Explore your study options
Occupational therapy (OT) has experienced one of the strongest growth rates in the health industry over the past 10 years. Acquire the skills and knowledge to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others with this globally recognised degree.
Undergraduate
Undergraduate (your first degree)
An undergraduate degree is generally completed between two to four years, depending on the pattern of study and any recognition of prior learning you may have. Associate degrees, bachelor and bachelor with honours are all undergraduate degrees.
Postgraduate
Postgraduate (further study)
A postgraduate qualification can be undertaken by students who have already completed an undergraduate degree or possess significant, demonstrable work experience. Postgraduate courses include graduate certificates, graduate diplomas, masters and PhDs, as well as specialist programs for industry professionals.
Research
Higher Degrees by Research (supervised research)
Research degrees are research based master’s or PhD programs that focus on a single area of expertise. They provide students the opportunity to carry out highly specialised research under expert supervision.
Choose an occupational therapy degree that will get you work ready
If you’re passionate about improving the lives of individuals, groups, or communities, a career in occupational therapy could be for you. Discover how an OT degree from Deakin will enable you to tackle health limitations and improve people's quality of life.
Practical experience
You’ll have several work placements throughout your course, starting in year one. Work in the field and gain valuable skills under the supervision of qualified practitioners in schools, hospitals, clinics, community health organisations or industry.
World-class facilities
Gain first-hand experience with equipment used in professional OT settings. Our Occupational Therapy Learning Hub enables you to learn in a simulation facility equipped with the latest in assistive technology and equipment.
Professional recognition
Deakin’s Bachelor of Occupational Therapy is accredited by the Occupational Therapy Council of Australia and the World Federation of Occupational Therapists, allowing you to practice professionally in Australia and overseas.
Top professional roles in occupational therapy
Demand is high for occupational therapists, with strong job growth of 30% by 2033 in Australia.* You’ll graduate qualified to work with people of all ages who are having difficulties completing their daily activities. Be ready to pursue a diverse range of roles in the following areas:
- acute, psychiatric or rehabilitation hospitals
- primary and secondary schools
- community health organisations
- mental health services
- workplace rehabilitation
- government
- private practice
- research institutes.
Receive adjustment points towards your ATAR
Want to boost your chances of getting into your dream degree? If you live regionally or in a remote location, we offer an alternative entry pathway into the Bachelor of Occupational Therapy.
The occupational wellness and lifestyle program has been my favourite subject, it gave me the opportunity to practise and apply skills in the community.
Sophie Schultz
Bachelor of Occupational Therapy
World-class teaching experiences
Immerse yourself in world-leading research and take advantage of placement opportunities. You’ll graduate highly skilled and work-ready.
Overseas opportunities
Combine practical study and cultural immersion while gaining credit towards your degree. If you study the Bachelor of Occupational Therapy, you can undertake an overseas study tour in your third year.
Learn from industry leaders
Our expert staff are leaders in a diverse range of OT specialisations. You’ll also learn from experts and colleagues from other disciplines, preparing you to become an active member of interdisciplinary teams.
Research with us
Join our occupational therapy researchers who have broad experience in topics such as design for inclusion, carer support, childhood intervention and development, speech therapy and self-determination.
Want to explore more?
If you're dreaming of an exciting and rewarding career in occupational therapy, we'll help get you there.
Jobs that help people: exploring occupational therapy
Discover how occupational therapists can help people in need in all aspects of everyday life and how you can become an occupational therapist at Deakin.
Footnotes
*Jobs and Skills Australia 2023 Employment Projections – for the 10 years to 2033
Deakin references data from a range of government, higher education and reputable media sources. For more information, visit our list of sources.
Contact us
Got a question about our OT courses? Our course advisers are available to speak to you about your study options and how we can help you further your career.
Domestic students
1800 693 888
Enquire online
International students
+61 3 9034 6205
Enquire online