Bachelor of Occupational Therapy

Programme Overview

The Bachelor of Occupational Therapy at Otago Polytechnic is a three-year Level 7 degree. It prepares graduates to assess clients and plan therapy that supports everyday participation in work, home and community life.

The degree is accredited by the Occupational Therapy Board of New Zealand and approved by the World Federation of Occupational Therapists. Five fieldwork placements are part of the programme.

What You'll Study

• Year 1: Foundations of Occupational Therapy, Professional Practice, Human Body and Movement, Human Mind and Behaviour, Fieldwork 1 and 2
• Year 2: Applied Professional Practice, Theory in Practice, mental health, school-based practice, progressive neurological conditions, Fieldwork 3
• Year 3: Professional Reasoning, long-term wellbeing, neurological rehabilitation, ageing well, Fieldwork 4 and 5, and electives

Why Choose This Programme?

• Registration: graduates are eligible to apply for registration as an Occupational Therapist in New Zealand.
• Fieldwork: five placements totalling 1,050 learning hours, in community, health and rehabilitation settings.
• Honours option: students with a B grade average can complete the Honours year.

Ready to apply? Book a free consultation, read our study in New Zealand guide or browse all courses.

Entry Requirements

• A secondary qualification equivalent to New Zealand NCEA levels; international applicants are assessed case by case.
• English: IELTS (Academic) 6.5 overall with no band below 6.5, from one test in the last two years.
• Two referees, a health declaration, a medical report, a conviction declaration and a police check.
• Level 2 Comprehensive First Aid Certificate before starting. Places are limited and some applicants are interviewed.
• Need help with your English test? See our IELTS and PTE coaching.