Occupational Therapy

Occupational Therapy at Edith Cowan University is designed to prepare students for a career in healthcare that focuses on helping individuals of all ages to participate fully in their daily activities. This comprehensive program combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills to enable graduates to assess, plan, and implement effective interventions that promote independence and improve quality of life. Throughout the course, students will explore a wide range of topics including human development, disabilities, mental health, physical health conditions, and environmental adaptations. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, ethical considerations, and culturally responsive approaches to ensure graduates are equipped to serve diverse populations. Students will undertake clinical placements in a variety of settings such as hospitals, community health centers, schools, and rehabilitation facilities, providing real-world experience that complements their academic learning. The program also incorporates contemporary topics like digital health, trauma-informed care, and client-centered practices, preparing students to meet the evolving needs of healthcare systems. Graduates of the Bachelor of Science (Occupational Therapy) will be qualified to work as registered occupational therapists, contributing to multidisciplinary teams to improve patient outcomes. The program is accredited by relevant professional bodies, ensuring that students meet national and international standards for occupational therapy practice. Dedicated faculty members with extensive clinical and research experience support students throughout their studies, fostering an environment of innovation, critical thinking, and compassionate care. Upon completion, graduates will be ready to undertake professional registration and embark on a rewarding career dedicated to enhancing individual well-being and social participation.

The Bachelor of Occupational Therapy at Edith Cowan University is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to prepare students for a dynamic and rewarding career in health care. This program equips students with the essential knowledge, practical skills, and professional competencies required to assess, plan, and implement therapeutic interventions that enable individuals of all ages to participate fully in daily activities and improve their quality of life. Throughout the course, students engage in a blend of theoretical learning, practical training, and industry placements, ensuring they are well-prepared for real-world professional environments. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including human anatomy and physiology, psychology, developmental theories, assistive technology, and evidence-based practice. Students also learn about the social, cultural, and environmental factors that influence health and participation, fostering a holistic approach to occupational therapy. The program emphasizes student-centered learning, with opportunities for hands-on experience through supervised clinical placements in diverse settings such as hospitals, community health services, rehabilitation centers, and aged care facilities. These placements are integrated throughout the course to give students practical insights into the complexities of client care and interprofessional collaboration. The Bachelor of Occupational Therapy at ECU is accredited by the Occupational Therapy Australia and meets international standards for occupational therapy education, ensuring graduates are eligible for registration and licensure in Australia and other countries. Graduates of the program are equipped to work as occupational therapists in a variety of settings, helping individuals regain independence and improve their well-being. The course also emphasizes ongoing professional development and lifelong learning, preparing students to adapt to new challenges and innovations in healthcare practice. With a strong focus on ethical practice, cultural competence, and evidence-based decision-making, the program aims to produce compassionate and skilled occupational therapists dedicated to enhancing client outcomes.

• University admission requirements apply. International students need to supply an IELTS Academic with a standard minimum score of 7.5 (no individual band less than 7.0). Internationally qualified applicants could also be required to fulfill this requirement.Minimum English standard conditions for this particular class may also be satisfied with a number of the following:Year 12 English ATAR/English Literature ATAR grade C or equivalent or better
• Special Tertiary Admissions Test
• *Successfully completed 1.0 EFTSL of study at bachelor level or more in the UK, Ireland, USA, NZ or Canada
• University Preparation Course
• Indigenous University Orientation Course
• *Aboriginal Student Intake Test
• *AQF Diploma, Advanced Diploma or Associate Degree
• OrSuccessfully completed 0.375 EFTSL of study at bachelor level or more in an Australian higher education provider (or equivalent).

Tuition fees for the Bachelor of Occupational Therapy at Edith Cowan University vary depending on the student’s residency status and study mode. For international students, the indicative annual fee is approximately AUD 36,000 to AUD 40,000 per year, which covers tuition, access to university facilities, and academic resources. Domestic students, including Australian citizens and permanent residents, benefit from subsidized fees under the Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) scheme, which significantly reduces their tuition costs. For CSP students, the tuition fee is determined annually by the Australian Government and can be as low as approximately AUD 10,000 to AUD 15,000 per year, with the actual fee reflecting the government’s funding decisions.

In addition to tuition fees, students should budget for other expenses such as textbooks, clinical placement costs, equipment, and living expenses. The university estimates that living costs for students studying in Perth, Western Australia, range from AUD 20,000 to AUD 25,000 per year, including accommodation, food, transportation, and personal expenses.

Financial assistance options available to students include scholarships, bursaries, and grants provided by Edith Cowan University, which are awarded based on merit, financial need, or specific criteria such as indigenous status or rural background. The university also supports students in accessing government loans such as the HECS-HELP for eligible Australian students, which allows deferment of tuition payments until after graduation.

Part-time work opportunities are available on and off campus, which can help students support their finances while studying. The university’s Career Centre provides guidance on securing part-time employment, internships, and volunteer opportunities in the health sector.

For international students, payment plans may be available, and students are advised to consider health insurance costs such as Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international students studying in Australia.

Overall, students are encouraged to research and plan their finances carefully, considering both tuition and living expenses, and to explore available financial aid options early in their program to ensure a smooth academic journey through their occupational therapy studies at Edith Cowan University.

Occupational Therapy at Edith Cowan University is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for a rewarding career in healthcare by equipping them with the skills and knowledge necessary to improve the quality of life for individuals across the lifespan. The program emphasizes a client-centered approach, integrating theoretical knowledge with practical applications to develop competent practitioners who can work effectively in diverse settings such as hospitals, community health services, schools, and private practices. The curriculum covers foundational topics including human anatomy and physiology, mental health, developmental and aging processes, and the principles of occupational therapy. Students gain hands-on experience through supervised clinical placements, which are embedded throughout the course to ensure practical competency and confidence in real-world scenarios. The program aims to foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills, enabling graduates to assess clients’ needs, develop personalized therapy plans, and implement interventions that promote independence and well-being. Edith Cowan University valeurs diversity and inclusivity, encouraging students from various backgrounds to join the program and contribute to a culturally competent healthcare workforce. The program is accredited by relevant professional bodies, ensuring graduates meet national standards for practice. Upon completion, graduates are eligible for registration with the Occupational Therapy Board of Australia and can pursue employment opportunities across Australia and internationally. The university also supports research and ongoing professional development, providing pathways for graduates to engage in further specialization or academic pursuits within Occupational Therapy.