out of everyday life activities. You’ll learn to help children reach developmental milestones or manage their disability; help people return to work after an accident and study how to assist older clients to return to their daily lives after a stroke or hip replacement.

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.  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:

• Graded Honours – this stream develops your skills with a research project in your chosen area. At the end you will be given a grade based on your research thesis. You can use this qualification to move onto further research such as a PhD or Masters coursework.
• Ungraded Honours – this stream develops your expertise in your core studies and your chosen discipline area. You will successfully complete with honours based on placements and coursework.

Clinical Work Experience

You will also have plenty of opportunities to hone your skills through hands-on professional placements.  All students complete 1,000 hours of professional practice during their degree, starting in first year. In your final year of studies you will work independently, carrying a caseload under supervision. As well as building your professional skills and understanding, your supervised practice gives you the chance to sample the wide range of career possibilities available to you as an occupational therapist. .

You can undertake your placement in a variety of settings, both locally and nationally, including rural placements.   You will also have access to Newcastle’s interactive, technology-based learning facilities, including their specially designed clinical skills laboratory, complete with a modified home (bathroom and kitchen) and a virtual house and playground.

Entry Requirements

Students will need to have a completed High school diploma with a minimum 80% GPA (6.2 in BC).

Prerequisites: English, one of Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Physical Education or Physics.

Professional Recognition

The University of Newcastle’s Bachelor of Occupational Therapy program is accredited by the Occupational Therapy Board of Australia and recognized by the World Federation of Occupational Therapists.   Graduates are eligible for occupational therapy registration in any State or Territory of Australia through the  Occupational Therapy Board of Australia. Graduates applying to licensing in Canada will be required to provide details of their program of studies to the relevant bodies and sit a licensing examination.

Students wishing to license as a Occupational Therapist in Canada should contact the Association of Canadian Occupational Therapy Regulators Organization (ACOTRO)  for procedures and accreditation procedures. The ACOTRO is the national federation of provincial/territorial regulators in Canada.

KOM Consultants understands the process and requirements needed to enter the Occupational Therapy profession in Canada. Contact KOM Consultants for more information. All students applying directly through KOM Consultants will be supported with the latest information on the accreditation process.

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