Occupational Therapy

Occupational Therapy at Deakin University is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to prepare students for a rewarding career helping individuals achieve their full potential in daily life. This degree program equips students with the essential knowledge, practical skills, and professional competencies required to assess, plan, and implement therapeutic interventions that enhance the independence and wellbeing of clients across diverse settings. Throughout the course, students engage in a blend of theoretical learning and hands-on practical experience, including placements in hospitals, community health centers, and rehabilitation facilities, allowing them to apply their knowledge in real-world situations under the supervision of experienced practitioners. The curriculum covers fundamental topics such as human anatomy and physiology, psychology, neuroscience, and occupational science, alongside specialized subjects like mental health, paediatrics, geriatrics, and community health. Emphasis is placed on evidence-based practice, ethical considerations, and culturally responsive approaches to ensure graduates can effectively serve a diverse population. Deakin’s innovative teaching methods incorporate online learning modules, simulation exercises, and collaborative projects to foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The program also encourages professional development through networking opportunities, industry partnerships, and student organizations. Graduates of the Occupational Therapy program are qualified to register with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and pursue diverse career paths in hospital settings, mental health services, aged care, disability support, and community health programs. Deakin University’s commitment to research and community engagement ensures students are at the forefront of advances in occupational therapy, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to improving health outcomes locally and nationally. Upon graduation, students will be well-equipped to undertake postgraduate studies, clinical practice, and leadership roles within the health sector, making a positive difference in the lives of individuals and their communities.

The Bachelor of Occupational Therapy is accredited by the Occupational Therapy Council (Australia and New Zealand Ltd) and the World Federation of Occupational Therapists, which means you Will Have the Ability to Work professionally in Australia and overseas.

Entry will be determined by performance in Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 30 in English EAL (English as an additional language) or at least 25 in English apart from EAL or equivalent.

The Bachelor of Occupational Therapy at Deakin University offers a range of financial support options to assist students in funding their studies. Domestic students may be eligible for government loans such as FEE-HELP, which helps cover tuition fees, allowing students to study without immediate upfront payment and pay back the loan through the tax system once they are earning above a certain income threshold. Additionally, some students might qualify for scholarships and grants provided by Deakin University or external organizations. These scholarships can vary each year and may be based on academic performance, financial need, or specific criteria such as extracurricular involvement or regional background. International students enrolling in the program are generally required to pay full tuition fees upfront and are not eligible for government loans; however, Deakin offers various scholarship opportunities to outstanding international students to help mitigate costs. Apart from scholarships and loans, students can explore private financial options such as education loans from banks or financial institutions, though these are separate from university-specific funding programs. Deakin also provides financial counseling services to help students understand their options and manage their finances effectively during their course. The total cost of the program includes tuition fees, textbooks, equipment, and living expenses, which students should budget for accordingly. Cost estimates for domestic students applying through FEE-HELP depend on the latest fee schedule published annually by Deakin University, and students are advised to consult the university’s official website or student finance office for precise figures. The university's support services aim to ensure that students from diverse financial backgrounds can access and complete their degree without undue hardship, emphasizing Deakin’s commitment to equitable access to education.

Occupational Therapy at Deakin University is designed to prepare students for a rewarding career in helping individuals gain independence and improve their quality of life through therapeutic practices. The program emphasizes a comprehensive understanding of human development, biomechanics, mental health, and social sciences to enable graduates to assess, plan, and implement treatment strategies for diverse client needs. The curriculum includes both theoretical coursework and practical placements that ensure students develop essential clinical skills within real-world settings. Students are trained to work with a broad range of populations, including children, adults, and the elderly, across various healthcare, educational, and community environments. Deakin’s focus on contemporary healthcare issues and evidence-based practices ensures graduates are well-equipped to adapt to evolving industry demands. The degree also promotes cultural competence, ethical considerations, and interprofessional collaboration, which are vital in delivering effective occupational therapy services. Students benefit from access to state-of-the-art facilities and partnerships with hospitals, clinics, schools, and community organizations for placement opportunities. The program typically takes four years to complete full-time and offers pathways for further specialization or postgraduate studies such as research or advanced clinical practice. Graduates who complete this program are eligible to register with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and pursue licensure to work as registered occupational therapists within Australia. The program's reputation for high-quality education and practical training prepares students to meet national and international standards in occupational therapy practice.