Occupational Therapy

Occupational Therapy at Curtin University is a dynamic and comprehensive program designed to prepare students for a rewarding career helping individuals enhance their independence and quality of life. This undergraduate degree combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience, equipping graduates with the skills necessary to assess, plan, and implement interventions that facilitate participation in daily activities across diverse populations and settings. The curriculum covers core topics such as human development, anatomy, physiology, psychology, and the principles of occupational therapy practice. Students gain hands-on experience through clinical placements in hospitals, community health organizations, rehabilitation centers, and other healthcare environments, allowing them to apply learned skills in real-world contexts under supervision.

Curtin’s Occupational Therapy program emphasizes a patient-centered approach, cultural competence, ethical practice, and innovative methods to adapt interventions for individual needs. The program fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills essential for effective collaboration with clients, families, and multidisciplinary teams. Throughout the course, students are encouraged to engage with current research and evidence-based practices to ensure their interventions meet high professional standards. Graduates of this program are well-prepared for registration with the Occupational Therapy Board of Australia and are eligible to work in Australia and internationally. The program also offers pathways for postgraduate study and professional development, supporting lifelong learning in a rapidly evolving healthcare landscape. Curtin’s commitment to excellence in healthcare education and its strong industry connections ensure that students graduate ready to make a meaningful impact in the lives of the people they serve.

Graduates employing the title registered health practitioner or also the title of occupational therapist must be registered with the Occupational Therapy Board of Australia (the National Board). Graduates may also decide to be part of the Australian Association of Occupational Therapists and/or Occupational Therapy Australia (WA). The course is recognized by the World Federation of Occupational Therapists.

Please consult with http://study.curtin.edu.au for additional details on entrance to this class.

The Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy at Curtin University offers a comprehensive range of financing options to support students throughout their studies. Tuition fees for domestic students are set annually and are subject to change, with current figures published on the university’s official website. International students are required to pay higher tuition fees, which are also updated annually. Curtin University provides various scholarship opportunities for both domestic and international students, aiming to assist with tuition costs, living expenses, and academic excellence. These scholarships are awarded based on merit, financial need, or specific eligibility criteria, and detailed information can be found on the university’s scholarships page.

In addition to scholarships, Curtin University offers financial aid programs, including FEE-HELP for eligible domestic students, which allows students to defer part of their tuition fees and pay them back gradually through their taxation system. For international students, fee payment plans may be available, allowing flexibility in installment payments. Students are encouraged to explore external funding sources such as government grants, private scholarships, and sponsorships, many of which support health sciences and allied health students specifically.

Living expenses are an important consideration and can vary depending on location, lifestyle, and accommodation choices. Curtin University’s Perth campus provides various on-campus accommodation options and resources to help students find affordable housing. The university also has financial advice services to assist students with budgeting and managing their finances effectively during their studies.

Students undertaking clinical placements in occupational therapy typically do not incur additional tuition fees for these practical components, but may need to budget for transportation, accommodation, and other related expenses. Overall, Curtin University’s financial support structure aims to ease the economic burden on students pursuing a career in occupational therapy, enabling them to focus on their educational and professional development without undue financial stress.

The Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Occupational Therapy at Curtin University is designed to prepare students for a professional career in helping individuals achieve independence and improve their quality of life through therapeutic interventions. The program integrates theoretical knowledge with practical experience, ensuring graduates are well-equipped with the skills necessary for diverse occupational therapy settings, including hospitals, community health agencies, schools, and private practice. Throughout the course, students engage in a comprehensive curriculum that covers anatomy, physiology, psychology, and the basics of occupational science, along with specific training in assessment techniques, intervention methods, and client-centered care principles. Emphasis is placed on developing critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills to collaborate effectively with clients and multidisciplinary teams. The program also includes practical placements in real-world environments, allowing students to apply their learning and gain valuable hands-on experience. These placements are supervised by experienced practitioners and are designed to build confidence and competence in clinical settings. Curtin University's occupational therapy program promotes a strong ethical foundation and awareness of health and safety standards relevant to the profession. Graduates of this program are eligible to register with the Occupational Therapy Board of Australia and pursue employment opportunities across various sectors, including healthcare, rehabilitation, mental health, and community services. The program's structure ensures a balance between academic coursework, practical skills development, and research activities, fostering a comprehensive understanding of occupational therapy practice. Students also have access to modern facilities and laboratories equipped with the latest technology, enabling simulated practical exercises. The university encourages an inclusive and innovative learning environment, supporting student success through dedicated academic support and industry partnerships. Overall, the Curtin University Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Occupational Therapy aims to produce competent, ethical, and compassionate practitioners capable of making meaningful contributions to individual and community health outcomes.