Bachelor of Occupational Therapy

Programme Overview

Occupational Therapy is a health profession focused on helping people achieve independence in all areas of their lives. This programme prepares students to support individuals who have physical, mental, or social challenges to participate in everyday "occupations"—from self-care to work and play.

The degree uses a blended delivery model, which is ideal for students based throughout the Midland region. It emphasizes the relationship between a person’s wellbeing and their environment, with a strong focus on Te Tiriti o Waitangi and achieving equitable health outcomes for Māori and Pacific communities.

What You'll Study

The four-year curriculum integrates biological sciences, social sciences, and extensive clinical fieldwork.

Year 1 (Level 5 Foundations):

• Human Science: Anatomy and Physiology focusing on human movement and function.
• Core Theory: Introduction to occupational science and the therapeutic process.
• Fieldwork: Initial placements to observe OT practice in community settings.

Year 2 (Level 6 Development):

• Clinical Skills: Analyzing human occupation and learning to adapt environments or tasks.
• Psychosocial Practice: Working with clients facing mental health or social challenges.
• Fieldwork: Extended clinical blocks to apply assessment and intervention skills.

Year 3 (Level 7 Mastery):

• Advanced Practice: Rehabilitation, aged care, and working with children/youth.
• Professional Leadership: Managing complex cases and collaborative healthcare teams.
• Fieldwork: Full-time placements in diverse health and social service environments.

Year 4 (Level 7 Consolidation):

• Transitions: A focus on readiness for professional practice and registration.
• Major Placement: A final 8-week internship to demonstrate clinical competence.

Why Choose This Programme?

• Flexible Delivery: Block courses allow you to live in your home community while studying for a professional degree.
• Practical Experience: Over 1,000 hours of supervised fieldwork across the four years.
• Holistic Approach: Learn to look beyond the medical diagnosis to the person’s life roles and environment.
• Accredited Pathway: Provides the academic requirements for registration with the Occupational Therapy Board of New Zealand (OTBNZ).

Entry Requirements

• Academic: NCEA Level 3 (with UE). This is a competitive-entry programme with a limited number of places.
• Selection Criteria: Applicants must submit a "Statement of Professional Interest" and provide references. Preference is given to residents of the Midland region.
• Compliance: Must pass a police vet (Vulnerable Children Act) and meet all health and immunization requirements for clinical placements.
• Technology: A laptop with a camera and reliable internet access is essential for the online modules.
• English: IELTS Academic 7.0 (no band lower than 6.5) or equivalent.