University of Saskatchewan

What you'll study

The Master of Occupational Therapy is a professionally oriented graduate programme that combines coursework, clinical skills development, research literacy and supervised fieldwork placements. Core areas include occupational therapy theory and models of practice, assessment and intervention across the lifespan, musculoskeletal and neurology-based practice, mental health and community rehabilitation, paediatrics and school-based practice, and geriatrics.

Teaching methods include seminars, laboratory and simulation sessions, case-based learning, community projects and integrative clinical placements. Students learn practical skills in assessment tools and intervention strategies, clinical reasoning, documentation, programme planning, advocacy and interprofessional collaboration. A research methods or evidence-based practice component develops skills in critical appraisal and applying research to practice; some students complete a small applied research or quality-improvement project under faculty supervision.

• Foundations of occupational therapy practice and professional issues
• Client-centred assessment and outcome measurement
• Intervention approaches for physical and neurological conditions
• Mental health practice and psychosocial approaches
• Paediatric practice and school-based interventions
• Community, rural and Indigenous health contexts
• Research methods, evidence-based practice and ethics
• Multiple supervised fieldwork placements across clinical settings

Entry requirements

Applicants normally require a four-year undergraduate degree from a recognised university. Degrees in health sciences, kinesiology, psychology, social work, biology or related disciplines are common backgrounds, but students from other disciplines who meet prerequisite courses may also apply. A competitive undergraduate grade-point average is expected.

Typical prerequisites include coursework in anatomy and physiology, human development or developmental psychology, statistics/research methods, and introductory psychology. Applicants must submit a statement of intent or personal letter describing their motivation for occupational therapy and relevant experience, an up-to-date CV, and academic transcripts. References (academic and/or professional) are usually required, and selected applicants are invited to an interview as part of the selection process.

International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency according to university requirements. Successful applicants will need to meet regulatory and placement requirements prior to clinical placements, which commonly include criminal record checks, immunisation records and basic first-aid/CPR certification.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for registration and practice as occupational therapists across a wide range of settings. Common career destinations include acute and rehabilitation hospitals, community health and home care, mental health and addictions services, paediatric clinics and school systems, long-term care and seniors' services, and private practice. Occupational therapists also work in workplace rehabilitation, ergonomics, assistive technology, indigenous and rural health programmes, policy and program development, and non-clinical roles such as research, education and administration.

The programme’s emphasis on interprofessional practice, community placements and rural health prepares graduates for practice in diverse communities and for roles that require advocacy, programme planning and leadership.

Why study at University of Saskatchewan

The University of Saskatchewan offers occupational therapy training within an established health sciences environment with committed faculty and strong clinical partnerships across the province. Students benefit from hands-on learning in simulation and skills laboratories, coordinated fieldwork placements arranged through regional health partners, and opportunities to engage with Indigenous health initiatives and rural practice settings.

The college supports interprofessional education, enabling students to learn alongside other health disciplines and to develop collaborative clinical skills valued by employers. Research-active faculty provide opportunities for applied research and quality-improvement projects that connect classroom learning with community needs. Small cohort sizes and dedicated clinical educators support individual learning and professional development as students prepare for registration and practice.