Courses and degrees

A-Z study options

Occupational therapy

Why study Occupational therapy?

Occupational therapy deals with people's occupational needs and the loss of daily living skills that follow physical, emotional, psychological and social disorders. Occupational therapists help individuals to become more independent and maximise personal productivity, wellbeing and quality of life through occupational performance.

Career opportunities

Graduates are prepared for work in a wide range of clinical settings including general hospitals, psychiatric hospitals and in the community.

Courses

Local students

Occupational therapy courses (Mid year entry)
Offer year	Course title	Campus(es)	Duration	Semester starts
2011	Master of Occupational Therapy	Melbourne	1 year full-time or 2-4 years part-time	Semester 1 and 2 (February and July)
Master of Occupational Therapy continued… Course description This course enables graduates with a qualification in occupational therapy to further advance knowledge and skills, to become expert practitioners and leaders in their fields. Students have the opportunity to develop specialist knowledge and skills in specific practice areas, to deepen their understanding of human occupation and the theoretical frameworks used in occupational therapy, and to critically examine the evidence base underpinning occupational therapy practices. The program enables students to meet the eligibility requirements for entry into the Doctor of Clinical Science and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programs, depending on academic performance. Prerequisite Mode 1: four-year Bachelor of Occupational Therapy with a B average (70% or above), and evidence of clinical expertise and/or continuing professional development. Mode 2: Honours degree (H2A/75 % +) or relevant Postgraduate Diploma (H2A/75%+ and evidence of research ability); applicants should discuss potential topics with the course coordinator prior to applying. In addition, all applicants should have at least a four-year Bachelor of Occupational Therapy degree (or equivalent qualification from a program recognised by the World Federation of Occupational Therapists), and provide evidence of a high level of academic achievement. Applicants who do not meet the standard entry requirements should contact the course coordinator for information regarding non-standard (conditional) admission, which may involve satisfactory completion of a negotiated program of postgraduate study prior to enrolment. Fee type Fees (Fee-Help available) Fee amount Indicative (2011): $14,570 (per 120 credit points) How to apply Download and complete a postgraduate coursework application form, and send it directly to the relevant campus. Applicants must also complete a supplementary form, available at: www.latrobe.edu.au/occtherapy/attachments/students/mot-mode2-app-part2.pdf Full course details Occupational Therapy (Master)Melbourne
2012	Master of Occupational Therapy	Melbourne	1 year full-time or 2-4 years part-time.	Semester 1 and 2 (February and July)
Master of Occupational Therapy continued… Course description This course aims to help occupational therapy graduates advance their knowledge and skills, and become expert practitioners and leaders in their fields. Students can specialise in specific practice areas, such as paediatric occupational therapy, to deepen their understanding of human occupation and the theoretical frameworks used in occupational therapy, and to critically examine the evidence base underpinning occupational therapy practices. Two exit options are available: Postgraduate Certificate in Occupational Therapy (2 core subjects and 2 electives) and Postgraduate Certificate in Paediatric Occupational Therapy (3 core subjects and 1 elective). See 'Full course details' for more information. The program also aims to enable students to meet the eligibility requirements for entry into the Doctor of Clinical Science and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programs, depending on academic performance. Please note: Subject to University approval, students enrolling from 2013 will be enrolled in the Master of Advanced Occupational Therapy and may complete an alternative course structure. Prerequisite Mode 1: four-year Bachelor of Occupational Therapy degree or equivalent from a program recognised by the World Federation of Occupational Therapists is required, with a B grade average (70% or above) preferred, and evidence of clinical expertise and/or continuing professional development. Mode 2: Honours degree (H2A/75 % +) or relevant Postgraduate Diploma (H2A/75%+ and evidence of research ability); applicants should discuss potential topics with the course coordinator prior to applying. Applicants who do not meet the standard entry requirements should contact the course coordinator for information regarding non-standard (conditional) admission, which may involve satisfactory completion of a negotiated program of postgraduate study prior to enrolment. Fee type Fees (Fee-Help available) Fee amount Indicative (2012): $15,440 per 120 credit points for Master of Occupational Therapy, or $7,720 (60 credit points) for Postgraduate Certificate How to apply Apply directly to the University by 30 November 2011 for Semester 1 (February) and by 15 June 2012 for Semester 2 (July). Visit our postgraduate website to download an application form. Mode 2 applicants for this course must also submit a Supplementary Form . Full course details Occupational Therapy (Master)Melbourne
2011	Master of Occupational Therapy Practice	Melbourne Bendigo	2 years full-time	Semester 1 (January)
Master of Occupational Therapy Practice continued… Course description This course enables students with a degree in another discipline to obtain a professional postgraduate qualification in occupational therapy. It provides an integrated curriculum centred on small-group Problem-Based Learning (PBL) that encompasses research methodology and evidence-based practice principles. Subjects are primarily focused on component process of humans as occupational beings, enabling change in human occupation, and advanced integrated practice. Students are eligible to qualify for accreditation as an occupational therapist by the end of second year. Prerequisite Bachelor's degree in health, education, social, psychological or biological sciences awarded no more than five years ago, with a grade point average of at least 65% in the final year. Extra requirements Applicants must provide: 1) CV 2) A personal statement outlining reasons for applying 3) Evidence of knowledge of the work of occupational therapists and evidence of knowledge of Problem-Based Learning (PBL) 4) Three confidential referee reports covering personal characteristics and academic ability from the relevant head of department/Lecturer, occupational therapist or other health professional Prior to successful commencement, students must provide a current First Aid Certificate (Level 2) or equivalent. Selection Applicants are ranked on the basis of academic and professional suitability, and may be required to attend an interview in November. Interviews are semi-structured, and conducted by two selection committee members. Interviewers consider applicants' knowledge and understanding of OT, interest and motivation to undertake the degree, their communication and interpersonal skills, understanding of the demands of the course and academic potential to participate in group based self-directed learning. Fee type Fees (Fee-Help available) Fee amount Indicative (2011): $15,370 (per 120 credit points) Additional costs Federal Police check - A$14 to A$43, Immunisations - approximately A$500, Working with Children Check - A$76, food-handling course: A$60. Accommodation for any clinical placements may vary according to the venue and location. Additional information This course is Youth Allowance / ABSTUDY approved. Students enrol into 120 credit points per year. NOTE: this course starts January 24th - earlier than the official first-semester start. Visit our webpage for application forms and information. How to apply Apply through VTAC. Please note it is compulsory for applicants without a background in biological sciences (eg anatomy) to take a bridging course as a foundation for further studies. This course provides an understanding of the function and structure of the human body. Professional recognition The course is accredited by Occupational Therapy Australia and the World Federation of Occupational Therapists. Full course details Occupational Therapy Practice (Master)Melbourne Occupational Therapy Practice (Master)Bendigo
2012	Master of Occupational Therapy Practice	Bendigo Melbourne	2 years full-time (2.5 years for Honours).	Semester 1 (January)
Master of Occupational Therapy Practice continued… Course description This course aims to give graduates from another discipline a professional qualification in occupational therapy. Occupational therapy deals with people's occupational needs and the loss of daily living skills that follow physical, emotional, psychological and social disorders. Occupational therapists help individuals to become more independent and maximise personal productivity, wellbeing and quality of life through occupational performance. Students develop knowledge and skills in assessment and treatment, the therapeutic use of occupations, intervention techniques, the design of equipment and adaptation of environments. Students are eligible for accreditation as an occupational therapist by the end of second year. High-achieving students may be selected for the Honours program (comprising an additional 45 credit points). Prerequisite Bachelor's degree in health, education, social, psychological or biological sciences (or subsequent postgraduate study and/or relevant work experience), with a minimum grade point average of 65% in the final year. Bridging course - successful applicants who do not have a background in biological sciences, for example anatomy and physiology, must undertake a bridging course. Fee type Both Commonwealth Supported & full fee places available Fee amount Indicative (2012): $22,480 per 120 credit points. Additional costs National Police Check ($15.50) and immunisations (A$500). Prices are approximate. Accommodation for any clinical placements may vary according to the venue and location. Additional information This course is Youth Allowance / ABSTUDY approved. Students enrol into 120 credit points per year. NOTE: this course starts 23 January - earlier than the official first-semester start. How to apply Apply through VTAC by 30 September 2011. Please note applicants without a background in biological sciences (eg anatomy) must take a bridging course as a foundation for further studies; this course provides an understanding of the function and structure of the human body. Please also complete the Occupational Therapy Supplementary Application Form. (Should be submitted to VTAC as part of your application by 28 October 2011) Professional recognition The course is accredited by Occupational Therapy Australia and the World Federation of Occupational Therapists. Full course details Occupational Therapy Practice (Master)Melbourne Occupational Therapy Practice (Master)Bendigo
2011	Postgraduate Certificate in Occupational Therapy	Melbourne	1 year part-time	Semester 1 and 2 (February and July)
Postgraduate Certificate in Occupational Therapy continued… Course description This course enables graduates with occupational therapy qualifications to pursue further studies tailored for professional development. It enables students to gain advanced knowledge and skills in specific occupational therapy practice areas of interest, develop skills for critically appraising research, extend their knowledge of evidence based occupational therapy practice, and deepen their understanding of occupation and the theoretical frameworks used in occupational therapy. The course also provides a pathway into continuing study, with the option to transfer into the Master of Occupational Therapy for high-achieving students (with a grade average of 70%+). Prerequisite WFOT-recognised Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (or equivalent). Evidence of some professional practice experience is preferred. Prospective applicants who do not meet the standard entry requirements should contact the course coordinator for information about non-standard (conditional) admission. This may involve satisfactory completion of a negotiated program of postgraduate study prior to enrolment. Fee type Fees (Fee-Help available) Fee amount Indicative (2011): $7285 (60 credit points) How to apply Download and complete a postgraduate coursework application form, and send it directly to the relevant campus. Please ensure you also provide all supplementary information required. Apply directly to the University by 30 November 2010 for Semester 1 (February) and by 17 June 2011 for Semester 2 (July). Full course details Occupational Therapy (Postgraduate Certificate)Melbourne
2012	Postgraduate Certificate in Occupational Therapy	Melbourne	1 year part-time	Semester 1 and 2 (February and July)
Postgraduate Certificate in Occupational Therapy continued… Course description This course is an exit option from the Master of Occupational Therapy - for graduates with occupational therapy qualifications. It aims to help students advance their knowledge and skills in specific occupational therapy practice areas of interest; the curriculum comprises two core subjects and two electives. Please note: Subject to University approval, students enrolling from 2013 will be enrolled in the Master of Advanced Occupational Therapy and may complete an alternative course structure. Prerequisite Please refer to the Master of Occupational Therapy course entry. Fee type Fees (Fee-Help available) Fee amount Indicative (2012): $7720 (60 credit points). How to apply Please see the Master of Occupational Therapy course entry. Full course details Occupational Therapy (Postgraduate Certificate)Melbourne
2011	Postgraduate Certificate in Paediatric Occupational Therapy	Melbourne	1 year part-time	Semester 1 and 2 (February and July)
Postgraduate Certificate in Paediatric Occupational Therapy continued… Course description This course enables graduates with occupational therapy qualifications to pursue further studies tailored for professional development. It enables students to gain advanced knowledge and skills in paediatric occupational therapy practice in order to respond effectively to the needs of children, develop skills for critically appraising research, extend their knowledge of evidence-based occupational therapy practice, and deepen their understanding of occupation and thetheoretical frameworks used in occupational therapy. The course also provides a pathway into continuing study with the option to transfer into the Master of Occupational Therapy for high-achieving students (with a grade average of 70%+). Prerequisite WFOT-recognised Bachelor of Occupational Therapy degree (or equivalent). Evidence of some professional practice experience is preferred. Prospective applicants who do not meet the standard entry requirements should contact the course co-ordinator for information about non-standard (conditional) admission. This may involve satisfactory completion of a negotiated program of postgraduate study prior to enrolment. Fee type Fees (Fee-Help available) Fee amount Indicative (2011): $7285 (60 credit points) How to apply Download and complete a postgraduate coursework application form, and send it directly to the relevant campus. Please ensure you also provide all supplementary information required. Apply directly to the University by 30 November 2010 for Semester 1 (February) and by 17 June 2011 for Semester 2 (July). Full course details Paediatric Occupational Therapy (Postgraduate Certficate)Melbourne
2012	Postgraduate Certificate in Paediatric Occupational Therapy	Melbourne	1 year part-time	Semester 1 and 2 (February and July)
Postgraduate Certificate in Paediatric Occupational Therapy continued… Course description This course is an exit option from the Master of Occupational Therapy. It aims to give graduates with occupational therapy qualifications advanced knowledge and skills in paediatric occupational therapy practice, to enable them to respond effectively to the needs of children, develop skills for critically appraising research, extend their knowledge of evidence-based paediatric occupational therapy practice. Please note: Subject to University approval, students enrolling from 2013 will be enrolled in the Master of Advanced Occupational Therapy and may complete an alternative course structure. Prerequisite Please refer to the Master of Occupational Therapy course entry. Fee type Fees (Fee-Help available) Fee amount Indicative (2012): $7720 (60 credit points). How to apply Please see the Master of Occupational Therapy course entry. Full course details Paediatric Occupational Therapy (Postgraduate Certficate)Melbourne

How to apply?

Methods of application vary from course to course. Please see the course entry above for details of how to apply for the course you are interested in.

Fees and scholarships

Postgraduate coursework programs are either:

Fee-paying (where you pay the full cost of the course). FEE-HELP is available.
CSP (Commonwealth Supported Place), subsidised by the Commonwealth Government where you pay a contribution towards course costs. HECS-HELP is available.

Students enrolled for certain postgraduate coursework programs may be eligible for student income support.

International students

Show mid year entryShow next year’s courses

Occupational therapy international courses
Offer year	Course title (CRICOS)	Campus(es)	Duration	Semester starts	Annual Tuition Fee (AUD)
2011	Master of Occupational Therapy (030973J)	Melbourne	1 year	Semester 1 and 2 (February and July)	$21 630 (per 120 credit points)
Master of Occupational Therapy continued… Year 2011 Course description This course enables graduates with a qualification in occupational therapy to further advance knowledge and skills, to become expert practitioners and leaders in their fields. Students have the opportunity to develop specialist knowledge and skills in specific practice areas, to deepen their understanding of human occupation and the theoretical frameworks used in occupational therapy, and to critically examine the evidence base underpinning occupational therapy practices. The program enables students to meet the eligibility requirements for entry into the Doctor of Clinical Science and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programs, depending on academic performance. English Language Requirements IELTS (Academic) - A minimum overall band score of 7.0 with no individual band score less than 7.0; or TOEFL Computer-based Test - A minimum score of 250 with a score of 6 in essay writing; or TOEFL Paper-based Test - A minimum score of 600 with a score of 6 or more in the test of Written English; or TOEFL Internet-based Test - A minimum score of 96 with no individual score less than 24; or Satisfactory completion of the English for Further Studies Advanced Stage 5B, EFS PG2A which is available from the La Trobe Melbourne; or Approved equivalent. Academic entry requirements Entry requirements vary depending on enrolment mode (i.e.100% by coursework, or a combination of 50% by coursework and 50% by research project and thesis). All applicants should have at least a four-year Bachelor of Occupational Therapy degree (or equivalent qualification from a program recognised by the World Federation of Occupational Therapists), and provide evidence of a high level of achievement in their previous study. For Mode 1, applicants should have a four-year Bachelor of Occupational Therapy with a B Grade average (70 % or above), and show evidence of clinical expertise and/or continuing professional development. For Mode 2, which includes a research project, applicants should have an Honours degree (H2A, 75% or above) or relevant Postgraduate Diploma (with H2A, 75% or above and evidence of research ability); and applicants should discuss topics with the Course Coordinator before applying, including those who do not meet the standard entry requirements. Special requirements All applicants must provide a CV and a personal statement. Students wishing to undertake Mode 2 (50 per cent coursework; 50 per cent research thesis) should contact the Course Coordinator to discuss their potential research topic prior to applying. Mode 2 applicants must also complete the Supplementary Part 2 Application Form, available at: www.latrobe.edu.au/international/apply/how-to/supplementary-admissions-forms Additional information Applications for this course close on 30 November 2010 for commencement in 2011. International applicants may defer until mid-year after acceptance of a place in this course. Course details Occupational Therapy (Master)Melbourne
2012	Master of Occupational Therapy (030973J)	Melbourne	1 year	Semester 1 and 2 (February and July)	$22 710
Master of Occupational Therapy continued… Year 2012 Course description This course aims to help occupational therapy graduates advance their knowledge and skills, and become expert practitioners and leaders in their fields. Students can specialise in specific practice areas, such as paediatric occupational therapy, to deepen their understanding of human occupation and the theoretical frameworks used in occupational therapy, and to critically examine the evidence base underpinning occupational therapy practices. Two exit options are available: Postgraduate Certificate in Occupational Therapy (2 core subjects and 2 electives) and Postgraduate Certificate in Paediatric Occupational Therapy (3 core subjects and 1 elective). See 'Full course details' for more information. The program also aims to enable students to meet the eligibility requirements for entry into the Doctor of Clinical Science and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programs, depending on academic performance. Please note: Subject to University approval, students enrolling from 2013 will be enrolled in the Master of Advanced Occupational Therapy and may complete an alternative course structure. English Language Requirements IELTS (Academic) - A minimum overall band score of 7.0 with no individual band score less than 7.0; or TOEFL Computer-based Test - A minimum score of 250 with a score of 6 in essay writing; or TOEFL Paper-based Test - A minimum score of 600 with a score of 6 or more in the test of Written English; or TOEFL Internet-based Test - A minimum score of 96 with no individual score less than 24; or Satisfactory completion of the English for Further Studies Advanced Stage 5B, EFS PG2A which is available from La Trobe Melbourne; or Approved equivalent. Academic entry requirements Entry requirements vary depending on enrolment mode (i.e.100% by coursework, or a combination of 50% by coursework and 50% by research project and thesis). All applicants should have at least a four-year Bachelor of Occupational Therapy degree (or equivalent qualification from a program recognised by the World Federation of Occupational Therapists), and provide evidence of a high level of achievement in their previous study. For Mode 1, applicants should have a four-year Bachelor of Occupational Therapy with a B Grade average (70 % or above), and show evidence of clinical expertise and/or continuing professional development. For Mode 2, which includes a research project, applicants should have an Honours degree (H2A, 75% or above) or relevant Postgraduate Diploma (with H2A, 75% or above and evidence of research ability); and applicants should discuss topics with the Course Coordinator before applying, including those who do not meet the standard entry requirements. Special requirements Students wishing to undertake Mode 2 (50 per cent coursework; 50 per cent research thesis) should contact the Course Coordinator to discuss their potential research topic prior to applying. Only Mode 2 applicants need to complete the Supplementary Application Form, available at this link All applicants must provide a CV and a personal statement. Additional information Applications for this course close on 30 November 2011 for commencement in 2012. Applicants may defer until mid-year after acceptance of a place in this course. Course details Occupational Therapy (Master)Melbourne
2011	Master of Occupational Therapy Practice (044367E)	Melbourne Bendigo	2 years	Semester 1 (January)	$22 400 (per 120 credit points)
Master of Occupational Therapy Practice continued… Year 2011 Course description This course enables students with a degree in another discipline to obtain a professional postgraduate qualification in occupational therapy. It provides an integrated curriculum centred on small-group Problem-Based Learning (PBL) that encompasses research methodology and evidence-based practice principles. Subjects are primarily focused on component process of humans as occupational beings, enabling change in human occupation, and advanced integrated practice. Students are eligible to qualify for accreditation as an occupational therapist by the end of second year. English Language Requirements IELTS (Academic) - A minimum overall band score of 7.0 with no individual band score less than 7.0; or TOEFL Computer-based Test - A minimum score of 250 with a score of 6 in essay writing; or TOEFL Paper-based Test - A minimum score of 600 with a score of 6 or more in the test of Written English; or TOEFL Internet-based Test - A minimum score of 96 with no individual score less than 24; or Satisfactory completion of the English for Further Studies Advanced Stage 5B, EFS PG2A which is available from the La Trobe Melbourne; or Approved equivalent. Academic entry requirements Applicants must hold a relevant Bachelor's degree awarded no earlier than five years ago and have obtained a grade point average of at least 65 per cent or above in their most recently completed university undergraduate degree, or approved international equivalent. At the discretion of the Head of School and the Selection Committee, relevant work experience may be considered as academic activity. Special requirements Students are required to obtain a Federal Police check and Working With Children (WWC) check before undertaking a clinical professional placement. This course has a clinical component. Please check the following website for more information: www.latrobe.edu.au/health/hscourses/clinical_and_placements Applicants for this course must also complete a Supplementary Application form available from: www.latrobe.edu.au/occtherapy/attachments/students/mototprac-app-part2.pdf Additional costs Federal Police check - A$14 to A$43, Immunisations - approximately A$500, Working with Children Check - A$76, food-handling course: A$60. Accommodation for any clinical placements may vary according to the venue and location. Additional information Applications close on 29 October 2010. Students enrol into 120 credit points per year. Also note this course commences on 24 January 2011. Professional recognition The Master of Occupational Therapy Practice is recognised by the World Federation of Occupational Therapists. Graduates may be eligible for membership of the Australian Association of Occupational Therapists (AAOT). Course details Occupational Therapy Practice (Master)Melbourne Occupational Therapy Practice (Master)Bendigo
2012	Master of Occupational Therapy Practice (044367E)	Bendigo Melbourne	2 years (2.5 years with Honours)	Semester 1 (January)	$23 960
Master of Occupational Therapy Practice continued… Year 2012 Course description This course aims to give graduates from another discipline a professional qualification in occupational therapy. Occupational therapy deals with people's occupational needs and the loss of daily living skills that follow physical, emotional, psychological and social disorders. Occupational therapists help individuals to become more independent and maximise personal productivity, wellbeing and quality of life through occupational performance. Students develop knowledge and skills in assessment and treatment, the therapeutic use of occupations, intervention techniques, the design of equipment and adaptation of environments. Students are eligible for accreditation as an occupational therapist by the end of second year. High-achieving students may be selected for the Honours program (comprising an additional 45 credit points). English Language Requirements IELTS (Academic) - A minimum overall band score of 7.0 with no individual band score less than 7.0; or TOEFL Computer-based Test - A minimum score of 250 with a score of 6 in essay writing; or TOEFL Paper-based Test - A minimum score of 600 with a score of 6 or more in the test of Written English; or TOEFL Internet-based Test - A minimum score of 96 with no individual score less than 24; or Satisfactory completion of the English for Further Studies Advanced Stage 5B, EFS PG2A which is available from the La Trobe University Language Centre; or Approved equivalent. Academic entry requirements A Bachelor's degree in health, education, social, psychological or biological sciences (or subsequent postgraduate study and/or relevant work experience), with a minimum grade point average of 65 per cent in the final year. Successful applicants who do not have a background in biological sciences, for example anatomy and physiology, must undertake a bridging course. Special requirements Students are required to obtain a National Police Check (A$15.50) and Working With Children Check (no cost) before undertaking a clinical professional placement. This course has a clinical component. For more information, please visit this website Applicants must complete the supplementary application form available at this link Successful applicants who do not have a background in biological sciences, for example anatomy and physiology, must undertake a bridging course. Additional costs National Police Check ($15.50) and immunisations (A$500). Prices are approximate. Accommodation for any clinical placements may vary according to the venue and location. Additional information Applications close on 28 October 2011. Students enrol into 120 credit points per year. The Honours program (CRICOS Code 062794C) is an additional six months of study comprising an additional 45 credit points. Please note this course commences on 23 January 2012. Professional recognition The Master of Occupational Therapy Practice is recognised by the World Federation of Occupational Therapists. Graduates may be eligible for membership of the Australian Association of Occupational Therapists (AAOT). Course details Occupational Therapy Practice (Master)Melbourne Occupational Therapy Practice (Master)Bendigo

How to apply?

Enquire now about any course for international students or find out how to apply.

Fees and scholarships

Estimated fees for international students are indicated for each course above. Fees are indicative only and set at 120 credit points per course, unless otherwise stated, and may vary depending on the number of credit points in which students enrol. Some courses may vary in credit point load and fees will be adjusted accordingly.

There is also a range of scholarships available for international students to assist students.

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