Occupational therapy degree BSc (Hons)

Program Overview

Teesside University's Occupational Therapy BSc (Hons) program prepares students for a rewarding career supporting individuals with disabilities or illnesses. Accredited by the Health and Care Professions Council and the Royal College of Occupational Therapists, the program combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience through industry-standard facilities and 1,000 hours of practice placements. Graduates enjoy high employment rates and diverse career opportunities in healthcare, education, and research.

Program Outline

Extracted Information about Occupational Therapy BSc (Hons) Program at Teesside University

Degree Overview:

This program aims to prepare students for a career as an occupational therapist, enabling them to support individuals with illness or disability to overcome barriers and improve their function, independence, and quality of life. The program features:

• Nationally recognized: Ranked 4th for graduate prospects in occupational therapy within the UK (source: Teesside University)
• High graduate success: 95% of graduates go on to work or study within 15 months of completing the program (source: Graduate Outcomes survey 2020-21)
• Accreditation: Accredited by the Health and Care Professions Council and the Royal College of Occupational Therapists.
• Modern facilities: Industry-standard facilities, including simulated environments, creative work areas, and a four-bed ward, mirroring real-world practice.
• Focus on real-world experience: Course content incorporates insights from service users and carers, ensuring relevance to contemporary practice.
• Career support: Financial support may be available, including scholarships and awards.

Outline:

The program consists of theoretical and practical modules delivered over three years.

Year 1:

• Introduction to Evidence-based Practice for Health Professionals: Examines research methods, evidence-based practice, and critical appraisal skills.
• Facilitating Independence and Inclusivity: Focuses on facilitating independence through occupational therapy principles.
• Lifespan, Living and Health: Explores human development and functional anatomy, the role of diverse cultures, and the impact of health on well-being.
• Occupation for Wellbeing: Analyzes the centrality of occupation in human life and the transformative potential of therapeutic activities.
• Professionalism for Health Professionals: Introduces professional ethics, regulations, and governance in healthcare.

Year 2:

• Dissertation Planning for Health Professionals: Further develops research methodology and design skills.
• Facilitating the Occupational Voice: Fosters awareness of diverse experiences and their impact on health and well-being.
• Occupational Therapy Core Skills: Applies theoretical knowledge to practice through various occupational therapy techniques and tools.
• Occupational Therapy for Entrepreneurs: Explores leadership skills and entrepreneurship within the field of occupational therapy.

Year 3:

• Community Building through Collective Occupations: Focuses on engaging communities using occupational therapy principles.
• Developing Leadership and Service Improvement Skills: Delves into healthcare policy and strategies for service improvement.
• Dissertation for Health Professionals: Continues the research project initiated in Year 2.
• Lifelong Learning in Occupational Therapy: Prepares students for continuing professional development and lifelong learning.

Assessment:

The program uses various assessment methods, including:

• Case studies
• Assignments
• Presentations
• Practical and written examinations
• Successful completion of practice placements
Successful completion of these assessments demonstrates students' ability to meet the Health and Care Professions Council's standards of proficiency.

Teaching:

The program utilizes diverse teaching methods, including:

• Lectures
• Seminars
• Practical sessions
• Individual and group work
• Opportunities to utilize technology and digital tools
• Simulated environments and role-playing activities
• Collaboration with service users, carers, and professionals
The program boasts experienced faculty with over 60 years of combined expertise in various occupational therapy domains.

Careers:

Graduates of the program enjoy diverse career opportunities in various settings, including:

• Hospitals and clinics
• Community health services
• Educational institutions
• Charities
• Private practice
• Research and development
• International opportunities

Other:

• Students in this program complete 1,000 hours of practice placements where they receive mentorship and real-world experience.
• The program emphasizes the importance of interprofessional collaboration and prepares students to work effectively with other healthcare professionals.
• The program recognizes the value of diversity and aims to develop inclusive occupational therapy practices.
• An optional placement support fund assists students facing financial difficulties during their practical experiences.

Tuition Fees and Payment Information:

• Full-time
• Entry to 2024/25 academic year
• Fee for UK applicants
• £9,250 a year
• Fee for international applicants
• £17,000 a year