Occupational Therapy - Extended Route
Occupational therapy is a health profession that helps people engage in the everyday activities, the occupations, that give their lives meaning and structure. When illness, disability, injury or the effects of ageing prevent people from doing the things they need and want to do, occupational therapists assess what is getting in the way and work with individuals to develop practical solutions, adapting tasks, modifying environments and building skills and confidence in ways that support independence and wellbeing. The discipline is rooted in the belief that doing, not simply resting or receiving treatment, is central to recovery and quality of life.
At the University of Salford, this three-year full-time programme takes an extended route format, running across three semesters of the academic year to fulfil the full scope of modules and practice education requirements that lead to professional registration. This structure typically requires a commitment of around 22.5 hours per week for academic learning, combined with additional full-time practice education placements in which you apply your skills in real clinical and community settings. You will develop competence in occupational assessment, therapeutic intervention, evidence-based practice and professional reasoning across a range of client groups and settings including hospitals, mental health services, community care, learning disability services and social care.
A typical entry tariff of 120 points makes the programme accessible to students from a range of backgrounds, and the extended route ensures you meet the full requirements for registration with the Health and Care Professions Council.
Graduates register as occupational therapists and work across NHS services, social care, independent healthcare, education and the voluntary sector. Occupational therapy is a profession with strong and sustained demand, clear career progression and the opportunity to specialise in areas such as mental health, neurological rehabilitation, paediatrics, older adult care or vocational rehabilitation. Postgraduate study and continued professional development are well-supported within the profession for those who wish to move into leadership, education or research roles.