Occupational therapist

Occupational therapy is the assessment and treatment of physical and psychiatric conditions using specific activity to prevent disability and promote independent living. Occupational therapists work in hospital and various community settings and may visit clients and their carers at home to monitor their progress.

Skills required

The range of clients and different individual problems mean that you will need to be:

practical
adaptable
creative
a good communicator

You should also enjoy working in partnership, both with other healthcare professionals and with patients' families and carers.

Training programme

The Ulster University BSc Hons Occupational Therapy is an undergraduate full-time four-year programme, which includes a professional practice placement of 1,000 hours. This can be carried out in a variety of settings, including hospitals, community, special schools and clinics.

Applications should be made through Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS). All candidates are required to undergo a medical examination and Access NI (POCVA) check.

Contact the university directly for the latest information on entry requirements.

Career pathway

There is high demand for occupational therapists in Northern Ireland. Health and Social Care (HSC) offers rotational posts, which gives you the chance to work in a range of specialties.

Alternatively, you might go straight into a specialism of your choice.

Professional recognition

Students who successfully complete the course will be eligible for membership of the Royal College of Occupational Therapists.

You must also register with the Health Professions Council (HPC), the professional regulator, before practising as an occupational therapist.

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