Available

for Download

Occupational Therapy
Careers Handbook
Entry 2009/10
College of Occupational Therapists

A rewarding career
Great prospects
Choice of roles
Different work settings
 Whether as an occupational therapist,
a support worker, a technician,
an independent practitioner or any other
occupational therapy practitioner,
you will make a real difference in
helping people to enhance their lives

All images courtesy of www.istockphoto.com

 Contents

page 8 Welcome to a world of possibilities 4

Do you enjoy helping What is occupational therapy? 6
people and solving
problems?
Do you want to help
Is occupational therapy the career for you? 8
people to optimise their
quality of life? The big picture – occupational therapy in the UK 9

Rewarding career opportunities 10

page 10 Rewarding work 12

There are a wide choice
of job roles, specialisms
and fields in
occupational therapy
Becoming a qualified occupational therapist 16
Working and studying in 19
occupational therapy support

In their own words – 20

studying occupational therapy
page 20 Lifelong learning 21
“I’ve really enjoyed the
placements in my first Applying for an occupational therapy
year. I’d tell anyone programme 22
considering studying
occupational therapy Listing of programmes accredited by 23
to go for it” the College of Occupational Therapists

Financial support and funding 24

page 23 Frequently asked questions 26

All the College of
Occupational Therapists And finally – how to make your choice 27
accredited universities
are listed on page 23.
Further information on
each university can be
found at
www.cot.org.uk/careers

3
 Welcome to a world of possibilities
We hope that you find this handbook a
useful tool in helping you to make the right
decisions about a career in occupational
therapy. This handbook will guide you if
you are a school leaver, recent graduate, or
someone looking for a career change. It
covers the range of options available to
you within the occupational therapy
profession.

We believe that occupational therapy is

one of the most rewarding careers in
health and social care. Whether as a
therapist, a support worker, a technician,
an independent practitioner or any other
occupational therapy practitioner, you will
be making a real difference in helping
people to enhance their lives.

al t he r ap y is one of the most

up at ion
ato cc
h
We wish you success with your studies and

ve t
i e
future career. We look forward to

b el
We
welcoming you to the profession as a
student, associate or professional member
of the British Association of Occupational
Therapists (BAOT).

4
rewa
rdin
g car
eer
s in
hea
lth a
nd so
ci al care

5
 What is occupational therapy?

Occupational therapy enables people to achieve

as much as they can for themselves, so they get
the most out of life

67
Occupational therapy enables people to
achieve as much as they can for
themselves, to help them get the most out
of life. Occupational therapy staff help
people of all ages who have physical,
mental or social problems as a result of
accident, illness or ageing, to do the the
things they want to do. These could be daily
activities that many of us take for granted,
from grocery shopping or brushing your
teeth, to more complex activities such as
caring for children, succeeding in studies or
work, or maintaining a healthy social life.
An occupational therapist’s work could
involve: How do you
think you would
• Making sure that homes, workplaces and
turn over this
public places are accessible for people
with specific needs, for example
wheelchair users or people with walking
difficulties or partial sight.
page if you
• Helping people to learn new or different
ways of doing things, for example how couldn’t use
your hands?
do you think you would turn over this
page if you couldn’t use your hands?
• Adapting materials or equipment, for
example what might you suggest if a
computer keyboard was difficult to use?
• Advising in schools to help children
overcome obstacles such as writing
difficulties and other learning challenges.
• Heading up a disability management
programme for an organisation, or
return-to-work programmes for people
with anxiety or back problems.
• Assisting an ageing couple to care for
one another in their own home and
remain independent and safe.
• Helping someone manage their
depression in order to return to work or
continue with their studies.
• Setting up a rehabilitation programme in
a developing or war-torn region.
• Working with socially excluded groups,
such as the homeless or asylum seekers.
7
 Is occupational therapy
the career for you?
Do you enjoy helping people and
solving problems?
Are you patient, practical, creative
and a good communicator?
Do you want to help people to
optimise their quality of life?

If so, occupational therapy could be

the career for you!

8
The big picture –
occupational therapy in the UK
There are over 30,000 occupational therapy staff in the UK, made
up of highly-trained professionals and support staff, performing a
significant role in hospitals, social care, local communities,
schools, businesses, prisons, charities and a variety of other
settings. Around 1,500 new students embark on training every year
to become registered occupational therapists. About half of these
start when they are over 21 years old – often after another degree
or career.
What options are there? We work with our members, the • More experienced occupational
As support staff – assistants, technicians or Government, the NHS, charities, private therapists can earn over £40,000.
support workers – you would usually start companies and universities to ensure that
your career with little or no formal training. training, education and occupational • Consultant occupational therapists can
This often happens on the job, but there are therapy services are as good as they can be. earn up to and beyond £50,000.
also formal qualifications available. You will
definitely need a range of essential skills like Membership is voluntary – and the majority • Local government salaries tend to be
good written and verbal communication, self- of occupational therapists in the UK show pitched around the same level, although
management and a great capacity to work their commitment to the profession through they are set by individual employers and
with people of all sorts. supporting our work. Both support staff and so can vary significantly.
qualified occupational therapists can join.
Some support workers work exclusively • Earnings are similar in the private,
within occupational therapy; some work as The College also works with the Council of voluntary and charitable sectors.
generic staff with a number of professions Occupational Therapy in European
like nursing and physiotherapy. The interest in Countries (COTEC) (www.cotec-europe.org); • In addition, occupational therapists
these posts is very strong, so applying can be the European Network of Occupational working in London can receive London
competitive. Be sure to check with the Therapy in Higher Education weighting of around £5,500.
employer about what skills and experience (www.enothe.hva.nl) and the World
might give you a better chance of Federation of Occupational Therapists What hours do occupational therapy
employment. (WFOT) (www.wfot.org) to share good staff work?
practice and promote the profession. The average hours of work are 35–37.5
To become a registered occupational hours per week. Most occupational therapy
therapist you need to complete a How much do occupational therapy staff work Monday to Friday during ‘office
programme at university. Occupational staff earn? hours’, but there are an increasing number
therapists work in many different specialist • Occupational therapy support workers of posts which cover evenings and
areas and at levels ranging from new employed full-time in the NHS currently weekends, particularly in mental health
graduate to consultant. earn around £12,000 a year, which can community services, acute hospitals,
rise to over £20,000 after a number of accident and emergency services and
In the UK, the British Association and years of employment. private practice. Part-time and other flexible
College of Occupational Therapists is the working arrangements are also available.
professional body for occupational therapy. • Qualified occupational therapists
working in the NHS start with an
average salary of about £20,000. 9
 Rewarding career opportunities

There are job opportunities in a

number of settings, including:
• charities and voluntary agencies
• commercial and industrial
organisations
• disabled living centres
There are a wide choice of job roles,
specialisms and fields in occupational • equipment companies
therapy. With demand for occupational
therapy services both here in the UK and
abroad, there are significant job • government agencies
opportunities, and the profession offers you
a rewarding career if you want it.
• housing departments
Traditionally, the majority of our members
work in the National Health Service (NHS).
Increasingly, however, qualified • local community services
occupational therapists have found exciting
opportunities in other work settings, and
we expect this trend to continue. • NHS and private hospitals
Occupational therapy support staff work in
most of the same places as occupational
• private practice
therapists, with varying levels of
independence and responsibility based on
experience and the service needs.
• schools, colleges and universities
As a qualified occupational therapist, you • social services and social work
can consider working in different job roles,
as a practitioner, researcher, manager, departments
lecturer or consultant. You can choose to
work in different fields, such as social care,
mental health, education, learning • wheelchair services
disabilities or physical rehabilitation.

• hostels for the homeless

• residential care homes

10
You have a wide choice of practice
specialisms to choose from, such as eating
disorders, hand therapy and substance
misuse. You may wish to specialise in
working with children, adults or older
people. You can also decide whether you
want to work for someone else or for
yourself, in the community, in a hospital, or
in a university educating future
occupational therapists. The profession
continues to develop new areas of practice,
so there are many options that you can
consider.
There are currently 11 Specialist Sections
within the College, developing and sharing
expertise in their area of work. You can join
one or more as a student, associate or
professional member. Visit
www.cot.org.uk/specialistsections to find
out more.
Working abroad
Once you have qualified from a College of There are
Occupational Therapists accredited
programme you will automatically have a significant job
opportunities,
qualification recognised internationally by
the World Federation of Occupational
Therapists (WFOT), enabling you to practise
overseas and gain valuable international
experience.
and the
Having a career break profession offers
You may decide that you would like to have
a career break in the future to start a family you a rewarding
career if you
or to travel. Don’t let this put you off
starting a career in occupational therapy.
The College of Occupational Therapists has
information on what you need to do during
a career break in preparation for returning
want it
to work.

You can work

in the community,
in a hospital, or in a university
educating future
occupational therapists

11
 Rewarding work
Michael Sharkey won the “Stannah
Stairlifts’ Occupational Therapist of
the Year Award” in 2006. Michael
runs a five-week intensive
programme for alcoholism
treatment, and was nominated for
the award by Angela, a former
patient
12
Helping someone to cope with
rheumatoid arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis makes the joints in
the body swollen, stiff and painful, and
affects a person’s ability to undertake daily
activities. An occupational therapist could
help someone with this condition by:
• Providing advice on the use of specialist
equipment to assist with activities such as
cooking or getting around the house.
• Teaching someone how to conserve
energy by pacing themselves when
doing everyday tasks.
• Providing hand splints to help support
and protect joints.
• Giving advice on support services and
groups.
Helping someone who has been set
back by mental health problems such
as depression
Many people experience depression, and
they find it gets in the way of living life to
the full. Occupational therapists can assist
people to develop strategies to manage the
symptoms of depression and get actively
engaged with life again. One-to-one and
group work can help people understand
their condition and learn to manage it. A
good understanding of psychology and
sociology, and the effects of medication
prescribed for depression are needed for
this.
Working with someone who is addicted
to drink and drugs
An occupational therapist would assist
someone who has a substance misuse
problem by:
• Helping them to develop coping
strategies to give them a more satisfying
lifestyle.
• Helping them to stay in work, and to
gain satisfaction from new activities
away from the drink and drugs culture.
Michael Sharkey, who won the “Stannah
Stairlifts’ Occupational Therapist of the Year
Award” in 2006, runs a five-week intensive
programme for alcoholism treatment, and
was nominated for the award by Angela, a Angela feels in control of her life
for the first time after 40 years of
former patient. Before Angela started the
programme she felt suicidal and unable to
cope with the pressures of looking after her
parents and her grandson, who is suffering
from Leukaemia. Michael helped Angela by
problematic drinking, and is now
educating her about the effects of drinking
and by teaching her anxiety management training to become a counsellor
techniques and communication skills. As a
result, Angela feels in control of her life for
the first time after 40 years of problematic
drinking, and is now training to become a
counsellor. Michael said: “I am passionate
about my job and nothing gives me greater
pleasure than seeing someone regain the
confidence and ability to lead an
independent and fulfilling life. I’d recommend
occupational therapy to anyone seeking a
career which is fulfilling and varied.”
13
14
Rewarding work

Ensuring an older person is properly
cared for in a care home
Occupational therapists can undertake care
and nursing home assessments to ensure
that the services and buildings are suitable
to improve the quality of life for older
residents. This may involve adaptations to
property, for example ensuring a stairlift is
installed to help older people maintain
independence, or ensuring that they have
access to leisure activities.
James made, as a way of communicating
with him. To bring James out of his shell, the
occupational therapist involved him in
activities that he enjoyed and that he could
understand, such as playing with sand and
water, painting, swimming and horse riding.
James is now healthier, and no longer
resorts to self-harm. He indicates when he
wants to eat or play, where before he had
no interaction with the staff at his
residential home.
Managing the work of a whole service
Denise is the professional head of an
occupational therapy team in a large acute
teaching hospital: “Occupational therapy
gives me an opportunity to work with
people and provides variety. I manage a
team of 100 people, and no two days are
the same. After 20 years I’m still excited by
the job and I’m never bored. There are
always new things to learn and develop.”

Assisting someone with severe

disabilities
When people have brain or spinal injuries,
an occupational therapist can make an
assessment of their needs and develop a
rehabilitation programme to help them
regain some or all of their lost skills –
restoring their self-confidence and
facilitating an effective return home.
Occupational therapists may also help
people to continue to do leisure activities;
help recruit and train employed carers;
arrange equipment demonstrations; work
with architects and builders to make
adaptations to the home; and advise on
environmental modifications to help
someone get back to work (for example
adapting an office to accommodate a
wheelchair or other specific needs).
Supporting people with learning
difficulties
James, a young man with profound
learning disabilities and autism, moved into
a residential home at the age of 18.
However, he was unhappy in his new
environment, and resorted to self-harming
behaviour, losing weight and interest in the
world around him. His family was worried
that he wouldn’t survive.
James was referred to an occupational
therapist, who developed an intensive
interaction programme for him – mimicking
and responding to the noises and actions
Enabling people to remain independent
in various ways
“After 20 years
Barry works for the Driver and Vehicle
Licensing Agency. He reviews vehicle I’m still excited
by the job and
access, equipment and techniques to make
cars accessible to passengers or drivers:
“It’s really great when I can tell people they
can drive again thanks to the work we have
done. This gives them a huge part of their
I’m never bored.
life back, and provides the freedom for
them to go where they want to go without
There are always
relying on other people.
Working as an occupational therapist is new things to
learn and
about providing support in all areas of a
person’s life. It’s a very flexible career
option.”
Helping people to get back to work
develop”
John, a police sergeant, was off work for
nearly a year with a post-viral syndrome
that caused muscular pain and fatigue. He
feared he would never return to work until
he was referred to the occupational therapy
service. The occupational therapy team
engaged him in a pain-management
programme and gentle exercise that
pushed him to the limits of his ability. They
provided a graded approach to getting him
back to work, where he built up to
resuming full duties over several months.
The occupational therapists also arranged
for him to work at his local station, nearer
to home, saving two hours of travelling a
day. John made a full recovery and is back
at work full-time.

15
 Becoming a qualified
occupational therapist
Accreditation by the College also
brings with it automatic approval
by the World Federation of
Occupational Therapists. This
means that programmes are
up-to-date with current ideas and
are at the forefront of occupational
therapy practice worldwide
16
How do I become an occupational
therapist?
You will need to undertake an approved
programme of study in occupational
therapy at one of the 31 UK Universities
offering occupational therapy education.
There are a variety of occupational therapy
programmes available in the UK – most are
Bachelor of Science (with Honours) degrees;
some are Postgraduate Diplomas, others
are Master’s degrees.
HPC approval and College of
Occupational Therapists accreditation
All programmes must be approved by the
Health Professions Council (HPC) as
meeting their minimum standards. This
approval is mandatory in order for the
graduates to be registered to practice.
Accreditation is a further recognition by the
College of Occupational Therapists that the
programme also meets our higher
standards. This accreditation is voluntary.
Those universities that continue to be
accredited have committed to working in
partnership with us to maintain high
standards of education and practice, and to
steer the profession’s development within
the UK and abroad.
Accreditation by the College also brings
with it automatic approval by the World
Federation of Occupational Therapists. This
means that programmes are up to date
with current ideas and are at the forefront
of occupational therapy practice worldwide,
and that your qualification is recognised as
valid in any of the WFOT member countries
around the globe, giving you easier
international employment choices.
Choosing an accredited programme
The vast majority of programmes in the UK
are currently accredited by the College of
Occupational Therapists (see page 23),
however, we strongly advise you to check
that your chosen university programme is
accredited by the College, and will remain
accredited while you are studying. If not,
you may wish to reconsider your choice to
ensure you get the maximum professional
preparation from your studies.
You can visit our website: www.cot.org.uk
for up-to-date information, including
contact details for accredited universities,
or contact the university concerned.
Programmes types
There are a number of different educational
programmes across the UK at BSc Hons and
postgraduate levels.
Standard full-time programmes
These are three-year BSc Hons degrees
(four years in Scotland).
Accelerated post graduate
programmes
These are full time over two years and
are for graduates who already hold a
degree, usually in a related field, and have
some experience of working in health or
social care settings. These programmes
award a Graduate Diploma in Occupational
Therapy, a Postgraduate Diploma in
Occupational Therapy or an MSc in
Occupational Therapy.
In-service BSc Hons degree
These four-year programmes are for
support staff who have the backing of their
employer to undertake further training.
Study is usually done two days a week,
whilst you continue to work in the support
post on the other days.
Part-time BSc Hons degree
programmes
These usually take four years and are also
two days a week, but students need not be
employed in health or social care.
Full-time work-based learning BSc
Hons degree
This is currently offered only through
Sheffield Hallam University and takes two
and a half years to complete. Students are
employed by the sponsoring health care
trust and continue to work there after
completion.
What subjects are taught on the
programmes?
The programmes combine both practical
and academic study. Academic components
include biological sciences (anatomy and
physiology), behavioural sciences
(psychology and sociology), occupational
therapy knowledge and skills, creative and
management skills, therapeutic
interventions, environmental adaptations
and research methods and applications.
17
 Becoming a qualified
occupational therapist
Students learn Practice placements
A minimum of 1,000 hours (approximately
how to assess
one third of the course) is spent on practice
placements – gaining experience in the
main areas of occupational therapy, usually
people in their in physical rehabilitation, learning
disabilities, mental health or social care
community and and, increasingly, in new and emerging
areas. Students learn how to assess people
then jointly in their community and then jointly decide
how to use purposeful and meaningful
decide how to
occupations to achieve agreed goals. This
normally occurs under the guidance of an
occupational therapist, with you as the
use purposeful student responsible for a group of clients.
and meaningful What differences are there between
programmes?
occupations to All programmes will leave you eligible to
apply for registration with the Health
achieve agreed
Professions Council (HPC), but they will get
you to that point through a variety of
methods and experiences.
goals Some programmes are more conventional –
with mainly lectures and assignments.
Some have very few or no examinations –
assessing your learning through
coursework such as essays and
presentations. Some are more problem-
based, giving you case studies to work
through in groups. Others are work-based –
if you are a support worker you might be
sponsored for one of these. Certain
programmes offer more flexibility with
elective modules while others have a
largely predetermined content.
Practice placement lengths will vary and
some will be in new emerging areas of
practice. Check the individual course
listings available from the College’s website
to get a sense of the different nature of the
programmes, and ask the admission tutors
about their programme’s approach to
teaching, learning and assessing.
18
Studying abroad
Some universities have overseas links,
giving students the opportunity to study
part of their programme abroad. Contact
the university direct for further information.
The European Community Action Scheme
for the Mobility of University Students
(Erasmus) offers students the opportunity
to study abroad in any European country
for between 3 and 12 months. Take a look
at their website: www.erasmus.ac.uk
The Council for International Education
(UKCOSA) produces useful information for
UK students wishing to study abroad. Visit
www.ukcosa.org.uk to find out more.
International students
International students wishing to study
within the UK can find information on the
entry requirements of each university in the
course listings, which can be found on the
College’s website www.cot.org.uk
For more information, please contact each
university directly.
The Council for International Education
(UKCOSA) produces helpful guidance notes
to international students wishing to study
in the UK. Visit www.ukcosa.org.uk, write
to UK COSA, 9–17 St Albans Place, London
N1 0NX or call +44 (0)20 7107 9922.
The British Council provides useful
information on a range of issues for
international students wishing to study in
the UK. Visit www.britishcouncil.org
Information on financial aid, college
scholarships and grant information for
international students wishing to study
abroad can be obtained from International
Education Financial Aid (IEFA). Visit
www.iefa.org
Working and studying in
occupational therapy support
Occupational therapy support staff
Normally, there are no formal requirements
to work as occupational therapy support
staff, although you will need a good
general standard of education. You will also
need a range of essential skills like good
written and verbal communication, self-
management and a great capacity to work
with people of all sorts.

Positions are usually available within the

NHS, private practice, social services and
voluntary organisations, and training is
often provided on the job. The interest in
these posts is very strong, so applying can
be competitive. Speak to employers about
ways to improve your chances.

Education and training for

support staff
Some employers have in-house training
available for their support staff. Many

If you are
occupational therapy support staff study for What subjects are taught on the
vocational awards, such as an NVQ/SVQ. programmes?

There are also other options available such
as a BTEC in Occupational Therapy Support,
foundation degrees in Health and Social
Care or the Higher National Certificate in
Occupational Therapy Support.
At the time of writing, two courses are
endorsed by the College of Occupational
Therapists – the HNC in Occupational
working as a
The content varies in depth and breadth
depending on the academic level and
length of the award, and whether the
content is specific to occupational therapy
or more generically health and social care
support worker
related.
(or assistant or
technician) you
Subjects can include biological sciences
(anatomy and physiology), mental health

Therapy Support at Langside College in
Glasgow, and the distance learning
Foundation Degree in Health and Social
Care through the Open University.
The HNC is offered through full-time, day
release and distance learning courses. Full-
time students undertake a practice
placement; others gain experience in their
can sometimes
and social inclusion (psychology and
sociology), occupational therapy knowledge
and skills, therapeutic interventions,
environmental adaptations, professional
practice and fundamentals of research.
receive support
Some occupational therapy support workers from your
employer to study
choose to study to become a qualified
occupational therapist. Those that have

as a part time in-

workplace. The Foundation Degree is
offered by distance learning, but support
from your employer is required. See the
course listings on the College website for
more information, where you can also find
our National framework for support worker
education and development which outlines
the basic abilities you will need to develop
first.
taken a support worker course may apply
for credit when starting a degree
programme. If you are working as a support
worker (or assistant or technician) you can
sometimes receive support from your
service student
employer to study as a part-time, in-service
student – continuing in your job, whilst
studying at university two days a week.

19
 In their own words…
Studying occupational therapy
“I’ve really enjoyed the placements
in my first year. I’d tell anyone
considering studying occupational
therapy to go for it”
20
Gillian is a first-year student at the
University of Huddersfield . She was
studying psychology before switching to
occupational therapy. “I have dyslexia, and
the university has been very understanding
and helpful whenever I had a query or ran
into difficulty. Class notes were clear and
adapted to meet my needs. The course at
Huddersfield is a great mixture of theory
and practise. I’ve really enjoyed the
placements in my first year. I’d tell anyone
considering studying occupational therapy
to ‘go for it’. Occupational therapy really
seems like the right course for me. I’m
delighted to say that it’s exactly what I
expected. I have some residual vision, and
need material in a clear font. The university
have been great in providing me with clear
copies of everything I need.”
Maureen studied music and taught the
piano and brass instruments. She started
working in occupational therapy in 1978 as
an assistant at a day hospital and loved it.
She has recently worked with disabled
children in mainstream schools and in a
community Social Services team. “I decided
to independently study for the HNC to
advance my learning and understanding of
the role of occupational therapy. I had to
commit my own time to do this study at
evenings and weekends whilst working full-
time. The study is demanding but rewarding
and helped me in my role as an
occupational therapist assistant. This was a
benefit to the service users and my
workplace. My understanding of
occupational therapy increased, and my
supervising occupational therapist
commented on the change in my work. The
HNC led to wanting to learn more. It has
enabled me to access the second year (full-
time) of the BSc (Hons) degree in
Occupational Therapy. I am just completing
my first semester and I am looking forward
to my paediatric placement in January.”
Steve has recently finished his
occupational therapy degree at Oxford
Brookes University. He is registered blind,
and a member of the British Adaptive Ski
Team. “I had already done a degree and
worked for a national charity running
adventure journeys for people with special
needs – anything from canoe expeditions
on the River Wye to mountaineering in
Kenya. My previous job had a real impact
on people’s lives, and I was keen to learn
more about the theories and concepts
behind helping people to carry out
activities that lead to good health and
fulfilment. I would like to return to work in
the charity sector – armed with more
knowledge than I had before.”
Anna works with clients with learning
disabilities. She studied the Higher National
Certificate in Occupational Therapy Support
at Langside College in Glasgow. “I was
initially anxious about the course as I had
completed no educational training since
leaving school. I had elected to complete
the course by distance learning. However as
the course progressed it was clear that the
high levels of tutor support helped
overcome these anxieties. Following
completion of the course my role in the
department has begun to change. I have
increasing responsibility for policy and
procedures and feel more able to contribute
to service development. I am currently
involved in a project to deliver carer training
in activity and, once this is established, I will
personally deliver the training.”
James is studying part-time at Cardiff.
“Working as an occupational therapy
technician at Cardiff & Vale NHS Trust has
given me lots of hands-on experience and a
good knowledge base. The biggest
advantage has been working with qualified
occupational therapists, benefiting from
their advice and encouragement. Studying
part-time has been a lot of hard work, but
very rewarding. It’s very important to make
sure that your employer supports you,
which could involve giving you time off and
paying for your textbooks and travel.”
Some words of advice
Felicity, studying at Southampton, offers
some advice to new students starting their
studies. She entered the 2007 Higher
Education Academy Student Essay
Competition – and won first prize for the
Health Sciences and Practice Subject
Centre. She advises students to:
• Develop good relations with your fellow
students from all professions.
• Identify your own learning style and take
advantage of all learning opportunities.
• Discuss your needs with tutors and
practice educators.
• Keep a log of your experiences –
highlight your achievements, your areas
for development and the changes you
find in yourself over time.
You can find her essay on their website at:
http://www.health.heacademy.ac.uk/sceven
ts/StudentAwards/index_html
At any point in your career within
occupational therapy you can
engage in further development of
your skills and knowledge. This is
expected by employers and the
Health Professions Council (HPC),
as well as our clients
Lifelong learning
At any point in your career, you can engage
in further development of your skills and
knowledge. This is expected by employers
and the Health Professions Council (HPC),
as well as our clients.
For support staff, the Associate Members’
Officer (lesley.bridges@cot.co.uk) and the
Education Team (education@cot.co.uk) are
available to help with individual questions
about your future career development.
For registered occupational therapists, the
College has developed a post-qualifying
career framework to assist with further
career development and learning. This is
supported by a learning opportunities
database on the College’s website:
www.cot.org.uk/ilod
Universities have included some
information on their own post-qualifying
programmes on our website. Occupational
therapists can go on to complete a Master’s
degree, a PhD and even postdoctoral work
in their areas of interest.
21
 Applying for an
occupational therapy programme
If you are Be sure to get the benefits of the
College connection

looking to
If you are looking to become an
occupational therapist, it is important to
check that the programme you want to
become an study is accredited by the College of
Occupational Therapists, the professional
occupational body for occupational therapy staff in the
UK. All the programmes listed in this

therapist, it is handbook are accredited by us to ensure

that they are up to date with current

important to
thinking and practice in occupational All applicants are advised to visit an
therapy. In addition, College accredited occupational therapy unit to gain an
programmes are recognised by the World
check that the
understanding of the profession. Contact
Federation of Occupational Therapists, details for hospitals and social services
which means that graduates’ qualifications departments can be found in your local
programme you are recognised in around 60 countries
worldwide.
telephone directory.

want to study is If you are looking for study to help you as a

Applications for the HNC should be made
directly to Langside College. For the Open

accredited by the
support worker or technician, the College University Foundation Degree, you must
has endorsed two programmes so far – the apply through your sponsoring employer.
HNC in Occupational Therapy Support at
College of
Check their information on our website for
Langside College in Glasgow (which is also contact details.
available by distance learning) and the
Occupational Open University’s Foundation Degree in
Health and Social Care (carried out by
Personal statement
When applying for an occupational therapy
Therapists, the distance learning while you are employed). programme, either through UCAS or to the
higher education institutions direct, you will

professional
How do I apply? be asked to write a personal statement. This
Applications to three- or four-year full-time statement gives you the opportunity to sell
pre-registration occupational therapy
body for
yourself.
programmes should be made through the
following organisation: You should include any experiences you have
occupational Universities and College Admissions
Service (UCAS)
of working in, and/or visiting, occupational
therapy departments and what you have
therapy staff in Rosehill New Barn Lane
Cheltenham
learnt from them. Explain why you are
interested in occupational therapy and

the UK
Gloucestershire
GL52 3LZ
T: 0870 112 2211
W: www.ucas.com
At the time of going to print, UCAS has not
set the deadlines for receiving applications
for September 2009. The College advises
you to look at the UCAS website and
submit your applications as early as
possible. Applications to two-year
accelerated programmes and four-year
part-time/in-service routes should be made
direct to the university.
22
provide a clear picture of personal qualities
and skills you feel you will bring to the
profession. Write something about your
preferred methods of learning and your
continued commitment to learning.
You should also provide a brief account of
your interests and hobbies, such as reading
or current affairs and any voluntary work
you have done. If you are applying for a
selection of degree programmes, for
example occupational therapy, nursing or
physiotherapy, you should mention why you
are doing so.
Listing of programmes accredited by
the College of Occupational Therapists
Click on the location or University name from the list or on the map for further information
about the individual occupational therapy programmes.
Pre-registration occupational therapy programmes
Location University
England
Bournemouth Bournemouth University
Bradford University of Bradford
Bristol University of the West of England
Canterbury (& Medway) Canterbury Christ Church University*
Colchester University of Essex (held at Colchester Institute)
Coventry (& Stafford) Coventry University*
Derby University of Derby
Eastbourne University of Brighton
Aberdeen •
Huddersfield University of Huddersfield
Lancaster (& Carlisle) University of Cumbria*
Leeds Leeds Metropolitan University
London Brunel University
London London South Bank University • Glasgow • Edinburgh

Middlesbrough University of Teesside

Newcastle Northumbria University
Northampton The University of Northampton
Norwich University of East Anglia • Carlisle
• Newcastle
Oxford Oxford Brookes University
Belfast •
Plymouth University of Plymouth • Middlesbrough
Salford The University of Salford
Sheffield (& Grantham) Sheffield Hallam University* • Lancaster • York
Southampton University of Southampton Bradford • • Leeds
York York St John University • Huddersfield
• Salford
• Sheffield
N.Ireland • Bangor
Wrexham • Grantham
Derby • •
Belfast University of Ulster (at Jordanstown) Stafford •
Norwich •
• Coventry
Scotland • Northampton
Aberdeen The Robert Gordon University • Milton Keynes
Edinburgh Queen Margaret University • Oxford Colchester •

Glasgow Glasgow Caledonian University Medway

• Bristol London • •
Cardiff •
Canterbury •
Wales
Bangor Bangor University • Southampton • Eastbourne
Cardiff Cardiff University Bournemouth •

Wrexham North East Wales Institute of Higher Education, University of Wales

Plymouth •

*Programmes awarded by these universities are offered in more than one location
Recognised support worker programmes
Milton Keynes The Open University
Glasgow Langside College

For information on individual programmes

visit our website: www.cot.org.uk
23
 Financial support and funding
You should contact the university of your choice to
check that you are eligible for funding.
What government funding is available
to me?
Students with UK citizenship (who are
resident in the UK) are normally eligible to
have their tuition fees funded for full-time
and part-time undergraduate pre-
registration occupational therapy
programmes. Additional financial support
through a means-tested bursary may also
be available, but this will vary according to
each student’s circumstances.
In the first instance, you should contact the
university of your choice to check that you
are eligible for funding, as this may be
affected by other factors, for example if you
have already completed a degree with
support from public funds, you are an
international student, or a you are a UK
citizen who has not been resident in the
UK. If you require further information on
the types of funding available, the agencies
listed here will be able to advise you.
All postgraduate pre-registration places in
Wales and England are funded, except in
Scotland. In-service programmes for
occupational therapy support workers
employed by the NHS or social services are
usually funded by the Workforce
Development Confederations of Strategic
Health Authorities. In some instances, the
employing trust may also be willing to
provide funding. This will be arranged
through your employer.
24
England The Department of Health in England
NHS Student Bursaries announced changes to the NHS Bursary
Hesketh House Scheme that came into play in September
200–220 Broadway 2007. The major changes affecting new
Fleetwood students in receipt of a bursary include:
Lancashire FY7 8SS • An increase in the basic allowance for
T: 0845 358 6655 eligible applicants.
F: 01253 774 490 • The introduction of a new Parents’
W: www.nhspa.gov.uk/sgu Learning Allowance.
E: bursary@nhspa.gov.uk
From September 2007, all students become
Scotland able to claim rent payments as a deductible
Student Awards Agency for Scotland (SAAS) expense against income, which is used to
Gyleview House calculate dependents’ and childcare
allowances. From January 2007, the NHS
3 Redheugh Rigg
Bursary Scheme maternity support
Edinburgh EH12 9HHT
arrangements have been formalised, which
T: 0845 111 1711 will help students who become pregnant
W: www.saas.gov.uk while they are training to return to their
studies. To check out these new allowances
There is some funding available for the see the NHS Student Grants Unit website at
HNC in Occupational Therapy Support www.nhsstudentgrants.co.uk
through NHS Education for Scotland.
Ask the Langside College staff for more
What other funding is available to me?
information.
The Educational Grants Advisory
Service (EGAS)
Wales
This is an independent advice agency for
NHS (Wales) Student Awards Unit
people wanting to get funding for further or
12th Floor higher education, and helps students who
Brunel House are not eligible for statutory funding. It can
2 Fitzalan Road only assist those who have not received
Cardiff CF24 0WAT statutory funding if they have explored all
T: 029 20 502355 alternative sources of funding, such as
access funds or student loans, and are still
Northern Ireland in extreme financial difficulties. EGAS can
Department for Employment and Learning also give detailed advice about the funding
Student Finance Branch system to those who are considering
4th Floor entering further or higher education. EGAS
Adelaide House operates a student advice line: 020 7254
39–49 Adelaide Street 6251, on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday
Belfast BT2 8FDT from 14:00–16:00.
T: 028 9025 7710
Experienced student advisers are available
W: www.delni.gov.uk
to answer questions on statutory and non-
statutory funding sources, and can advise
Different banks on the progress of written funding
enquiries. More information is available on
month after the end of your training period,
and you will then be required to repay the

offer different EGAS’ website: www.egas-online.org.uk loan to the bank over an agreed period at a
fixed rate of interest.

deals so it pays
Scholarship Search UK
This is a comprehensive guide on all you
need to know when planning and
to shop around organising student finances. Visit:
www.scholarship-search.org.uk
What financial support is available to me?
Student loan
For information regarding eligibility for
student loans, you should contact the
following organisation:
Student Loans Company Ltd
100 Bothwell Street
Glasgow G2 7UD
T: (Freephone) 0800 405 010
W: www.slc.co.uk
Career development loans are available
through three major banks. You do not
need to be an existing account holder, but
you may be required to open an account
with the bank concerned. For information
on eligibility and criteria contact the Career
Development Loan information line, on
Freephone: 0800 585 505, or see their
website: www.direct.gov.uk/cdl
Interest-free overdraft
Many banking organisations offer a variety
of interest free overdraft schemes. Always
check the repayment criteria before
agreeing to use this facility. Different banks
offer different deals so it pays to
shop around.

Career development loan

This type of loan is for students who
receive a means-tested NHS bursary, and
who are not eligible for student loans. A
career development loan is a deferred
repayment bank loan to help you pay for
vocational education or training. You can
borrow between £300 and £8,000 to help
you fund up to two years of training (or
up to three years, if the course
programme includes work experience).
The Learning and Skills Council pays the
interest on the loan while you are training.
You do not have to repay the loan until one
25
 Frequently asked questions
I haven’t studied for a long while. I am an
adult learner. How will I cope?
All programmes welcome applications from
adult learners. The individual universities will
advise you on how to prepare for study. Some
adult learners prefer or are required to do
foundation degrees or access courses in a
related field, such as health and social care.
Are all programmes nationally and
internationally recognised?
All students who successfully complete a
programme in the UK will be eligible to
apply to register with the Health Professions
Council (HPC) as an occupational therapist.
Graduates from a College accredited
university can then apply for individual
registration with the World Federation of
Occupational Therapists (WFOT), and,
providing they meet the employment
requirements of the country concerned,
apply for jobs overseas.
How do I become a student member of
the British Association and College of
Occupational Therapists and what are
the benefits?
You can apply to become a student
member of the College. Your university will
advise you on what to do and some may
pay your student membership fees. Check
this with your chosen university.
Student members of the British
Association and College of Occupational
Therapists gain a number of benefits,
including:
• Professional indemnity insurance.
• Professional advice on educational issues,
which will enhance professional
knowledge and skills.
• Two monthly publications, Occupational
Therapy News and the British Journal of
Occupational Therapy, with all the latest
news and research in the world of
occupational therapy.
• Up-to-date knowledge on government
legislation and publications that have an
impact on occupational therapy lifelong
learning and development.
• Access to the College’s library, which has
an exclusive collection of over 6,000
books, reports, abstracts and journals
relating to occupational therapy.
• Special low rates for conferences, events,
post-registration and educational
courses.
26
• Opportunity to join local student groups
organised by the British Association and
College of Occupational Therapists.
• Copies of the College’s Code of ethics
and professional conduct for
occupational therapists.
• International recognition through the
World Federation of Occupational
Therapists (WFOT) for students on
College accredited programmes.
• College publications and services that
support students through their study
programme.
All these benefits will help you to be a well
informed graduate with a wide range of
knowledge and information about
practising as an occupational therapist.
Can the College recommend a
particular programme?
All occupational therapy programmes in the
UK have to be approved by the Health
Professions Council (HPC) (regulatory body).
These are the minimum threshold
requirements for practising as an
occupational therapist. Most programmes are,
or are awaiting, further accredited status from
the College of Occupational Therapists, which
ensures that graduates are fit for the
profession. Studying an occupational therapy
programme entitles you to apply for student
membership. You may have to pay the
membership fee yourself. In some instances,
the university may pay your fee for you.
Choosing where to study is a personal choice.
Are entry requirements the same for
each university?
Each university has its own entry
requirements, which vary. Adult learners are
welcomed on all courses and will be
considered, even if they do not have the
stated academic requirements. Specific
enquiries about entry requirements should
be made directly to the university.
I am a student with disabilities. How
will I be supported?
A disability should be no issue for students at
most universities in the UK. Look back at the
student stories on pages 20 and 21 – Gillian
has dyslexia, Steve is registered blind and
Felicity has multiple disabilities.
All universities have special provision for
students with disabilities (including unseen
disabilities such as learning difficulties or
diabetes). Please contact them direct for
further information.
Students with disabilities may be eligible for
a Disabled Students Allowance (DSA).
Contact your local education authority, the
Department for Innovation, Universities and
Skills, tel: 020 7215 5555; or visit the
Directgov website: www.direct.gov.uk for
further information, or for a copy of
Bridging the gap: a guide to the Disabled
Students’ Allowances (DSAs) in Higher
Education.
The College has produced some guidance
on disability and learning which can be
obtained via the College website at:
www.cot.org.uk
What is the difference between in-
service programmes and part-time
programmes?
Some programmes are designed to provide
access to professional qualifications for
support workers or technical instructors
working in health or social care, and these
are called in-service. Other programmes
allow students to study part-time,
irrespective of employment status. Both
programmes of study include daily or
weekly attendance, and all include full-time
periods of practice placements.
How do I arrange a visit to an
occupational therapy department?
We recommend that potential students visit
a number of occupational therapy
departments before starting the course.
Applicants should take advantage of
hospital or social services open days and
consider visiting local residential nursing
homes and institutions where occupational
therapists work. Contact details for these
organisations can be found in the local
telephone directory.
Do the universities check for
criminal records?
Enhanced Criminal Records Bureau
disclosures will be requested by the
university after you have been provisionally
accepted, and before your first
practice placement.
Will I need to have a health check
before starting a programme?
All students will be required to undertake a
health check, and you may have to pay for
certain inoculations before going on a
placement. For more details on this, please
contact the university.
And finally –

how to make your choice…

Whichever university you choose, the College knows

that you will enjoy your educational journey into
occupational therapy and looks forward to welcoming
you as a student member

The individual course listings on the
College’s website will provide you with
more information about each university,
including their contact details.
Things to think about
Be sure the university is accredited with the
College of Occupational Therapists – all of
the ones listed in this handbook.
Consider the general facilities at the
university – accommodation, sports and
recreation, student support services.
Where you might want to study
(geographically) – whether it needs to be
near home, or if you prefer to go
somewhere you will enjoy for reasons
beyond the university – you may be there
for a few years!
Where you might want to settle once
working – a placement often leads to a first
job.
The particular attributes of the university –
their style of teaching and what will be
expected of you. Look at their teaching
styles – do they focus on group work or
lectures? Their assessment methods – do
they rely on practical assessments or
exams? What optional subjects are
available? Will you have the opportunity to
take placements abroad? All these factors
are important considerations when
selecting a university.
The involvement of the university students
and staff with the profession – depending
on your ambitions, this might make a
difference.
What your learning style might be –
more information is available at
www.support4learning.org.uk/education/
learning_styles.cfm
You should check out the information and
discuss your thoughts with your friends,
tutors, partners and parents. They can help
suggest what type of learning environment
will suit you best.
Whichever university you choose, the
College knows that you will enjoy your
educational journey into occupational
therapy and looks forward to welcoming
you as a student member.

27
 Occupational Therapy
Careers Handbook
Entry 2009/10

We believe that occupational therapy

is one of the most rewarding careers
in health and social care

Occupational therapy
Helping you to live life your way

Published July 2008

College of Occupational Therapists
106–114 Borough High Street
London SE1 1LB
www.cot.org.uk
Tel: 020 7357 6480 Fax: 020 7450 2299

 2008 College of Occupational Therapists Ltd.

Reg. in England No. 1347374 Reg. Charity No. 275119 VAT Reg. No. 242 7829 47

For free distribution only.

Scotland

Aberdeen
Qualifying programmes Application and interview process
BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy The selection is based on the academic profile, personal statement, Entry requirements for Masters programme
reference, knowledge of occupational therapy and engagement 1st degree in relevant subject at 2.1
Masters (Pre-reg) – pending validation throughout the group interview process
Duration of Programme
BSc (Hons) 4 years full time Funding Overseas applicants
International students are required to have a minimum International
Masters (Pre-reg) 2 years full-time – pending validation Undergraduate students should contact either Students Awards Agency for
English Language Testing System (IELTS) score of 7 in English, with no
Scotland or their Local Education Authority (LEA).
The Robert Gordon University Programme starts individual elements below 6.5. The Health Professions Council (HPC)
School of Health Sciences BSc (Hons) September 2009 International/EU links requires a score of 7 to be achieved at time of application for registration.
Garthdee Campus Masters (Pre-reg) Jan 2009 – pending validation The programme has strong links with Wisconsin University, USA through a
Garthdee Road Post qualifying programmes
Number of places available student exchange programme. Research links are established with Curtin
Postgraduate Professional Studies Programme – Cert/PGDip/ Masters
Aberdeen BSc (Hons) 40 University, Australia and links are currently being established with
Dalhousie University, Canada With individual modules available at masters level including
AB10 7QG
Masters (Pre-reg) 20 – pending validation Environmental Design and Modification/Research Methods/Values in
Healthcare
www.rgu.ac.uk
Standard entry requirements
About the area GCSE
Aberdeen is a vibrant city with a fascinating past and shining future. The One of the following:
Research profile
Contacts welcoming atmosphere is summed up in the toast: ‘Happy to meet, sorry GCE A levels Staff are research active, many projects underpin the occupational therapy
Jennifer Caldwell to part, happy to meet again’. Sporting facilities are excellent, including golf BCC and 2 passes at GCSE curriculum and inform teaching. The School’s research themes of evidence-
courses, swimming pools, ice rinks and sports pitches, the alpine sports centre based practice and evaluation are clearly seen in several projects which
tel: 01224 263257 are interprofessional and community related, with staff working closely
adjacent to the Garthdee campus and opportunities for sailing and GNVQ/AVCE
email: j.caldwell@rgu.ac.uk windsurfing. SQA, BTEC with clinical colleagues. There is a developing community of PhD students
01224 263290 within the school.
ACCESS
About the programme/university Access programmes Future developments
The occupational therapy programme has a very good reputation for the
The Robert Gordon University (RGU) is a dynamic modern university with a
SCOTTISH HIGHERS quality of student support. Continuing professional development,
new campus and international reputation for providing high quality
SQA Highers reflective and evidence based practice are other strong features for
education from undergraduate to PhD level. Our programmes are designed
BBCC to include English and a science subject undergraduate students in preparation for their future professional career.
to offer students an effective combination of academic study and practical
preferably biology, maths at standard grade 2
Links with the professional body experience, developed by committed staff and close consultation with
or equivalent
employers. A degree from RGU places graduates ahead of the rest and
• Established BAOT group makes RGU one of the top universities in Scotland for graduate
IRISH LEAVING CERT
employment.
• 100% of students are BAOT members ILC Highers
BBBC to include English, maths and a science
• As at September 2007 Robert Gordon Key features of the programme subject, preferably biology, maths at least at
is paying student BAOT membership The programme is committed to interprofessional education with a third of Ordinary level B
the course being undertaken with other Allied Health Professionals so that
• Programme Lead or equivalent is an students benefit from shared learning and experiences. One third of the ACCELERATED ROUTES
occupational therapist course is practice-based learning with students undertaking six practice HNC in Occupational Therapy Support may allow
placements in a variety of settings throughout Scotland. The strong thread direct entry to Year two
• 8 occupational therapy teaching staff. of integration of theory and practice runs throughout the four years of the APEL By individual application
7 are BAOT members course. ACL By individual application

Links
• Other professions contributing to the
programme: Physiotherapy,
Diagnostic Radiography, psychologist,
Teaching methods used throughout the course focus on student enquiry
methods, with students extending their learning through experiences such
Additional information regarding standard
as visits to voluntary groups, leisure centres and other facilities. Exchange
visits between Robert Gordon University and Wisconsin University USA are entry requirements
well developed with students being encouraged to examine the different All applicants must provide a satisfactory Enhanced Criminal Records

with the
sociologist, nursing
• 51 APPLE accredited Practice
cultural approaches tohealth and social care in the two countries.

How to apply
Bureau check and satisfactory health clearance before starting the course.

Non standard entry requirements

Placement Educators.
professional
• Occupational therapy team belonging
to specialist sections include 1
UCAS for undergraduate programme
Direct to HEI for Masters (pre-reg) programme
Mature students are considered on an individual basis but are required to
show evidence of recent study demonstrating a good standard of English
and sciences, including one at B or an Access Course in sciences or,
neurology, 1 mental health,1 care of healthcare at a College of Further Education or University.

body
older person, 1 environmental design
All applicants must provide a satisfactory Enhanced Criminal Records
Bureau check and satisfactory health clearance before starting the course.

COT HANDBOOK 2009

Wales

Bangor
Bangor University Qualifying programmes The teaching methods used centre on problem-based learning and other Overseas applicants
complementary learning opportunities, which utilise the study expertise of
Department of Occupational Therapy Post Grad.DipCOT postgraduate learners. This is an intensively timetabled curriculum over
Applications are welcomed from non UK residents.
School of Healthcare Sciences Duration of Programme two calendar years, each consisting of 45 weeks of full-time attendance.
Fron Heulog Research profile
2 years The occupational therapy programme in Bangor commenced in January
Ffriddoed Road Support and active encouragement is given for use of the Welsh language
Programme starts whenever possible; this includes individual assessed work and tutorials 2004 and we are interested in developing collaborative projects with local
Bangor January 2010 health and social care providers and other institutions, in particular Cardiff
facilitated through the medium of Welsh. Bilingual course documentation
Gwynedd University and the North East Wales Institute base of the All Wales Part-
Number of places available is freely available. Students can also request to be considered for particular
time Occupational Therapy Programme. We wish to prioritise research that
LL57 2EF placement settings which predominantly utilise and value the Welsh
12 funded language. concentrates on the investigation of occupations,
Up to 14 self funded places occupational science, the therapeutic use of occupations and implications
of Welsh language and culture.
www.bangor.ac.uk At the Bangor site an accelerated occupational therapy programme is
/healthcaresciences/occtherapy/index.php.en offered in collaboration with Cardiff University. As the programme runs
About the area concurrently in Cardiff it offers extensive opportunities for shared learning
The Department of Occupational Therapy Education is based within the with Cardiff based occupational therapy students. The Bangor site offers a
Cymraeg School of Healthcare Sciences. This is situated in a central location within multidisciplinary learning environment promoted by shared learning
www.bangor.ac.uk the historic city of Bangor and in close proximity to the railway station. This resources within the School of Healthcare Sciences.
bilingual community is rich with history, culture and charm. It is
/healthcaresciences/occtherapy/index.php.cy surrounded by a breathtaking landscape which is the focal point of North
West Wales. Bangor offers easy access to the Snowdonia National Park and
How to apply
Dr Ann Ilsley the North Wales Coast. Anglesey is a popular destination, particularly with Applications are direct to the HEI and are available on line.
tel: 01248 383134 surfers. Holyhead is close by and offers a gateway to Ireland.
Application and interview process
email: hsse17@bangor.ac.uk
The two year postgraduate programme selection process includes a group
About the programme/university exercise, prepared essay on a pre-disclosed topic and an individual
Bangor University has close links with the NHS in Wales. The University is interview.
Links with the professional body a major provider of training and education for the NHS and is also one of
the main partners in the new North Wales Clinical School Funding
• Students have access to a student Eleven funded places are made available through Welsh Assembly
BAOT group within Wales Full student support services including advisory and counselling services
Government grants for potential students resident in the UK. This covers
are available to address the needs of students with disabilities and/or
tutorial fees plus a maintenance grant. UK students, may also wish to
• 100% of students are BAOT members learning needs encountered during training.
apply for a Career Development Loan from the Department for Education
• As at September 2007 Bangor According to The Independent’s A-Z of Universities and Higher Education
and Employment.
is paying student BAOT membership Up to 14 additional places are available and applications are welcomed
Colleges, Bangor is “one of the cheapest places in Britain” to live. The
from self funding and non UK resident post graduate students.
Independent also placed Bangor 4th most cost effective location for
• Programme Lead or equivalent is an students in their Student Living Index Guide for 2008
occupational therapist International/EU links
In 2007 as part of the course validation event COT representatives The university has formal links through the ERASMUS student exchange
• 6 occupational therapy teaching staff. confirmed six commendations in respect of the Post Graduate programme and placement within the EU is available.
All are BAOT members Occupational therapy course in Bangor which included;
The commitment of the occupational therapy team to the needs of the
• Other professions contributing to the students and their adaptability/flexibility in helping the students to achieve
Standard entry requirements
programm: their potential. Applicants need to be existing graduates or people expecting to graduate
The strength and focus of the bilingual development and the sensitivity in any topic before the January start date. Due to the demands of enrolling
nursing and midwifery. Other

Links
professions to contribute include
social work, physiology, music therapy,
various charities e.g. British Heart
Foundation, consultant physicians and
with the
counsellors.
• 162 APPLE accredited Practice
and support shown to the needs of Welsh speakers.
Involvement of service users in the problem based learning group’s
enriched students learning experience.
Key features of the programme
This two year programme is divided into modules that explore three
central themes – professional studies in occupational therapy, practice
placement and professional practice modules. The final award offers a
on an accelerated curriculum, preference will normally be given to
applicants who have obtained an award at 2:2 or above, and completed
either their undergraduate or other appropriate study within the last 5
years.
Additional information regarding standard
entry requirements
A level of computer literacy such as the ‘European Computer Driving

professional
Placement Educators.
• Occupational therapy team belonging
postgraduate diploma and reflects the inclusion of one third of study
weighted at Masters level.
An additional (optioal) module is now available to enable our students to
Licence’ is highly recommended prior to enrolment.

to specialist sections include 3 in

body
housing, back care and mental health
proceed to complete a Masters qualification.

COT HANDBOOK 2009

England

Bournemouth
Bournemouth University Qualifying programmes Funding
Bournemouth House BSc (Hons) Fees are paid by the NHS Workforce Development Confederation, who also
provide means-tested bursaries. Student loans may also be sought in some
17 Christchurch Road Duration of Programme cases.
Bournemouth 3 years More information is available on the Department of Health website:
Dorset – BH1 3LH Programme starts www.dh.gov.uk/Home/fs/en
September 2009
www.bournemouth.ac.uk International/EU links
Number of places available The Institute of Health and Community Studies has a number of overseas
35 full-time links. It is hoped that students will take the opportunity during the elective
tel: 01202 967274
practice placement in the third year to experience working in our of our
partner countries.
About the area
Bournemouth University is surrounded by the natural beauty of Britain’s
south coast. As one of the UK’s premier sunshine resorts, Bournemouth
Standard entry requirements
offers the attractions of a large city, but with the charm of a small town. GCSE or key skill equivalent – 5 subjects at Grade C or above including
Bournemouth is probably best known today for its centre - a busy maths and English.
cosmopolitan place, big on entertainment, shopping and nightlife.
One of the following:
Additionally, nearby Poole is a haven for watersports. A levels or equivalent
Approved Access Course

About the programme/university Additional information regarding non standard

...a modern and innovative institution. We enjoy a reputation for our
commitment to wide ranging opportunities through lifelong learning,
teaching, research and consultancy.
...one of the premier providers of vocational higher education in the UK.
We work with key organisations closely related to our areas of expertise.
Our programmes are designed and delivered in such a way as to give our
graduates a head start in pursuing employment and career
enhancement.
Key features of the programme
This programme is delivered using a problembased learning approach.
There are regular opportunities in the programme to share learning with
fellow students in physiotherapy as well as with a range of students in
health and social care professions within the interprofessional learning
units of the programme. Currently the range of professional groups
included in interprofessional learning includes all branches of nursing,
midwifery, social work and operating department practice. Students
studying on programmes related to nutrition, exercise science for health
and rehabilitation and health science also study on the same campus
within the same academic group. Practice placements are interspersed
entry requirements
All students need to have an insight into the profession and any relevant
experience will be looked upon favourably. We are looking for individuals
who will go on to become excellent practioners in the field and applicants
with maturity and experience will be welcomed. Evidence of recent study,
within the last five
years is required.
Overseas applicants
Applications are welcomed from non UK residents.
Research profile
The Institute of Health & Community Studies has a very active and well-
established Centre for Qualitative Research as well as a number of
Research Centres in Practice. Occupational Therapy is a relatively new
profession within Bournemouth University and is currently establishing
links with practice partners to develop research themes at undergraduate
and practitioner level.
Future developments

Links
There are plans to develop part-time and fast-track routes in the future.
throughout the programme at regular intervals and are located in a range
of settings across Somerset and Dorset.

How to apply

with the
Applications should be made through UCAS.

Application and interview process

Applicants meeting programme requirements will be invited to a group

professional interview. In addition to proven academic ability and relevant experience,

we are looking for qualities which include enhanced communication skills,
team working ability and the applicant’s potential to engage in problem-

body based learning.

COT HANDBOOK 2009

England

Bradford
The University of Bradford
Division Of Rehabilitation Studies
Trinity Road, Bradford
BD50BB
West Yorkshire
England
Contacts
Cathy Clarke (UG prog lead)
tel: 01274235966
email: c.clarke1@bradford.ac.uk
Sandra Shallcross
Recruitment & Student Support Manager
tel: 01274 236367
email: soh-recruitment@bradford.ac.uk
fax: 01274 236302
Links with the professional body
• A student BAOT group being established
• 100% of students are BAOT members
Qualifying programmes side other professionals in a dedicated Health studies environment. Non standard entry requirements
Students have the opportunity to go on placements in each of the 3 years
BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy and the final placement offers the opportunity to go on a role emerging
All students are welcome and will be considered
with a range of qualifications, eg Access courses, A level;
Duration of Programme placement in exciting and diverse locations. however, evidence of appropriately related
3 years full time academic study in the past three years will be
Programme starts How to apply expected.
UCAS
September 2009
Overseas applicants
Number of places available Application and interview process Applications will be considered via UCAS
20 full time In addition to meeting academic requirements,
prospective students must successfully achieve Post qualifying programmes
an individual interview before a final offer of a Post Grad Certificate
place is made. The interview offers candidates
About the area an opportunity to learn more about the
The cosmopolitan mix, booming social scene and host of thriving cultural particular programme at Bradford, as well as
venues create a vibrant modern atmosphere in Bradford that sits determining the candidate’s ability to
perfectly alongside the glorious vestiges of the Victorian era. Set demonstrate an appreciation of the profession
amongst some of the most spectacular countryside in England and yet and requirements in study, personal related skills
one of the most affordable places to live in Britain, Bradford’s wonderful and characteristics related to occupational
paradoxes create a student city that is hard to beat. therapy
Bradford is situated right in the heart of England with excellent road, rail
and air links with the rest of the country and within striking distance of Funding
Leeds, Manchester and some of the other great Northern metropolises. NHS Bursary, means tested
The city lies nestled among some of the most spectacular landscape in
England. Ten minutes in a car or on a train will take you into beautiful Standard entry requirements
rolling countryside, which boasts two World Heritage Sites - Saltaire GCSE
Village, and the 12th-century Fountains Abbey. 6 passes at grade C or above should include
English language, mathematics and preferably
a health or science related subject
About the programme/university
GNVQ/AVCE GCE/A level
The University of Bradford received its Royal Charter in 1966 but its Minimum of 240 points to include 2
origins date back to the 1860s. Today the University has around 10,000 full A levels. Subjects preferably to include
students. natural or/social sciences.
Bradford has always been a forward-thinking, modern and student- ACCESS
orientated University. We have a firm commitment to confronting
Pass
inequality and celebrating diversity, our students benefit from a multi-
cultural learning environment, with students here from over 110

Links
• As at September 2007 Bradford
is paying student BAOT membership
• Programme Lead or equivalent is an
SCOTTISH HIGHERS
countries across the world. 240 points to include 2 at Advanced Higher level
Overall the University has a close-knit, friendly atmosphere, enabling
students to get to know each other quickly. IRISH LEAVING CERT
BBBBB at Higher Level to include English, maths and a science

with the
occupational therapist
• 5 occupational therapy teaching staff.
We are constantly investing in our campus and facilities to ensure you
have a world-class teaching and learning environment, state-of-the-art
facilities and enhancing the vibrancy of the campus experience to make
Additional information regarding standard
entry requirements
your time in Bradford truly one to cherish.

professional
All are BAOT members
Key features of the programme
For all other requirements other than GSCE and GCE A Level-
Minimum of 240 points in vocational
qualifications, usually to include 2 x 6 unit
• Other professions contributing to the The Bradford programme utilizes the philosophies awards to the same value and depth as A
body
programme: Physiotherapy, Nursing
and Social Sciences
and practice of experiential learning, using
creative problem solving and engaging students in active
learning situations both in the University and the community, to enable
levels and to preferably include natural and/or
health/social sciences.

and empower students in integrating theory and practice. The curriculum is

• 35 APPLE accredited Practice taught using a lifespan format, incorporating both the public and service
Placement Educators. users within the teaching and assessment to enable students to appreciate
and understanding occupational beings, relevance of occupations and
occupational deprivation. Students also have opportunities to learn along

COT HANDBOOK 2009

England

Bristol
Qualifying programmes Funding International/EU links
BSc (Hons) All places are funded by South West Strategic Health Authority. Successful The Programme has links with European occupational therapy
applicants will be eligible to apply for NHS Bursary. programmes through ENOTHE.
Duration of Programme
1. 4 years part-time Applicants who wish to self-fund are asked to contact School Admissions Post qualifying programmes
2. 3 years full-time below:- There are various courses available to occupational therapists at UWE:-
University of the West of England Programme starts Telephone: 0117 32 81141
http://hsc.uwe.ac.uk/cpd/index-02.aspx#P30_2058
Faculty of Health and Life Sciences September 2009 Fax: 0117 32 81185
School of Health and Social Care Number of places available E-mail : HSC.Admissions@uwe.ac.uk Research profile
Department of Allied Health Professions Active Older People
1. 20 part time
Glenside Campus Standard entry requirements Maintaining students’ well-being through occupation
2. 30 full time GCSE Work and Incapacity Benefits
Bristol Inclusion and People with Mental Health issues
5 subjects at grade C or above including maths
BS16 1DD People with Learning Disabilities and their occupational challenges
About the area and English Language
Occupation and well-being
Bristol is very well placed to explore Bath; the Cotswolds; the South West;
www.uwe.ac.uk Wales. PLUS:
Explorers such as John Cabot; visit the SS Great Britain; Bristol Blue Glass; UCAS Tariff 280 to 320 UCAS Tariff points in at least 2 subjects including Future developments
Contacts Bristol Old Vic Theatre has a lively Youth Theatre attached to UWE one science/social science subject. MSc in Occupational Therapy
CPD short courses
Jon Fieldhouse (full-time programme) ACCESS
tel: 0117 328 8941 About the programme/university 50 level 3 credits to include Science/Social Science plus
email: Jon.Fieldhouse@uwe.ac.uk The University offers more than 600 programmes at undergraduate, Maths and English at level 2
postgraduate, professional and short course levels. UWE has a history of
fax: 0117 328 8437 providing high-quality education and training to students, achieving SCOTTISH HIGHERS
Helen Martin (part-time programme) consistently high assessment scores for teaching quality. The University’s UCAS Tariff 280 to 320 UCAS Tariff points in at least 2 subjects including
tel: 0117 328 8875 strong links with major employers brings visiting lecturers to share their one science/social science subject.
email: Helen2.Martin@uwe.ac.uk professional experience and provides excellent placement opportunities
for students. The University prides itself on giving its students the IRISH LEAVING CERT
fax: 0117 328 8437 knowledge and skills they need to succeed in their chosen career. UCAS Tariff 280 to 320 UCAS Tariff points in at least 2 subjects including
For more information about this exciting university please use following one science/social science subject
link: http://www.uwe.ac.uk/aboutUWE/uwe.shtml
ACCELERATED ROUTES
UCAS Tariff 280 to 320 UCAS Tariff points in at least 2 subjects including
one science/social science subject.
Links with the professional body Key features of the programme
Both part-time and full-time programmes are modular and use Problem
• No student BAOT group Based Learning and Student Centred Learning approaches. Additional information regarding standard
• As at September 2007 Bristol is not paying for The School of Health and Social Care has Interprofessional Education as a entry requirements
core element running through each of the three levels of study. All students BTEC National Award/Advance General Certificate of Education(AGCE)/Ad-
students BAOT membership participate in this, giving opportunities to learn with and from students vanced Vocational Certificate of Education
• The majority of the students are members from other professions such as nursing, medicine, social work, nursing, (AVCE) have been incorporated into the UCAS Tariff scheme.
physiotherapy; radiotherapy & diagnostic imaging.

Links
• Programme Lead is an
occupational therapist
• 11 occupational therapy teaching staff.
How to apply
Full-time applicants apply through UCAS
Part-time applicants contact School Admissions to request application
All applicants should have some experience in healthcare or social care.

Non standard entry requirements

Students who do not have the above academic profile will be considered

with the
• Other professions contributing to the
programme: Social Work; Physiotherapy; Learning
Disabilities Nursing; Mental Health Nursing.
form.

Telephone: 0117 32 81141

on an individual basis.

All applicants should have some experience in healthcare or social care.

Fax: 0117 32 81185

professional
• 121 APPLE accredited Practice Placement Educators
• Occupational therapy team belonging to
E-mail : HSC.Admissions@uwe.ac.uk

Application and interview process

Overseas applicants
Entry requirements as equivalent of above.

body
specialist sections: Older People, People with
Learning Disabilities, Mental Health, Rheumatology,
Work
Applicants who fulfil standard entry requirements will be sent a
biographical questionnaire to complete and return. All non-standard
applicants and some standard applicants will be called for interview.
In addition for applicants who do not speak English as a first subject they
must have an IETS score of 7 which no element is below 6.5

COT HANDBOOK 2009

England

Canterbury
Qualifying programmes disabilities and there is provision for people with hearing and visual AVCE students should have taken 12 units of study to full
impairment. Accessible student residences are available at the Canterbury Advanced level standard.
1. BSc(Hons) Occupational Therapy campus. The student disability advisor and the student support unit support
2. MSc In Advanced Occupational Therapy Practice disabled students and those with specific learning needs such as dyslexia. ACCESS
3. Post Graduate Certificate in Vocational Rehabilitation Students who have undertaken a kite-marked
Canterbury Christchurch University Access course in a relevant discipline will be considered
4. Foundation Degree in Health and Key features of the programme
Canterbury Campus Social Care OT Pathway The occupational therapy pathway has a strong focus on occupation and SCOTTISH HIGHERS
Department of Allied Health the importance this plays in health and well being. This underpins the
Duration of Programme Four Scottish Highers at Grade C or above and a pass in English Language
Faculty of Health and Social Care theoretical and practical aspects of the programme in order to create a at GCSE or O,Level Grade C or above or Four Highers at C or above and
Canterbury Christ Church
1. 3 years strong identity for the students. Occupational therapy lecturers combine two passes at Oridinary Grade one of which must be English Language
University 2. 2 years traditional teaching methods such as lectures, seminars and workshops
3. 1 year with innovative delivery styles, such as mini-conferences with service users, IRISH LEAVING CERT
North Holmes Road video projects, virtual learning environments, problem-based learning, Five Irish Highers at honours ( C or above) and two subjects at ordinary
Canterbury 4. 2 - 4 years depending on whether full or student led sessions and game-based learning. The programme is grade in one sitting
Kent, CT1 1QU part time route is chosen semester-based with three modules being undertaken each semester. The
www.canterbury.ac.uk Programme starts interprofessional nature of the programme means some modules involve ACCELERATED ROUTES
students from all pathways learning together. Practice placements are Not applicable
1. September 2009 (Canterbury) integrated into each semester and reflective practice is actively
Medway Campus 1. February 2010 (Medway) encouraged. Students are assessed through coursework, presentations, APEL
Canterbury Christ Church University 2. March 2009 case studies and practical tests. By individual application.
Rowan Williams Court 2. October 2009
30 Pembroke Court How to apply Additional information regarding standard
3. March 2009 All applications for the BSc programme are made through UCAS
Chatham Maritime entry requirements
Kent, ME4 4UF
4. September 2009 (www.ucas.ac.uk/). The UCAS code is B290. Those applicants wishing to
Applicants should have visited or arranged to visit two different
Number of places available apply for the February intake should indicate this on their UCAS form.
www.canterbury.ac.uk/chatham occupational therapy settings wherever possible.
1. 59 Canterbury Application and interview process
Contacts 1. 39 Medway Non standard entry requirements
Prospective students are invited to an information session and campus
GCSE
Sarah Barratt 2. 8 – 10 places per intake tour, followed by an individual interview.
5 GCSEs/O levels at grade C or above plus
tel: 01227 782186 3. Minimum of 8 places evidence of recent study such as a kite-marked Access course.
email: sarah.barratt@canterbury.ac.uk Funding
BSc OT Degree Programme
4. No limit to candidates who can self fund
Tuition fees for people resident in Britain for over three years are paid for
tel: 01227 782979 Places where funding is required are limited by the NHS. A means tested bursary for living expenses and childcare costs
Links with the professional body
Rayya Ghul is available.
tel: 01227 782810 • Established BAOT group
email: rayya.ghul@canterbury.ac.uk About the area International/EU links
MSc in Advanced OT Practice Canterbury is a historic, walled city with up to date retail, social and leisure The programme has strong links with Wisconsin University, USA through a • As at September 2007 Canterbury
tel: 01227 782979 facilities and within easy reach of the sea and country. student exchange programme. Research links are established with Curtin is not paying student BAOT membership
Fiona Gray Chatham Maritime is a rapidly developing area in North Kent, close to the University, Australia and links are currently being established with
historic dockyard. There are good travel links for students commuting from Dalhousie University, Canada • Programme Lead or equivalent is an
tel: 01634 - 4430
London. Bluewater shopping centre is less than 15 miles away. occupational therapist
email: fiona.gray@canterbury.ac.uk
Standard entry requirements

Links
Post Graduate Certificate in Vocational Rehabilitation • 20 occupational therapy teaching staff
GCSE
tel: 01634 894494 About the programme/university are BAOT members
GCSE/O level
Anita Volkert Canterbury Christ Church University is the largest higher education 5 at grade C or above
tel: 01227 - 2132 centre in Kent for public service professionals: health and social care,
• Interprofessional health and social care education is
Plus one of the following:
well-established in the Faculty of Health and Social
email: anita.volkert@canterbury.ac.uk
with the
teacher training and policing.). The university received the highest A2
OT Pathway within Foundation Degree for Health and possible rating for the quality of its provision in all areas from the 2 at grade C or above Care and includes students from eight professions
Social Care Quality Assurance Agency. The Occupational Therapy Degree Programme GCSE/O level (adult, child and mental health nursing, midwifery,
is offered at two campuses at Canterbury and Medway.
tel: 01227 782979 English or English language at grade C or above medical imaging, social work, operating department
Admissions & Recruitment
tel: 01227 - 782900
Both campuses have excellent modern learning facilities including skills
laboratories. The university is friendly and students from many different
backgrounds are welcomed on to the programmes. Student support is
GNVQ/AVCE
AGNVQ or NVQ 3
professional
personnel and occupational therapy.
• 84 APPLE accredited Practice Placement Educators.
admissions@canterbury.ac.uk
Admissions enquiries for BSc OT Degree Programme
01227 782888
excellent and provided through a university-wide service as well as individual
and group tutorials. All university buildings are accessible for those with
Overall Merit
body
• Occupational therapy team belonging
to specialist sections include Mental Health,
Children, Young People and Families

COT HANDBOOK 2009

England

Canterbury
Additional information regarding non standard
entry requirements
Other evidence of ability to study or experience in health or social care will
be considered for non standard applicants. Applicants should have visited
or arranged to visit two different occupational therapy settings wherever
possible.

Overseas applicants
Applicants who live within the EU are eligible to apply.

Post qualifying programmes

The university offers a post-qualifying modular MSc
in Advanced Occupational Therapy Practice. This
runs in conjunction with the MSc in
Interprofessional Health and Social Care and shares
some of the modules. The programme facilitates
development at both clinical and managerial levels
and supports occupational therapists who wish to
develop clinical specialist and advanced practitioner
roles. The modular nature of the programme
allows the student to design a unique pathway
which meets their individual learning needs and
reflects their special interests.

Research profile
Staff members have completed or are actively
engaged in a variety of Masters and Doctoral
research projects. These encompass
occupational therapy and higher education
topics. Specialisms include older people, carers,
paediatrics, forensic mental health, occupational
science, collaborative therapies, ergonomics,
suicide, clinical reasoning, interprofessional
learning, widening participation and teaching
critical thinking. Research underpins and directly
influences the content and delivery of the
undergraduate programme.

Future developments
The Post Graduate Certificate in Vocational Rehabilitation has just been
validated.

COT HANDBOOK 2009

Wales

Cardiff
Cardiff University
School of Healthcare Studies
Qualifying programmes practice will be expected during the four years. A variety of learning Non standard entry requirements
methods (e.g. lectures, directed student learning and problem based
Occupational Therapy Department 1. BSc (Hons) learning) are integrated and staged throughout the four years. Attendance
Non -standard entry students will be required to provide evidence of
recent study within the last five years and demonstrate the ability to work
School of Healthcare Studies 2. BSc (Hons) is 1 day a week for 30 weeks (including attending 1 day per week during to an A level equivalent standard
Cardiff University 3. Pg. Diploma practice placement in Levels I & II) plus three 3 day workshops and one
residential weekend workshops per academic year.
Heath Park 4. MSc OT Overseas applicants
Cardiff, CF14 4XN Duration of Programme 2 Years Full time Post –Graduate Diploma Where appropriate a certificate of proficiency in English must be held e.g.
This programme is dived into modules that explore three central themes, IELTS level 7.
1. 3 years full time professional studies in occupational therapy, practice placement in
Cardiff University
2. 4 years (part time) occupational therapy and life cycle studies. One third of study is weighted Post qualifying programmes
Occupational Therapy Department at Masters level. The main method of delivery is problem-based learning
3. 2 years ( full time) MSc in OT
7th Floor , Eastgate House although other teaching methods e.g. workshops are utilised. The two year
35-43 Newport Road, 4. 2 years (full time) or 4 years programme is an intensely timetabled curriculum over two calendar, years
Programme starts each consisting of 45 weeks of full time attendance.
International/EU links
Cardiff, CF24 0AB The department has formal links through the Erasmus student exchange
1. September 2009 programme and placement within the EU is available
www.cardiff.ac.uk 2. September 2009 How to apply
BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy
3. January 2010 3 years full-time programme
Research profile
Contacts
Teena Clouston, Full time course Programme Manager
4. September 2009 UCAS Code: B920 BSc/Occ Th The Department concentrates its research on the investigation of
The 4 year part-time programme is by direct application. occupations, occupational science, occupational therapy education and
tel: 029 20687759 The 2 year post graduate programme is by direct application professional development and the therapeutic use of occupations. It
email: CloustonTJ@cf.ac.uk currently has registered PhD students and links with a number of HE
fax: 029 206877967 establishments and NHS Trusts
Application and interview process
Deborah Hearle, Part time course Programme Manager Number of places available 3 years full-time programme involves an interview, group discussion and
tel: 029 20 917714 20 full time essay.
The 4 Year part-time programme is by interview, short group and written
email: HearleD@cf.ac.uk
exercise
fax: 029 206877967 The 2 year post graduate programme selection process includes a group
Dr Gail Boniface, PG.Diploma Programme Manager About the area exercise, prepared essay on a pre-disclosed topic and individual interview.
tel: 029 20687686 Cardiff is a relatively young, cosmopolitan and vibrant city with attractive
email: Boniface@cf.ac.uk developments such as Cardiff Bay including the Wales Millennium Centre. Funding
It is close to areas of outstanding beauty including the Gower Peninsula, Bursary places funded by the Welsh Assembly Government include
fax: 029 206877967 the Brecon Beacons National Park, and the Black Mountains. approximately 40 places for the full time programme, 14 places for the part
time programme and 12 places for the Cardiff based part time programme.
Links with the professional body About the programme/university
A Russell Group University with an international reputation for high Standard entry requirements

Links
• A student BAOT group is established
• 85% of students are BAOT members
• As at September 2007 Cardiff
quality research and teaching.

Key features of the programme

GCSE
5 GCSEs including English and a science

with the
is paying student BAOT membership
• 3 Programme Leads are occupational therapists
GNVQ/AVCE
Minimum of 18 units at advanced level, 12 units of which can be a
3 Year Full time Programme
The three year modular full- time programme is largely delivered through GNVQ/AVCE
the educational approach of problem -based learning (PBL). PBL requires
students to contextualise knowledge to real life case study scenarios from ACCESS

professional
• 21 occupational therapy teaching staff.
19 are BAOT members
which students are able to see the relevance of what they learn to
occupational therapy practice. From the outset of the course students are
required to develop self directed learning skills and gradually take on more
72 credits at level 3

SCOTTISH HIGHERS
responsibility for their own learning (with support) as they progress Equivalence of 300 UCAS points

body
• Other professions contributing to the
programme: Social work
• 90 APPLE accredited Practice
Placement Educators.
• 8 Occupational therapy staff belong to
specialist sections - 3 mental health, 2
Paediatrics, 2 neurology and 1 housing.
through the course.
4 Year Part Time Programme
IRISH LEAVING CERT
Equivalence of 300 UCAS points
The four year part-time occupational therapy programme is based on an
integrated spiral, modular curriculum which takes a holistic view of service ACCELERATED ROUTES
users, integrating theory with practice. It is divided into three levels of Minimum of second class (lower division) honours degree
study, each level equating to 120 credits towards a BSc.(Hons) Degree. APEL
Four practice placements in a range of health and social care settings take This is judged on an individual basis
place during the four years and complement the academic programme.
The development of independent learning and independent reflective

COT HANDBOOK 2009

England

Colchester
Qualifying programmes How to apply International/EU links
University of Essex BSc(Hons) Application packs available on request Tel:01206 518350 Links are currently in development and it is hoped that students will
shortly be able to consider role emerging placements in Europe, Africa and
Duration of Programme
Application and interview process other areas.
2 years full time For both programmes applicants meeting entry requirements will be
4 years part-time interviewed. Decisions are made based on fulfilment of person Research profile
University of Essex Programme starts specification criteria Research is embedded within the programmes delivered and staff are
Colchester Institute School of Occupational Therapy
September 2009 actively involved in research at masters level. Further developments up to
Sheepen Road Funding doctoral level are being pursued.
Colchester Number of places available All places are funded by the Strategic Health Authority. Students are
Essex 16 full-time eligible to apply for an NHS bursary.
CO3 3LL 20 part-time
Standard entry requirements
www.colchester.ac.uk About the area GCSE
Colchester is Britain’s oldest recorded town and is a unique blend of 2 A levels - grade D or above
ancient and modern with its Norman castle and museums, alongside 5 GCSE’s to include English and a science –
Contacts excellent shopping facilities, pubs, restaurants, multi-screen cinema and preferably Human Biology - grades A-C
Chris Mills prestigious sports and leisure centre. Colchester Institute is close to the
railway station (central London 50 minutes) and within walking distance of GNVQ/AVCE
tel: 01206 518350
the town centre. GNVQ in Health and Social Care at level 3
email: Chris.mills@colchester.ac.uk BTEC National Diploma in Health Studies,
EdExcel Professional Development Certificate
About the programme/university
Colchester Institute is a large college and benefits from extensive ACCESS
facilities made up of different centres of study across higher and further Access to HE award,
education areas. The programme is delivered alongside physiotherapy Open University degree level foundation course.
with inter-professional education and teaching a key principle. Small
classes are enjoyed across the college and students will be known ACCELERATED ROUTES
individually to their tutors. Honours degree in any subject
Links with the professional body
APEL
• Students are encouraged to join
Key features of the programme Accreditation of prior learning procedures are in accordance with
regional BAOT group 4-year part-time BSc(Hons) University of Essex policy. Further information can be obtained from the
This modular programme includes inter-professional modules (with Admissions Officer
• 99% of students are BAOT members
physiotherapy). Students progress through 3 academic levels. At

Links
• As at September 2007 Colchester
is not paying student BAOT membership
• Programme Lead is an
certificate level foundation perspectives are covered including
biopsychosocial considerations, performance and occupation, reflection
and health and well-being
At intermediate level Occupational Therapy in Physical and Mental health
is considered together with skills for practice and professional enquiry.
Additional information regarding standard
entry requirements
No mandatory subjects are required although biology and psychology have
the potential to assist undergraduate study

with the
occupational therapist
• 6 occupational therapy teaching staff
At higher level, 2 further modules consider professional enquiry and
contexts of practice. The programme culminates in an inter-professional
conference and workshop exploring students dissertation subject areas.
Generally entry qualifications must be completed no more than 6 years
prior to application (except degree entry on to accelerated programme)
More recent study will be an advantage.
All are BAOT members
professional
• Other professions contributing to the
programme: Physiotherapy, Health &
Attendance is required on 2 consecutive days each week.
Learning is facilitated by a combination of lectures, seminars, tutorials,
workshops and independent learning
Non standard entry requirements
Students are considered individually and informal contact to discuss
5 practice placements of between 4-8 weeks occur throughout the 4 years specific circumstances is welcomed.

body
Care, Counselling
• 56 APPLE accredited Practice
during which times students are expected to attend full time.

2-year full-time BSc (Hons)

Placement Educators
(currently in process of accreditation).
• 4 Occupational therapy staff belong to
specialist sections – Mental health, Older
People, Housing, Independent Practice.
Overseas applicants
Where English is not first language, proficiency in English must be
This programme is structured in the same way as the 4 year programme evidenced. Contact for details.
but delivered at a faster pace over 2 years.
Students are expected to be available full time although attendance is
Post qualifying programmes
mostly structured over 3 days with independent learning on the other two.
Apple – experiential route
5 practice placements occur throughout the 2 years and students are
Inter-professional Educators courses
expected to attend full time during these periods.
Educator Development workshops

COT HANDBOOK 2009

England

Coventry
Qualifying programmes How to apply Post qualifying programmes
1. BSc(Hons) Occupational Therapy Full time Applications to the full time route should be made via UCAS. Professional Development Diploma in Social and Therapeutic Horticulture
Applications for the part time and part time in-service routes should be BSc Honours Degree in Health Studies
2. BSc(Hons) Occupational Therapy Part time made direct to the university MSc in Occupational Therapy
3. BSc(Hons) Occupational Therapy Part- time Inservice MSc in Neurological Occupational Therapy
Coventry University
4. BSc(Hons) Occupational Therapy Part- time Application and interview process Postgraduate Certificate in the Effective Use of Assistive Technology
and Outreach Programme at Stafford University Undergraduate Certificate in Assistive Technology for Life Improvement
and Part-time Inservice (Outreach Programme at Through small group interview, assessing interpersonal skills and
Department of Occupational Therapy knowledge of and motivation for occupational therapy
Faculty of Health and Life Sciences Stafford University) Research profile
Coventry University Duration of Programme Funding Research is actively encouraged. Current areas include housing, issues of
Priory Street 1. 3 years All places funded through the NHS bursary scheme accessibility for disabled occupational therapy students, problem-based
learning, evidence-based practice and assistive technologies.
Coventry, CV1 5FB 2. 4 years Students on the programme are encouraged to explore the evidence and
3. 4 years Standard entry requirements research base of occupational therapy professional practice. A dynamic
www.coventry.ac.uk GCSE
4. 4 years Five GCSEs including maths and English at grade C or above
programme of collaborative research exists including the supervision and
support of postgraduate students.
Contacts
Programme starts or accredited equivalents
Admissions Office September 2009 (All)
GNVQ/AVCE
tel:02476795957 Number of places available GNVQ Full Award 12 units – Distinction in 12 unit health related course.
email: genenq.hls@coventry.ac.uk 1. 148 AVCE - BB in an AVCE 12 unit award in Health and Social Care
Mary Grant 2. 6
ACCESS
tel: 02476888234 3. 15 Minimum of 60 credits at level three in a kite-marked health
email:m.grant@coventry.ac.uk 4. 10 related Access course.
fax: 02476888020
Laraine Epstein SCOTTISH HIGHERS
tel: 02476888005 240 points
About the area
email: l.epstein@coventry.ac.uk Coventry University is well positioned as a city centre campus allowing IRISH LEAVING CERT
fax: 02476888020 easy access to the city. 380 points
The city has good links to the surrounding areas of Birmingham, Warwick
and Stratford by road and rail. A wide range of social and leisure facilities APEL Available in first year
Links with the professional body are in the area including clubs, bars and sports opportunities. The new
sports centre offers a wide range of high quality services.
• Student BAOT group Additional information regarding standard
entry requirements
• 100% of students are BAOT members About the programme/university For all other requirements other than GSCE and GCE A Level-
• As at September 2007 Coventry Minimum of 240 points in vocational qualifications, usually to include
Recognised profile for Occupational Therapy
2 x 6 unit awards to the same value and depth as A levels and to

Links
is paying student BAOT membership
• Programme Lead or equivalent is an
occupational therapist
Education for excellence in both course
preferably include natural and/or health/social sciences.
delivery and student support.
• Shared teaching and learning with other professions
• Complimentary optional foundation courses in Biology and Psychology Non standard entry requirements
• Optional study skills programme at all levels All applicants are considered on an individual basis

with the
• 35 occupational therapy teaching staff
All are BAOT members
• Option modules
• Staff group with varied research and practice interests Overseas applicants
Not eligible for NHS bursary. European Union students are eligible for
• Other professions contributing to the Key features of the programme
professional
programme: Dietetics, Nursing,
Physiotherapy, Psychology, Social Work
The course curriculum is delivered through a range of lectures, interactive
seminars and practical workshop sessions and builds upon a knowledge
tuition fees but not the maintenance grant

International/EU links
base from a variety of disciplines including anatomy, physiology, sociology Vocational University of Oulu, Finland, and Boden University College of
body
• 156 APPLE accredited Practice
Placement Educators.
and psychology, as well as exploring occupational therapy theory and
practice. The integration of practice education throughout the programme
enables and encourages students to transfer learning and provides
Health Sciences, Boden, Sweden. Student and staff exchange.

• Occupational therapy team belong to
specialist sections – Children and Young
People (2) Older People (2) Neurology
(2) Housing (1)
opportunities to integrate theory with practice. Shared learning with
dietetics, nursing, physiotherapy and social work students will be provided
throughout the course as it is recognised that it is essential for
occupational therapists to appreciate and understand the philosophy and
role of all related professions with whom they will work in practice.

COT HANDBOOK 2009

England

Cumbria
Qualifying programmes Diploma in Physiotherapy, Nursing, Chiropody or Podiatry.
1. BSc (Hons) Lancaster How to apply It is necessary for these candidates to show post qualification academic
Applications for BSc (Hons) full time should be made through UCAS : performance, a range and breadth of CPD, relevant professional
2. BSC (Hons) Carlisle Lancaster B920L, Carlisle B920CF experience, professional recommendation, and the motivation and ability
3. MSc (pre-reg) Carlisle MSc Occupational Therapy and part-time route are by Direct Application to to succeed at Masters level study.
Admission is discretionary and subject to approval by the University AP(E)L
University of Cumbria Duration of Programme the University.
Sub-committee.
Lancaster Campus 1. 3 years full-time, 4 years part-time
Application and interview process
Bowerham Road, Lancaster, 2. 3 years Prospective students are invited to an information session and campus
Overseas applicants
LA1 3JD 3. 2 years tour, followed by an individual interview. The selection is based on the If English is not your first language we will require one of the following :
IELTS – an overall mark of 7 with no less than 6.5 in any one component.
Programme starts academic profile, personal statement, and reference, as well as
TOEFL – 550 points paper based or 213 points computer based.
Carlisle Campus demonstrating a thorough understanding of occupational therapy. This
September 2009 (All) understanding would be greatly enhanced, either by taking part in work Cambridge Proficiency Grade C
Fusehill Street, Carlisle,
CA1 2HH
Number of places available experience or visiting at least two work-places. Interests and experience
1. 45 full time, 15 part-time are also considered, but, above all, we look for motivation, commitment Post qualifying programmes
and potential. Post Grad Certificate
www.cumbria.ac.uk 2. 25 full - time
3. 10 full - time Funding International/EU links
Contacts
Lancaster Ken Beesley Lancaster (Campus)(BSc (Hons) Students who meet the Department of Health residency criteria are eligible We actively participate in the European Network of Occupational Therapy
01524 384625 About the area for a NHS means-tested bursary and student loan. The NHS normally pays in Higher Education as well as having links for study and placement in
Lancaster is a historic and vibrant university city which is located on the tuition fees. other countries including Norway, Spain, Finland and Canada.
Ken.Beesley@cumbria.ac.uk edge of Morecambe Bay and close to the southern Lake District.
fax: 01524 384591 Carlisle is a small historic city which is located close to the northern Lake Standard entry requirements Research profile
Carlisle District and the border with Scotland. GCSE - It is also a University requirement that you attain GCSE English at All staff are committed to continued professional development and
Mike Doak (Campus)(BSc (Hons) Both campuses have excellent sports facilities and are close to the city grade C or above. involved in research at different levels, relating to both clinical and
tel: 01228 616022 centre with a good selection of restaurants, shops, theatres and nightlife. BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy Programme education areas of interest.
Three ‘A’ levels at 240 UCAS tariff points. Staff teaching on the MSc programme have Masters degrees and have
email: Mike.Doak@cumbria.ac.uk carried out research in a variety of subject areas. The department has a
fax: 01228 616235 About the programme/university GNVQ/AVCE Reader in Occupational Therapy as well as several members of staff
Carlisle The University of Cumbria offers a very high quality learning experience AVCE currently undertaking a PhD who are engaged in active research.
Janice Bell (Campus)(MSc) on each Campus, with good employment potential. It is student centred BTEC/HND
and works closely with agencies in the region to offer research, Provision for students with disabilities
01228 616022 scholarship and knowledge development . Students are welcomed ACCESS
email:Janice.Bell@cumbria.ac.uk There are robust procedures in place for ensuring availability of reasonable
whatever their age, background or personal circumstances. QAA recognised Access Course to HE adjustments to promote positive access and participation for disabled
fax: 01228 616235 students in line with the Special Needs and Disability Act (2001), as well as
SCOTTISH HIGHERS the Health Professions Council Guidelines.
Key features of the programme 4 highers.
BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy
The 3 year full-time and 4 year part-time modular programmes are IRISH LEAVING CERT Irish Leaving Certificate.
Links with the professional body delivered through a range of lectures, tutorials, interactive seminars and Candidates should have a minimum of 4/5 subjects at Honours/ Higher
practical workshops, with the focus being on occupation and health. There level.

Links
• As at September 2007 Cumbria
is paying student BAOT membership
• Programme Lead or equivalent is an
occupational therapist
is a range of inter-professional learning opportunities both at University
and in the practice placement setting alongside student physiotherapists, ACCELERATED ROUTES
nurses, radiographers and social workers. Practice placements are MSc Occupational Therapy Programme
integrated into each level, providing important links between theory and Standard entry requirements
practice. Students are assessed through coursework, presentations, group

with the
• 17 occupational therapy teaching staff.
16 are BAOT members
professional
• Other professions contributing to the
programme: Physiotherapy, Nursing,
Relevant honours degree, classification (2ii) or above, or equivalent.
work and individual assignments. The incorporation of key skills into the Demonstration of an interest in occupational therapy
curriculum provides the opportunity to fulfil the graduate skill
requirements. Optional study modules are also available.
Additional information regarding standard
MSc Occupational Therapy (Pre-Registration)
On this newly developed modular programme you can gain the
knowledge and experience to be eligible to register with the Health
entry requirements
You must pass health and CRB clearance checks.
It is also a University requirement that you attain GCSE English at grade C
Professions Council and practise as an occupational therapist. Most

body
Radiography, Social Work
• Occupational therapy team belong to
modules mix academic with practical elements and will include
consideration of holistic, occupation-based, client-centred practice, as well
as working with other professional groups. The programme is designed to
or above.

Non standard entry requirements

a wide range of specialist sections provide the opportunity to develop professional practice and the ability to MSc Occupational Therapy Programme
work at Masters level. Practice placements are also an integral part of this Candidates who hold another relevant professional qualification such as a
programme.

COT HANDBOOK 2009

England

Derby
Qualifying programmes Funding
1. BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy EU applicants’ fees are funded through an NHS contract. Students are
eligible to apply for an NHS bursary. Other applicants are self-funding or
2. MSc (pre-reg) through sponsorships.
Duration of Programme
1. 3 years full-time, 4.5 years part-time Standard entry requirements
University of Derby 2. 2.5 years accelerated GCSE
Faculty of Education, Health and Sciences 5 passes at grade C or above to include
Programme starts English, science and maths
School of Social Care and Therapeutic Practice 1. September 2009
(Occupational Therapy) 2. September 2009 (subject to validation) GNVQ/AVCE
Britannia Mill Number of places available AVCE Health and social care or science
Mackworth Road, Derby, DE22 3BL combined with either 1 or 2 A levels
1. 70 full time, 15 part-time (dependent on 6 or 12 unit AVCE) or with 6
www.derby.ac.uk 2. 30 additional units

Contacts ACCESS
Joan Howarth About the area Full kite marked Access qualification.
Programme Leader for Undergraduate Education The programmes occur across 2 campuses situated in Derby’s university
quarter, close to the historic city centre. SCOTTISH HIGHERS
tel: 01332 594029 Equivalent of 240 academic points.
email: j.t.howarth@derby.ac.uk Derby is centrally located in the United Kingdom with good access to
fax: 01332 5597763 different areas of the country via excellent travel links. The city has an IRISH LEAVING CERT
Dr Helen Stoneley, Programme Leader for MSc active student life and is relatively economical in cost of living. Derby is 6 subjects – 4 to be at Higher level. Must include maths English
Occupational Therapy/Occupational Therapy (Community) close to a number of active areas of leisure and situated on the edge of the and a science.
Peak District, with many different outdoor pursuits available.
tel: 01332 594022 ACCELERATED ROUTES
email: h.e.stoneley@derby.ac.uk Previous degree at 2:2 classification or above, gained within the previous 5
fax: 01332 5597763 About the programme/university year period.
Teresa Rushton Derby city was the first to have an occupational therapy programme in
the NHS, which commenced in 1948. APEL
Programme Leader for MSc Hand Therapy Students may apply for APEL according to University of Derby regulations.
tel: 01332 594025 The University of Derby offers a wide range of academic programmes and
student services, including learning centres and student support. There are
email: t.j.rushton@derby.ac.uk modern purpose built halls of residence, and information on vetted private Non standard entry requirements
fax: 01332 5597763 rented accommodation is available. The university has close links with the Mature applicants are considered on merit but normally evidence of
Strategic Health Authority and private industries throughout the successful achievement (degree, Open University Foundation, A level or
surrounding community. Access to Health Sciences) acquired in the two years prior to entry is
Links with the professional body required. Relevant life/work experience also considered.
• No student BAOT group Key features of the programme Overseas applicants
• 85% of students are BAOT members The undergraduate programmes and MSc Pre-registration programme are Applications are welcomed from EU citizens.
taught programmes that utilise a wide range of learning experiences, Entry requirements as equivalent of UK requirements with addition of the
• As at September 2007 Derby

Links
including experiential learning, problem solving and reflective practice, and International Baccalaureate.
is not paying student BAOT membership have an established interprofessional learning experience. Must be competent in spoken and written English to IELTS 7 with no
The post-registration MSc in Occupational Therapy/ Occupational Therapy element lower than 6.5.
• Programme Lead or equivalent is an (Community) and the MSc Hand Therapy are distance learning programmes
occupational therapist with a variety of blended learning experiences.
Post qualifying programmes
with the
• 23 occupational therapy teaching staff.
All are BAOT members How to apply
MSc Occupational Therapy
MSc Occupational Therapy Community
MSc Hand Therapy

professional
• Other professions contributing to the
programme: Social Work, Diagnostic Radiography
• 460 APPLE accredited Practice Placement Educators.
Full time students apply via UCAS. All other students apply directly to the
university; the application form is available to download via university
website or for completion online.
International/EU links
ENOTHE

body
• Occupational therapy team belonging to specialist
sections are Mental Health(1), Neurological(1), Older
Application and interview process
Undergraduate and pre-registration MSc students are required to
undertake interviews.
Research profile
Academic staffs are actively involved in research of teaching
People(1), Rheumatology(1), Trauma and methodologies, areas of occupational therapy and occupational science.
Orthopaedics(1), Work(1).

COT HANDBOOK 2009

England

Eastbourne
Qualifying programmes Postgraduate Diploma in Occupational Therapy/MSc Health through MSc Occupational Therapy and Management, MSc Occupational Therapy.
Occupation Education comprises three core modules plus three modules related to the
1. MSc Health Through Occupation This innovative pre-registration Postgraduate Diploma/MSc course is based respective route and a research dissertation. The modules are integrated
2. BSc Occupational Therapy at Eastbourne and lasts for two years, each year consisting of 45 weeks of within the university’s health and social science graduate programme and
Duration of Programme full-time study. The intensive programme has a student-centred, problem- provide cross-disciplinary experience through shared modules. We also run
based learning philosophy. Students work in small groups with a tutor to one module of the acclaimed European Masters of Science in Occupational
1. 2 years accelerated develop knowledge and critical reasoning skills and learn practical skills Therapy (see www.ENOTHE.hva.nl). Our new professional doctorate
University of Brighton 2. 4 years part time that may be used in occupational therapy practice, including group work, programme is becoming popular, designed for senior practitioners.
Robert Dodd Building Programme starts craft, pottery, horticulture, cooking and performing arts. The programme Graduates receive a Doctorate in Occupational Therapy. Our PhD
49 Darley Road has an eye to the future, since it is based around occupational science – programme is also very strong.
September 2009 the study of humans as occupational beings – which emphasises the
Eastbourne, East Sussex Number of places available contribution of occupational therapy to the prevention and relief of health
BN9 9ND
International/EU links
1. 40 full time problems. Practice placement education is fully integrated – students We are active members of ENOTHE, the European Network of
attend alternative modules, on campus and in the field. Students may
www.brighton.ac.uk 2. 20 part time graduate with a post-graduate diploma which affords eligibility to practice
Occupational Therapists in Higher Education. The OT team, together with
the Hogeschool vanAmsterdam, Holland, School of Occupational Therapy,
via registration with the Health Professions Council, or they chose to Naevsted, Denmark and the Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden are
Contacts
About the area complete a dissertation which leads to a master of science degree. involved in the running of the European Masters in Occupational Therapy,
Dr Heidi von Kurthy, The University of Brighton has campuses in Brighton, Eastbourne and a truly unique programme which unifies OT post-registration training in
Course leader and Admissions tutor Hastings. The School of Health Professions is in Eastbourne, set in the lea How to apply Europe.
tel: 0127364111 of the South Downs. Eastbourne is a beautiful, friendly and unspoiled For both courses please contact the relevant person for further information
email: h.vonkurthy@bton.ac.uk seaside town that attracts people from all walks of life, creating a really about the course and the application process. Research profile
balanced and vibrant community. The unspoilt South Downs offer an
fax: 1273643652 We are developing a strong research focus on occupational science,
amazing backdrop to the developing pub, restaurant and club life, which Application and interview process problem based learning and evaluating occupational therapy. We currently
Lisa Harford, course administrator has positively exploded in the last couple of years. The weather’s great too, We are looking for people with excellent inter/intra personal skills who are have seven occupational therapists registered for their PhD and five
tel: 01273643772 being one of the warmest towns in the UK! committed to a career in occupational therapy. Applicants for each course occupational therapists studying on the new professional doctorate
email: l.e.harford@bton.ac.uk will be invited to a meeting with some of the staff, local practitioners and programme.
Malebogo Koakae (Course Administrator) About the programme/university existing students, a tour of the facilities, and a group interview. These
m.c.koakae@bton.ac.uk selection days takes place from April each year. Future developments
The University of Brighton is a dynamic and forward-looking university
01273643774 with a flexible approach, and is based in one of the most exciting parts The Division of Occupational Therapy has a mission to become a high
Marion Martin, BSc (part time) Course Leader of the UK. Funding quality international level, thriving centre for occupational therapy
There are 20 funded places a year for the BSc (Hons) programme, for those education at all levels and for occupational therapy and occupational
tel: 01273643675 Find out what our students say about studying here: who have been resident in the UK for three years or more. science research. We are reaching the point where the majority of staff
email: m.martin@brighton.ac.uk www.brighton.ac.uk/audience/app/. We have 40 funded places each year for the MSc/PGDip programme, for have doctoral degrees. The pre-registration programmes are exemplars, in
fax: 01273643652 Other courses offered to the health and social care professions at the people who have been resident in the EU for three years or more. A small being wholly problem-based.
University of Brighton include medicine, nursing, midwifery, pharmacy, number of privately funded students may be accepted.
physiotherapy, podiatry, and social work.
Standard entry requirements
Links with the professional body
Key features of the programme GCSE
• No student BAOT group BSc(Hons) Occupational Therapy (part-time, in-service) 1 A level
This four year programme is very similar in design to the course below,
• 100% of students are BAOT members ACCELERATED ROUTES
with the same modules and problem-based learning curriculum. It is
2.2 degree and above
• As at September 2007 Brighton is not paying for designed firstly for part-time students employed within health and social

Links
students BAOT membership
• Programme Leaders or equivalent are
occupational therapists
care, although not necessarily from an occupational therapy background.
Support from employers can be given for attendance on this course, as
students need to be absent from their duties for two days a week during
university-based modules, and full-time for a total of 32 weeks of practice
APEL
On application

Non standard entry requirements

with the
• 14 occupational therapy teaching staff.
All are BAOT members
placements. and insert 'In addition a small number of places are available
each year for applicants who are not working in health and social care.
Students attend the university for 2 days a week, and are expected to
Each applicant will be considered on an individual basis.

Overseas applicants
study independently in addition to this. Learning takes place in small As for home students plus an overall IELTS score of 7 with no element

professional
• Other professions contributing to the
programme: artists, physiotherapists,
psycholgists, OTpractitioners, nurses, medics
tutorial groups as well as in larger resource sessions. Practical and creative
skills are also a very important component of this course, as are the five
practice placements, which are scheduled for the beginning of the course,
below 6.5.
Post qualifying programmes
to alternate regularly with campus studies. In this way. Theory and practice Our post-reg MSc programme has three routes. MSc Occupational Therapy,

body
• The school is in the process of gaining membership of
all specialist sections.
are integrated.

COT HANDBOOK 2009

Scotland

Edinburgh
Qualifying programmes MSc/postgraduate programme APEL
With the exception of the first semester students are in the practice Direct entry to level two of the undergraduate
1. BSc( Hons) placement setting at least two days per week for the duration of their programme can be offered to applicants with an
2. Post Grad Dip in OT programme, allowing a unique opportunity to integrate theory and HNC in Occupational Therapy Support or a 2:1
3. MSc in OT studies practice. Learning is via a problem-based learning approach using case Honours degree in social or biological sciences
studies. Assessments methods are varied and are designed to complement
Duration of Programme this style of learning. E-Learning opportunities support this programme. On ACL
1. 4 years this programme there is a small student cohort. There is an opportunity for Entry with HNC in healthcare/social care will also be considered
2. 72 weeks students to graduate with either a post graduate diploma in occupational
therapy or an MSc in occupational therapy studies both of which produce Overseas applicants
Queen Margaret University 3. 2 years an eligibility to register as an occupational therapist with the Health International students are required to have a minimum IELTS score of 5.5,
Queen Margaret University Programme starts Professions Council with no individual element below 5.0 for the undergraduate
Queen Margaret University Drive September 2009 programme.
Musselburgh Number of places available How to apply For the post graduate programme the minimum IELTS score is 6.0.
East Lothian 1. 60 full -time BSc( Hons) applications are through UCAS
EH21 6UU Post Grad Dip/MSc in OT studies direct to the university Post qualifying programmes
2. 20 part time The university offers a successful MSc in Occupational Therapy, which has
3. Variable Application and interview process both full-time and part-time students from the UK and abroad.
www.qmu.ac.uk
Selection for the BSc(Hons) is based on information submitted on UCAS This allows students the opportunity to specialize in some areas of practice
forms. Selection criteria include academic qualifications, commitment to including paediatrics, mental health and neurology. Additionally there
Contacts About the area occupational therapy as a career choice and the reference. are funded scholarship for students who wish to study to PhD level.
Edinburgh, Scotland’s historic capital city, has an extensive range of
Dr Derek Jones BSc( hons) OT Applicants for the postgraduate programme are invited for interview to
theatres, galleries, sites of cultural interest and each year hosts both the discuss their awareness of occupational therapy and the unique teaching
tel: 01313730000 famous Edinburgh International Festival and Fringe Festival. It has a
International/EU links
and learning opportunities the programme has for the candidates. The department has a long established network of international links with
email: djones@qmu.ac.uk vibrant nightlife and offers easy access to the beaches of East Lothian and
occupational therapy schools. Students have opportunities to undertake
fax:01314740001 to the Highlands. Visitors often comment on the friendliness of the
Funding
Edinburgh people. It also supports a strong academic community with international practice education placements. Currently there are four
Ian Mc Millan Undergraduate students should contact either the Students Awards Agency formal exchanges in America, Canada and Europe
lively student clubs and associations
tel: 01313730000 for Scotland or their Local Education Authority (LEA).
email:imcmillan@qmu.ac.uk Postgraduate students are normally required to be self-funding but there Research profile
fax:01314740001 About the programme/university are limited SAAS funded post graduate awards. Staff are very active in research and this feeds directly into the
The programme offers an extensive range of health related, business and occupational therapy curriculum. Staff are affiliated with three major
cultural courses up to PhD level. It has the reputation of being a small research centres, concerned with older people, integrated healthcare and
Links with the professional body and friendly place to study. Over 90% of QMU graduates are in full-time Standard entry requirements children all of whom have recently received major research funding. There
employment or undertaking further study within six months of GCSE is a thriving research student community with several PhD students
• No student BAOT group - plans to form one graduating. QMU was voted in the top ten of new universities in the UK 3 at 240 UCAS Tariff points
for 2007 in the Sunday Times survey. In 2007 QMU moved to a brand Future developments
• Students are encouraged as BAOT members new,purpose-built campus on the east of Edinburgh. Staff are committed GNVQ/AVCE Student and staff exchanges are being developed with several countries
• As at September 2007 Queen Margaret is not paying to student support and learning. They are all research active many with 240 UCAS Tariff points with preference for one discursive subject European competencies/dimension being introduced within the curriculum
international links.
for students BAOT membership Interprofessional Education in the honours year
ACCESS
• Programme Lead or equivalent is an Key features of the programme Appropriate access courses are also considered
BSc (Hons) programme
occupational therapist

Links
Approximately one third of the course is devoted to practice-based SCOTTISH HIGHERS
• 16 occupational therapy teaching staff. learning. A strong feature of the programme is the integration of theory 4 at 240 UCAS Tariff points
14 are BAOT members and practice. Opportunities exist for students, in the later stages of their
programme, to undertake placements abroad. Another sixth of the course IRISH LEAVING CERT
• Other professions contributing to the is devoted to interprofessional education. This exciting new 240 UCAS Tariff points with preference for one discursive subject

with the
programme: Physiotherapy, Nursing, Speech &
Language Therapy, Audiology, Dietetics, Podiatry,
Radiology, Sociology, Psychology, Physiology
professional
• 100 plus Practice Placement Educators are
APPLE accredited
development involves occupational therapy students along with other
allied health professions in a variety of educational experiences. The taught
element of the undergraduate programme offers students a variety of
ACCELERATED ROUTES
An Honours degree or unclassified degree with
educational experiences and assessment methods. As well as learning in
formal lectures students work in small groups and undertake individual
projects. The assessment methods include a limited number of short tests,
written assignments as well as group and individual projects. The
distinction or equivalent that can be accredited
for relevant prior learning by the university
college.

body
• 4 members of the occupational therapy team belong
to specialist sections. Neurology practice, CYPF, Pain
group and Work
programme primarily focuses on continuous assessment.

COT HANDBOOK 2009

Scotland

Glasgow
Glasgow Caledonian University Qualifying programmes Module: GAPNM01 between February and June prior to the basis and discussion with an admissions tutor is welcomed.
70 Cowcaddens Road beginning of the programme, unless they can supply evidence for an Again, visits with occupational therapists are advised.
1. BSc( Hons) Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) application.
Glasgow 2. MSc Occupational Therapy (Pre-registration)
G4 OBA Standard entry requirements (MSc programme)
Duration of Programme
How to apply One of the following:
www.gcal.ac.uk 1. 4 years • Bachelors degree from a UK institution
BSc (Hons) programme - through UCAS.
Dr Sheena Blair 2. 2 years MSc programme - to the registry department of the university. Preferably in health, behavioural or social sciences
Normally lst or 2:1
0141 331 8180 Programme starts • Degree with relevant pre-professional experience
Sheena.Blair@gcal.ac.uk September 2009 Application and interview process
• Equivalent degree from non-UK institution
Selection is based on the academic profile, evaluative personal statement
0141 331 8112 Number of places available and references.
Plus
Mrs Catriona Khamisha • A basic knowledge of statistics
1. 65 • A Pass in a Negotiated Learning Module
0141 331 8389 (plus 10 originally funded by Scottish Exec.) Funding GAPNM01 agreed at interview
C.Khamisha@gcal.ac.uk 2. 30 For the BSc (Hons) programme, applicants in Scotland are eligible to
0141 331 8112 apply to have their fees paid for by the Health Department meanstested
bursary. Applicants from England, Wales and Northern Ireland should seek Overseas applicants
Mrs Sandra Robertson
0141 331 8472
About the area advice from their Local Education Authority (LEA) or Library Board. Applications from overseas are welcomed. Demonstration of proficiency in
The campus is situated in the centre of a vibrant city offering shops, For the MSc programme, some funding may be available, however, English may be required, e.g. International English Language Testing
Sandra.Robertson@gcal.ac.uk clubs, cinemas and a wide range of cultural activities such as the this cannot be guaranteed. System (IELTS) test score 6. There is a requirement by the Health
0141 331 8112 theatre and art galleries. Transport is easily accessible to the Professions Council (HPC) that a score of 7 must be achieved by the time
of application for registration.
Ms Kirstine McCormack surrounding Scottish countryside and many outdoor and sporting Standard entry requirements
0141 331 8381 activities. Student and city life is enhanced within Glasgow, which has GCSE
three universities within close proximity. A levels 2 at grade C or above Post qualifying programmes
K.McCormack@gcal.ac.uk MSc post reg programmes within the School of Health and Social Care
0141 331 8112 ACCESS Masters Framework but they would not necessarily be solely taught by
Miss Jeanette Napier About the programme/university Scottish Wider Access Programme(SWAP) Access to Health and Biological occupational therapists
0141 331 8391 The Saltire Centre: This is a new building which opened in 2006, Sciences (Cardonald College, Glasgow) This flexible part time master’s programmes are for practicing occupational
providing an inspirational learning space at the heart of the University’s therapists and other health care professionals who want to continue their
otadmissions@gcal.ac.uk strategy to meet the individual needs of learners and empower them to SCOTTISH HIGHERS professional development and at the same time gain academic credit.
j.napier@gcal.ac.uk develop their skills. It harnesses the power of social learning, using Awards available to occupational therapists are:
4 SCE Highers
0141 331 8112 imaginative use of space, to provide an immensely stimulating English essential (H) Biology recommended MSc/PgD/PgC Occupational Therapy
environment where students can talk and listen, as well as write, Standard Grade Maths (3 or above) is also required. MSc Occupational Therapy (Forensic Studies)
research and think. It is a modern, multifunctional building that will MSc Occupational Therapy (Employment Rehabilitation)
Links with the professional body inspire staff, students and community alike, catering for the learners of IRISH LEAVING CERT MSc/PgD/PgC Health and Social Care
the future. 6 H level - BBCCCC
• No student BAOT group International/EU links
Key features of the programme
ACCELERATED ROUTES The Division has been an active member of the European Network of
• 100% Students are BAOT members BSc (Hons) programme
HNC OT Support can support application for direct entry in to level 2 Occupational Therapy in Higher Education (ENOTHE) for ten years.
• As at September 2007 Glasgow is paying for students Students from all programmes with a health and social care focus Collaboration and support for the development of occupational therapy
join together at level one to study a module called inter professional APEL programmes has been undertaken with the Czech Republic, Armenia and
BAOT membership (apart from international students)
learning. The programme encourages lecturer-student partnerships Relevant experience will be considered alongside minimum entry the Republic of Georgia during this period. Students from Spain and
• Programme Lead is an occupational therapist and emphasis is placed on how to learn, so that this process will requirements Sweden have undertaken placements in Scotland, supported by the
continue with professional development. The modularised Division while staff have undertaken teaching visits to Greece.

Links
• 9 occupational therapy teaching staff. One secondee
All are BAOT members
• Other professions contributing to the
programme: Psychology, Sociology, Physiology,
programme within a semester system allows for a developmental
approach to curriculum development and delivery. There are four
practice education placements over the four years, with two twelve week
blocks where students return once a week or at intervals to
facilitate a high degree of theory/practice integration.
ACL Internationally, the Division also maintains links with colleagues and
Open University modules and other qualifications discussed and universities in the area of work rehabilitation in the USA and Australia.
considered. involved with ENOTHE for eleven years. We have links with New Zealand
and South Africa and after work rehabilitation, falls and falls prevention,
Additional information regarding standard gerontology and mental health

with the
Mathematics and Role Emerging Practice Placements.
• 3 Practice Placement Educators are
MSc programme
The programme’s aims, objectives and subsequent curriculum are
constructed so that students will be able to demonstrate fitness for
entry requirements
Applicants are required to visit at least two occupational Research profile
therapy centres prior to an interview to establish a realistic An active member of HealthQWest, the Division of Occupational Therapy
APPLE accredited
professional
• 1 member of the occupational therapy team belongs
to a specialist section for Older People
award, fitness for practice and fitness for purpose. Students are
encouraged to discuss, interpret, analyse and evaluate information at a
depth appropriate to their academic level and in so doing, become
perception of the demands of the profession.

Non standard entry requirements

active, self directed participants in the learning process.
body All applicants must successfully complete the Negotiated Learning
has a current research strategy with four current broad themes of work,
occupational therapy professional education issues and effective practice.
Student projects are also integrated into this research strategy, with
academic staff supervising in one of these theme areas.
Students are welcomed from a wide diversity of
backgrounds. All profiles will be assessed on an individual
With the appointment of our first professor of occupational therapy in

COT HANDBOOK 2009

Scotland

Glasgow

2007, our research strategy will change in accordance with current

research interests and staff expertise.
There are four doctoral candidates currently registered in the Division and
staff supervise doctoral students from other institutions as well.

A twelve month evaluation of the Condition Management Programme

(Glasgow) in Job Centre Plus, Department of Work and Pensions £60k is
currently underway. The Division is leading the development of a new
Centre for Work and Health in the School of Health and Social Care which
is intended in part, to foster research activity in these areas by allied
health practitioners, social work and related disciplines.
In the last year, the Division has secured the opportunity for
funding for evaluation of the integration of occupational
therapy across health and social care in Glasgow City (£75,000
over three years)

The appointment of our first professor of occupational

therapy has enabled us to add expertise in qualitative
research to our portfolio.

Future developments
In 2007/8 it is hoped that the Division will be able to offer
a full time international MSc OT post reg. opportunity and
our internationalisation activities will expand in terms of
invited sabbaticals for visiting academics and continued
links with practice placements.

Links
with the
professional
body
COT HANDBOOK 2009
England

Huddersfield
Qualifying programmes You will share some of your studies with students from other health and IRISH LEAVING CERT
social care professions, for example physiotherapists and social workers, 6 subjects at higher level to include 3 subjects at grade B to include
B,Sc (Hons) and have opportunity to work on interdisciplinary projects in year three. biology or psychology and 3 subjects at grade C to include Maths and
Duration of Programme English
3 years The school has excellent practical facilities for healthcare students
including new flexible resources for occupational therapy students. The APEL
Programme starts course forms part of the West Yorkshire Collaboration of Occupational Individual assessment of prior learning can be made against some
University of Huddersfield September 2009 Therapy Education (WYCOTE), which involves Bradford University and modules
School of Human and Health Sciences Number of places available Leeds Metropolitan University and local services. We work together to
Department of Clinical and Health Science ensure that West Yorkshire’s students receive education that is an excellent
18 full time preparation for dynamic work in health and social care.
Additional information regarding standard
Queensgate entry requirements
Huddersfield About the area There is a full time Ofsted registered nursery on site for students which Other qualifications and/or experience may be considered. Acceptance to
HD1 3DH Huddersfield is a large, friendly town full of culture, history and aesthetic takes youngsters from six weeks to five years. this course is subject to a satisfactory health screening and enhanced
beauty. Our striking town-centre campus with modern facilities straddles Criminal Records Bureau disclosure
Contacts the refurbished Huddersfield Narrow Canal and offers extensive views of How to apply
Joanne Stead the Pennine foothills. Applications via UCAS Non standard entry requirements
The vibrant town provides a safe environment in contrast to some of the We welcome students of all ages from diverse backgrounds. As each
tel: 01484 473769 larger cities and is relatively inexpensive
email: j.stead@hud.ac.uk
Application and interview process student is considered individually we welcome informal contact to discuss
“It’s big enough for there to be a lot going on, small enough to be Short listed students are invited to attend a selection day which involves specific circumstances and requirements. Applicants must have evidence of
fax: 01484 472380 noticed.” Comment from a former student individual and group exercises and an interview recent academic study. A foundation course for health professionals is
Denise Richardson available for those without the necessary academic background.
tel: 01484 473493 About the programme/university Funding
email: d.richardson@hud.ac.uk The University of Huddersfield is a dynamic institution which is going Students who meet the Department of Health residency criteria are eligible
from strength to strength in academic achievements and student
Overseas applicants
fax: 01484 472380 for a NHS means tested bursary and student loan. The NHS normally pays Entry requirements as equivalent of above.
satisfaction. tuition fees.
Huddersfield has scored very highly for student satisfaction in the 2005, In addition for applicants who do not speak English as a first subject they
2006 and 2007 National Student Surveys. must have an IETS score of 7 which no element is below 6.5
There is a long tradition of providing education for health care
Standard entry requirements
professionals. It has a friendly reputation, an excellent graduate GCSE International/EU links
employment record and high level of student support. Students come from • 5 GCSE at grade C or above to include maths, The course meets the requirements of the World Federation of
all over the UK and from over 80 countries worldwide. The student village English and a science subject Occupational Therapists (WFOT). The course is currently developing a
offers a beautiful living environment, a superb social atmosphere and and number of European links
some of the best student accommodation in the UK. Situated in attractive 3 Advanced at grade C or above including a biological science or
parkland to the south of the town it offers a total of 1,432 bedspaces, psychology. General studies is excluded
Research profile
There is an active student union which offers a wide range of different There are 15 research units within the school, with particular expertise in
sporting, leisure, cultural activities. GNVQ/AVCE
GCE (A2) + AVCE (6 units) applied social sciences and health and social care. All members of the
Links with the professional body The university has strong links with the community, with a strong emphasis
2 Advanced subjects at grade C or above including biological science or occupational therapy team are involved in research and continuing
on vocation and enterprise. professional development.
• Student BAOT group psychology and AVCE 6 units in health and social care. General studies is
excluded
• As at September 2007 Huddersfield is not paying for Key features of the programme or
students BAOT membership The occupational therapy course at Huddersfield is modern and innovative GCE (A2) + AVCE (12 units)

Links
aiming to develop occupational therapists who are flexible and dynamic
• Programme Lead is an equipped to work in a changing context within health and social care. The
occupational therapist supportive tutors ensure you have a head start in your employment by
working closely with clinicians creating exciting service developments in
• 4 occupational therapy teaching staff. which the students are active partners. The focus of your studies will be on
1 Advanced subject at grade C or above in a biological
science or psychology and AVCE 12 units in health and social care
or
BTEC national diploma
Preferably in health and social care. To include at least three merits in year

with the
• Other professions contributing to the
programme: Physiotherapy, Podiatry,
occupation and how this impacts on individuals, groups and communities.

You will study in a small friendly and supportive cohort of 18 students. A

two

ACCESS
Social work, Health physiology variety of teaching approaches are used including experiential, practical

professional
• 35 APPLE accredited Practice Placement Educators
and creative activities which will help you develop the wide variety of
personal, interpersonal and academic skills needed to be effective
occupational therapists. Practice placement is an integral part of this
G.C.S.E Maths and English at grade C or above or equivalent
QAA recognised course offering 54 credits at level 3 .

• 3 of the occupational therapy team belong to SCOTTISH HIGHERS

body
specialist sections: Children and families, HIV/AIDS,
OHPC and Neurology practice
course throughout.

We have been commended on our close links with service colleagues and
Minimum of 4 subjects at grade B or above to
include biology / psychology and English.
Maths at standard grade.
user representatives and regularly invite guest speakers and practice
associates to support our teaching.

COT HANDBOOK 2009

Scotland

Langside
Qualifying programmes Funding
HNC Occupational Therapy Support Full time: Apply for fees and student loan through Student Awards Agency
Scotland (www.saas.gov.uk)
Duration of Programme Day Release: Apply for fees through employer or if self financing apply for
1. 2 year Day Release instalment plan to pay fees directly to college.
2. 2 year Distance Learning Distance Learning: Apply as Day Release. However if the candidates
income will allow them to apply for Individual Learning Account (ILA) this
Langside College 3. 1 year Full Time is accepted as part payment for this route only.
50 Prospecthill Road Programme starts Applicants are encouraged to make application through SAAS as individual
Glasgow 1. Annual August intake circumstances vary.
G42 9LB 2. Ongoing intakes
Standard entry requirements
3. Annual August intake GCSE
www.langside.ac.uk
Number of places available English

Contacts
1. 20
SCOTTISH HIGHERS
Lesley Newton 2. Minimum cohort of 8 2 Highers including English or Communication:
tel: 0141 272 3917 3. 20 Core Skills at Higher or Communication 4
email: lnewton@langside.ac.uk
fax: 0141 632 5252 About the area Additional information regarding standard
Sheila Watson Glasgow is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city offering many cultural entry requirements
tel: 0141 272 3917 attractions, facilities and sights and easy access to the Highlands and Day Release and Distance Learning : should be currently working as a
Islands. It is often referred to as the friendliest of cities and is a very support worker within an occupational therapy setting.
email: swatson@langside.ac.uk popular student destination. Excellent public transport connections within Full time : 2 Highers or equivalent. Should have practical care experience
fax: 0141 632 5252 Glasgow and around Langside College. of a relevant nature and quality and a reference. Enhanced Disclosure
Margaret Cunningham Scotland.
tel: 0141 272 3806 Individual circumstances may also be considered.
About the programme/university
email: mcunningham@langside.ac.uk Langside Further Education College has been unique in the development,
fax: 0141 632 5252
Overseas applicants
support and delivery of the HNC Occupational Therapy Support
In addition to standard entry requirement applicant would have to
programme since 1991. This programme is jointly validated by SQA and
evidence English language at e.g. IELTS 5.5 minimum or equivalent.
COT.

Key features of the programme

Links with the professional body
• No student BAOT group
• Two occupational therapists on course team
Day Release – 1 day a week (college term times) over 2 years. Class based
learning with integration to practice base.
Distance learning – study one Unit at a time. Programme takes approx 2
years to complete. Learners will be part of a distance learning cohort.
Telephone tutorials, email and VLE support.
How to apply

Links
• Both are BAOT members

• Other professions contributing to the

programme are lecturers from Anatomy and
Direct to Langside College

Application and interview process

Day Release and Full Time : application + reference (Full Time) followed by

with the
Physiology, Social Work, Psychology and Sociology.
Occupational Therapy workplace supervisors also
personal interview
Distance Learning: application, workplace reference and telephone
interview
contribute to the programme.
professional
body
COT HANDBOOK 2009
England

Leeds
Leeds Metropolitan University Qualifying programmes Funding
Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy Group MSc Occupational Therapy (Pre-registration) Eligible students will be able to have their fees paid by an NHS bursary
Faculty of Health and can apply for a means-tested bursary.
Duration of Programme
Leeds Metropolitan University 2 years accelerated Standard entry requirements
Civic Quarter Programme starts Due to the fact that the programme is a two year, accelerated masters
Leeds January 2009 degree, all of the following are required:
LS1 3HE Honours degree, normally a 2:1, relevant to occupational therapy.
Number of places available Good understanding of the occupational therapy profession and
E: occupational@leedsmet.ac.uk 18 full-time occupational therapy practice.
Understanding of health and social care.
www.leedsmet.ac.uk/health/osot Health screening and enhanced Criminal Records Bureau check.
About the area
Contacts Leeds is one of the most popular student cities in the UK. The culturally
diverse city is geared to students’ needs and has something to offer
Overseas applicants
Chris Kitchen everyone: a vibrant nightlife, cultural attractions, great shopping, Applications are welcomed from international students who meet the
Course Administrator restaurants, and sport and leisure facilities. The city is friendly and entry criteria which can be found on the website.
tel: 0113 8123910 cosmopolitan with a cost of living lower than many parts of the UK.
email: c.kitchen@leedsmet.ac.uk Post qualifying programmes
The school has a long history of providing high quality post-registration
Debbie Windley About the programme/university education opportunities for health professionals, from postgraduate
Admissions Tutor Leeds Metropolitan University is one of the largest universities in the certificates, through to Masters and Doctorates. Current programmes
tel: 0113 8125832 country. Part of the excitement of studying at Leeds Metropolitan include professional diplomas in Parkinson’s disease and dementia care,
email: d.windley@leedsmet.ac.uk University is that you will soon have met thousands of students who are and MSc degrees in particular areas of rehabilitation. In September 2006
drawn to Leeds from across the UK and the world. The employability of two post-registration degrees commenced – an MSc Occupational Therapy
Jane Cronin-Davis Leeds Metropolitan University graduates is excellent. and an MSc Occupational Science.
Course Leader
tel: 0113 8125727 International/EU links
email: j.cronin-davis@leedsmet.ac.uk Key features of the programme The university is truly international and attracts students from all over the
The programme adopts a problem-based learning approach, which will world. Links specific to occupational therapy are being developed in areas
enable you to become a competent occupational therapist that has the such as Europe, Hong Kong, Malaysia, North America and Australasia.
Links with the professional body necessary skills, knowledge and attitudes to develop, deliver and evaluate
occupational therapy services in a range of traditional and innovative Research profile
• No student BAOT group settings. The Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy group at Health research is organised at faculty level with collaboration across
Leeds Metropolitan University is the first of its kind in the UK and so the school boundaries and with many external partners. All permanent
• 80% of students are BAOT members hallmark of the programme is its occupational focus, for which it has been academics involved in the occupational therapy course are research active
commended. and most have, or are working towards, a PhD.
• As at September 2007 Leeds is not paying for You will participate in a wide range of learning experiences including
students BAOT membership shared learning with other student health professionals. You will also
undertake a minimum of 1000 hours of supervised professional practice,
Future developments
• Programme Lead is an occupational therapist including an innovative role emerging placement. The Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy group are consistently
The programme is unique in that part of the West Yorkshire Collaboration developing their research activities both in terms of partners and topics.
• 6 occupational therapy teaching staff.
for Occupational Therapy Education, working with Bradford and

Links
All are BAOT members
• A range of other professionals are involved in both
the development, review and delivery of the
programme; included service users and carers,
Staff are involved in Consultancy activities for a variety of organisations.
Huddersfield universities and local occupational therapy service.
How to apply
Applications should be made direct to the university – please contact the

with the
Travellers Education Services, Youth Workers,
Practitioners from differing health and social care
course administrator for details.

Application and interview process

settings
professional
• 35 Practice Placement Educators are APPLE
accredited
There are two stages to the application process – screening of the
application form and some applicants may need to attend for a
standardised interview.

body
• 2 occupational therapy team belong to specialist
sections: 1-Mental Health, 1-Learning Disabilities

COT HANDBOOK 2009

England

London
Qualifying programmes MSc Occupational Therapy (pre-registration) IRISH LEAVING CERT 260 UCAS tariff points from at least 5 subjects one of
This course has been validated to commence from September 2008 and which should be from Biology, Human Biology, Psychology or Sociology
1. BSc/OT Full-time will complement the current BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy full and
2. BSc/OT Part-time part-time. ACCELERATED ROUTES
3. MSc/OT Pre-registration It has been designed as an alternative route for students who already hold An Honours first or upper second class degree. Graduates from all
an Honours Bachelor degree who wish to gain a license to practice as well disciplines will be considered, while strong applicants will demonstrate a
Duration of Programme as enhancing their research profile. The programme takes place full time science profile and evidence of informed insight into the profession of
Brunel University 1. 3 years over two years. Some modules are shared with other postgraduate Occupational Therapy. Applicants with a lower second Honours Degree
Mary Seacole Building 2. 4 years programmes and the practice placements occur over the summer months. and experience of working in a health or social care setting will also be
Uxbridge considered.
3. 2 years (fast track)
Middlesex How to apply Applicants will be expected to provide evidence of recent (in the previous
Programme starts BSc/OT Full-time – all applications must be via UCAS five years) appropriate academic achievement prior to entry onto the
UB8 3PH September 2009 programme.
BSc/OT Part-time – applications direct to the University
Number of places available MSc/OT Pre-registration – direct application to the University
www.brunel.ac.uk Additional information regarding standard
1. 145
Application and interview process entry requirements
Contacts 2. 40 BSc/OT Full-time – Interviews may be required as appropriate to International Baccalaureate or equivalent qualifications are welcomed. All
Christopher Bailey 3. 30 application applicants are strongly encouraged to visit occupational therapy units prior
Full-time programme BSc/OT Part-time – Interviews may be required as appropriate to to entry to the course.
application
tel: 01895268739 About the area MSc/OT Pre-registration – Interviews may be required as appropriate to
email: occupationaltherapy-ft@brunel.ac.uk The Uxbridge Campus has the benefits of London without the high cost, application
Non standard entry requirements
Stephanie Tempest the noise and the numbers of people. On the western edge of London, it GCSE
offers a pleasant environment with recently improved on-site facilities and 5 GCSE subjects including mathematics and English Language or
Part-time programme excellent accommodation within striking distance of central London,
Funding equivalent
tel: 01895268689 Heathrow Airport and the M4/M25 motorway system. BSc/OT Full-time – NHS and independent funding
email: occupationaltherapy-pt@brunel.ac.uk BSc/OT Part-time – Limited NHS funding and independent funding GNVQ/AVCE
MSc/OT Pre-registration – Limited NHS and independent funding A minimum of 2 AS subjects from Human Biology/Biology, Psychology or
Lesley Wilson About the programme/university Sociology
MSc (Pre-registration) programme Brunel University is a research-led University, which has invested in a new Standard entry requirements
tel: 01895268779 purpose built, state of the art building for the School of Health GCSE ACCESS
email: health-studies-courses@brunel.ac.uk Sciences and Social Care with specialist occupational therapy facilities. It 5 at grade C or above to include English language and mathematics Relevant ACCESS courses will be considered provided that the number of
has on-site halls of residence, sports gym, extensive catering and Level 3 and level 2 credits meets the University course requirement.
social facilities, libraries, computer centre, together with excellent welfare GNVQ/AVCE Normally this will be determined by the number of credits available and
Links with the professional body services and support for overseas students. A2 required to successfully complete an ACCESS course.
3 at grade BCC, 260 UCAS Tariff points including one from human science
• Student BAOT group e.g. human biology, psychology or sociology SCOTTISH HIGHERS As above
Key features of the programme
• 50% of students are BAOT members BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy (full and part-time) AVCE IRISH LEAVING CERT As above
As a large occupational therapy course situated in cosmopolitan West (Double Award) Health and social care BB plus
• As at September 2007 Brunel is not paying for London, students benefit from good facilities, a large, well qualified staff Grade D at A2, 260 UCAS Tariff points ACCELERATED ROUTES As above
students BAOT membership group and studying with students from a wide variety of backgrounds.
Much of the teaching is in small seminar groups, and all students have a AVCE
• Programme Lead is an occupational therapist Additional information regarding non standard

Links
personal tutor, therefore students also benefit from more individual
• 25 occupational therapy teaching staff. attention.
20 are BAOT members The degree integrates theory with practice and periods of university study
prepare students for practice placements in a variety of health, social
• Other professions contributing to the care and voluntary settings. Experience gained in practice placements is
(Single Award) Health and social care B plus
2 A2 at grade CC, 260 UCAS Tariff Points
Other e.g. Irish & Scottish
equivalent to the above with 260 UCAS Tariff points
entry requirements
Applicants holding relevant HE Diplomas or Degrees will be considered.
Additionally non-standard applicants should demonstrate relevant work
experience, together with their academic profile.

with the
programme: Psychologists, Physiotherapists,
Specialist Teachers, Health & Social Service managers
and practitioners.
integrated and shared through campus-based studies. The course utilizes a
range of learning strategies, enabling students to become independent
learners prepared for lifelong professional development. Using real case
ACCESS For ACCESS see non-standard entry Overseas applicants
Overseas students are welcomed and are supported by Brunel
studies in student centered seminars assists preparation for future
professional
• The majority of our Placement Educators are APPLE
accredited,
professional practice.
Full and part-time students study the same modules. Part-time students
study university modules two days per week and placement modules full-
SCOTTISH HIGHERS
260 UCAS tariff points in 3 subjects at advanced higher level or equivalent
International, the University Services and by the occupational therapy staff
team.

body
• COT specialist interest groups include: mental health,
neurological practice, older people, work and
paediatrics.
time. Some modules are shared with full and part-time physiotherapy
students and social work students.

COT HANDBOOK 2009

England

London

International/EU links
For the full-time programme only, there is limited opportunity to study in
some other European countries at the end of year 2.

Research profile
The Division of Occupational Therapy contributes to the research profile of
the School of Health Sciences and Social Care with a high proportion of
the teaching team being research active. In 2007 a Centre for Professional
Practice Research was approved by the University with the Director and
Associate Director both being occupational therapists.

The aim of the Centre is to excel in professional practice research to

support and empower students, academics, clinicians and service users to
promote high standards in clinical practice in the disciplines of
occupational therapy, physiotherapy, social work and nursing through the
application of best evidence and by bridging the theory-practice divide.

Future developments
As well as ongoing research projects with colleagues in practice, the
development of several Masters programmes linked to occupational
therapy is being considered by the School.

COT HANDBOOK 2009

England

London
Qualifying programmes MSc/PgDip Programme:
The Masters/Postgraduate Diploma programme is based on philosophies of
1. BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy self-directed learning, problem-based learning and critical reflection com-
2. MSc/ PgDip (Pre-reg) Occupational Therapy bined with self-assessment. It offers an intensive programme of study sup-
Duration of Programme ported by lectures, seminars and individual and group study developed
around problem-based triggers. Thirty-three weeks (1200 hours) of practice
1. 4 years (part-time) placement is also integrated within the programme. The curriculum frames
2. 2 years the study of human occupation and its application to health and social
Programme starts care across the lifespan. Educational experience is designed and se-
quenced to ensure that a clear and confident role identity is developed
1. September or February 2009 along with a strong understanding of the occupational needs of people.
London Southbank University 2. September 2009
Southwark Number of places available This Masters level programme focuses on producing competent
occupational therapy practitioners who are able to:
1. September: 40 February: 30 – Demonstrate strong professional role identity
Contacts
2. September: 70 – Work in partnership with colleagues, users, carers, to promote health
Mish Ahmed-Landeryou
through occupation
email: ahmedlmj@lsbu.ac.uk
– Work in partnership with change, across a range of health and social
tel: 020 7815 8454 Key features of the programme service settings
BSc (Hons) Programme: – Contribute to modern, high quality care for the benefit of clients, users,
Maria Caunce The course is designed specifically to meet the needs of individuals who, carers and employers
email: cauncemt@lsbu.ac.uk for personal circumstances, are unable to access a full-time course in Occu- – Contribute to the evolution of the profession through the
tel: 020 7815 8096 pational Therapy or who wish to remain in employment whilst studying. implementation of evidence-based practice and scholarship
The design of the Occupational Therapy course and all the other Allied
Health Profession courses at LSBU has an interprofessional learning pro-
gramme of shared units. The course uses particular modes of teaching and
Standard entry requirements
learning, recognising that students will be studying part-time. BSc (Hons) Programme:
– 160 UCAS Tariff points
Those qualifying from this course will have the necessary knowledge and – 2 A or A/S levels at grade C
understanding to practice in Occupational Therapy with a diverse popula- – GNVQ or NVQ Level 3
tion within a wide variety of settings. Practice placements provide opportu- – Access courses in health or social care
nities for students to develop graduate key skills as well as core – HND or BTec both with level 3 units)
Occupational Therapy skills. The course is delivered in partnership between – Relevant foundation diploma
employing authorities (in-service) and university staff. – Relevant diploma
– If you do not possess a qualification identified here but feel it is at entry
Prospective employers: level to university then do discuss this with us
– (in-service) are expected to ensure that the employee: – If you are an inservice applicant and have been working in the public
sector for more than 2 years and do not hold any qualifications but have
Links with the professional body – has leave to attend all scheduled sessions & placements related to
kept up with regular CPD activities, then do discuss your options with us
the course
• As at September 2007 LSBU is not paying for – receive the support as agreed at the start of the course
students BAOT membership – receives appropriate supervision as a support worker MSc/PgDip Programme:
– can gain access to resources to undertake learning in the workplace Applicants must have an Honours degree in any subject area and relevant
– has support managing the transition from unqualified to qualified experience of working in a health, social care or related area.
member of staff
Additional information regarding non standard entry requirements
Prospective students: The selection process includes a number of strands: you will have to pro-
– (in-service) must be responsible to ensure continuing communication vide a report, an application form and references. Once initially selected,
between the university and the employer regarding their progress on some people may be interviewed before they are offered a place. If you are
the course offered a place you must successfully complete both a CRB and occupa-
– must ensure continuing communication with their employer (in-service) tional health check.
and course unit leaders when not able to attend the scheduled study
days
– must identify a mentor who is an Occupational Therapist who is not part Post qualifying programmes
of the establishment that they work in. If this is deemed difficult then LSBU also offers a postgraduate/masters course and masters modules.
the student will get guidance Please see our postgraduate prospectus for more information.

COT HANDBOOK 2009

England

Northampton
Qualifying programmes How to apply Non standard entry requirements
BSc (Honours) Occupational Therapy Full time UCAS Each application is considered on its own merit.
Part time direct to the University Evidence of successful recent study at degree entry level is required.
Duration of Programme
3 years full time Application and interview process Overseas applicants
4 years part time Application forms will be screened for qualifications, personal statement Applications from overseas are welcomed. Individuals are considered on
University of Northampton Programme starts and references. Short-listed applicants are invited for group interviews. his/her merits but must have attained a satisfactory level in a pre-degree
Division of Occupational Therapy Conditional offers will be made on the basis of this and successful course of study or equivalent
September 2009 Occupational Health and enhanced disclosure screening. Applicants with English as his/her second language must have achieved
Boughton Green Road, Number of places available level 7 in IELTS or equivalent, with no element below 6.5.
Northampton 64 full time Funding
NN2 7AL 15 part time NHS bursaries are available for UK and EU students Post qualifying programmes
Continuing professional development modules are delivered as stand-
www.northampton.ac.uk Standard entry requirements alone modules or can form part of the MSc framework. Occupational
About the area GCE therapists can complete an MSc in Advanced Occupational Therapy
In the heart of the Midlands, with easy rail and motorway access, 240 UCAS Tariff points including 2 GCE A-level / AVCE awards at a or an MSc Health Studies degree.
Contacts Northampton is a charming 800 year old market town that combines the minimum grade C in subjects other than General Studies or one AVCE Three occupational therapy specific modules are available: Current Issues
Glynis Hill traditional and the modern to create a very special place to visit - at any double award at a minimum of grade CC. for Therapists, Advanced Skills and Occupation for Occupational Therapists.
Admissions Tutor time of year. In the centre you will find a superb range of retail outlets In addition opportunities exist for occupational therapists to undertake
Full time and part time from major high street names to individual specialist shops, to the historic GNVQ/AVCE research higher degrees (MPhil and PhD).
Market Square – one of the largest and most impressive in England. Sports, Equivalence to 240 UCAS points
tel: 01604 892675 leisure and nightlife are all locally accessible offering a range of activities
email: glyn.hill@northampton.ac.uk BTEC: International/EU links
to suit all tastes. 18 units; graded MERIT, MERIT, MERIT.
Admissions Team Staff and student exchanges are positively encouraged. Links have been
formed between Sweden, Finland, Canada, Chile, USA, Australia and New
tel: 01604 735500 ext 2651 ACCESS
About the programme/university Zealand.
email: Admissions@northampton.ac.uk The University of Northampton is a dynamic, modern university. It is large
Pass
01604 720680 enough to offer top quality opportunities and small enough to retain a Research profile
SCOTTISH HIGHERS
friendly atmosphere. The School of Health is a major school in the The university has a Professor in Occupational Therapy and a readership in
240 Tariff points as above to include at least 3 Highers.
institution and offers interprofessional learning opportunities and a occupational science. Occupational therapy staff are currently engaged in
growing reputation for research. The Division has a Professor and Reader active research. The division’s research focus is ‘Health through
IRISH LEAVING CERT
in Occupational Therapy. There are excellent library, media and IT services. Occupation’. The division’s wide range of expertise in research
Highers at grades AAA or BBBB.
The university is very much an international player with over 700 methodology includes specialisation in Q methodology. Students are
international students from 100 different countries each year. involved as primary data collectors. The division regularly publishes papers
APEL
Applicants are welcome to apply for accreditation. A School of Health and presents at conferences.
Key features of the programme panel will make decisions based on individual circumstances
Future developments
Links with the professional body BSc programme
ACL The university is developing an expanding distance learning,
The degree is taught in a range of delivery styles, including lectures,

Links
• No student BAOT group tutorials, seminars and enquiry based learning, catering for differing
As above internationally linked and inter-professional education.

• As at September 2007 Northampton is not paying for student needs. A variety of assessment styles are used including essays,
projects, presentations, examinations and vivas. There is also the Additional information regarding standard
students BAOT membership opportunity to undertake primary research. Interprofessional learning entry requirements

with the
• Programme Lead is an occupational therapist
• 18 occupational therapy teaching staff.
All are BAOT members
opportunities are an integral part of the course. The applicant will have English as his/her first language or achieve level 7
Full-time programme in IELTS or equivalent, with no element below 6.5.
Delivered over three terms per year with practice placements over one The applicant will demonstrate a knowledge and understanding of
term of each year. Most placements are Midlands based but national and occupational therapy practice.

professional
• Other professions contributing to the
programme are: Sociologists
international placements form part of the practice portfolio.
Part-time routes
The programme is designed to suit the learning needs of part-time
The applicant will show a desire to practise as an occupational therapist.
The applicant’s lifestyle will be well rounded, showing a range of work,
leisure and social interests.
students. It is delivered over three extended terms per year requiring a

body
commitment of three days per week; two days in university and a third day
for study. Part-time placements are organised at appropriate intervals
and the programme can be adjusted to full-time if required.
The applicant will have experienced a variety of environments and events
within her/his life.
The applicant will be reliable and trustworthy.

COT HANDBOOK 2009

England

Northumbria
Qualifying programmes How to apply • Candidates normally over 18 years.
• Candidates subject to health screening/ enhanced Criminal Records
1. BSc (Hons) BSc (Hons) via UCAS
Bureau (CRB) clearance.
MSc (pre-reg) direct to institution, (online application available)
2. MSc (pre-reg) BTEC National Diploma
Duration of Programme Application and interview process 4 Distinctions and 1 Merit
• European Baccalaureate 68 per cent
1. 3 years A comprehensive programme of introductory talk, campus tour with • International Baccalaureate 26 points
Name of awarding higher education institution 2. 2 years current students, talk by new graduate, group problem-solving exercise
University of Northumbria at Newcastle and group interview, seeks to demonstrate the excellence of the
Programme starts Northumbria experience whilst selecting students in an effective and
Vocational Diplomas will be accessed on an individual basis
Newcastle City Campus 1. September 2009 relaxed way.
Ellison Place 2. January 2010 Non standard entry requirements
Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 8ST Number of places available Funding Non-standard entries individually assessed.
UK The Northern Strategic Health Authority/Workforce Development
1. 60 Confederation pays the fees of eligible students, who may apply for a Overseas applicants
Coach Lane Campus
2. 15 means tested NHS bursary. Alternative funding may be available Overseas recruitment is undertaken through the International office of the
through secondment, sponsorship or private funding. university. General enquiries about the programme are welcomed by
Coach Lane
Benton About the area the admissions team.
Newcastle is the regional capital of the North East. A bright, lively,
Standard entry requirements
Newcastle upon Tyne, NE7 7 XA GCSE International/EU links
energetic and youthful city – one in six of the population of Newcastle is a
UK student. Newcastle offers easy access to York, Carlisle, Durham and 5 passes at grade C or above, Within the programme structure, the opportunity exists for students to
Scotland, together with the spectacular beaches and moors of to include English language and a science subject undertake an elective placement abroad
www.northumbria.ac.uk Northumberland.
GCE/AVCE
280 UCAS Tariff points from a maximum of 3 subjects, excluding General
Post qualifying programmes
Contacts About the programme/university Studies. No more than 20 poinits from key skills. MSc in Health and Social Care (practice development and education):
Admissions Northumbria University is one of the largest institutions in the UK, with prepares health and social care professionals to facilitate student
over 23,000 students studying full-time or part-time. The two main ACCESS learning in the practice setting.
tel: 0191 243 7900 campuses are in Newcastle, with Coach Lane Campus about three miles 48 credits at level 3 Postgraduate framework: provides taught postgraduate units at M level
email: hs.admissions@northumbria.ac.uk from the city centre. The university has its own free bus service
and above, combinations of which will lead to named awards.
fax: 0191 227 4561 between the two sites plus regular bus and metro services. SCOTTISH HIGHERS
There is a wide range of services and resources, including health centres an BBBCC (Advanced Highers BBC) Individual units can be studied leading to PG certificate and PG diploma
excellent library, computing and sports facilities, as well as counselling and awards.
accommodation services. The students’ union also provides a wide range of IRISH LEAVING CERT Continuing Interprofessional Development Framework (CiPD).
recreational and welfare facilities. BBBBC
Links with the professional body Key features of the programme ACCELERATED ROUTES

Links
Modules are credit weighted within the Credit Accumulation and Transfer MSc (pre-reg) - One of the following
• Student BAOT group Scheme (CATS). Some Honours degree in a health subject or related subject to occupational
• As at September 2007 Northumbria is not paying for modules offer opportunities for shared learning with, for example, nursing, therapy, within last 5 years (1st or 2:1).
midwifery, social work and physiotherapy students.
students BAOT membership Practice placements are interspersed with university based learning. The
An Honours degree within last 5 years (1st or 2:1) and relevant pre-

with the
• Programme Lead is an
occupational therapist
majority of these are undertaken within the Northern and Yorkshire region.
However, a year 2 placement is elective and offers choice of location.
Assessment takes a variety of forms, including individual assignments,
professional experience.
Overseas trained therapists with professional occupational therapy
qualifications at higher education diploma level. Applicants should also
• Other professions contributing to the
professional group work and presentations. have an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score
programme: physiotherapy, nursing, social work, The pre-registration two year Master’s degree has been designed to meet of 6.5.
midwifery, medicine and operating department the needs of graduates with a first degree in a subject related to Accredited Prior Learning (APL), Accredited Prior Experiential Learning
occupational therapy, e.g. psychology. The programme is structured around (APEL), Accredited Work Based Learning (AWBL) may be appropriate.
practitioners.
body an enquiry-based learning approach, in which students work together and
individually to further their comprehension, analysis and application of the
material underpinning occupational therapy. There is a balance between
APEL
Entry with advanced standing will be considered through the University’s
sessions in which new material is developed AP(E)L system.
and those in which consolidation of learning takes place. Practical sessions
are facilitated by staff to help students to gain competence in skills prior to Additional information regarding standard
practice placements. All modules have been designed with 3 themes – entry requirements
skills, theory and enquiry/research, to ensure the evidence-base of practice General studies not considered.
is integral to all learning.

COT HANDBOOK 2009

England

Norwich
Qualifying programmes ‘campus’ across a diverse health, education and social care environment, vivas and a research proposal – all of which ensure that students can
and the integration of theory and practice in all settings prepares demonstrate both theoretical and practical knowledge and skills.
1. BSc (Hons) graduates for the challenges of practice and registration with the Health MSc programme
2. MSc (pre-reg) Professions Council. A partly shared curriculum with physiotherapy, this full time two year
Duration of Programme The School has consistently received recognition for excellence in programme is designed to encourage students to link theory and practice
provision; in 2006 the School achieved the highest awards in Quality by a two-way process of reflection and action. Reflecting the graduate
1. 3 years full time Assurance Agency Major Review. The most recent endorsement was in status of students, the programme promotes increasingly self-directed
University of East Anglia: Norwich 2. 2 years full time 2007 with the BSc occupational therapy programme receiving formal study and uses IT-based learning where appropriate. Case scenarios are
School of Allied Health Professions Programme starts approval from the Health Professions Council and accredited by the used to lead professional development through problem solving. Masters
Faculty of Health College of Occupational Therapists. In addition, UEA was the highest level study will be facilitated and demonstrated through applied and
1. September 2009 ranked University (excepting the Open University) for student satisfaction advanced clinical reasoning and the justification of client management via
University of East Anglia (UEA) 2. February 2009 in the National Student Survey 2006. a critical application of the evidence-base. Day conferences will take place,
Earlham Road Number of places available Special provision for students with disabilities focusing on placement experiences.
Norwich UEA operates an equal opportunities admissions policy. For further Placement Education is a compulsory element of learning and as such,
1. 45 information about student support please visit the Dean of Students web students are expected to meet both personal and professional obligations
Norfolk
NR4 7TJ
2. 21 pages: http://www.uea.ac.uk/dos/ to facilitate the placement experience. Each student will achieve a
Additional information balanced placement profile by the end of the course. Placements are
Home to approximately 13,000 students and 2,400 staff, UEA is a leading undertaken across a range of health and social care settings and students
www.ahp.uea.ac.uk About the area University with a dynamic community. Excellent facilities such as the sports are placed across the Eastern region and in some instances, further afield.
Actor and writer Stephen Fry summed up Norwich as ‘.. a fine city. None park and library which houses an extensive range of literature including To fulfil the requirements of this aspect of training, students are expected
finer.’ His words reflected the city’s own motto but also the strong cultural electronic resources are available for students to access. to travel, stay in alternative accommodation and make arrangements for
Contacts heritage that has seen Norwich maintain the best of its historical character The University has an excellent on-site nursery catering for babies and commitments outside the course during the placement blocks.
Sally Lloyd (BSc programme) whilst developing to become one of the most vibrant and attractive cities children of students and staff. The nursery is registered by Ofsted, for more Accommodation for the placement is arranged when required. There is a
tel: 01603 597136 in Europe. information visit the nursery website at www.ueanursery.co.uk. cost implication associated with placement experience which students will
email: otpt.admiss@uea.ac.uk Norwich has been a thriving trading city for the last 900 years and for be responsible for. For this reason, the School encourages students to take
much of that time was England’s second city after London. The Cathedral, the opportunity to apply for NHS Bursary funding.
fax: 01603 597019 the Castle, the Royal Arcade, the University of East Anglia and the Forum Key features of the programme The student on placement is supported by an identified placement
Emma Roper (MSc programme) are all exemplars of high quality design and architecture across the ages. BSc programme educator within the placement setting and by the student’s personal
tel: 01603 593085 Major recent developments include the 42-acre Riverside leisure, retail and This is a full time three year BSc (Hons) programme which shares a parallel advisor from the School.
email: foh.pgt@uea.ac.uk residential development, the £275m Chapelfield shopping development and interlaced curriculum with physiotherapy and speech and language Students select and organise an ‘elective’ placement in their final year of
fax: 01603 593166 and the £229m Norfolk and Norwich Hospital. The city is consistently therapy students. The programme is designed to encourage students to study and may choose to undertake this placement in a national or
rated as one of the top ten shopping venues in the UK and is a founder acquire the skills of life long learning and problem solving alongside the international setting.
member of the Cultural Cities Network. professional knowledge and skills required to work as an occupational Assessment on the MSc programme adopts a continual assessment process
The city is surrounded by beautiful countryside and within easy reach of therapist. The learning processes are facilitated by a variety of teaching throughout the two years of study rather than a system of final exams. All
Links with the professional body the sea. A wide variety of visitors come to the region every year to enjoy methods including lectures, workshops, seminars, case study work, assignments must be successfully completed. Assessment comprises unseen
boating on the Broads, the protected nature and wildlife habitats as well practical work and presentations. course tests, essays, practical demonstrations, poster presentations, vivas and
• Student BAOT group as differing traditions of seaside towns. Placement Education is a compulsory element of learning and as such, a research proposal – all of which ensure that students can demonstrate both
students are expected to meet both personal and professional obligations theoretical and practical knowledge and skills.
• 100% of students are BAOT members to facilitate the placement experience. Each student will achieve a Both the BSc (Hons) and the MSc programmes prepare students for the
About the programme/university balanced placement profile by the end of the course. Placements are
• As at September 2007 UEA is not paying for Based in award winning, purpose built premises in the heart of campus,
demands of future practice through an emphasis on professional issues
undertaken across a range of health and social care settings and students both within the university and the placement setting. Course work is
students BAOT membership the School of Allied Health Professions provides pre-registration are placed across the Eastern region and in some instances, further afield. designed to link theory and practice and students are taught by members
education and training in occupational therapy, physiotherapy and
• Programme Lead or equivalent is an To fulfil the requirements of this aspect of training, students are expected of faculty who are experienced subject specialists and by expert
speech and language therapy. The School operates within the Faculty of

Links
occupational therapist to travel, stay in alternative accommodation and make arrangements for practitioners. Most faculty are also engaged in research, many with a
Health alongside the Schools of Medicine, Health Policy and Practice, commitments outside the course during the placement blocks. national profile and some an international profile.
• 13 occupational therapy teaching staff. Nursing and Midwifery and offers students an environment to study Accommodation for the placement is arranged when required. There is a The programmes are designed to develop therapists who are:
alongside healthcare students from nine different disciplines including
12 are BAOT members cost implication associated with placement experience which students will competent to practise using knowledge and skills specific to their
medicine, all branches of nursing, paramedics and pharmacy. be responsible for. For this reason, the School encourages students to take profession in order to enable individuals and groups to optimise their

with the
• Other professions contributing to the programme:
Lecturers in physiotherapy and speech and language
therapy, occupational therapy clinicians, service users,
As a centre for international health research, the School is home to a
thriving research community and delivers high quality postgraduate
research and taught programmes catering for all health professionals.
the opportunity to apply for NHS Bursary funding.
The student on placement is supported by an identified placement
educator within the placement setting and by a visiting tutor from the
health and social well-being;
life-long learners, capable of using reflective practice within a framework
of continuing professional development;
Renowned for its unique and distinctive interprofessional and School. critical in evaluating their practice, seeking to base their practice on

professional
carers and representatives from a variety of
organisations relevant to the delivery of health and
social care services.
interdisciplinary pre and post registration provision in the education and
training of health professions, the School of Allied Health Professions
delivers research-led and evidence based curricula that ensure graduates
Students select and organise an ‘elective’ placement in their final year of
study and may choose to undertake this placement in a national or
international setting.
research evidence and able to contribute towards the culture of enquiry
within their profession;
flexible and responsive to change, able to manage themselves and others

body
• 5 members of teaching staff in total belong to
specialist sections
are fit for practice in the modern health and social care sector.
The student experience and learning environment is central to the learning
and teaching strategy with teaching programmes operating on strong staff
Assessment on the BSc programme adopts a continual assessment process
throughout the three years of study rather than a system of final exams. All
assignments must be successfully completed. Assessment comprises
within changing contexts of health and social care whilst ensuring best
value;
able to operate in interdisciplinary teams and work effectively with
student ratios, with personal advisors providing individual professional, unseen course tests, essays, practical demonstrations, poster presentations, different professionals, agencies and individuals.
academic and pastoral support. Placement learning extends the University

COT HANDBOOK 2009

England
Norwich
Non standard entry requirements
GNVQ/AVCE
A2
Relevant subject e.g. biology, human biology or psychology at grade C or
above
ACCESS
Access in health and social care/Access in
natural sciences at 70%+ or Distinction or 4 credits above the minimum
number of level 3 credits required for a pass
How to apply
Applications for the BSc (Hons) programme should be made through Degree 2:2 in any subject
UCAS. To apply for the MSc programme, contact the MSc admissions
secretary at the School of Allied Health Professions. ACCELERATED ROUTES
Accelerated Routes - MSc programme
Degree in any subject preferably at grade 2:1 or above. Be able to
Application and interview process articulate orally and on paper
Our policy is to interview all candidates who pass the preliminary stage of
selection. All offers are subject to a satisfactory health and police
screening.
Additional information regarding non standard
entry requirements
Funding Clear understanding of occupational therapy, relevant work shadowing,
Currently all programmes offered by the School of Allied Health evidence of recent academic study and an interest in people. Consult
Professions are NHS Funded. This means that the Department of Health admissions officer to discuss individual needs.
covers the course fees. Successful applicants are also able to apply for a
means-tested NHS bursary towards living costs. Overseas applicants
For more information regarding NHS Funding please visit the NHS Student Only applicants who are also eligible to apply for a UK NHS training
Grants website: www.nhsstudentgrants.co.uk
bursary can be considered for a place on the programmes. If you are not a
Home/EU student, please visit the NHS Student Grants Website:
Standard entry requirements www.nhsstudentgrants.co.uk or contact the relevant Admissions Secretary
GCSE before applying to ensure your eligibility.
5 GCSEs at grade C or above to include English, If you meet this requirement and pass the preliminary stage of selection,
mathematics and double science you will be called for interview. Please note these interviews will take
place at UEA.
GNVQ/AVCE
A2
3 at grade BCC
Post qualifying programmes
Research environment
The Faculty of Health was created in 2004 with the intention of promoting
SCOTTISH HIGHERS
5 at grade C or above high quality interdisciplinary research and teaching. The School of Allied
Health Professions has excellent facilities housed in a purpose-built
building in close proximity to the other schools within the Faculty of
BTEC
4 Distinctions and 3 Merits (2nd year level of work) Health. In addition to the pre-registration and postgraduate taught
programmes, the School offers a well organised PhD programme in an
exciting and supportive environment. The support, high quality tuition and
ACCELERATED ROUTES
Accelerated Routes - MSc programme supervision of our research students and their projects, reflect the breadth
Degree in any subject preferably at grade 2:1 or above. Be able to of research and experience among the members of faculty and their
articulate orally and on paper commitment to an interdisciplinary approach. The last Subject Review
APEL carried out by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education
Consult admissions officer confirmed the School’s commitment to teaching excellence.
ACL Students will have ready access to training & support across the whole
Consult admissions officer Faculty, including expertise in both quantitative and qualitative
methodologies. Research in the Faculty of Health comes under three broad
headings – Health Services and Healthcare Research; Biomedical Research;
and Clinical Educational Research – and is organised in six major themes,
Additional information regarding standard including ‘Chronic Disease and Rehabilitation’ & ‘Evidence-Based Practice’.
entry requirements Students will be expected to join one of the research groups.
Clear understanding of occupational therapy, relevant work shadowing, a Research skills training
strong academic attainment, a broad academic base at GCSE level or There is an individual assessment of each student’s skills needs but the
equivalent and an interest in people. standard provision is:
COT HANDBOOK 2009
UEA offers a Professional Skills Training Programme (‘Transitions’ – based research posts in research synthesis and in health statistics have been
on the UK Research Council’s Joint Skills Statement) to all Post Graduate developed and funded. The School of Allied Health Professions now has a
Research students. This aims to support the student at all stages of study substantial number of MPhil/ PhD students and a growing programme of
in developing skills now and for the future. Training sessions organised by funded research.
the UEA Centre for Skills Education Development are available to the The School has been successful in attracting substantial research funding
student (e.g. use of bibliographic software packages; writing for from a wide range of establishments including:
publication). the Department of Health
Research Councils
Individual units on the post registration MSc for Health Sciences are professional bodies
available to all students so, for example, if the student does not have a medical research charities and trusts
recent MSc qualification they may also attend the Introduction to Research local purchasers and providers of health care.
Methods – quantitative & qualitative methods with an option to continue
on the Advanced Research Methods units or the Self-Directed Literature
Future developments
Review unit. The School of Allied Health Professions continues to build upon its
Students also attend monthly Allied Health Professions postgraduate academic and research profiles, both of which contribute towards a strong
research seminars and are expected to formally present at one of these identity in terms of establishing occupational therapy as a valuable
seminar per year. They also have the opportunity to attend a variety of profession. There are numerous future initiatives including
research development seminars, which are presented by both internal and
external speakers.
the development of an Allied Health Professions clinic and expanding upon
the current range of short course programmes delivered by faculty within
Research supervision the School.
The PhD programme at the School of Allied Health Professions has a well-
established supervision process. Students are allocated two supervisors to
guide the development of their research. Full time students have planned
supervision the equivalent of once every two weeks while part time
students meet once a month. There are established principles of submitting
agreed written work, recording the supervision and developing an action
plan based on that supervision. Formal student progress meetings take
place four times a year.
Further supervisory support is provided through a postgraduate
supervision panel whose membership will reflect the students’ research
needs. This brings together the supervisors with three or four other
academics who may be drawn from Schools within the University or other
universities or research bases. Supervisory panels are convened three times
a year for full time students (twice a year for part time students). Before
each panel the student is expected to circulate discussion papers of 2-
3,000 words. During the panel the student presents on a focussed aspect
of the paper. The panels allow the student and the supervisory team to
review progress, to develop the project and to gain advice and support
from external experts.
Post Graduate Research students also have access to a range of experts
across the Faculty of Health, as well as being part of a large research
community.
The School also offers an extensive range of post graduate short course
programmes.
International/EU links
Within the programme structure there are opportunities for students to
undertake an elective placement abroad; this does however need to meet
the approval of the Placements Team. The school has international links in
research and education.
Research profile
The School’s research programme is based on building project partnerships
with professional and special interest groups, health trusts and voluntary
organisations. The School’s research mission is to produce high quality
research which supports the clinical effectiveness of occupational therapy,
physiotherapy, speech and language therapy and the promotion of health
and well-being.
Dedicated support staff are employed for various research programmes.
All faculty are active in research and scholarly work. Senior specialist
England

Oxford
Qualifying programmes may be offered a place on the course on their application alone or they Overseas applicants
may be invited to submit a supporting essay, attend an interview and/or
1. BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy provide additional references.
Applications are welcomed from international students. An English
language proficiency test may be required and applicants are required to
2. BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy achieve 6.5 in the IELTS, plus be eligible for matriculation into a university
Duration of Programme Funding in their home country.
1. 3 years 70 full time and 5 part time students who meet the eligibility criteria for For general details about joining a course as an international student go
NHS funded tuition fees. to our website; shsc.brookes.ac.uk/international.html. For specific details
Oxford Brookes University 2. 4 years In-service students are funded by their local Strategic Health Authority. about joining the Occupational Therapy course as an overseas student
Occupational Therapy Programme starts International students must pay full international student fees. please contact the Programme Administrator.
School of Health & Social Care September 2009
Oxford Brookes University Number of places available Standard entry requirements Post qualifying programmes
Jack Straws Lane 1. 70 Full Time, 5 Part time GCSE Certificate in Posture Management (administered by the Nuffield
Marston Five passes at grade C or above to include English, Math and Science Orthopaedic Centre Oxford)
2. 15 In-service MSc Rehabilitation
Oxford GCE/VCE
OX3 0FL Three A levels at Grade C or above International/EU links
A generous annual scholarship is currently available to enable an
www.brookes.ac.uk About the area ACCESS occupational therapy graduate of Oxford Brookes University to study full
Oxford Brookes University is located in the beautiful city of Oxford. With its Minimum of 54 credits at level 3 time for an MSc in Occupational Therapy at the Boston School of
large student population, the city provides a rich and unparalleled student Occupational Therapy, Tufts University, USA,.
Contacts experience. Despite its centuries of history and tradition, Oxford is a SCOTTISH HIGHERS
Lesley Maudsley thoroughly modern and forward-looking city with a cosmopolitan 240 UCAS points
tel: 01865 485526 population, vibrant atmosphere and tantalising nightlife. Oxford has
Research profile
excellent transport links to London and the rest of the South-East. IRISH LEAVING CERT A designated occupational therapy Reader in Occupational Therapy, and
email: occupationaltherapy@brookes.ac.uk the Professor of Occupational Therapy, work with the teaching staff on a
Grade B1 or above in two subjects and three grades C1 or above in five
fax: 01865 482775 Honours level subjects to include English and Biology. number of research projects. They also work with local occupational
About the programme/university therapists and in collaboration with other universities. Current research is
The University is situated on a hill overlooking the dreaming spires of focused on occupational therapy in a number of diverse clinical areas, and
Additional information regarding standard the education of health and social care students. The school has a
Oxford. The School of Health and Social Care has dedicated ‘state of the
art’ clinical simulation suites for practical skills tuition, such as manual entry requirements designated research laboratory.
handing, communication, activities of daily living and orthotics. A large BTec National Diploma at DMM
lecture theatre, canteen and student computing facilities provide a
campus dedicated to the education of health and social care students Non standard entry requirements
Links with the professional body but within walking distance to the main University campus. GCSE
Pass in GCSE English and Maths or equivalent
• Student BAOT group Key features of the programme GCE/vCE
• 70% of students are BAOT members The BSc (Hons) in Occupational Therapy at Oxford Brookes University is One A level at grade C or above
inter-professional and modular in programme structure. The programme
• As at September 2007 Oxford Brookes is not paying currently consists of 24 module credits, a percentage of which are taken ACCESS
for students BAOT membership alongside physiotherapy, social work and nursing students. The programme 54 credits at Level 3
uses case based learning to equip students with the knowledge, values and
• Programme Lead is an occupational therapist professional strategies to be able to function effectively and autonomously SCOTTISH HIGHERS

Links
• 13 occupational therapy teaching staff.
11 are BAOT members
• Other professions contributing to the
in all spheres of occupational therapy. Students are assessed at the end of
each semester using a variety of assessment strategies such as
coursework, examinations and portfolios. All students are supported by a
personal tutor throughout their occupational therapy degree at Oxford
Brookes University. Practice placement modules are taken during each
Grade C in one Advanced higher subject or two grades of C in Higher
subjects

IRISH LEAVING CERT

with the
programme: Physiotherapists, Nurses, Social Workers,
Osteopaths and Midwives
academic year of the degree at locations across London and the South-
East.
Two grades of C1 or above in Honours subjects

APEL
• 40 APPLE accredited Practice Placement Educators 2:2 Honours degree in a subject relevant to occupational therapy

professional
• Staff belonging to specialist sections:
(1) Neurological Practice Specialist Section
How to apply
BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy Full time via UCAS
BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy Part Time and In-service Direct
Additional information regarding non standard
entry requirements
(1) Mental Health Specialist Section
body
application to the university
For specific details about joining the Occupational Therapy course as a
(1) People with learning disabilities Specialist Section. mature student please contact the Programme Administrator.
Application and interview process
Applicants, who meet the academic entry requirements, demonstrate an
understanding of occupational therapy and provide satisfactory references

COT HANDBOOK 2009

England
Plymouth
Qualifying programmes
BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy
Duration of Programme
3 years
Programme starts
September 2009
Number of places available
55 - 60
University of Plymouth
School of Health Professions About the area
Peninsula Allied Health Centre Plymouth is the south west’s largest city with a thriving and energetic
Derriford Road student community. Our diverse student population covers all walks of life
and as well as cutting edge buildings for teaching and learning they enjoy
Derriford all the facilities and social activities of a modern, developing city.
Plymouth In addition students in Plymouth have unrivalled access to some of the
PL6 8BH most beautiful countryside within the UK; with the beaches and sea for
sailing and surfing and the moors for walking or cycling you can be
assured of an outstanding environment to learn and relax.
www.plymouth.ac.uk
About the programme/university
Admissions Officer Our occupational therapy programme is based in a purpose built state of
01752 233842 the art teaching environment which houses all of our Allied Health
hsw@plymouth.ac.uk Profession courses; therefore facilitating critical inter-professional
01752 233258 learning. The building benefits from not only the latest lecture and
computer facilities but also practical teaching areas within which clinical
skills can be practised within an academic environment. The faculty is
proud to have been awarded National Centre of Excellence Status for its
placement learning activities in health and social care. The practice
elements of our courses are always extremely popular with our students.
Key features of the programme
You will learn how to use everyday occupations and activities, creatively, in
order to promote health and wellbeing. Each academic year is divided into
two teaching blocks with a mix of profession specific and shared learning
Links with the professional body as well as the invaluable opportunity to use your developing skills in a
practice environment. You will explore theoretical concepts, principles and
• No student BAOT group
approaches and how they underpin practice. At all times you develop
• 60% of students are BAOT members reasoning, problem solving and communication skills that enable you to
employ this knowledge in relation to a wide range of conditions and
• As at September 2007 Plymouth is not paying for
Links
situations. The balance of academic and practice learning will ensure you
students BAOT membership become a well rounded therapist who is confident to act in a variety of
environments. Your final year project provides you with the exciting
• Programme Lead is an occupational therapist opportunity to focus on an area of particular interest.
• 9 occupational therapy teaching staff.
with the
9 are BAOT members
• 108 Practice Placement Educators APPLE accredited
How to apply
Applications should be made through UCAS.
The personal statement is an important element of the application.
professional
• Other professions contributing to the
programme: Sociology, Biology, Psychology. Application and interview process
Application and references are assessed against a person specification
• Staff members belonging to specialist sections: 6 based on key skills and understanding of the OT role. All successful
body applicants are invited to attend a preview day.
COT HANDBOOK 2009
Funding
Eligible applicants can apply for NHS funding which will pay tuition fees Research profile
and may provide an additional bursary. Self-funding may be considered. The Faculty of Health and Social Work has a dynamic research profile that
reflects its commitments to inter-professional and partnership working.
Standard entry requirements This is reflected across the Allied Health Professions with particular interest
GCSE in the areas of rehabilitation and professional practice.
5 GCSE Grades A - C to include English, maths and a
science subject. Future developments
Plus the following: The course is constantly reviewed to incorporate the latest trends and
Minimum of 180 UCAS points innovations from research and practice
(160 points from either two A Levels/one 12-Unit award). Science/Social
Science subjects preferred.
AS/3 Unit awards combined with above accepted.
GNVQ/AVCE
APEL
May be considered on an individual basis.
Additional information regarding standard
entry requirements
Alternative qualifications are considered, for example, BTEC, International
Baccalaureate.
BTEC New National Certificate grade DM, New National Diploma grade
MMP – preference in Health, science and or social science subjects
Non standard entry requirements
ACCESS
Evidence of study within the last 5 years.
Access students should complete a QAA recognised course with a
minimum of 45 credits at level 3 - science/social science preferred.
APEL
May be considered on an individual basis.
Overseas applicants
Overseas applicants are considered on an individual basis, contact us for
further information.
Post qualifying programmes
If you are looking to develop your studies beyond the BSc (Hons) OT to be
at the forefront of cutting edge Occupational Therapy and to gain the skills
required to undertake specialist consultancy based OT roles then the MSc
Advanced Professional Practice in OT will provide the route. Our world
renowned MSc is only one of a range of programmes and is studied
uniquely via distance learning. This course will provide practitioners
nationally and internationally with leading edge competencies.
Continuing professional development with the Faculty of Health & Social
Work can be done via Certificates, Diplomas, Masters, Credited Modules,
Conferences & Research Degrees in Multi-Professional Health Care
environments.
International/EU links
Qualification is recognised by the World
Federation of Occupational Therapists.
England

Salford
University of Salford Qualifying programmes Standard entry requirements
Directorate of Occupational Therapy 1. BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy GCSE
Faculty of Health and Social Care 5 at grades A to C, including english, maths
2. BSc(Hons) Occupational Therapy (part time) and a science subject
Allerton Building Duration of Programme A level preferable subjects psychology,
Frederick Road
1. 3 years sociology, biology, AVCE Health and Social Care
Salford 240 UCAS Tariff points at A2 level (will accept
M6 6PU
2. 4 ¼ years AVCE health and social care within the 240
Programme starts points)
www.salford.ac.uk September 2009
GNVQ/AVCE
Contacts Number of places available Health and Social Care preferred
Debbie Whittaker – Director 1. 58 MMM
tel: 0161 295 2398 2. 20
ACCESS
email: D.S.Whittaker@salford.ac.uk QAA approved
Vicky Halliwell About the area
Programme Leader – full time route Salford has the advantage of being centrally placed in Britain, providing SCOTTISH HIGHERS
tel: 0161 295 2394 opportunities for exploring Scotland, the Lake District, Wales and the 4 passes grade A/B in higher and 2 at ordinary level
email: V.Halliwell@salford.ac.uk South. A close proximity to Manchester makes a wide range of social and
cultural venues available to students. IRISH LEAVING CERT
Jacqui McKenna GPA 340 A-C in 6 subjects 4 at Higher level
Programme Leader –part time route About the programme/university
tel: 0161 295 2393 The Faculty of Health and Social Care is one of the largest of its type in APEL May be considered on an individual basis.
email: J.M.Mckenna@salford.ac.uk the country, offering opportunities to meet and work with students from
Heather Davidson a range of other professions. Overseas applicants
Admissions Tutor – full time route A forward thinking university that provides innovative and applied Applications are welcomed from overseas – please contact the programme
teaching utilizing up-to date expertise and technology. £130 million is leader or admissions tutor for further details or access the website.
tel: 0161 295 2364 being invested in new buildings and facilities.
email: H.Davidson@salford.ac.uk Post qualifying programmes
Deborah Davys Key features of the programme MSc Advanced Occupational Therapy – from September 2008. Others
Admissions Tutor – part time route The programmes are delivered via a problem-based learning approach. include a range of workshops, CPD sessions and practice placement
tel: 0161 295 2869 Students generally work in groups of 10-15 with keynote lectures delivered educator accreditation courses are available. Enquiries from those
email: D.Davys@salford.ac.uk to all. Practical skills are also inherent within the programmes. Six practice considering undertaking a PhD are welcome.
placements are spread throughout the three/four years ranging from 1
week to 10 weeks duration. All students undertake a 6 week role-emerging International/EU links
placement, working in an area without occupational therapy. Erasmus The directorate has links with the European Network of Occupational
Links with the professional body exchanges are also available for students wishing to complete a short
Therapists in Higher Education (ENOTHE). At level 2/3 there are
period of study abroad.
• Student BAOT group opportunities for an ERASMUS international exchange. At level 3 the final
Interprofessional learning continues to be developed within the university
practice placement can be arranged overseas, with approval.
• % of student BAOT members unknown and students will work with other AHP’s at all levels of the programme and
on placement.
• As at September 2007 Salford is not paying for Research profile

Links
students BAOT membership
• Programme Lead is an occupational therapist
• 17 occupational therapy teaching staff.
How to apply
Full time applications – UCAS
Part time applications – direct to HEI
The directorate is very research active with over half of the staff
undertaking research and 4 staff currently engaged in doctoral studies. The
areas covered by our research are diverse and range from occupational
therapy interventions to educational research.

with the
All are BAOT members
• 170+ Practice Placement Educators APPLE accredited
Application and interview process
Both full time and part-time programmes may interview students
Future developments
The MSc in Advanced Occupational Therapy is an e-learning programme

professional
• Other professions contributing to the
programme: Interprofessional learning takes place
Funding
For the full-time programme NHS bursaries/NHS North West payment of
tuition fees are available or students may be self-funded. For the part-time
and will be available from September 2008. This programme is delivered
totally on-line and aims to attract occupational therapists working across
the world.
with other health care professions in the university

body
and on placement.
• Specialist sections: 1 staff member (Incontinence)
route replacement costs may be available for those employed by the
NHS/social services in the North West and again tuition fees are paid by
NHS Northwest.

COT HANDBOOK 2009

England
Sheffield Hallam
Qualifying programmes
1. BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy
2. BSc Hons Occupational Therapy Full Time InService
3. MSc Occupational Therapy (pre-registration)
Duration of Programme
SHEFFIELD HALLAM UNIVERSITY 1. 3 years full time, 4-6 years part time
Faculty of Health and Wellbeing 2. 28 months full time
Collegiate Crescent 3. 28 months full time
Sheffield Programme starts
S1 1 WB 1. September 2009 subject to reaccreditation
www.shu.ac.uk 2. January 2011 subject to reaccreditation
3. January 2010
Contacts
Number of places available
Claire Craig – Full and Part Time
1. 65
BSc Hons Occupational Therapy
tel: 0114 225 2586 2. 15
email: c.craig@shu.ac.uk 3. 15
0114 225 2394
Dr Theresa Baxter – About the area
BSc Hons Occupational Therapy Full Time InService The occupational therapy programmes are based at Collegiate Crescent
campus which is in a leafy but vibrant area of Sheffield, close to the city
email: t.baxter@shu.ac.uk
centre. Sport and leisure facilities are accessible and the Peak District is
Joan Healey – within easy reach. Sheffield has a large student population. Nightlife is
MSc Occupational therapy (pre-registration) exciting with a range of activities close by.
tel: 0114 225 2539
email: j.n.healey@shu.ac.uk About the programme/university
Teaching occurs in well-equipped laboratories in facilities purpose-built
for health and social care programmes. The Learning Centre has
extensive IT facilities with 24 hour opening during term time.
Links with the professional body Interprofessional learning is a key feature of the occupational therapy
programme. Vocational rehabilitation is a specialist area of expertise
• Student BAOT group
within the teaching team. Services for students with disabilities are well
• 100% of students are BAOT members developed. Links with universities in South Africa, Canada and various
European countries exist, providing opportunities for students to travel
• As at September 2007 Sheffield Hallam is paying for and engage in international projects.
students BAOT membership
• Programme Lead is an occupational therapist Key features of the programme
The BSc Hons Occupational Therapy full time and part time routes are
Links
• 20 occupational therapy teaching staff.
All are BAOT members
• 220 Practice Placement Educators APPLE accredited
delivered using various learning and teaching methods including
groupwork, interprofessional learning, practice learning and independent
learning. In addition, workshops enable students to develop and use
specific professional knowledge and skills. Core modules help students to
with the
• Other professions contributing to the
programme: nurses, midwives, radiographers,
physiotherapists, social workers, operating
develop and apply knowledge of professional principles and processes.
Students can then select options from a range of topics to further their
knowledge of occupational therapy in key and emerging areas of practice.
Interprofessional learning supports the development of teamwork,
professional
department practitioners, paramedics, radiotherapy
and oncology practitioners.
communication skills, ethics, reflective practice and evidence based
practice. A number of different practice learning opportunities are provided
throughout the course to enable students to demonstrate the application
of knowledge and skills in a variety of health and social services and other
body
• Specialist Section for Work (3 members) Neurological
Practice (1 member) Rheumatology (2 members)
Older People (3 members) Mental Health (3 members)
relevant organisations. In their final year, students work more
independently to carry out projects of their choice, so developing personal
autonomy and readiness for employment.
People with Learning Disabilities (1 member). The BSc Hons Occupational Therapy Full Time In Service programme is
COT HANDBOOK 2009
essentially for support workers already employed in services delivering
health and social care in an around Lincolnshire. The programme is based
in Grantham and focuses on work-based learning, drawing on local
resources to support course delivery. Students learn alongside
physiotherapy students who are undertaking a similar course. For a
significant part of the course, students engage in extended periods of
practice learning for three days per week and attend a programme of
workshops and taught sessions on one or two days per week. Students
also access learning resources at Sheffield Hallam University. Independent
studies offer choice within the curriculum. A final full time practice
learning experience enables students to demonstrate their competence to
practise occupational therapy. Students are supported throughout their
course by local occupational therapy practitioners who act as mentors.
The MSc Occupational Therapy (pre-registration) programme enables
students already holding a relevant degree or professional qualification to
qualify as an occupational therapist and gain the higher academic award.
The course aims to develop students’ skills and understanding of
occupational therapy through work-based learning. In the early stages of
the course some learning takes place with social work students. For a
significant part of the course students engage in extended periods of
practice learning within a range of local services. Seminars take place
weekly at Sheffield Hallam University to facilitate the development of
students’ knowledge and skills. Time for private study is also scheduled.
The course is specifically designed to take account of previous educational
experiences. It also aims to develop leadership skills and research capacity
as students undertake projects in collaboration with local services.
Practising occupational therapists act as mentors for students throughout
their course.
All programmes use a variety of assessment strategies. There are no formal
written examinations in any of the programmes.
How to apply
BSc Hons OccupationalTherapy
full time route application through UCAS
part time route application direct to admissions officer: c.craig@shu.ac.uk
BSc Hons Occupational Therapy Full Time InService
applications direct to course leader: t.baxter@shu.ac.uk
MSc Occupational Therapy (pre-registration)
applications direct to course leader: j.n.healey@shu.ac.uk
Application and interview process
Applicants are interviewed for all programmes.
Funding
Fees for all programmes are paid by the Strategic Health Authority
Standard entry requirements
GCSE
Normally 5 GCSE passes at grade C or above, including mathematics,
English Language and a science subject plus one of the following:
3 A levels
preferably including a science subject but not including general studies.
OR
2 A levels and 2 AS levels
including at least 160 points from a science subject eg biology, human
biology, sociology, psychology, PE
240 points required
GNVQ/AVCE
Health -related topic
240 points required
ACCESS
Health-related topic
240 points required
SCOTTISH HIGHERS
240 points from a maximum of 6 Highers preferably including a science
such as biology, human biology, psychology or sociology
IRISH LEAVING CERT 6
grade Cs at higher level preferably including a science such as biology,
human biology, psychology or sociology
ACCELERATED ROUTES
Relevant first degree or professional qualification
APEL Application can be made against some modules
ACL Application can be made against some modules
Additional information regarding non standard
entry requirements
All applications are considered on individual merit. Applicants must show
evidence of recent study at a level equivalent to the standard entry
requirements. Applicants must hold a qualification in a science subject (eg
biology, chemistry, human biology, sociology, psychology) and demonstrate
a good standard of English and mathematics.
Overseas applicants
All applications from overseas are considered on individual merit.
Applicants must hold qualifications that are equivalent to those required in
the UK. All must demonstrate a good standard of English Language and
mathematics.
Post qualifying programmes
The MSc Vocational Rehabilitation is managed by the occupational therapy
team. This successful programme attracts occupational therapists and
other professionals working in a range of vocational rehabilitation
services. Specific modules related to specialist areas of occupational
therapy practice are also available for continuing professional
development which can contribute flexibly to post-graduate qualifications
at Master’s level. Some modules are taught, others are available on line. A
professional doctorate is available within the Faculty. The occupational
therapy team has relevant expertise to supervise PhD and other doctoral
students.
International/EU links
The University has wide international links. The occupational therapy team
engage in particular with the University of Alberta in Canada, the
University of Cape Town in South Africa and a range of universities across
Europe. Further links are being established with universities in the USA.
Opportunities currently exist for students to undertake independent
projects in South Africa, Europe or other international contexts of their
choice.
England

Sheffield Hallam
Halam

Research profile
Six occupational therapists within the Faculty hold doctoral qualifications
and four others are studying for PhDs. Research interests include:
experiences of service users, the lifestyle of people with mental health
problems, community based rehabilitation, the use of creative media and
creative writing - particularly with older adults, the lifestyle of older
people, educational strategies within Higher Education and vocational
rehabilitation.

Future developments
The implementation of a BSc Hons Vocational Rehabilitation will offer
developmental opportunities for occupational therapy support staff
working in this field. Other relevant awards are being considered for this
group of staff. The development of a full time MSc in Advanced
Occupational Therapy Practice may also feature in a future portfolio of
programmes.

COT HANDBOOK 2009

England

Southampton
Qualifying programmes Our part-time programme runs over two days per week, and clinical Non standard entry requirements
placements may be completed on a part or full-time basis.
1. BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy Academic study is organised in modules which cover foundation sciences,
Mature students:
1 A level or 2 AS levels in science subjects -
2. BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy (Part-time) and areas of professional practice such as research, ethics, and the more all at grade C or above (80 points total)
Duration of Programme practical skills and knowledge required to be an occupational therapist in
specific areas such as physical rehabilitation, mental health and learning
1. 3 years disabilities. Both academic and clinical skills are taught and assessed using
Additional information regarding non standard
University of Southampton 2. 4 years a variety of methods. entry requirements
School of Health Professions and Rehabilitation Sciences Programme starts Honours Degree - 2.2 or above
University of Southampton October 2009 How to apply
Applications for the full-time programme should be made through UCAS Open University Science Foundation course – Pass
Burgess Road Number of places available
Highfield (B920).
1. 60 Part-time programme applications should be made directly to the School. University of Southampton Foundation Degree in Health and
Southampton Social Care - Pass
2. 10
SO17 1BJ Application and interview process Entry qualifications must have been achieved in the three years prior to
For the full-time programme, conditional offers are generally made based
www.sohp.soton.ac.uk/shprs/ About the area on the UCAS form. All selected candidates are invited to attend an open
commencing the programme.
Southampton is a great place to be a student. The city is large enough to afternoon to meet staff, students and view the facilities.
be varied, but not so big that it is totally overwhelming. Our School is Applicants to the part-time programme who meet the entry criteria are Overseas applicants
Contacts situated on the main University campus, which is just outside the city offered an interview. We welcome applications from international students.
Corinne Hutt Greenyer - Full–time Programme centre and next to 326 acres of managed woodland. With lots to do, The University has a thriving international student population who are well
tel: 023 8059 5261 including three internationally celebrated arts venues, its own shops,
restaurants, nightclub and a brand new sports complex, our students have
Funding supported by the University of Southampton International Office who
email: cjhg@soton.ac.uk All UK places are funded by the Department of Health; this covers course provide advice and support throughout the application process as well as
everything that is needed to relax close at hand. once your programme commences.
fax: 023 8059 5301 Southampton hosts the Mayflower Theatre (which stages West End and tuition fees. A means tested bursary is available to UK students.
Juliette Truman – Part-time Programme musicals, opera and comedy), the Southampton Guildhall, and the award
tel: 023 8059 5261 winning Southampton City Art Gallery. Other attractions include a 13 Standard entry requirements Post qualifying programmes
screen cinema and entertainment complex, a stunning art house cinema, a GCSE Many of our former graduates and graduates from other universities return
email: jt12@soton.ac.uk to us on post-qualifying programmes, including one day courses, full-time
wide assortment of restaurants/bars and one of the UK’s top 10 shopping Minimum of five GCSE’s to include maths, English
fax: 023 8059 5301 centres (West Quay). There are also plenty of sporting amenities. and a science all at grade C or above. or part-time MSc, Clinical Doctorate and PhD studies.
Kirsty Bartlett (Programme Assistant) Visit www.vistsouthampton.co.uk to find out more. These programmes are flexible and designed to support career
tel: 023 8059 5261 A2/AS levels developments in clinical, management, education and research, for further
information see our website http://www.sohp.soton.ac.uk/shprs/ or
email: sotpadm@soton.ac.uk About the programme/university 300 UCAS Tariff points from 18 or 21 units, must include a science subject
contact sohppreg@soton.ac.uk
fax: 023 8059 5301 This University is already one of the top ten research universities in the
UK. The School was rated commendable (QAA 2005) for all three areas GNVQ/AVCE
of learning and teaching, student progression and learning resources AVCE + A2 Research profile
and their utilisation. We pride ourselves on the quality of our teaching 12 unit AVCE plus 1 A level or 6 unit AVCE plus Our research department has an impressive national and international
2 A levels, 300 UCAS Tariff points, must include a science subject record of research, innovation and publication in the allied health
Links with the professional body which is underpinned by staff expertise and research activity. The
professions. This is demonstrated by our score of 3a in the 2001 RAE
academic staff within the department are active researchers and experts
• No student BAOT group in their field. The School is purpose built to train therapists, providing SCOTTISH HIGHERS exercise, the highest score for a stand alone allied health group. These
excellent facilities. Must include a science subject, 6 findings feed into our programmes giving you a very current and dynamic
• As at September 2007 Southampton is not paying for subjects all at Grade B learning experience. Collaborative research is also carried out with
Students benefit from studying core modules with physiotherapy and
students BAOT membership podiatry students. In addition students participate in the Common Learning academic and research staff from other Schools in the University.

Links
• Programme Lead is an occupational therapist
• 11 occupational therapy teaching staff.
All are BAOT members
programme with students from other health professions courses, this
provides opportunity to work with and learn from other health care
students, and develop an understanding of the roles of different
professionals in a team based service. This opportunity had been
IRISH LEAVING CERT
Must include a science subject, 6 subjects all at Grade B

Additional information regarding standard

with the
• 57 Practice Placement Educators APPLE accredited
• Other professions contributing to the
recognised by the Department of Health as ‘leading edge’ and provides
opportunity to undertake placements in a variety of health and social care
settings, working with and learning from other health care students.
entry requirements
BTEC/Edexel -
No fails in year 1, 5 distinctions and 1 merit in year 2 (300 points)

professional
programme: Psychology, Physiotherapy, Podiatry,
other Health Professions for the Interprofessional
Learning Programme
Key features of the programme
Both the full and part-time programmes at Southampton offer a
combination of academic study and clinical fieldwork placements, which
International Baccalaureate - Must include a science subject, 28 points

Entry qualifications must have been achieved in the three years prior to
commencing the programme.

body are integrated into the programme to allow you to relate the theory learnt
in School to clinical situations, and then to relate clinical experience gained
to your academic work.

COT HANDBOOK 2009

England

Teesside
Qualifying programmes Key features of the programme Additional information regarding standard
1. BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy For the BSc we use a range of academic and practice-placement entry requirements
experiences to develop your skills as an occupational therapist (OT). Our
2. MSc occupational therapy (pre-registration) purpose-built practice facility, the Activities of Daily Living Suite, provides
Offers subject to good references, CRB and occupational health checks.
3. PgD occupational therapy (pre-registration) a fantastic, realistic environment in which you can develop your therapy
Duration of Programme skills. In Year 1 you’ll build up a core knowledge of normal functioning, Standard entry requirements PgD/MSc
looking at anatomy and physiology to see how we respond and adapt to An honours degree with at least a 2.2 classification in a related discipline
1. 3 years the environment and how this influences performance. In Year 2 you’ll
2. 2 years learn how therapy and activity can reduce illness, disability and trauma,
Non standard entry requirements
3. 90 weeks and explore environmental design and rehabilitation in the home. In Year
Applicants should show evidence of recent (within the past three years)
3 you’ll undertake a research project and examine the latest
University of Teesside Programme starts developments in practice. Expect a wide variety of hospital and study at an appropriate level.
School of Health & Social Care, 1. September 2009 community settings. You may be able to do a placement elsewhere in the We are happy to accept Access to higher education qualifications in
appropriate subjects such as health and social care or science.
University of Teesside, 2. Jan 2009 UK or overseas. Also for the PgD/MSc problem based learning is utilised
Middlesbrough, to enhance the learning opportunities and builds on the higher level
3. Jan 2009 entry of the applicants. Overseas applicants
TS1 3BA Number of places available Shared learning takes place with a number of different disciplines and Will be considered on application
1. 46 graduates preparation is around working in a health, social care,
www.tees.ac.uk voluntary sector and social enterprise environment. Post qualifying programmes
2. 16
MSc Advanced clinical practice (occupational performance and mental
3. 16 (shared with MSc) How to apply
Tricia McElroy health) plus a number of others detailed at
tel: 01642 384928 BSc (Hons) – UCAS http://www.tees.ac.uk/Schools/SOH/subjects/OT/
email: p.mcelroy@tees.ac.uk About the area PgD/MSc – direct to institution
The University of Teesside is in the heart of Middlesbrough, a town that is International/EU links
Sandra Cleminson (BSc (Hons) Application and interview process
leading the way in the Tees Valley. You’ll find investment and confidence The occupational therapy subject group has strong links with occupational
tel: 01642 384519 almost everywhere you look in Middlesbrough. A multimillion-pound BSc (Hons) – paper-based process with invitation to Open Days therapy programmes in Malaysia.
email: s.cleminson@tees.ac.uk spend in the town centre and on our own campus has created a really PgD/MSc - interview
Chris McKenna (pre-registration MSc) lively, exciting environment that’s perfect for today’s students. Research profile
tel: 01642 384191 Middlesbrough’s dockland waterfront, Middlehaven, is set for a £500m Funding Staff research interests centre around a number of areas such as
investment. This will transform the 250-acre site into a groundbreaking NHS bursary or self-funding neurology, adults who have experienced trauma, disability issues, falls
email: c.mckenna@tees.ac.uk landscape for work and leisure. Everything you would expect from a prevention, paediatrics, mental health and acute services
university town is on your doorstep, within easy walking distance. And
you’ll find great value for money, as this is one of the least expensive
Standard entry requirements BSc (Hons)
places to live in the UK with student discounts widely available. GCSE
Middlesbrough really buzzes with activity seven days a week, from Between 260-300 tariff points with at least 160 points from two full Future developments
vibrant shopping centres to the colourful bars, cafes, restaurants and A’levels, excluding General Studies. Biology preferred. Additional pathways on the MSc Advanced clinical practice, for the UK and
nightclubs. There’s a big choice when it comes to entertainment. You’ll overseas.
Links with the professional body find clubs, live music, a multi-screen cinema and comedy venues all GNVQ/AVCE
around, as well as plenty of great bars - or try ten-pin bowling at Between 260-300 tariff points from one 12 unit award, combined with
• Student BAOT group another award, excluding General Studies
Teesside Park, where there are plenty of shops and themed restaurants.
• 70% of students are BAOT members Near to Stewart Park is the Prissick Skate Plaza – recently voted the best
skate park in the country, it recreates skate spots from around the world, ACCESS
• As at September 2007 Teesside is not paying for Pass QAA recognised Access course in Science or Health & Social Care

Links
including the USA and Spain.Then again, you could join the army of
students BAOT membership fanatical local supporters at the Riverside Stadium, home of the Boro
(Middlesbrough Football Club). SCOTTISH HIGHERS
• Programme Lead is an occupational therapist Four at grade B and one at grade C at higher level or one at grade B snd 2
at grade C at Advanced Higher Level.
• 11 occupational therapy teaching staff. About the programme/university
with the
All are BAOT members
• 124 Practice Placement Educators APPLE accredited
The University of Teesside is a dynamic modern university dedicated to
delivering quality programmes of study; demonstrating a commitment to
social inclusion and widening participation and contributing to the
IRISH LEAVING CERT
Four at grade B and 2 at grade C at Higher Level.

professional
• Other professions contributing to the
programme: Physiologist, physiotherapist,
success of the community it serves. The University is on one compact site
in the centre of the town. All our teaching facilities, support services,
student accommodation and Students’ Union are within easy walking
APEL Considered on application

radiographer, social scientists, health economist, nurse distance. The campus blends traditional buildings with eye catching new

body
• 4 staff members belong to specialist sections.
facilities, the result of the University’s investment of nearly £100 million
in recent years.
The School of Health & Social Care is recognised locally, nationally and
internationally for its responsiveness in providing contemporary education
and training in meeting the needs of health and social care users.

COT HANDBOOK 2009

Ireland

Ulster
Qualifying programmes Application and interview process International/EU links
BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy A selection test must be completed in January 2009. This will cost Approx. International research collaborations are being developed and have
£90 and assess interpersonal understanding, critical reasoning and written included exchange visits to sites in Helen Hayes Hospital , New York; the
Duration of Programme communication. University of Chicago; the University of Otago, New Zealand and Long Port
3 years Inc. USA. University of California (UCLA) University of Pittsburgh & Georgia
Programme starts Funding Tech, USA; Monash Universit (Australia).
September 2009 Funding is provided by the Department of Health to cover university fees.
Research profile
Number of places available Applicants may also apply to their Education & Library board for means
We have a vibrant, rapidly developing research profile. Core areas of
tested bursaries.
60 research expertise are: seating and wheelchair systems; interface pressure
University of Ulster at Jordanstown measurement; prevention of pressure ulcer development; and caregiver
Standard entry requirements health and well-being. Current programmes of research are also offered in
Shore Road About the area GCSE conjunction with local healthcare companies through the Knowledge
Newtownabbey The campus is located seven miles north of Belfast on the shore of Belfast Candidates must satisfy the general entry requirements for a first degree Transfer Partnerships (KTP) programmes, Fusion and Co-operative Awards
Co. Antrim Lough. Carrickfergus, with its 12th century castle, is a few miles along the course and have obtained a Grade C or above in GCSE Mathematics or in Science and Technology (CAST). Occupational Therapy Research is
Lough. The proximity to Belfast is a major attraction for students, who equivalent. leading the development of a spin out seating company.
BT37 OQB often choose to live in the city and travel to campus by rail, bus or taxi.
GNVQ/AVCE
www.ulster.ac.uk About the programme/university Vocational Double Award plus A-level – BBB
The Learning Resource Centre offers hi-tech learning and studying BTec National Diploma – DIST, DIST, MERIT
International Baccalaureate – 33 points
Contacts facilities. There are plenty of cafes, sandwich bars & restaurants at
which to meet and relax with friends. There are two banks, a bookshop, NCEA National Diploma – 75%
Jackie Casey Higher national Diploma –
students’ union, sports centre, health centre, welfare services, a creche,
tel: 02890368042 playgroup and chaplain’s office. 3 Distinctions in final year, remaining units at Merit
email: j.casey2@ulster.ac.uk Accommodation is available on and off campus.
fax: 02890368419 ACCESS
Pass in all subjects with an average of 70% and a pass in GCSE Maths at
Key features of the programme Grade C in a Maths Module
In year one students are introduced to the philosophical and theoretical
bases for occupational therapy. The use of occupation as a core element of SCOTTISH HIGHERS
professional practice is emphasised. Students are provided with the skills AABCC
and knowledge to practise as reflective occupational therapists.
In year two the focus is on occupational therapy in specific contexts, such IRISH LEAVING CERT
as the community and with specific client groups for example children. BBBBB at higher level
In year three, the focus is on evidence-based practice in relation to
interventions used by the occupational therapist in a wide range of health
& social care contexts. Students will study: Innovations & Diversity in OT Non standard entry requirements
Practice and Work Rehabilitation in Occupational Therapy amongst other Mature students will be asked to provide evidence of recent study at an
Links with the professional body modules. appropriate level.
A diverse range of teaching, learning and assessment methods are used to Contact the Faculty of Life & Health Sciences for further information.
• No student BAOT group
deliver the course and encourage the students to become independent
• 100% of students are BAOT members learners in their final year. Opportunity to participate in inter-professional
Overseas applicants
learning with other professions is integrated throughout the course. E-
• As at September 2007 Ulster is not paying for UCAS will forward applications to the university for overseas applicants

Links
students BAOT membership
• Programme Lead is an occupational therapist
• 11 occupational therapy teaching staff.
learning, practice & enquiry based learning and the use of multi-media are
some of the range of delivery approaches used. from non-EU countries
Professional Practice Placements
Students are required to complete 1000 hours of professional practice Post qualifying programmes
placements successfully. Placements are carried out in each year of the Postgraduate programmes in occupational therapy (MPhil and PhD) are

with the
All are BAOT members
• 81 Practice Placement Educators APPLE accredited
course in a variety of settings throughout the United Kingdom and Ireland.
Role-emerging placement, to explore new work opportunities for
graduates is included in year 3. There are also opportunities for elective
available. The Masters in Clinical Research provides formalised training in
clinical research. The MSc in Health Sciences is currently under review but
provides a research based multidisciplinary programme designed to
placements outside the British Isles in final year. facilitate evidence-based practice and clinical effectiveness and provide

professional
• Other professions contributing to the
programme: Physiotherapy, Radiography, Psychology,
How to apply
opportunities for advanced specialist study

sociology and communications

body
• Staff members belonging to specialist sections: Work
- 1, Neurology - 1, Children Young people and families
Applications must be made through the Universities and Colleges
Admission Service (UCAS).

- 1, Housing - 1, Mental Health - 2

COT HANDBOOK 2009

Wales

Wrexham
Qualifying programmes Non standard entry requirements
BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy Students are required to provide evidence of recent study within the five
years prior to commencing the programme and to demonstrate the ability
Duration of Programme to work to an A Level equivalent standard.
4 years part-time Relevant work experience in a related field is an advantage although not
Programme starts essential. However, the ability to demonstrate awareness of the
occupational therapists role is essential.
September 2009
Number of places available
Overseas applicants
20 Where appropriate a certificate of proficiency in English must be held eg.
North East Wales Institute International English Language Testing System (IELTS) at Level 7
Occupational Therapy Programme About the area
North East Wales Institute Wrexham is a market town in the heart of North Wales. There is easy Research profile
Crispin Lane Building travelling distance to the beautiful countryside of Snowdonia, the vibrant All tutors have or are presently involved in research work in a variety of
cities of Liverpool and Manchester and the historic city of Chester. Students specialisms which include paediatrics, clinical reasoning, vocational
Wrexham can enjoy a varied nightlife including nightclubs, theatre, restaurants and rehabilitation and environmental adaptation.
North Wales. cinema whilst they enjoy residing in a friendly hospitable town.

www.newi.ac.uk About the programme/university

The programme is aimed at students who need to combine learning
Contacts alongside other commitments and this is reflected in the
programme structure and organisation. This is the only part-time
Helen Carey occupational therapy programme in North Wales. The programme structure
tel: 01978 293469 allows a sequential development of practical and academic skills
email: h.carey@newi.ac.uk facilitated via a range of dynamic learning, teaching and assessment
methods. Students can capitalise on the unique collaboration relationship
between Occupational Therapy programmes run at Cardiff and Bangor
Universities allowing access to staff and physical resources across Wales.
All the tutors are experienced occupational therapists and a student-
centred philosophy is upheld throughout the programme.

Links with the professional body
• No student BAOT group
• 100% of students are BAOT members
• As at September 2007 NEWI is paying for
How to apply
Application is direct to Helen Carey, Admissions Tutor at the address above.
Application and interview process
Applications are to be submitted by end of January and will be shortlisted
for interviews in February. The procedure includes an interview and

Links
students BAOT membership
• Programme Lead is an occupational therapist
• 7 occupational therapy teaching staff.
informal group exercise. Applicants are also required to write a short piece
answering a pre disclosed question.

Funding
with the
All are BAOT members
• 50% Practice Placement Educators APPLE accredited
A proportion of places are funded by the Welsh Assembly. Self financing
and employer funded places are available for those not successful in
gaining a Welsh Assembly funded place.

professional
• Other professions contributing to the
programme: physiotherapy, nursing, dietetics, social
Standard entry requirements
APEL
work, sports and exercise science and Chinese This is considered on an individual basis within level 1 only.

body
medicine.
• Staff members belonging to specialist sections:
Additional information regarding standard
2 – paediatrics and neurology. entry requirements
240 UCAS Tariff points can include a mixture of A Levels, A/S levels and / or
Advances GNVQs, AVCEs and BTECs.
In addition, 5 GCSEs at grade C or above in one sitting which includes an
English and a science subject.

COT HANDBOOK 2009

England

York
Qualifying programmes All programmes are designed to include a minimum of 1000 hours of
practical professional experience, during which you will work alongside, SCOTTISH HIGHERS
1. BHSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy and learn from, experienced therapists. We attempt to ensure a balanced Equivalent to the above
(Flexible route is available through this programme) experience within health, community, physical, mental health and learning
2. BHSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy In-Service disability fields with clients and patients of all ages and individual needs. IRISH LEAVING CERT
Methods of assessment are varied depending upon which module you are Equivalent to the above
Duration of Programme taking. Assessments may include individual or group presentations,
1. 3 years, Flexible up to a maximum 6 years written assignments and case studies. There are practical assessments APEL
2. 3 years 6 months that allow you to demonstrate your skill development and you will This will be considered on an individual basis please contact
York St John University undertake a research project in your final year. admissions@yorksj.ac.uk or telephone 01904 876599
Programme starts ACL
Faculty of Health and Life Sciences Graduates of York St John University are to be found working in
Lord Mayors Walk
1. September 2009 occupational therapy services throughout the UK and abroad. This may be This will be considered on an individual basis please contact
York 2. January 2010 in range of areas in health and social care such as hospitals, schools, admissions@yorksj.ac.uk or telephone 01904 876599
Number of places available community practice and charitable organisations. You will have the ability
YO31 7EX to adapt to the constantly changing needs of service users. The course will Additional information regarding standard
1. Validated for 130 places prepare you to be competent, reflective, critical thinking practitioners, able entry requirements
www.yorksj.ac.uk 2. Validated for 30 places to deliver safe and effective services within a wide range of environments. If you unsure of your qualifications meet our requirements then please do
Throughout the course, we encourage and assist you to develop not hesitate to contact the admissions department on 01904 876599
Contacts entrepreneurial skills. You will then be equipped to explore career areas
About the area other than traditional areas, if you so wish.
Completion of a Health Screening form and a satisfactory enhanced
Caroline Wolverson (Admissions Tutor) Thousands of people every year can’t be wrong! York is an amazing place Criminal Record Bureau check.
to visit – just think what it is like to live here. At York St John you become All applicants are required to demonstrate a sound understanding of
01904 876407
a member of the lively, vibrant, citywide community of over 20,000 How to apply disability issues and occupational therapy. Any relevant experience will be
c.wolverson@yorksj.ac.uk looked upon favourably.
students. You will realise that one of the best things about York is that it BHSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy (including flexible route) through UCAS
01904 876500 appreciates its students. BHSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy In-Service apply directly to York St John
Fiona Howlett (Head of Programme BHSc (Hons) University Admissions Department. Applicants must also have their Non standard entry requirements
Occupational Therapy In-Service) About the programme/university managers approval to apply for this programme. APEL
01904 876407 The success of our graduates has earned us a national reputation for This will be considered on an individual basis please contact
excellence. At York St John University we are one of the largest admissions@yorksj.ac.uk or telephone 01904 876599
f.howlett@yorksj.ac.uk
providers of Occupational Therapy education in the country, but we Application and interview process ACL
01904 876500 This will be considered on an individual basis please contact
remain committed to providing a high quality educational experience for BHSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy (including flexible route) – all
our students, that recognises the importance of individuality. Our applicants who demonstrate minimum entry requirements and a suitable admissions@yorksj.ac.uk or telephone 01904 876599
occupational therapy students come from people of different ages, personal statement, are invited for a group interview.
experience, social and educational backgrounds because we believe that BHSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy In-Service – all applicants who Additional information regarding non standard
the occupational therapy programme is enhanced by the richness of the demonstrate the minimum requirements and a suitable personal
students’ experiences. statement, will be interviewed individually. entry requirements
September 2008 will see the opening of a £11 million purpose built new In-Service applicants must be:
Working as a support worker in health/social care and have experience of
Links with the professional body base for the Faculty of Health and Life Sciences. The anticipated state of Funding working with clients or patients.
the art occupational therapy skills rooms plus the recently constructed NHS bursaries are available for full time & flexible route students who Significant work/life experience
• Student BAOT group Fountains Learning Resources, together with Foss and Skell facilities, will meet eligibility requirements.
complement the continued strong contemporary programmes that we Completion of a Health Screening form and a satisfactory enhanced
In-Service student fees are available for those who are employed by the
• 100% of students are BAOT members offer. NHS or Local Authority within the Yorkshire & Humber Strategic Health
Criminal Record Bureau check.
For further advice please contact Fiona Howlett – f.holwett@yorksj.ac.uk
• As at September 2007 York St John is paying for Authority geographical area

Links
or telephone 01904 876407
students BAOT membership Key features of the programme You must demonstrate evidence of having successfully undertaken a
At Level 1 you will have an opportunity to study subjects such as biological Standard entry requirements recent, assessed course of academic study – for further advice please
• Programme Lead is an occupational therapist sciences, psychological and social sciences, health, wellbeing and GCSE contact the admissions www.admissions@yorksj.ac.uk or telephone
occupational therapy practice. At Level 2 the focus is on applied theory and You will need 240 UCAS points made up of at least 2 A2 subjects plus 01904 876599
• 20 occupational therapy teaching staff.
with the
All are BAOT members
• 291 Practice Placement Educators APPLE accredited
occupational therapy skills within the physical and psychosocial domains,
together with practical and experiential learning. There is an emphasis on
communication skills, research, IT and occupational therapy specific
3 GCSEs at grade C or above including English Language plus Maths or
Science
Overseas applicants
techniques and approaches. At Level 3 you will be able to extend your GNVQ/AVCE Overseas applicants are welcome but need to be aware that they may

professional
• Other professions contributing to the
programme: physiotherapy, radiography, dietetics,
particular interest through completion of a dissertation using research and
enquiry techniques. In some modules at level 1 and level 3 you will study
alongside physiotherapy students this enables opportunities for shared
12 units in appropriate subject areas
NVQ Level 3, BTEC in appropriate subject
incur additional costs.

Post qualifying programmes

social work, drama therapy, nursing, clinical librarians

body learning and adds to the richness of the undergraduate experience. ACCESS
Access course in an appropriate subject area
York St John University is a major provider of interprofessional
postgraduate continuing professional development programmes to

COT HANDBOOK 2009

England

York

Masters level for allied health professionals in Yorkshire. We also offer an

innovative return to practice programme for people who wish to register
with the Health Professions Council (HPC) after a period away from
practice.

International/EU links
Year 2 students may spend half of the second year on exchange in Oslo.
The final placement may be taken in South Africa, Sri Lanka, Malaysia and
Botswana with Leonard Cheshire International. We also have a range of
role emerging placements in a variety of health and social care settings.

Research profile
York St John University has a Professor in Rehabilitation and two Readers
in Occupational Therapy; they have considerable applied research
experience that informs professional bodies, national policy guidance and
the NHS service delivery. The readers have links to the dissertation
modules within the programmes. Currently there are three occupational
therapy academics that are studying for doctorates. Their work contributes
and directly influences the occupational therapy curriculum.

Future developments
The new Centre for Enabling Environments and Assistive Technology
ALPS and C4C Teaching Fellows involved in a range of activities, which
include: teaching and assessment in ethical practice, utilisation of
electronic re-usable learning objects and medical humanities.
Continued expansion of role emerging practice placements in order to
prepare graduates to deliver safe and effective services within
contemporary careers in a wide range of environments.
Further expansion of the use of virtual learning environments to enhance
the undergraduate experience for students.
Further expansion of international opportunities for students undertaking
practice placements and as previously stated role emerging placements

Links
with the
professional
body
COT HANDBOOK 2009