Course Curriculum

The Bachelor of Occupational Therapy degree structure for Trimester 1, 2026, is designed to comprehensively prepare students for professional practice by combining theoretical learning with practical experience. To complete the program, students must earn 310 credit points, including 290 credit points from core courses and 20 credit points from core course options within the flexible module.The core curriculum integrates foundational sciences with occupational therapy theory and practice. In the early years, students build essential knowledge through courses like Introduction to Psychology 1 and 2, Anatomy and Physiology Systems I and II, Interpersonal Skills, and Health Challenges for the 21st Century. These subjects provide a strong base in understanding human health, behavior, and communication—critical elements in occupational therapy practice.Students begin their occupational therapy-specific training with Occupation and Occupational Therapy I and II, progressing to courses such as Occupational Therapy Practice I and II, and Understanding the Context of Occupation. These subjects gradually introduce therapeutic frameworks, intervention strategies, and professional roles within diverse settings.From the third year onward, students engage more deeply with advanced topics such as Contemporary Occupational Therapy Practice, Occupation, Health and Participation (Individuals and Communities), and Research and Evidence for Professional Practice. This stage of the degree also emphasizes professional readiness and leadership.A significant strength of the program is its extensive practice education component. Students complete four progressively intensive professional practice education placements (20-credit points each), where they apply their skills in real-world settings under supervision. These experiences are crucial for developing clinical competence and confidence in delivering occupational therapy services.Additionally, students explore health promotion, social theory, and Indigenous health through courses like Healthcare for Australia's First Peoples and Priorities and Interventions in Health Promotion. The final year culminates with advanced practice courses such as Emerging as an Occupational Therapist and Advanced Occupational Therapy, preparing students for registration and entry into the workforce.Overall, the structure ensures graduates are clinically competent, reflective practitioners ready to create meaningful change in diverse communities.