Occupational Therapy

Occupational Therapy is a dynamic and rewarding healthcare profession dedicated to helping individuals of all ages regain independence and improve their quality of life through personalized therapeutic interventions. At Brunel University London, our Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Occupational Therapy is designed to provide students with a comprehensive and evidence-based understanding of the principles and practices essential to this vital field. The programme combines theoretical coursework with practical clinical training, equipping students with the necessary skills to assess, plan, and implement tailored interventions that address a wide range of physical, mental, and developmental needs.

Throughout the course, students will explore core areas such as human anatomy, physiology, psychology, and sociology, alongside specialized modules focusing on pediatric, adult, and geriatric occupational therapy. Emphasizing a person-centered approach, the curriculum encourages students to develop critical thinking, clinical reasoning, and empathetic communication skills vital for effective practice. Integrated with placements in diverse healthcare settings, the programme offers real-world experience under the supervision of experienced practitioners, fostering confidence and professional competence.

Brunel’s state-of-the-art facilities and strong links with local hospitals, clinics, and community organizations ensure that students gain exposure to contemporary occupational therapy practices and multidisciplinary teamwork. The programme also emphasizes research literacy and lifelong learning, preparing graduates to contribute to evidence-based practice and innovation within the field. Upon successful completion, graduates will be eligible to apply for registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and pursue careers in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, community health services, education, and more.

Our dedicated faculty members are committed to supporting students' academic and professional development, encouraging engagement in research projects, and fostering a collaborative learning environment. With the increasing demand for skilled occupational therapists worldwide, this programme is an excellent pathway for students passionate about making a meaningful difference in people's lives through healthcare.

Detailed Course Facts

• GBP 16000 Year (International)

UK/EU: NHS funded (full-time) / To be announced (part-time)

International students: £16,000 full-time

• English

Course Content

The course integrates theory with practice. Periods of campus-based study will prepare you for practice placements, and then information and experience gained on placements provides much of the case study material used in University study. There is also a mix of individual and group work.

Course Themes

Occupation – introduces students to concepts including: occupation, occupational therapy and occupational science; productivity, self-care and leisure; theories and models that inform occupational therapy; planning effective intervention; and managing the occupational therapy process to address clients’ occupational performance needs. This theme includes learning about informing sciences such as human biology (anatomy and physiology) and psychology, which informs us how illness or chronic disease can affect a person’s ability to carry out daily activities.

Enquiry – teaches skills including: methods of obtaining evidence and assessing its value; understanding the research process and the ability to gather data; critically evaluating professional evidence and applying it; producing research proposals; and evaluating the impact of service provision.

Professional Performance – helps students to achieve goals including: understanding and using a range of occupational therapy procedures; learning professional language and terminology; demonstrating clinical reasoning; demonstrating client-centred practice; identifying change events and understanding their impact on practice; and justifying interventions from a theoretical, evidence and resource base.

Practical Skills

The programme enables you to develop your practical and theoretical skills in tandem, including the theory and practice of self-care and independent living techniques. Practical skills are taught in the state-of-the-art Keep Living Suite, students learn about the use of special equipment, eg wheelchairs, hoists and walking aids and about designing adaptations to living environments. You will also study the principles and management of therapeutic activity groups, and will receive interviewing and communication skills training. You will develop skills in creative vocational and recreational activities and consider their use in treatment.

Typical Modules

Level 1

• Knowledge and Skills for Occupational Therapy

• Human Sciences

• Professional Development

• Practice Placement I

• Personal and Academic Development

Level 2

• The Effective Practitioner

• Theory of Occupation

• Practice Placement II

• Occupations for Health and Wellbeing

• Practice Placement III

Level 3

• Professional Practice

• Continuing Professional Development (CPD)

• OT Provision and Service Development

• Research Methods

• Practice Placement IV

• Research in Occupational Therapy

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6.5 CAE score : 60(Grade C)

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

• GCE A-level BBB, including Grade B in Biology, Human Biology, Psychology or Sociology (General Studies not accepted for this subject at all)

• BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma DDD in a health-related subject.

• International Baccalaureate Diploma 32 points including Biology, Human Biology or Psychology.

• Access to Higher EducationDiploma Complete and pass a related subject Access course with 45 credits at level 3 and 15 credits at level 2 with Merits in all units.

GCSE Mathematics grade C and GCSE English grade C are also required.

English Language Requirements

• IELTS: 7 (min 6.5W, 6.5L, 6.5R, 6.5S)

• Pearson: 64 (58 in all subscores)

• BrunELT: 70% (65% in all areas)

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than Brunel University.

Funding

Part-time students who are employed in the NHS or Social Services in London may be eligible for NHS funding for fees. For more information, email Occupational Therapy part-time admissions.

Independently-funded students and those funded by other sponsors are welcome to apply.

Occupational Therapy at Brunel University London is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to prepare students for a rewarding career in health and social care. This degree uniquely combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience, enabling students to develop essential skills required to assess, plan, and implement therapeutic interventions that enable individuals to participate fully in everyday activities. The program emphasizes a holistic approach to healthcare, considering the physical, psychological, social, and environmental factors that affect a person's ability to function. Students will engage in a variety of learning modes, including lectures, seminars, workshops, and placements, which provide real-world experience in diverse clinical settings. Brunel's close collaborations with healthcare providers and community organizations ensure that students gain valuable insights into current practices and emerging trends in occupational therapy. The curriculum covers core areas such as anatomy, physiology, psychology, and sociology, alongside specialized modules like sensory integration, neurorehabilitation, mental health, and assistive technology. The program is accredited by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and the Royal College of Occupational Therapists, ensuring that graduates meet the professional standards required for registration and practice in the UK. Graduates of this program are well-equipped for a variety of roles within hospitals, community health services, rehabilitation centers, and social services. Brunel University London also offers opportunities for further postgraduate study, research, and specialization. The campus facilities include dedicated laboratories, simulation suites, and resource centers to support practical learning. The university's focus on employability and professional skills means that students will benefit from career development workshops, networking opportunities, and support from dedicated career services. Overall, the Occupational Therapy program at Brunel aims to produce competent, compassionate, and innovative practitioners who can make a positive difference in people's lives through effective therapeutic interventions.