University of Sydney’s Bachelor of Applied Science (Occupational Therapy) Overview

Sydney’s Bachelor of Applied Science (Occupational Therapy) will prepare you to support people experiencing disability, injury,  ongoing conditions or needs to manage barriers that may be preventing them from participating more fully in life.  As an occupational therapy student, you will combine theoretical and practical learning with extensive work-based learning to provide a rich environment for professional skill development.   You will also:

1.  Have the opportunity for interdisciplinary learning and entrepreneurship.
2. Learn about and apply knowledge of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander approaches to health and education.
3.  Gain real-world, hands-on training through work-based placements within our extensive network of clinical partners.
4. Learn from highly respected practitioners, clinicians and researchers

EXCITING NEW CHANGES FOR 2021

• This program now includes the option of completing a major or minor in Disability, Participation and Health. The Disability, Participation and Health minor and major focuses on consumer directed care, community disability services, complex aged care, and early intervention services.
• The Occupational Therapy program will move to the purpose-built Health Precinct at Camperdown campus, which will for the first time bring multiple health disciplines together in a facility that translates research into education and clinical services.

During this four year degree, students will cover a wide range of topics including theories of what people do in daily life and why; knowledge of the development of human capabilities (e.g. cognitive, motor, psychosocial) and the ways in which injury and illness typically disrupt them; activity and environmental analysis; and theories and techniques for promoting participation in daily life.

Clinical Work Experience

Work-based learning (practice education) is an integral part of the Bachelor of Applied Science (Occupational Therapy).  Students will complete over 1,000 hours of supervised clinical placement throughout the program; gaining hands-on experience with real clients, learning to apply knowledge, clinical reasoning and the practical skills required of the profession. Placements occur during semester time and during recess periods at all levels of the course, and are located in both metropolitan and country facilities.

In addition, eligible candidates have the opportunity to take part in the Sydney Health Sciences Abroad program which involves academic study and a four to six week placement with non-government organizations and other development agencies in one of a small number of countries in South and South East Asia.

Entry Requirements

Students must have a completed High school diploma with a minimum GPA of 85%.

Biology is recommended.

Professional Recognition

The University of Sydney’s Bachelor of Applied Science (Occupational Therapy) program is accredited by the Occupational Therapy Board of Australia and recognized by the World Federation of Occupational Therapists.   Graduates are eligible for occupational therapy registration in any State or Territory of Australia through the  Occupational Therapy Board of Australia. Graduates applying to licensing in Canada will be required to provide details of their program of studies to the relevant bodies and sit a licensing examination.

Students wishing to license as a Occupational Therapist in Canada should contact the Association of Canadian Occupational Therapy Regulators Organization (ACOTRO)  for procedures and accreditation procedures. The ACOTRO is the national federation of provincial/territorial regulators in Canada.

KOM Consultants understands the process and requirements needed to enter the Occupational Therapy profession in Canada. Contact KOM Consultants for more information. All students applying directly through KOM Consultants will be supported with the latest information on the accreditation process.