B.Sc. Occupational Therapy

In Year 1 students are introduced to the philosophical and theoretical bases for occupational therapy. Subjects such as health psychology and anatomy and physiology examine the 'normal' body and mind. The use of activity as a core element of professional practice is emphasised. Practical experience of a range of occupations is provided. The course promotes the concept that all goal-orientated behaviour is occupational in nature. It recognises the importance of self-care, work and leisure to everyone. Students are provided with the skills and knowledge to practise as reflective occupational therapists with a wide range of client groups from children to older adults. The first Professional Practice Placement occurs at the end of Year 1.

In Year 2, the focus is on occupational therapy in specific contexts, such as the community and societies. Practical and experiential learning is promoted whereby students have the opportunity to practise professional skills, using each other as subjects. Opportunities to practice professional skills with patients are provided in two Professional Practice Placements, in a range of practice settings, for example in hospitals, day care or community settings.

In Year 3, the focus is on evidence-based practice in relation to a range of interventions used by occupational therapists in a wide range of health and social care contexts. Students will study vocational rehabilitation and innovations in service delivery and development. This year contains both a traditional Professional Practice Placement e.g. in hospitals, day care or community settings and a non-traditional (role emerging) placement e.g. in charitable organisations.

Professional Practice Placements

Students are required to complete 1000 hours of professional practice placements during the course. Placements are gained in a variety of settings throughout the United Kingdom and Ireland including hospitals, community, special schools, clinics and role emerging settings. There are opportunities for elective placements outside the UK in the final year.