Auckland University of Technology

What you'll study

This programme covers core occupational therapy theory, clinical reasoning and applied practice across the lifespan. Coursework typically includes subjects in occupation and health, assessment and intervention methods, therapeutic use of everyday activities, clinical neuroscience and functional rehabilitation, mental health practice, paediatrics, ageing and long‑term conditions, and community and population health approaches.

Students also study research methods and evidence‑based practice to support clinical decision‑making, professional ethics and legal frameworks, and service development and leadership in health settings. Learning is delivered through lectures, seminars, skills laboratories and simulated practice, together with progressive, supervised clinical placements in hospital, community and specialist services.

• Foundations of occupational therapy and occupation‑based practice
• Clinical assessment and intervention across physical and mental health
• Specialist modules such as paediatrics, neurorehabilitation and gerontology
• Research methods and evidence‑based practice
• Professional practice, ethics and interprofessional working
• Multiple supervised fieldwork placements to build competency for practice

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor's degree. Those with degrees in health, human services or related disciplines may be preferred, though candidates from other backgrounds can be considered if they demonstrate relevant experience and suitability for clinical practice.

Selection typically involves academic transcripts, a curriculum vitae, referee reports and a personal statement addressing motivation for occupational therapy. Shortlisted candidates may be invited to interview. Successful applicants will need to meet professional screening requirements such as police and health clearances, vaccination or immunisation checks as required for clinical placements, and demonstrate English language proficiency in line with university regulations.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared to apply for registration with the Occupational Therapy Board of New Zealand and work as registered occupational therapists. Typical employment settings include public and private hospitals, community health services, rehabilitation centres, mental health teams, paediatric services and schools, disability support services, aged care and private practice.

Career pathways extend into specialist clinical roles, allied health leadership and management, research, clinical education and health policy or commissioning. The programme also provides a foundation for further postgraduate study, including research degrees.

Why study at Auckland University of Technology

AUT offers a practice‑oriented occupational therapy programme with strong links to health services across Auckland and New Zealand, ensuring a diverse range of supervised placement opportunities. The university provides purpose‑built health and simulation facilities and an interprofessional learning environment that mirrors contemporary health practice.

Students benefit from staff who combine clinical experience with research expertise in rehabilitation, community health and occupational science, and from AUT's focus on preparing graduates who are work‑ready, reflective practitioners capable of meeting registration standards and contributing to health services locally and internationally.