Health Sciences/Occupational Therapy
This course information is for local students only
Year
2010
Award
Bachelor of Health Sciences and Master of Occupational Therapy Practice
Length
4 years full-time or part-time equivalent
Campuses
Melbourne (Bundoora), Bendigo, Mildura, Shepparton, Albury-Wodonga
Course description
This course provides students with the skills and knowledge to assess and treat people who have limited ability in daily activities. Students develop skills in the therapeutic use of occupations, individual and group assessment, and in intervention techniques. Students also learn to design equipment and adapt environments to promote occupational performance. Supervised clinical placements are integral to the course, enabling students to develop a sound basis for professional practice.
Course structure
Studies include the theory of occupational therapy (foundation subjects related to human development and health sciences), and occupational therapy intervention (research and clinical work). In first year students undertake an interdisciplinary common year, focusing on basic human biosciences and factors influencing health, and on developing an understanding of the roles of health professionals in the health and welfare sectors.In second year they develop occupational therapy skills. In third and fourth years, students study occupational therapy through contextualised problems, and undertake clinical placements.
Handbook
Major areas of study
Occupational therapy, determinants of health and wellbeing, physiology and anatomy.
Overseas study opportunities
Overseas study opportunities are available.
Please see
www.latrobe.edu.au/international/exchange
for more information
Application
VTAC
Fee type
Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
Scholarships
Applicants who are Australian citizens or who hold permanent humanitarian visas are eligible for a range of University-wide scholarships, including Commonwealth Scholarships. For details please see http://www.latrobe.edu.au/scholarships/prospective/uniwide/index.htmlAdditional costs (AUD)
Accommodation costs for clinical placements vary depending on venue. Students must also complete food handling and First Aid Level II courses, which are not conducted by La Trobe University and cost approximately A$65 and A$160 respectively. They should also buy a uniform - approximately A$45. Students can purchase uniforms, books and equipment from any supplier; these remain students' personal property.
Middle Band
A regional bonus applies (Bendigo, Albury-Wodonga, Mildura and Shepparton) for applicants whose home postcode is from regional Australia as per the Rural Remote and Metropolitan Area Classification 3-7, visit www.healthworkforce.com.au/main_rrma.asp to determine the RRMA classification for your locality. SEAS criteria also apply.
Selection
Melbourne (Bundoora) ENTER 80.25
Bendigo ENTER: 70.15
Albury-Wodonga ENTER: n/a (new course)
Mildura ENTER: n/a (new course)
Shepparton ENTER: n/a (new course)
Extra requirements
Current Year 12 and Non Year 12 applicants with relevant work experience must submit a VTAC Pi form detailing length and relevance of experience to occupational therapy. Non Year 12 applicants must submit a VTAC Pi form including a statement which demonstrates knowledge of the profession. Applicants aged 21 or over on 1 January 2010 who have not completed a semester of tertiary level studies in the last two years must complete the STAT Multiple Choice. It is highly recommended students who have only studied at TAFE sit the STAT Multiple Choice Test.
Students must comply with the Inherent Requirements for the Completion of Entry Level Occupational Therapy courses at La Trobe University (call 03 9479 5815 for a copy). Applicants with a disability, medical condition or other concerns that may affect their participation should contact the School to discuss any possible course modifications.
Prerequisites
VCE Units 3 & 4: Study score of at least 25 in English (any) or 30 in English (ESL) and one of Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics (any), Physical Education or Physics.
Semester starts
Semester 1 (March)
Additional information
Please note that students at Albury-Wodonga, Mildura and Shepparton campuses must transfer to the Bendigo campus for the last three years of the course.
For important information about clinical placements, visit www.latrobe.edu.au/health/courses/undergrad/about_courses/main_rrma.asp
Prior to undertaking professional placements, students must obtain a police check (Victoria Police: $A14.50 for local students) and provide proof of immunisations.
Career opportunities
Occupational therapists are employed in a wide range of clinical settings, including general hospitals, community settings and psychiatric hospitals.
Professional recognition
The course is recognised by the World Federation of Occupational Therapists, and graduates are normally eligible for membership.
Contact information
Enquire Online
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Future Students Centre:
T 1300 135 045
E study@latrobe.edu.au
School of Occupational Therapy:
T (03) 9479 5815
All students may pay a
Voluntary General Service Fee.
Most international students must pay for
Overseas Student Health Cover