University of Adelaide

What you'll study

The degree is an integrated honours programme combining foundational health sciences, core occupational therapy practice and a supervised research component. Early years cover human anatomy and physiology, lifespan development, psychology and the social determinants of health. Core occupational therapy subjects introduce assessment frameworks, activity analysis, therapeutic use of occupations, and models of practice across physical, cognitive and psychosocial presentations.

Later years emphasise clinical reasoning, evidence-based intervention, interdisciplinary teamwork and service delivery across contexts such as acute care, community rehabilitation, mental health, paediatrics and aged care. Students complete multiple supervised clinical placements that increase in complexity and duration, and an honours research project or capstone that develops skills in research design, data collection and critical appraisal.

• Foundations: anatomy, physiology, clinical communication, ethics
• Core OT practice: assessment, intervention planning, activity analysis
• Specialist areas: paediatrics, mental health, neurology, musculoskeletal and geriatrics
• Professional practice: service delivery models, policy, multidisciplinary care
• Research and evidence: research methods, statistics, honours thesis or project
• Clinical placements across hospital, community and non‑government settings

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have completed secondary school qualification or an equivalent recognised pathway. Selection is competitive and is typically based on academic achievement plus demonstrated capacity for professional practice. Mature‑age and alternative entry pathways are considered for applicants with relevant tertiary study or work experience.

Additional requirements for entry and progression include a capacity to meet the physical and professional demands of clinical practice, National Police check or similar background screening, up‑to‑date immunisations, and completion of first aid or basic life support training as required for placements. International applicants must meet the University’s English language proficiency requirements and any visa conditions.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared to work as registered occupational therapists in a wide range of settings. Common entry roles include positions in public and private hospitals, community health services, rehabilitation centres, aged care facilities, schools and disability services. Career pathways often lead to specialisation in areas such as paediatrics, neurorehabilitation, mental health, hand therapy or ergonomic and workplace health services.

With experience, graduates may move into senior clinical roles, service coordination, management, research or academic positions. The honours component also provides a foundation for postgraduate study, including clinical specialisation or research degrees.

Why study at University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide offers integrated clinical education with links to major teaching hospitals and community health providers across South Australia, giving students a breadth of placement opportunities. The Faculty has dedicated health teaching facilities, simulation suites and access to interdisciplinary learning with other health professions.

The programme emphasises evidence‑based practice and applied research; students are supported to undertake an honours research project under academic supervision. The school’s established relationships with industry and health services assist graduate employability and provide exposure to current professional practice.

The course is designed to meet professional standards for occupational therapy education, preparing graduates for professional registration and practice in a range of local and national settings.