Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapy is a healthcare profession grounded in the belief that meaningful activity is central to health and wellbeing. Occupational therapists work with people whose ability to perform the activities that give their lives structure and meaning has been affected by physical illness or injury, mental health difficulties, disability, developmental conditions or the challenges of ageing. The therapist's role is to assess what barriers exist and to work with the individual to find practical, creative ways to overcome them, whether through adapting the environment, developing new skills, using assistive technology or approaching familiar activities differently.

At the University of the West of England in Bristol, this three-year full-time degree prepares you for registration as an occupational therapist through a curriculum that integrates academic study with extensive clinical placement. You will study anatomy and physiology, neuroscience, psychology, the theory and practice of occupational therapy, mental health, physical rehabilitation, paediatrics and the social and environmental factors that shape occupational engagement. Placements run throughout the programme, placing you in diverse clinical environments where you develop the assessment, reasoning and therapeutic skills that the profession demands.

Typical entry is around 136 UCAS tariff points, and entry requirements typically include specific health-related subject preferences.

Graduation and registration with the Health and Care Professions Council opens the way to practice as a qualified occupational therapist in a wide range of settings, including acute hospitals, community and mental health services, social care, schools, prisons and independent practice. Occupational therapists work with children, adults and older people, across physical and mental health contexts, and the scope of practice is genuinely broad. Career progression leads to specialist clinical roles, advanced practice, team leadership, research and education.

Many occupational therapists also pursue postgraduate qualifications in specialist clinical areas or in health services management.