2009-10_OT career handbook

Occupational TherapyCareers Handbook

Entry 2009/10

CollegeofOccupational Therapists

A rewarding career

Great prospects

Choice of roles

Different work settings

Availablefor Download

Whether as an occupational therapist,a support worker, a technician,

an independent practitioner or any otheroccupational therapy practitioner,you will make a real difference in

helping people to enhance their lives

All images courtesy of www.istockphoto.com

Contents

page 8Do you enjoy helpingpeople and solving

problems?Do you want to help

people to optimise theirquality of life?

page 10There are a wide choiceof job roles, specialisms

and fields inoccupational therapy

page 20“I’ve really enjoyed theplacements in my first

year. I’d tell anyoneconsidering studyingoccupational therapy

to go for it”

page 23All the College of

Occupational Therapistsaccredited universitiesare listed on page 23.Further information oneach university can be

found atwww.cot.org.uk/careers

Welcome to a world of possibilities 4

What is occupational therapy? 6

Is occupational therapy the career for you? 8

The big picture – occupational therapy in the UK 9

Rewarding career opportunities 10

Rewarding work 12

Becoming a qualified occupational therapist 16

Working and studying in 19occupational therapy support

In their own words – 20studying occupational therapy

Lifelong learning 21

Applying for an occupational therapyprogramme 22

Listing of programmes accredited by 23the College of Occupational Therapists

Financial support and funding 24

Frequently asked questions 26

And finally – how to make your choice 27

3

4

Welcome to a world of possibilities

We hope that you find this handbook a

useful tool in helping you to make the right

decisions about a career in occupational

therapy. This handbook will guide you if

you are a school leaver, recent graduate, or

someone looking for a career change. It

covers the range of options available to

you within the occupational therapy

profession.

We believe that occupational therapy is

one of the most rewarding careers in

health and social care.Whether as a

therapist, a support worker, a technician,

an independent practitioner or any other

occupational therapy practitioner, you will

be making a real difference in helping

people to enhance their lives.

We wish you success with your studies and

future career. We look forward to

welcoming you to the profession as a

student, associate or professional member

of the British Association of Occupational

Therapists (BAOT).

We believe

that occupat

ional therapy is one of the most

5

rewarding careers in health and social care

7

Occupational therapy enables people to achieveas much as they can for themselves, so they getthe most out of life

What is occupational therapy?

6

7

An occupational therapist’s work couldinvolve:

• Making sure that homes, workplaces andpublic places are accessible for peoplewith specific needs, for examplewheelchair users or people with walkingdifficulties or partial sight.

• Helping people to learn new or differentways of doing things, for example howdo you think you would turn over thispage if you couldn’t use your hands?

• Adapting materials or equipment, forexample what might you suggest if acomputer keyboard was difficult to use?

• Advising in schools to help childrenovercome obstacles such as writingdifficulties and other learning challenges.

• Heading up a disability managementprogramme for an organisation, orreturn-to-work programmes for peoplewith anxiety or back problems.

• Assisting an ageing couple to care forone another in their own home andremain independent and safe.

• Helping someone manage theirdepression in order to return to work orcontinue with their studies.

• Setting up a rehabilitation programme ina developing or war-torn region.

• Working with socially excluded groups,such as the homeless or asylum seekers.

How do youthink you wouldturn over thispage if youcouldn’t useyour hands?

Occupational therapy enables people toachieve as much as they can forthemselves, to help them get the most outof life. Occupational therapy staff helppeople of all ages who have physical,mental or social problems as a result ofaccident, illness or ageing, to do the thethings they want to do. These could be dailyactivities that many of us take for granted,from grocery shopping or brushing yourteeth, to more complex activities such ascaring for children, succeeding in studies orwork, or maintaining a healthy social life.

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Is occupational therapythe career for you?

Do you want to help people tooptimise their quality of life?

If so, occupational therapy could bethe career for you!

Do you enjoy helping people andsolving problems?Are you patient, practical, creativeand a good communicator?

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What options are there?As support staff – assistants, technicians orsupport workers – you would usually startyour career with little or no formal training.This often happens on the job, but there arealso formal qualifications available. You willdefinitely need a range of essential skills likegood written and verbal communication, self-management and a great capacity to workwith people of all sorts.

Some support workers work exclusivelywithin occupational therapy; some work asgeneric staff with a number of professionslike nursing and physiotherapy.The interest inthese posts is very strong, so applying can becompetitive. Be sure to check with theemployer about what skills and experiencemight give you a better chance ofemployment.

To become a registered occupationaltherapist you need to complete aprogramme at university. Occupationaltherapists work in many different specialistareas and at levels ranging from newgraduate to consultant.

In the UK, the British Association andCollege of Occupational Therapists is theprofessional body for occupational therapy.

We work with our members, theGovernment, the NHS, charities, privatecompanies and universities to ensure thattraining, education and occupationaltherapy services are as good as they can be.

Membership is voluntary – and the majorityof occupational therapists in the UK showtheir commitment to the profession throughsupporting our work. Both support staff andqualified occupational therapists can join.

The College also works with the Council ofOccupational Therapy in EuropeanCountries (COTEC) (www.cotec-europe.org);the European Network of OccupationalTherapy in Higher Education(www.enothe.hva.nl) and the WorldFederation of Occupational Therapists(WFOT) (www.wfot.org) to share goodpractice and promote the profession.

How much do occupational therapystaff earn?• Occupational therapy support workersemployed full-time in the NHS currentlyearn around £12,000 a year, which canrise to over £20,000 after a number ofyears of employment.

• Qualified occupational therapistsworking in the NHS start with anaverage salary of about £20,000.

• More experienced occupationaltherapists can earn over £40,000.

• Consultant occupational therapists canearn up to and beyond £50,000.

• Local government salaries tend to bepitched around the same level, althoughthey are set by individual employers andso can vary significantly.

• Earnings are similar in the private,voluntary and charitable sectors.

• In addition, occupational therapistsworking in London can receive Londonweighting of around £5,500.

What hours do occupational therapystaff work?The average hours of work are 35–37.5hours per week. Most occupational therapystaff work Monday to Friday during ‘officehours’, but there are an increasing numberof posts which cover evenings andweekends, particularly in mental healthcommunity services, acute hospitals,accident and emergency services andprivate practice. Part-time and other flexibleworking arrangements are also available.

There are over 30,000 occupational therapy staff in the UK, madeup of highly-trained professionals and support staff, performing asignificant role in hospitals, social care, local communities,schools, businesses, prisons, charities and a variety of othersettings. Around 1,500 new students embark on training every yearto become registered occupational therapists. About half of thesestart when they are over 21 years old – often after another degreeor career.

The big picture –occupational therapy in the UK

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There are a wide choice of job roles,specialisms and fields in occupationaltherapy.With demand for occupationaltherapy services both here in the UK andabroad, there are significant jobopportunities, and the profession offers youa rewarding career if you want it.

Traditionally, the majority of our memberswork in the National Health Service (NHS).Increasingly, however, qualifiedoccupational therapists have found excitingopportunities in other work settings, andwe expect this trend to continue.

Occupational therapy support staff work inmost of the same places as occupationaltherapists, with varying levels ofindependence and responsibility based onexperience and the service needs.

As a qualified occupational therapist, youcan consider working in different job roles,as a practitioner, researcher, manager,lecturer or consultant. You can choose towork in different fields, such as social care,mental health, education, learningdisabilities or physical rehabilitation.

Rewarding career opportunities

There are job opportunities in anumber of settings, including:• charities and voluntary agencies• commercial and industrialorganisations

• disabled living centres• equipment companies• government agencies• housing departments• local community services• NHS and private hospitals• private practice• schools, colleges and universities• social services and social workdepartments

• wheelchair services• hostels for the homeless• residential care homes

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Working abroadOnce you have qualified from a College ofOccupational Therapists accreditedprogramme you will automatically have aqualification recognised internationally bythe World Federation of OccupationalTherapists (WFOT), enabling you to practiseoverseas and gain valuable internationalexperience.

Having a career breakYou may decide that you would like to havea career break in the future to start a familyor to travel. Don’t let this put you offstarting a career in occupational therapy.The College of Occupational Therapists hasinformation on what you need to do duringa career break in preparation for returningto work.

You have a wide choice of practicespecialisms to choose from, such as eatingdisorders, hand therapy and substancemisuse. You may wish to specialise inworking with children, adults or olderpeople. You can also decide whether youwant to work for someone else or foryourself, in the community, in a hospital, orin a university educating futureoccupational therapists. The professioncontinues to develop new areas of practice,so there are many options that you canconsider.

There are currently 11 Specialist Sectionswithin the College, developing and sharingexpertise in their area of work. You can joinone or more as a student, associate orprofessional member. Visitwww.cot.org.uk/specialistsections to findout more.

You can workin the community,

in a hospital, or in a universityeducating future

occupational therapists

There aresignificant jobopportunities,and theprofession offersyou a rewardingcareer if youwant it

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Helping someone to cope withrheumatoid arthritisRheumatoid arthritis makes the joints inthe body swollen, stiff and painful, andaffects a person’s ability to undertake dailyactivities. An occupational therapist couldhelp someone with this condition by:

• Providing advice on the use of specialistequipment to assist with activities such ascooking or getting around the house.

• Teaching someone how to conserveenergy by pacing themselves whendoing everyday tasks.

• Providing hand splints to help supportand protect joints.

• Giving advice on support services andgroups.

Helping someone who has been setback by mental health problems suchas depressionMany people experience depression, andthey find it gets in the way of living life tothe full. Occupational therapists can assistpeople to develop strategies to manage thesymptoms of depression and get activelyengaged with life again. One-to-one andgroup work can help people understandtheir condition and learn to manage it. Agood understanding of psychology andsociology, and the effects of medicationprescribed for depression are needed forthis.

Working with someone who is addictedto drink and drugsAn occupational therapist would assistsomeone who has a substance misuseproblem by:

• Helping them to develop copingstrategies to give them a more satisfyinglifestyle.

• Helping them to stay in work, and togain satisfaction from new activitiesaway from the drink and drugs culture.

Michael Sharkey, who won the “StannahStairlifts’ Occupational Therapist of the YearAward” in 2006, runs a five-week intensive

Rewarding work

Michael Sharkey won the “StannahStairlifts’ Occupational Therapist ofthe Year Award” in 2006. Michaelruns a five-week intensiveprogramme for alcoholismtreatment, and was nominated forthe award by Angela, a formerpatient

programme for alcoholism treatment, andwas nominated for the award by Angela, aformer patient. Before Angela started theprogramme she felt suicidal and unable tocope with the pressures of looking after herparents and her grandson, who is sufferingfrom Leukaemia. Michael helped Angela byeducating her about the effects of drinkingand by teaching her anxiety managementtechniques and communication skills.As aresult,Angela feels in control of her life forthe first time after 40 years of problematicdrinking, and is now training to become acounsellor. Michael said: “I am passionateabout my job and nothing gives me greaterpleasure than seeing someone regain theconfidence and ability to lead anindependent and fulfilling life. I’d recommendoccupational therapy to anyone seeking acareer which is fulfilling and varied.”

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Angela feels in control of her lifefor the first time after 40 years ofproblematic drinking, and is nowtraining to become a counsellor

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Ensuring an older person is properlycared for in a care homeOccupational therapists can undertake careand nursing home assessments to ensurethat the services and buildings are suitableto improve the quality of life for olderresidents. This may involve adaptations toproperty, for example ensuring a stairlift isinstalled to help older people maintainindependence, or ensuring that they haveaccess to leisure activities.

Assisting someone with severedisabilitiesWhen people have brain or spinal injuries,an occupational therapist can make anassessment of their needs and develop arehabilitation programme to help themregain some or all of their lost skills –restoring their self-confidence andfacilitating an effective return home.Occupational therapists may also helppeople to continue to do leisure activities;help recruit and train employed carers;arrange equipment demonstrations; workwith architects and builders to makeadaptations to the home; and advise onenvironmental modifications to helpsomeone get back to work (for exampleadapting an office to accommodate awheelchair or other specific needs).

Supporting people with learningdifficultiesJames, a young man with profoundlearning disabilities and autism, moved intoa residential home at the age of 18.However, he was unhappy in his newenvironment, and resorted to self-harmingbehaviour, losing weight and interest in theworld around him. His family was worriedthat he wouldn’t survive.

James was referred to an occupationaltherapist, who developed an intensiveinteraction programme for him – mimickingand responding to the noises and actions

James made, as a way of communicatingwith him. To bring James out of his shell, theoccupational therapist involved him inactivities that he enjoyed and that he couldunderstand, such as playing with sand andwater, painting, swimming and horse riding.James is now healthier, and no longerresorts to self-harm. He indicates when hewants to eat or play, where before he hadno interaction with the staff at hisresidential home.

Enabling people to remain independentin various waysBarry works for the Driver and VehicleLicensing Agency. He reviews vehicleaccess, equipment and techniques to makecars accessible to passengers or drivers:“It’s really great when I can tell people theycan drive again thanks to the work we havedone. This gives them a huge part of theirlife back, and provides the freedom forthem to go where they want to go withoutrelying on other people.Working as an occupational therapist isabout providing support in all areas of aperson’s life. It’s a very flexible careeroption.”

Helping people to get back to workJohn, a police sergeant, was off work fornearly a year with a post-viral syndromethat caused muscular pain and fatigue. Hefeared he would never return to work untilhe was referred to the occupational therapyservice. The occupational therapy teamengaged him in a pain-managementprogramme and gentle exercise thatpushed him to the limits of his ability. Theyprovided a graded approach to getting himback to work, where he built up toresuming full duties over several months.The occupational therapists also arrangedfor him to work at his local station, nearerto home, saving two hours of travelling aday. John made a full recovery and is backat work full-time.

Managing the work of a whole serviceDenise is the professional head of anoccupational therapy team in a large acuteteaching hospital: “Occupational therapygives me an opportunity to work withpeople and provides variety. I manage ateam of 100 people, and no two days arethe same. After 20 years I’m still excited bythe job and I’m never bored. There arealways new things to learn and develop.”

“After 20 yearsI’m still excitedby the job andI’m never bored.There are alwaysnew things tolearn anddevelop”

Rewarding work

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Becoming a qualifiedoccupational therapist

How do I become an occupationaltherapist?You will need to undertake an approvedprogramme of study in occupationaltherapy at one of the 31 UK Universitiesoffering occupational therapy education.There are a variety of occupational therapyprogrammes available in the UK – most areBachelor of Science (with Honours) degrees;some are Postgraduate Diplomas, othersare Master’s degrees.

HPC approval and College ofOccupational Therapists accreditationAll programmes must be approved by theHealth Professions Council (HPC) asmeeting their minimum standards. Thisapproval is mandatory in order for thegraduates to be registered to practice.

Accreditation is a further recognition by theCollege of Occupational Therapists that theprogramme also meets our higherstandards. This accreditation is voluntary.Those universities that continue to beaccredited have committed to working inpartnership with us to maintain highstandards of education and practice, and tosteer the profession’s development withinthe UK and abroad.

Accreditation by the College also bringswith it automatic approval by the WorldFederation of Occupational Therapists. Thismeans that programmes are up to datewith current ideas and are at the forefrontof occupational therapy practice worldwide,and that your qualification is recognised asvalid in any of the WFOT member countriesaround the globe, giving you easierinternational employment choices.

Choosing an accredited programmeThe vast majority of programmes in the UKare currently accredited by the College ofOccupational Therapists (see page 23),however, we strongly advise you to checkthat your chosen university programme isaccredited by the College, and will remainaccredited while you are studying. If not,you may wish to reconsider your choice to

Accreditation by the College alsobrings with it automatic approvalby the World Federation ofOccupational Therapists. Thismeans that programmes areup-to-date with current ideas andare at the forefront of occupationaltherapy practice worldwide

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Programmes typesThere are a number of different educationalprogrammes across the UK at BSc Hons andpostgraduate levels.

Standard full-time programmesThese are three-year BSc Hons degrees(four years in Scotland).

Accelerated post graduateprogrammesThese are full time over two years andare for graduates who already hold adegree, usually in a related field, and havesome experience of working in health orsocial care settings. These programmesaward a Graduate Diploma in OccupationalTherapy, a Postgraduate Diploma inOccupational Therapy or an MSc inOccupational Therapy.

In-service BSc Hons degreeThese four-year programmes are forsupport staff who have the backing of theiremployer to undertake further training.Study is usually done two days a week,whilst you continue to work in the supportpost on the other days.

ensure you get the maximum professionalpreparation from your studies.

You can visit our website: www.cot.org.ukfor up-to-date information, includingcontact details for accredited universities,or contact the university concerned.

Part-time BSc Hons degreeprogrammesThese usually take four years and are alsotwo days a week, but students need not beemployed in health or social care.

Full-time work-based learning BScHons degreeThis is currently offered only throughSheffield Hallam University and takes twoand a half years to complete. Students areemployed by the sponsoring health caretrust and continue to work there aftercompletion.

What subjects are taught on theprogrammes?The programmes combine both practicaland academic study. Academic componentsinclude biological sciences (anatomy andphysiology), behavioural sciences(psychology and sociology), occupationaltherapy knowledge and skills, creative andmanagement skills, therapeuticinterventions, environmental adaptationsand research methods and applications.

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Becoming a qualifiedoccupational therapist

Practice placementsA minimum of 1,000 hours (approximatelyone third of the course) is spent on practiceplacements – gaining experience in themain areas of occupational therapy, usuallyin physical rehabilitation, learningdisabilities, mental health or social careand, increasingly, in new and emergingareas. Students learn how to assess peoplein their community and then jointly decidehow to use purposeful and meaningfuloccupations to achieve agreed goals. Thisnormally occurs under the guidance of anoccupational therapist, with you as thestudent responsible for a group of clients.

What differences are there betweenprogrammes?All programmes will leave you eligible toapply for registration with the HealthProfessions Council (HPC), but they will getyou to that point through a variety ofmethods and experiences.

Some programmes are more conventional –with mainly lectures and assignments.Some have very few or no examinations –assessing your learning throughcoursework such as essays andpresentations. Some are more problem-based, giving you case studies to workthrough in groups. Others are work-based –if you are a support worker you might besponsored for one of these. Certainprogrammes offer more flexibility withelective modules while others have alargely predetermined content.

Practice placement lengths will vary andsome will be in new emerging areas ofpractice. Check the individual courselistings available from the College’s websiteto get a sense of the different nature of theprogrammes, and ask the admission tutorsabout their programme’s approach toteaching, learning and assessing.

Studying abroadSome universities have overseas links,giving students the opportunity to studypart of their programme abroad. Contactthe university direct for further information.The European Community Action Schemefor the Mobility of University Students(Erasmus) offers students the opportunityto study abroad in any European countryfor between 3 and 12 months. Take a lookat their website: www.erasmus.ac.ukThe Council for International Education(UKCOSA) produces useful information forUK students wishing to study abroad. Visitwww.ukcosa.org.uk to find out more.

International studentsInternational students wishing to studywithin the UK can find information on theentry requirements of each university in thecourse listings, which can be found on theCollege’s website www.cot.org.ukFor more information, please contact eachuniversity directly.

The Council for International Education(UKCOSA) produces helpful guidance notesto international students wishing to studyin the UK. Visit www.ukcosa.org.uk, writeto UK COSA, 9–17 St Albans Place, LondonN1 0NX or call +44 (0)20 7107 9922.

The British Council provides usefulinformation on a range of issues forinternational students wishing to study inthe UK. Visit www.britishcouncil.orgInformation on financial aid, collegescholarships and grant information forinternational students wishing to studyabroad can be obtained from InternationalEducation Financial Aid (IEFA). Visitwww.iefa.org

Students learnhow to assesspeople in theircommunity andthen jointlydecide how touse purposefuland meaningfuloccupations toachieve agreedgoals

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Occupational therapy support staffNormally, there are no formal requirementsto work as occupational therapy supportstaff, although you will need a goodgeneral standard of education. You will alsoneed a range of essential skills like goodwritten and verbal communication, self-management and a great capacity to workwith people of all sorts.

Positions are usually available within theNHS, private practice, social services andvoluntary organisations, and training isoften provided on the job. The interest inthese posts is very strong, so applying canbe competitive. Speak to employers aboutways to improve your chances.

Education and training forsupport staffSome employers have in-house trainingavailable for their support staff. Manyoccupational therapy support staff study forvocational awards, such as an NVQ/SVQ.There are also other options available suchas a BTEC in Occupational Therapy Support,foundation degrees in Health and SocialCare or the Higher National Certificate inOccupational Therapy Support.

At the time of writing, two courses areendorsed by the College of OccupationalTherapists – the HNC in OccupationalTherapy Support at Langside College inGlasgow, and the distance learningFoundation Degree in Health and SocialCare through the Open University.

The HNC is offered through full-time, dayrelease and distance learning courses. Full-time students undertake a practiceplacement; others gain experience in theirworkplace. The Foundation Degree isoffered by distance learning, but supportfrom your employer is required. See thecourse listings on the College website formore information, where you can also findour National framework for support workereducation and development which outlinesthe basic abilities you will need to developfirst.

What subjects are taught on theprogrammes?The content varies in depth and breadthdepending on the academic level andlength of the award, and whether thecontent is specific to occupational therapyor more generically health and social carerelated.

Subjects can include biological sciences(anatomy and physiology), mental healthand social inclusion (psychology andsociology), occupational therapy knowledgeand skills, therapeutic interventions,environmental adaptations, professionalpractice and fundamentals of research.

Some occupational therapy support workerschoose to study to become a qualifiedoccupational therapist. Those that havetaken a support worker course may applyfor credit when starting a degreeprogramme. If you are working as a supportworker (or assistant or technician) you cansometimes receive support from youremployer to study as a part-time, in-servicestudent – continuing in your job, whilststudying at university two days a week.

Working and studying inoccupational therapy support

If you areworking as asupport worker(or assistant ortechnician) youcan sometimesreceive supportfrom youremployer to studyas a part time in-service student

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Gillian is a first-year student at theUniversity of Huddersfield . She wasstudying psychology before switching tooccupational therapy. “I have dyslexia, andthe university has been very understandingand helpful whenever I had a query or raninto difficulty. Class notes were clear andadapted to meet my needs. The course atHuddersfield is a great mixture of theoryand practise. I’ve really enjoyed theplacements in my first year. I’d tell anyoneconsidering studying occupational therapyto ‘go for it’. Occupational therapy reallyseems like the right course for me. I’mdelighted to say that it’s exactly what Iexpected. I have some residual vision, andneed material in a clear font. The universityhave been great in providing me with clearcopies of everything I need.”

Maureen studied music and taught thepiano and brass instruments. She startedworking in occupational therapy in 1978 asan assistant at a day hospital and loved it.She has recently worked with disabledchildren in mainstream schools and in acommunity Social Services team. “I decidedto independently study for the HNC toadvance my learning and understanding ofthe role of occupational therapy. I had tocommit my own time to do this study atevenings and weekends whilst working full-time. The study is demanding but rewardingand helped me in my role as anoccupational therapist assistant. This was abenefit to the service users and myworkplace. My understanding ofoccupational therapy increased, and mysupervising occupational therapistcommented on the change in my work. TheHNC led to wanting to learn more. It hasenabled me to access the second year (full-time) of the BSc (Hons) degree inOccupational Therapy. I am just completingmy first semester and I am looking forwardto my paediatric placement in January.”

In their own words…

Studying occupational therapy

“I’ve really enjoyed the placementsin my first year. I’d tell anyoneconsidering studying occupationaltherapy to go for it”

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Lifelong learningAt any point in your career, you can engagein further development of your skills andknowledge. This is expected by employersand the Health Professions Council (HPC),as well as our clients.

For support staff, the Associate Members’Officer ([email protected]) and theEducation Team ([email protected]) areavailable to help with individual questionsabout your future career development.

For registered occupational therapists, theCollege has developed a post-qualifyingcareer framework to assist with furthercareer development and learning. This issupported by a learning opportunitiesdatabase on the College’s website:www.cot.org.uk/ilod

Universities have included someinformation on their own post-qualifyingprogrammes on our website. Occupationaltherapists can go on to complete a Master’sdegree, a PhD and even postdoctoral workin their areas of interest.

Steve has recently finished hisoccupational therapy degree at OxfordBrookes University. He is registered blind,and a member of the British Adaptive SkiTeam. “I had already done a degree andworked for a national charity runningadventure journeys for people with specialneeds – anything from canoe expeditionson the River Wye to mountaineering inKenya. My previous job had a real impacton people’s lives, and I was keen to learnmore about the theories and conceptsbehind helping people to carry outactivities that lead to good health andfulfilment. I would like to return to work inthe charity sector – armed with moreknowledge than I had before.”

Anna works with clients with learningdisabilities. She studied the Higher NationalCertificate in Occupational Therapy Supportat Langside College in Glasgow. “I wasinitially anxious about the course as I hadcompleted no educational training sinceleaving school. I had elected to completethe course by distance learning. However asthe course progressed it was clear that thehigh levels of tutor support helpedovercome these anxieties. Followingcompletion of the course my role in thedepartment has begun to change. I haveincreasing responsibility for policy andprocedures and feel more able to contributeto service development. I am currentlyinvolved in a project to deliver carer trainingin activity and, once this is established, I willpersonally deliver the training.”

James is studying part-time at Cardiff.“Working as an occupational therapytechnician at Cardiff & Vale NHS Trust hasgiven me lots of hands-on experience and agood knowledge base. The biggestadvantage has been working with qualifiedoccupational therapists, benefiting fromtheir advice and encouragement. Studyingpart-time has been a lot of hard work, butvery rewarding. It’s very important to makesure that your employer supports you,which could involve giving you time off andpaying for your textbooks and travel.”

Some words of adviceFelicity, studying at Southampton, offerssome advice to new students starting theirstudies. She entered the 2007 HigherEducation Academy Student EssayCompetition – and won first prize for theHealth Sciences and Practice SubjectCentre. She advises students to:

• Develop good relations with your fellowstudents from all professions.

• Identify your own learning style and takeadvantage of all learning opportunities.

• Discuss your needs with tutors andpractice educators.

• Keep a log of your experiences –highlight your achievements, your areasfor development and the changes youfind in yourself over time.

You can find her essay on their website at:http://www.health.heacademy.ac.uk/scevents/StudentAwards/index_html

At any point in your career withinoccupational therapy you canengage in further development ofyour skills and knowledge. This isexpected by employers and theHealth Professions Council (HPC),as well as our clients

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Be sure to get the benefits of theCollege connectionIf you are looking to become anoccupational therapist, it is important tocheck that the programme you want tostudy is accredited by the College ofOccupational Therapists, the professionalbody for occupational therapy staff in theUK. All the programmes listed in thishandbook are accredited by us to ensurethat they are up to date with currentthinking and practice in occupationaltherapy. In addition, College accreditedprogrammes are recognised by the WorldFederation of Occupational Therapists,which means that graduates’ qualificationsare recognised in around 60 countriesworldwide.

If you are looking for study to help you as asupport worker or technician, the Collegehas endorsed two programmes so far – theHNC in Occupational Therapy Support atLangside College in Glasgow (which is alsoavailable by distance learning) and theOpen University’s Foundation Degree inHealth and Social Care (carried out bydistance learning while you are employed).

How do I apply?Applications to three- or four-year full-timepre-registration occupational therapyprogrammes should be made through thefollowing organisation:Universities and College AdmissionsService (UCAS)Rosehill New Barn LaneCheltenhamGloucestershireGL52 3LZT: 0870 112 2211W: www.ucas.com

At the time of going to print, UCAS has notset the deadlines for receiving applicationsfor September 2009. The College advisesyou to look at the UCAS website andsubmit your applications as early aspossible. Applications to two-yearaccelerated programmes and four-yearpart-time/in-service routes should be madedirect to the university.

All applicants are advised to visit anoccupational therapy unit to gain anunderstanding of the profession. Contactdetails for hospitals and social servicesdepartments can be found in your localtelephone directory.

Applications for the HNC should be madedirectly to Langside College. For the OpenUniversity Foundation Degree, you mustapply through your sponsoring employer.Check their information on our website forcontact details.

Personal statementWhen applying for an occupational therapyprogramme, either through UCAS or to thehigher education institutions direct, you willbe asked to write a personal statement. Thisstatement gives you the opportunity to sellyourself.

You should include any experiences you haveof working in, and/or visiting, occupationaltherapy departments and what you havelearnt from them. Explain why you areinterested in occupational therapy andprovide a clear picture of personal qualitiesand skills you feel you will bring to theprofession.Write something about yourpreferred methods of learning and yourcontinued commitment to learning.

You should also provide a brief account ofyour interests and hobbies, such as readingor current affairs and any voluntary workyou have done. If you are applying for aselection of degree programmes, forexample occupational therapy, nursing orphysiotherapy, you should mention why youare doing so.

Applying for anoccupational therapy programme

If you arelooking tobecome anoccupationaltherapist, it isimportant tocheck that theprogramme youwant to study isaccredited by theCollege ofOccupationalTherapists, theprofessionalbody foroccupationaltherapy staff inthe UK

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For information on individual programmesvisit our website: www.cot.org.uk

• Lancaster

• Bristol

• Leeds

• York

• Newcastle

• Middlesbrough

• Huddersfield• Salford

• Sheffield

Derby •

• Coventry

• Northampton• Milton Keynes

• Oxford

Bradford •

• Bangor

Wrexham •

• Carlisle

• Edinburgh• Glasgow

Aberdeen •

Cardiff •

Bournemouth •

• Southampton • Eastbourne

Plymouth •

Norwich •

Canterbury •

Medway•London •

Colchester •

Listing of programmes accredited bythe College of Occupational Therapists

Belfast •

Grantham•Stafford •

Location UniversityEnglandBournemouth Bournemouth UniversityBradford University of BradfordBristol University of the West of EnglandCanterbury (& Medway) Canterbury Christ Church University*Colchester University of Essex (held at Colchester Institute)Coventry (& Stafford) Coventry University*Derby University of DerbyEastbourne University of BrightonHuddersfield University of HuddersfieldLancaster (& Carlisle) University of Cumbria*Leeds Leeds Metropolitan UniversityLondon Brunel UniversityLondon London South Bank UniversityMiddlesbrough University of TeessideNewcastle Northumbria UniversityNorthampton The University of NorthamptonNorwich University of East AngliaOxford Oxford Brookes UniversityPlymouth University of PlymouthSalford The University of SalfordSheffield (& Grantham) Sheffield Hallam University*Southampton University of SouthamptonYork York St John University

N.IrelandBelfast University of Ulster (at Jordanstown)

ScotlandAberdeen The Robert Gordon UniversityEdinburgh Queen Margaret UniversityGlasgow Glasgow Caledonian University

WalesBangor Bangor UniversityCardiff Cardiff UniversityWrexham North East Wales Institute of Higher Education, University of Wales

*Programmes awarded by these universities are offered in more than one location

Pre-registration occupational therapy programmes

Recognised support worker programmesMilton Keynes The Open UniversityGlasgow Langside College

24

Financial support and funding

What government funding is availableto me?Students with UK citizenship (who areresident in the UK) are normally eligible tohave their tuition fees funded for full-timeand part-time undergraduate pre-registration occupational therapyprogrammes. Additional financial supportthrough a means-tested bursary may alsobe available, but this will vary according toeach student’s circumstances.

In the first instance, you should contact theuniversity of your choice to check that youare eligible for funding, as this may beaffected by other factors, for example if youhave already completed a degree withsupport from public funds, you are aninternational student, or a you are a UKcitizen who has not been resident in theUK. If you require further information onthe types of funding available, the agencieslisted here will be able to advise you.

All postgraduate pre-registration places inWales and England are funded, except inScotland. In-service programmes foroccupational therapy support workersemployed by the NHS or social services areusually funded by the WorkforceDevelopment Confederations of StrategicHealth Authorities. In some instances, theemploying trust may also be willing toprovide funding. This will be arrangedthrough your employer.

EnglandNHS Student BursariesHesketh House200–220 BroadwayFleetwoodLancashire FY7 8SST: 0845 358 6655F: 01253 774 490W: www.nhspa.gov.uk/sguE: [email protected]

ScotlandStudent Awards Agency for Scotland (SAAS)Gyleview House3 Redheugh RiggEdinburgh EH12 9HHTT: 0845 111 1711W: www.saas.gov.uk

There is some funding available for theHNC in Occupational Therapy Supportthrough NHS Education for Scotland.Ask the Langside College staff for moreinformation.

WalesNHS (Wales) Student Awards Unit12th FloorBrunel House2 Fitzalan RoadCardiff CF24 0WATT: 029 20 502355

Northern IrelandDepartment for Employment and LearningStudent Finance Branch4th FloorAdelaide House39–49 Adelaide StreetBelfast BT2 8FDTT: 028 9025 7710W: www.delni.gov.uk

The Department of Health in Englandannounced changes to the NHS BursaryScheme that came into play in September2007. The major changes affecting newstudents in receipt of a bursary include:

• An increase in the basic allowance foreligible applicants.

• The introduction of a new Parents’Learning Allowance.

From September 2007, all students becomeable to claim rent payments as a deductibleexpense against income, which is used tocalculate dependents’ and childcareallowances. From January 2007, the NHSBursary Scheme maternity supportarrangements have been formalised, whichwill help students who become pregnantwhile they are training to return to theirstudies. To check out these new allowancessee the NHS Student Grants Unit website atwww.nhsstudentgrants.co.uk

What other funding is available to me?The Educational Grants AdvisoryService (EGAS)This is an independent advice agency forpeople wanting to get funding for further orhigher education, and helps students whoare not eligible for statutory funding. It canonly assist those who have not receivedstatutory funding if they have explored allalternative sources of funding, such asaccess funds or student loans, and are stillin extreme financial difficulties. EGAS canalso give detailed advice about the fundingsystem to those who are consideringentering further or higher education. EGASoperates a student advice line: 020 72546251, on Tuesday,Wednesday and Thursdayfrom 14:00–16:00.

Experienced student advisers are availableto answer questions on statutory and non-statutory funding sources, and can advise

You should contact the university of your choice tocheck that you are eligible for funding.

25

on the progress of written fundingenquiries. More information is available onEGAS’ website: www.egas-online.org.uk

Scholarship Search UKThis is a comprehensive guide on all youneed to know when planning andorganising student finances. Visit:www.scholarship-search.org.uk

What financial support is available to me?Student loanFor information regarding eligibility forstudent loans, you should contact thefollowing organisation:

Student Loans Company Ltd100 Bothwell StreetGlasgow G2 7UDT: (Freephone) 0800 405 010W: www.slc.co.uk

Career development loanThis type of loan is for students whoreceive a means-tested NHS bursary, andwho are not eligible for student loans. Acareer development loan is a deferredrepayment bank loan to help you pay forvocational education or training. You canborrow between £300 and £8,000 to helpyou fund up to two years of training (orup to three years, if the courseprogramme includes work experience).The Learning and Skills Council pays theinterest on the loan while you are training.You do not have to repay the loan until one

month after the end of your training period,and you will then be required to repay theloan to the bank over an agreed period at afixed rate of interest.

Career development loans are availablethrough three major banks. You do notneed to be an existing account holder, butyou may be required to open an accountwith the bank concerned. For informationon eligibility and criteria contact the CareerDevelopment Loan information line, onFreephone: 0800 585 505, or see theirwebsite: www.direct.gov.uk/cdl

Interest-free overdraftMany banking organisations offer a varietyof interest free overdraft schemes. Alwayscheck the repayment criteria beforeagreeing to use this facility. Different banksoffer different deals so it pays toshop around.

Different banksoffer differentdeals so it paysto shop around

26

I haven’t studied for a long while. I am anadult learner. How will I cope?All programmes welcome applications fromadult learners.The individual universities willadvise you on how to prepare for study. Someadult learners prefer or are required to dofoundation degrees or access courses in arelated field, such as health and social care.

Are all programmes nationally andinternationally recognised?All students who successfully complete aprogramme in the UK will be eligible toapply to register with the Health ProfessionsCouncil (HPC) as an occupational therapist.Graduates from a College accrediteduniversity can then apply for individualregistration with theWorld Federation ofOccupational Therapists (WFOT), and,providing they meet the employmentrequirements of the country concerned,apply for jobs overseas.

How do I become a student member ofthe British Association and College ofOccupational Therapists and what arethe benefits?You can apply to become a studentmember of the College. Your university willadvise you on what to do and some maypay your student membership fees. Checkthis with your chosen university.

Student members of the BritishAssociation and College of OccupationalTherapists gain a number of benefits,including:

• Professional indemnity insurance.

• Professional advice on educational issues,which will enhance professionalknowledge and skills.

• Two monthly publications, OccupationalTherapy News and the British Journal ofOccupational Therapy, with all the latestnews and research in the world ofoccupational therapy.

• Up-to-date knowledge on governmentlegislation and publications that have animpact on occupational therapy lifelonglearning and development.

• Access to the College’s library, which hasan exclusive collection of over 6,000books, reports, abstracts and journalsrelating to occupational therapy.

• Special low rates for conferences, events,post-registration and educationalcourses.

• Opportunity to join local student groupsorganised by the British Association andCollege of Occupational Therapists.

• Copies of the College’s Code of ethicsand professional conduct foroccupational therapists.

• International recognition through theWorld Federation of OccupationalTherapists (WFOT) for students onCollege accredited programmes.

• College publications and services thatsupport students through their studyprogramme.

All these benefits will help you to be a wellinformed graduate with a wide range ofknowledge and information aboutpractising as an occupational therapist.

Can the College recommend aparticular programme?All occupational therapy programmes in theUK have to be approved by the HealthProfessions Council (HPC) (regulatory body).These are the minimum thresholdrequirements for practising as anoccupational therapist. Most programmes are,or are awaiting, further accredited status fromthe College of Occupational Therapists, whichensures that graduates are fit for theprofession. Studying an occupational therapyprogramme entitles you to apply for studentmembership.You may have to pay themembership fee yourself. In some instances,the university may pay your fee for you.Choosing where to study is a personal choice.

Are entry requirements the same foreach university?Each university has its own entryrequirements, which vary. Adult learners arewelcomed on all courses and will beconsidered, even if they do not have thestated academic requirements. Specificenquiries about entry requirements shouldbe made directly to the university.

I am a student with disabilities. Howwill I be supported?A disability should be no issue for students atmost universities in the UK. Look back at thestudent stories on pages 20 and 21 – Gillianhas dyslexia, Steve is registered blind andFelicity has multiple disabilities.

All universities have special provision forstudents with disabilities (including unseendisabilities such as learning difficulties ordiabetes). Please contact them direct forfurther information.

Students with disabilities may be eligible fora Disabled Students Allowance (DSA).Contact your local education authority, theDepartment for Innovation, Universities andSkills, tel: 020 7215 5555; or visit theDirectgov website: www.direct.gov.uk forfurther information, or for a copy ofBridging the gap: a guide to the DisabledStudents’ Allowances (DSAs) in HigherEducation.

The College has produced some guidanceon disability and learning which can beobtained via the College website at:www.cot.org.uk

What is the difference between in-service programmes and part-timeprogrammes?Some programmes are designed to provideaccess to professional qualifications forsupport workers or technical instructorsworking in health or social care, and theseare called in-service. Other programmesallow students to study part-time,irrespective of employment status. Bothprogrammes of study include daily orweekly attendance, and all include full-timeperiods of practice placements.

How do I arrange a visit to anoccupational therapy department?We recommend that potential students visita number of occupational therapydepartments before starting the course.Applicants should take advantage ofhospital or social services open days andconsider visiting local residential nursinghomes and institutions where occupationaltherapists work. Contact details for theseorganisations can be found in the localtelephone directory.

Do the universities check forcriminal records?Enhanced Criminal Records Bureaudisclosures will be requested by theuniversity after you have been provisionallyaccepted, and before your firstpractice placement.

Will I need to have a health checkbefore starting a programme?All students will be required to undertake ahealth check, and you may have to pay forcertain inoculations before going on aplacement. For more details on this, pleasecontact the university.

Frequently asked questions

The individual course listings on theCollege’s website will provide you withmore information about each university,including their contact details.

Things to think about

Be sure the university is accredited with theCollege of Occupational Therapists – all ofthe ones listed in this handbook.

Consider the general facilities at theuniversity – accommodation, sports andrecreation, student support services.

Where you might want to study(geographically) – whether it needs to benear home, or if you prefer to gosomewhere you will enjoy for reasonsbeyond the university – you may be therefor a few years!

Where you might want to settle onceworking – a placement often leads to a firstjob.

The particular attributes of the university –their style of teaching and what will beexpected of you. Look at their teachingstyles – do they focus on group work orlectures? Their assessment methods – dothey rely on practical assessments orexams?What optional subjects areavailable? Will you have the opportunity totake placements abroad? All these factorsare important considerations whenselecting a university.

The involvement of the university studentsand staff with the profession – dependingon your ambitions, this might make adifference.

What your learning style might be –more information is available atwww.support4learning.org.uk/education/learning_styles.cfm

You should check out the information anddiscuss your thoughts with your friends,tutors, partners and parents. They can helpsuggest what type of learning environmentwill suit you best.

Whichever university you choose, theCollege knows that you will enjoy youreducational journey into occupationaltherapy and looks forward to welcomingyou as a student member.

And finally –

how to make your choice…

Whichever university you choose, the College knowsthat you will enjoy your educational journey intooccupational therapy and looks forward to welcomingyou as a student member

27

Published July 2008

College of Occupational Therapists106–114 Borough High StreetLondon SE1 1LBwww.cot.org.ukTel: 020 7357 6480 Fax: 020 7450 2299

2008 College of Occupational Therapists Ltd.Reg. in England No. 1347374 Reg. Charity No. 275119 VAT Reg. No. 242 7829 47

For free distribution only.

We believe that occupational therapyis one of the most rewarding careers

in health and social care

Occupational TherapyCareers Handbook

Entry 2009/10

Occupational therapyHelping you to live life your way

Application and interview processThe selection is based on the academic profile, personal statement,reference, knowledge of occupational therapy and engagementthroughout the group interview process

FundingUndergraduate students should contact either Students Awards Agency forScotland or their Local Education Authority (LEA).

International/EU linksThe programme has strong links with Wisconsin University, USA through astudent exchange programme. Research links are established with CurtinUniversity, Australia and links are currently being established withDalhousie University, Canada

Standard entry requirementsGCSEOne of the following:GCE A levelsBCC and 2 passes at GCSE

GNVQ/AVCESQA, BTEC

ACCESSAccess programmes

SCOTTISH HIGHERSSQA HighersBBCC to include English and a science subjectpreferably biology, maths at standard grade 2or equivalent

IRISH LEAVING CERTILC HighersBBBC to include English, maths and a sciencesubject, preferably biology, maths at least atOrdinary level B

ACCELERATED ROUTESHNC in Occupational Therapy Support may allowdirect entry to Year twoAPEL By individual applicationACL By individual application

Additional information regarding standardentry requirementsAll applicants must provide a satisfactory Enhanced Criminal RecordsBureau check and satisfactory health clearance before starting the course.

Non standard entry requirementsMature students are considered on an individual basis but are required toshow evidence of recent study demonstrating a good standard of Englishand sciences, including one at B or an Access Course in sciences or,healthcare at a College of Further Education or University.All applicants must provide a satisfactory Enhanced Criminal RecordsBureau check and satisfactory health clearance before starting the course.

Entry requirements for Masters programme1st degree in relevant subject at 2.1

Overseas applicantsInternational students are required to have a minimum InternationalEnglish Language Testing System (IELTS) score of 7 in English, with noindividual elements below 6.5. The Health Professions Council (HPC)requires a score of 7 to be achieved at time of application for registration.

Post qualifying programmesPostgraduate Professional Studies Programme – Cert/PGDip/ MastersWith individual modules available at masters level includingEnvironmental Design and Modification/Research Methods/Values inHealthcare

Research profileStaff are research active, many projects underpin the occupational therapycurriculum and inform teaching. The School’s research themes of evidence-based practice and evaluation are clearly seen in several projects whichare interprofessional and community related, with staff working closelywith clinical colleagues. There is a developing community of PhD studentswithin the school.

Future developmentsThe occupational therapy programme has a very good reputation for thequality of student support. Continuing professional development,reflective and evidence based practice are other strong features forundergraduate students in preparation for their future professional career.

COT HANDBOOK 2009

Scotland

Aberdeen

Linkswith the

professionalbody

Links with the professional body

The Robert Gordon UniversitySchool of Health SciencesGarthdee CampusGarthdee RoadAberdeenAB10 7QG

www.rgu.ac.uk

ContactsJennifer Caldwelltel: 01224 263257email: [email protected] 263290

• Established BAOT group

• 100% of students are BAOT members

• As at September 2007 Robert Gordonis paying student BAOT membership

• Programme Lead or equivalent is anoccupational therapist

• 8 occupational therapy teaching staff.7 are BAOT members

• Other professions contributing to theprogramme: Physiotherapy,Diagnostic Radiography, psychologist,sociologist, nursing

• 51 APPLE accredited PracticePlacement Educators.

• Occupational therapy team belongingto specialist sections include 1neurology, 1 mental health,1 care ofolder person, 1 environmental design

Qualifying programmesBSc (Hons) Occupational TherapyMasters (Pre-reg) – pending validationDuration of ProgrammeBSc (Hons) 4 years full timeMasters (Pre-reg) 2 years full-time – pending validationProgramme startsBSc (Hons) September 2009Masters (Pre-reg) Jan 2009 – pending validationNumber of places availableBSc (Hons) 40Masters (Pre-reg) 20 – pending validation

About the areaAberdeen is a vibrant city with a fascinating past and shining future. Thewelcoming atmosphere is summed up in the toast: ‘Happy to meet, sorryto part, happy to meet again’. Sporting facilities are excellent, including golfcourses, swimming pools, ice rinks and sports pitches, the alpine sports centreadjacent to the Garthdee campus and opportunities for sailing andwindsurfing.

About the programme/university

The Robert Gordon University (RGU) is a dynamic modern university with anew campus and international reputation for providing high qualityeducation from undergraduate to PhD level. Our programmes are designedto offer students an effective combination of academic study and practicalexperience, developed by committed staff and close consultation withemployers. A degree from RGU places graduates ahead of the rest andmakes RGU one of the top universities in Scotland for graduateemployment.

Key features of the programmeThe programme is committed to interprofessional education with a third ofthe course being undertaken with other Allied Health Professionals so thatstudents benefit from shared learning and experiences. One third of thecourse is practice-based learning with students undertaking six practiceplacements in a variety of settings throughout Scotland. The strong threadof integration of theory and practice runs throughout the four years of thecourse.Teaching methods used throughout the course focus on student enquirymethods, with students extending their learning through experiences suchas visits to voluntary groups, leisure centres and other facilities. Exchangevisits between Robert Gordon University andWisconsin University USA arewell developed with students being encouraged to examine the differentcultural approaches tohealth and social care in the two countries.

How to applyUCAS for undergraduate programmeDirect to HEI for Masters (pre-reg) programme

The teaching methods used centre on problem-based learning and othercomplementary learning opportunities, which utilise the study expertise ofpostgraduate learners. This is an intensively timetabled curriculum overtwo calendar years, each consisting of 45 weeks of full-time attendance.

Support and active encouragement is given for use of the Welsh languagewhenever possible; this includes individual assessed work and tutorialsfacilitated through the medium of Welsh. Bilingual course documentationis freely available. Students can also request to be considered for particularplacement settings which predominantly utilise and value the Welshlanguage.

At the Bangor site an accelerated occupational therapy programme isoffered in collaboration with Cardiff University. As the programme runsconcurrently in Cardiff it offers extensive opportunities for shared learningwith Cardiff based occupational therapy students. The Bangor site offers amultidisciplinary learning environment promoted by shared learningresources within the School of Healthcare Sciences.

How to applyApplications are direct to the HEI and are available on line.

Application and interview processThe two year postgraduate programme selection process includes a groupexercise, prepared essay on a pre-disclosed topic and an individualinterview.

FundingEleven funded places are made available throughWelsh AssemblyGovernment grants for potential students resident in the UK. This coverstutorial fees plus a maintenance grant. UK students, may also wish toapply for a Career Development Loan from the Department for Educationand Employment.Up to 14 additional places are available and applications are welcomedfrom self funding and non UK resident post graduate students.

International/EU linksThe university has formal links through the ERASMUS student exchangeprogramme and placement within the EU is available.

Standard entry requirementsApplicants need to be existing graduates or people expecting to graduatein any topic before the January start date. Due to the demands of enrollingon an accelerated curriculum, preference will normally be given toapplicants who have obtained an award at 2:2 or above, and completedeither their undergraduate or other appropriate study within the last 5years.

Additional information regarding standardentry requirementsA level of computer literacy such as the ‘European Computer DrivingLicence’ is highly recommended prior to enrolment.

Overseas applicantsApplications are welcomed from non UK residents.

Research profileThe occupational therapy programme in Bangor commenced in January2004 and we are interested in developing collaborative projects with localhealth and social care providers and other institutions, in particular CardiffUniversity and the North East Wales Institute base of the All Wales Part-time Occupational Therapy Programme.We wish to prioritise research thatconcentrates on the investigation of occupations,occupational science, the therapeutic use of occupations and implicationsof Welsh language and culture.

COT HANDBOOK 2009

Wales

Bangor

Linkswith the

professionalbody


Bangor UniversityDepartment of Occupational TherapySchool of Healthcare SciencesFron HeulogFfriddoed RoadBangorGwyneddLL57 2EF

www.bangor.ac.uk/healthcaresciences/occtherapy/index.php.en

Cymraegwww.bangor.ac.uk/healthcaresciences/occtherapy/index.php.cy

Dr Ann Ilsleytel: 01248 383134email: [email protected]

• Students have access to a studentBAOT group within Wales


• As at September 2007 Bangoris paying student BAOT membership


• 6 occupational therapy teaching staff.All are BAOT members

• Other professions contributing to theprogramm:nursing and midwifery. Otherprofessions to contribute includesocial work, physiology, music therapy,various charities e.g. British HeartFoundation, consultant physicians andcounsellors.


• Occupational therapy team belongingto specialist sections include 3 inhousing, back care and mental health

Qualifying programmesPost Grad.DipCOTDuration of Programme2 yearsProgramme startsJanuary 2010Number of places available12 fundedUp to 14 self funded places

About the areaThe Department of Occupational Therapy Education is based within theSchool of Healthcare Sciences. This is situated in a central location withinthe historic city of Bangor and in close proximity to the railway station. Thisbilingual community is rich with history, culture and charm. It issurrounded by a breathtaking landscape which is the focal point of NorthWest Wales. Bangor offers easy access to the Snowdonia National Park andthe North Wales Coast. Anglesey is a popular destination, particularly withsurfers. Holyhead is close by and offers a gateway to Ireland.

About the programme/universityBangor University has close links with the NHS in Wales. The University isa major provider of training and education for the NHS and is also one ofthe main partners in the new North Wales Clinical School

Full student support services including advisory and counselling servicesare available to address the needs of students with disabilities and/orlearning needs encountered during training.

According to The Independent’s A-Z of Universities and Higher EducationColleges, Bangor is “one of the cheapest places in Britain” to live. TheIndependent also placed Bangor 4th most cost effective location forstudents in their Student Living Index Guide for 2008

In 2007 as part of the course validation event COT representativesconfirmed six commendations in respect of the Post GraduateOccupational therapy course in Bangor which included;The commitment of the occupational therapy team to the needs of thestudents and their adaptability/flexibility in helping the students to achievetheir potential.The strength and focus of the bilingual development and the sensitivityand support shown to the needs of Welsh speakers.Involvement of service users in the problem based learning group’senriched students learning experience.

Key features of the programmeThis two year programme is divided into modules that explore threecentral themes – professional studies in occupational therapy, practiceplacement and professional practice modules. The final award offers apostgraduate diploma and reflects the inclusion of one third of studyweighted at Masters level.An additional (optioal) module is now available to enable our students toproceed to complete a Masters qualification.

FundingFees are paid by the NHSWorkforce Development Confederation, who alsoprovide means-tested bursaries. Student loans may also be sought in somecases.More information is available on the Department of Health website:www.dh.gov.uk/Home/fs/en

International/EU linksThe Institute of Health and Community Studies has a number of overseaslinks. It is hoped that students will take the opportunity during the electivepractice placement in the third year to experience working in our of ourpartner countries.

Standard entry requirementsGCSE or key skill equivalent – 5 subjects at Grade C or above includingmaths and English.

One of the following:A levels or equivalentApproved Access Course

Additional information regarding non standardentry requirementsAll students need to have an insight into the profession and any relevantexperience will be looked upon favourably.We are looking for individualswho will go on to become excellent practioners in the field and applicantswith maturity and experience will be welcomed. Evidence of recent study,within the last fiveyears is required.

Overseas applicantsApplications are welcomed from non UK residents.

Research profileThe Institute of Health & Community Studies has a very active and well-established Centre for Qualitative Research as well as a number ofResearch Centres in Practice. Occupational Therapy is a relatively newprofession within Bournemouth University and is currently establishinglinks with practice partners to develop research themes at undergraduateand practitioner level.

Future developmentsThere are plans to develop part-time and fast-track routes in the future.

COT HANDBOOK 2009

England

Bournemouth

Linkswith the

professionalbody

Bournemouth UniversityBournemouth House17 Christchurch RoadBournemouthDorset – BH1 3LH

www.bournemouth.ac.uk

tel: 01202 967274

Qualifying programmesBSc (Hons)Duration of Programme3 yearsProgramme startsSeptember 2009Number of places available35 full-time

About the areaBournemouth University is surrounded by the natural beauty of Britain’ssouth coast. As one of the UK’s premier sunshine resorts, Bournemouthoffers the attractions of a large city, but with the charm of a small town.Bournemouth is probably best known today for its centre - a busycosmopolitan place, big on entertainment, shopping and nightlife.

Additionally, nearby Poole is a haven for watersports.

About the programme/university...a modern and innovative institution. We enjoy a reputation for ourcommitment to wide ranging opportunities through lifelong learning,teaching, research and consultancy.

...one of the premier providers of vocational higher education in the UK.We work with key organisations closely related to our areas of expertise.Our programmes are designed and delivered in such a way as to give ourgraduates a head start in pursuing employment and careerenhancement.

Key features of the programmeThis programme is delivered using a problembased learning approach.There are regular opportunities in the programme to share learning withfellow students in physiotherapy as well as with a range of students inhealth and social care professions within the interprofessional learningunits of the programme. Currently the range of professional groupsincluded in interprofessional learning includes all branches of nursing,midwifery, social work and operating department practice. Studentsstudying on programmes related to nutrition, exercise science for healthand rehabilitation and health science also study on the same campuswithin the same academic group. Practice placements are interspersedthroughout the programme at regular intervals and are located in a rangeof settings across Somerset and Dorset.

How to applyApplications should be made through UCAS.

Application and interview processApplicants meeting programme requirements will be invited to a groupinterview. In addition to proven academic ability and relevant experience,we are looking for qualities which include enhanced communication skills,team working ability and the applicant’s potential to engage in problem-based learning.

side other professionals in a dedicated Health studies environment.Students have the opportunity to go on placements in each of the 3 yearsand the final placement offers the opportunity to go on a role emergingplacement in exciting and diverse locations.

How to applyUCAS

Application and interview processIn addition to meeting academic requirements,prospective students must successfully achievean individual interview before a final offer of aplace is made. The interview offers candidatesan opportunity to learn more about theparticular programme at Bradford, as well asdetermining the candidate’s ability todemonstrate an appreciation of the professionand requirements in study, personal related skillsand characteristics related to occupationaltherapy

FundingNHS Bursary, means tested

Standard entry requirementsGCSE6 passes at grade C or above should includeEnglish language, mathematics and preferablya health or science related subject

GNVQ/AVCE GCE/A levelMinimum of 240 points to include 2full A levels. Subjects preferably to includenatural or/social sciences.

ACCESSPass

SCOTTISH HIGHERS240 points to include 2 at Advanced Higher level

IRISH LEAVING CERTBBBBB at Higher Level to include English, maths and a science

Additional information regarding standardentry requirementsFor all other requirements other than GSCE and GCE A Level-Minimum of 240 points in vocationalqualifications, usually to include 2 x 6 unitawards to the same value and depth as Alevels and to preferably include natural and/orhealth/social sciences.

Non standard entry requirementsAll students are welcome and will be consideredwith a range of qualifications, eg Access courses, A level;however, evidence of appropriately relatedacademic study in the past three years will beexpected.

Overseas applicantsApplications will be considered via UCAS

Post qualifying programmesPost Grad Certificate

COT HANDBOOK 2009

England

Bradford

The University of BradfordDivision Of Rehabilitation StudiesTrinity Road, BradfordBD50BBWest YorkshireEngland

ContactsCathy Clarke (UG prog lead)tel: 01274235966email: [email protected]

Sandra ShallcrossRecruitment & Student Support Managertel: 01274 236367email: [email protected]: 01274 236302

Linkswith the

professionalbody


• A student BAOT group being established


• As at September 2007 Bradfordis paying student BAOT membership



• Other professions contributing to theprogramme: Physiotherapy, Nursingand Social Sciences


Qualifying programmesBSc (Hons) Occupational TherapyDuration of Programme3 years full timeProgramme startsSeptember 2009Number of places available20 full time

About the areaThe cosmopolitan mix, booming social scene and host of thriving culturalvenues create a vibrant modern atmosphere in Bradford that sitsperfectly alongside the glorious vestiges of the Victorian era. Setamongst some of the most spectacular countryside in England and yetone of the most affordable places to live in Britain, Bradford’s wonderfulparadoxes create a student city that is hard to beat.

Bradford is situated right in the heart of England with excellent road, railand air links with the rest of the country and within striking distance ofLeeds, Manchester and some of the other great Northern metropolises.

The city lies nestled among some of the most spectacular landscape inEngland. Ten minutes in a car or on a train will take you into beautifulrolling countryside, which boasts two World Heritage Sites - SaltaireVillage, and the 12th-century Fountains Abbey.


The University of Bradford received its Royal Charter in 1966 but itsorigins date back to the 1860s. Today the University has around 10,000students.

Bradford has always been a forward-thinking, modern and student-orientated University. We have a firm commitment to confrontinginequality and celebrating diversity, our students benefit from a multi-cultural learning environment, with students here from over 110countries across the world.

Overall the University has a close-knit, friendly atmosphere, enablingstudents to get to know each other quickly.

We are constantly investing in our campus and facilities to ensure youhave a world-class teaching and learning environment, state-of-the-artfacilities and enhancing the vibrancy of the campus experience to makeyour time in Bradford truly one to cherish.

Key features of the programmeThe Bradford programme utilizes the philosophiesand practice of experiential learning, usingcreative problem solving and engaging students in activelearning situations both in the University and the community, to enableand empower students in integrating theory and practice. The curriculum istaught using a lifespan format, incorporating both the public and serviceusers within the teaching and assessment to enable students to appreciateand understanding occupational beings, relevance of occupations andoccupational deprivation. Students also have opportunities to learn along

FundingAll places are funded by South West Strategic Health Authority. Successfulapplicants will be eligible to apply for NHS Bursary.

Applicants who wish to self-fund are asked to contact School Admissionsbelow:-

Telephone: 0117 32 81141Fax: 0117 32 81185E-mail : [email protected]

Standard entry requirementsGCSE5 subjects at grade C or above including mathsand English Language

PLUS:UCAS Tariff 280 to 320 UCAS Tariff points in at least 2 subjects includingone science/social science subject.

ACCESS50 level 3 credits to include Science/Social Science plusMaths and English at level 2

SCOTTISH HIGHERSUCAS Tariff 280 to 320 UCAS Tariff points in at least 2 subjects includingone science/social science subject.

IRISH LEAVING CERTUCAS Tariff 280 to 320 UCAS Tariff points in at least 2 subjects includingone science/social science subject

ACCELERATED ROUTESUCAS Tariff 280 to 320 UCAS Tariff points in at least 2 subjects includingone science/social science subject.

Additional information regarding standardentry requirementsBTEC National Award/Advance General Certificate of Education(AGCE)/Ad-vanced Vocational Certificate of Education(AVCE) have been incorporated into the UCAS Tariff scheme.

All applicants should have some experience in healthcare or social care.

Non standard entry requirementsStudents who do not have the above academic profile will be consideredon an individual basis.

All applicants should have some experience in healthcare or social care.

Overseas applicantsEntry requirements as equivalent of above.In addition for applicants who do not speak English as a first subject theymust have an IETS score of 7 which no element is below 6.5

International/EU linksThe Programme has links with European occupational therapyprogrammes through ENOTHE.

Post qualifying programmesThere are various courses available to occupational therapists at UWE:-http://hsc.uwe.ac.uk/cpd/index-02.aspx#P30_2058

Research profileActive Older PeopleMaintaining students’ well-being through occupationWork and Incapacity BenefitsInclusion and People with Mental Health issuesPeople with Learning Disabilities and their occupational challengesOccupation and well-being

Future developmentsMSc in Occupational TherapyCPD short courses

COT HANDBOOK 2009

England

Bristol

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professionalbody

Links with the professional body• No student BAOT group

• As at September 2007 Bristol is not paying forstudents BAOT membership

• The majority of the students are members

• Programme Lead is anoccupational therapist

• 11 occupational therapy teaching staff.

• Other professions contributing to theprogramme: Social Work; Physiotherapy; LearningDisabilities Nursing; Mental Health Nursing.

• 121 APPLE accredited Practice Placement Educators

• Occupational therapy team belonging tospecialist sections: Older People, People withLearning Disabilities, Mental Health, Rheumatology,Work

Qualifying programmesBSc (Hons)Duration of Programme1. 4 years part-time2. 3 years full-timeProgramme startsSeptember 2009Number of places available1. 20 part time2. 30 full time

About the areaBristol is very well placed to explore Bath; the Cotswolds; the South West;Wales.Explorers such as John Cabot; visit the SS Great Britain; Bristol Blue Glass;Bristol Old Vic Theatre has a lively Youth Theatre attached to UWE

About the programme/universityThe University offers more than 600 programmes at undergraduate,postgraduate, professional and short course levels. UWE has a history ofproviding high-quality education and training to students, achievingconsistently high assessment scores for teaching quality. The University’sstrong links with major employers brings visiting lecturers to share theirprofessional experience and provides excellent placement opportunitiesfor students. The University prides itself on giving its students theknowledge and skills they need to succeed in their chosen career.

For more information about this exciting university please use followinglink: http://www.uwe.ac.uk/aboutUWE/uwe.shtml

Key features of the programmeBoth part-time and full-time programmes are modular and use ProblemBased Learning and Student Centred Learning approaches.The School of Health and Social Care has Interprofessional Education as acore element running through each of the three levels of study. All studentsparticipate in this, giving opportunities to learn with and from studentsfrom other professions such as nursing, medicine, social work, nursing,physiotherapy; radiotherapy & diagnostic imaging.

How to applyFull-time applicants apply through UCASPart-time applicants contact School Admissions to request applicationform.

Telephone: 0117 32 81141Fax: 0117 32 81185E-mail : [email protected]

Application and interview processApplicants who fulfil standard entry requirements will be sent abiographical questionnaire to complete and return. All non-standardapplicants and some standard applicants will be called for interview.

University of the West of EnglandFaculty of Health and Life SciencesSchool of Health and Social CareDepartment of Allied Health ProfessionsGlenside CampusBristolBS16 1DD

www.uwe.ac.uk

ContactsJon Fieldhouse (full-time programme)tel: 0117 328 8941email: [email protected]: 0117 328 8437Helen Martin (part-time programme)tel: 0117 328 8875email: [email protected]: 0117 328 8437

disabilities and there is provision for people with hearing and visualimpairment. Accessible student residences are available at the Canterburycampus. The student disability advisor and the student support unit supportdisabled students and those with specific learning needs such as dyslexia.

Key features of the programmeThe occupational therapy pathway has a strong focus on occupation andthe importance this plays in health and well being. This underpins thetheoretical and practical aspects of the programme in order to create astrong identity for the students. Occupational therapy lecturers combinetraditional teaching methods such as lectures, seminars and workshopswith innovative delivery styles, such as mini-conferences with service users,video projects, virtual learning environments, problem-based learning,student led sessions and game-based learning. The programme issemester-based with three modules being undertaken each semester. Theinterprofessional nature of the programme means some modules involvestudents from all pathways learning together. Practice placements areintegrated into each semester and reflective practice is activelyencouraged. Students are assessed through coursework, presentations,case studies and practical tests.

How to applyAll applications for the BSc programme are made through UCAS(www.ucas.ac.uk/). The UCAS code is B290. Those applicants wishing toapply for the February intake should indicate this on their UCAS form.

Application and interview processProspective students are invited to an information session and campustour, followed by an individual interview.

FundingTuition fees for people resident in Britain for over three years are paid forby the NHS. A means tested bursary for living expenses and childcare costsis available.

International/EU linksThe programme has strong links with Wisconsin University, USA through astudent exchange programme. Research links are established with CurtinUniversity, Australia and links are currently being established withDalhousie University, Canada

Standard entry requirementsGCSEGCSE/O level5 at grade C or abovePlus one of the following:A22 at grade C or aboveGCSE/O levelEnglish or English language at grade C or above

GNVQ/AVCEAGNVQ or NVQ 3Overall Merit

AVCE students should have taken 12 units of study to fullAdvanced level standard.

ACCESSStudents who have undertaken a kite-markedAccess course in a relevant discipline will be considered

SCOTTISH HIGHERSFour Scottish Highers at Grade C or above and a pass in English Languageat GCSE or O,Level Grade C or above or Four Highers at C or above andtwo passes at Oridinary Grade one of which must be English Language

IRISH LEAVING CERTFive Irish Highers at honours ( C or above) and two subjects at ordinarygrade in one sitting

ACCELERATED ROUTESNot applicable

APELBy individual application.

Additional information regarding standardentry requirementsApplicants should have visited or arranged to visit two differentoccupational therapy settings wherever possible.

Non standard entry requirementsGCSE5 GCSEs/O levels at grade C or above plusevidence of recent study such as a kite-marked Access course.

COT HANDBOOK 2009

England

Canterbury

Canterbury Christchurch UniversityCanterbury CampusDepartment of Allied HealthFaculty of Health and Social CareCanterbury Christ ChurchUniversityNorth Holmes RoadCanterburyKent, CT1 1QUwww.canterbury.ac.uk

Medway CampusCanterbury Christ Church UniversityRowanWilliams Court30 Pembroke CourtChatham MaritimeKent, ME4 4UFwww.canterbury.ac.uk/chatham

ContactsSarah Barratttel: 01227 782186email: [email protected] OT Degree Programmetel: 01227 782979Rayya Ghultel: 01227 782810email: [email protected] in Advanced OT Practicetel: 01227 782979Fiona Graytel: 01634 - 4430email: [email protected] Graduate Certificate in Vocational Rehabilitationtel: 01634 894494Anita Volkerttel: 01227 - 2132email: [email protected] Pathway within Foundation Degree for Health andSocial Caretel: 01227 782979Admissions & Recruitmenttel: 01227 - [email protected] enquiries for BSc OT Degree Programme01227 782888

Qualifying programmes1. BSc(Hons) Occupational Therapy2. MSc In Advanced Occupational Therapy Practice3. Post Graduate Certificate in Vocational Rehabilitation4. Foundation Degree in Health andSocial Care OT Pathway

Duration of Programme1. 3 years2. 2 years3. 1 year4. 2 - 4 years depending on whether full orpart time route is chosen

Programme starts1. September 2009 (Canterbury)1. February 2010 (Medway)2. March 20092. October 20093. March 20094. September 2009Number of places available1. 59 Canterbury1. 39 Medway2. 8 – 10 places per intake3. Minimum of 8 places4. No limit to candidates who can self fundPlaces where funding is required are limited

About the areaCanterbury is a historic, walled city with up to date retail, social and leisurefacilities and within easy reach of the sea and country.Chatham Maritime is a rapidly developing area in North Kent, close to thehistoric dockyard. There are good travel links for students commuting fromLondon. Bluewater shopping centre is less than 15 miles away.

About the programme/universityCanterbury Christ Church University is the largest higher educationcentre in Kent for public service professionals: health and social care,teacher training and policing.). The university received the highestpossible rating for the quality of its provision in all areas from theQuality Assurance Agency. The Occupational Therapy Degree Programmeis offered at two campuses at Canterbury and Medway.

Both campuses have excellent modern learning facilities including skillslaboratories. The university is friendly and students from many differentbackgrounds are welcomed on to the programmes. Student support isexcellent and provided through a university-wide service as well as individualand group tutorials. All university buildings are accessible for those with

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• Established BAOT group

• As at September 2007 Canterburyis not paying student BAOT membership


• 20 occupational therapy teaching staffare BAOT members

• Interprofessional health and social care education iswell-established in the Faculty of Health and SocialCare and includes students from eight professions(adult, child and mental health nursing, midwifery,medical imaging, social work, operating departmentpersonnel and occupational therapy.

• 84 APPLE accredited Practice Placement Educators.

• Occupational therapy team belongingto specialist sections include Mental Health,Children, Young People and Families

Additional information regarding non standardentry requirementsOther evidence of ability to study or experience in health or social care willbe considered for non standard applicants. Applicants should have visitedor arranged to visit two different occupational therapy settings whereverpossible.

Overseas applicantsApplicants who live within the EU are eligible to apply.

Post qualifying programmesThe university offers a post-qualifying modular MScin Advanced Occupational Therapy Practice. Thisruns in conjunction with the MSc inInterprofessional Health and Social Care and sharessome of the modules. The programme facilitatesdevelopment at both clinical and managerial levelsand supports occupational therapists who wish todevelop clinical specialist and advanced practitionerroles. The modular nature of the programmeallows the student to design a unique pathwaywhich meets their individual learning needs andreflects their special interests.

Research profileStaff members have completed or are activelyengaged in a variety of Masters and Doctoralresearch projects. These encompassoccupational therapy and higher educationtopics. Specialisms include older people, carers,paediatrics, forensic mental health, occupationalscience, collaborative therapies, ergonomics,suicide, clinical reasoning, interprofessionallearning, widening participation and teachingcritical thinking. Research underpins and directlyinfluences the content and delivery of theundergraduate programme.

Future developmentsThe Post Graduate Certificate in Vocational Rehabilitation has just beenvalidated.

COT HANDBOOK 2009

England

Canterbury

practice will be expected during the four years. A variety of learningmethods (e.g. lectures, directed student learning and problem basedlearning) are integrated and staged throughout the four years. Attendanceis 1 day a week for 30 weeks (including attending 1 day per week duringpractice placement in Levels I & II) plus three 3 day workshops and oneresidential weekend workshops per academic year.

2 Years Full time Post –Graduate DiplomaThis programme is dived into modules that explore three central themes,professional studies in occupational therapy, practice placement inoccupational therapy and life cycle studies. One third of study is weightedat Masters level. The main method of delivery is problem-based learningalthough other teaching methods e.g. workshops are utilised. The two yearprogramme is an intensely timetabled curriculum over two calendar, yearseach consisting of 45 weeks of full time attendance.

How to applyBSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy3 years full-time programmeUCAS Code: B920 BSc/Occ ThThe 4 year part-time programme is by direct application.The 2 year post graduate programme is by direct application

Application and interview process3 years full-time programme involves an interview, group discussion andessay.The 4 Year part-time programme is by interview, short group and writtenexerciseThe 2 year post graduate programme selection process includes a groupexercise, prepared essay on a pre-disclosed topic and individual interview.

FundingBursary places funded by the Welsh Assembly Government includeapproximately 40 places for the full time programme, 14 places for the parttime programme and 12 places for the Cardiff based part time programme.

Standard entry requirementsGCSE5 GCSEs including English and a science

GNVQ/AVCEMinimum of 18 units at advanced level, 12 units of which can be aGNVQ/AVCE

ACCESS72 credits at level 3

SCOTTISH HIGHERSEquivalence of 300 UCAS points

IRISH LEAVING CERTEquivalence of 300 UCAS points

ACCELERATED ROUTESMinimum of second class (lower division) honours degreeAPELThis is judged on an individual basis

Non standard entry requirementsNon -standard entry students will be required to provide evidence ofrecent study within the last five years and demonstrate the ability to workto an A level equivalent standard

Overseas applicantsWhere appropriate a certificate of proficiency in English must be held e.g.IELTS level 7.

Post qualifying programmesMSc in OT

International/EU linksThe department has formal links through the Erasmus student exchangeprogramme and placement within the EU is available

Research profileThe Department concentrates its research on the investigation ofoccupations, occupational science, occupational therapy education andprofessional development and the therapeutic use of occupations. Itcurrently has registered PhD students and links with a number of HEestablishments and NHS Trusts

COT HANDBOOK 2009

Wales

Cardiff

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• A student BAOT group is established


• As at September 2007 Cardiffis paying student BAOT membership

• 3 Programme Leads are occupational therapists


• Other professions contributing to theprogramme: Social work


• 8 Occupational therapy staff belong tospecialist sections - 3 mental health, 2Paediatrics, 2 neurology and 1 housing.

Qualifying programmes1. BSc (Hons)2. BSc (Hons)3. Pg. Diploma4. MSc OTDuration of Programme1. 3 years full time2. 4 years (part time)3. 2 years ( full time)4. 2 years (full time) or 4 yearsProgramme starts1. September 20092. September 20093. January 20104. September 2009

Number of places available20 full time

About the areaCardiff is a relatively young, cosmopolitan and vibrant city with attractivedevelopments such as Cardiff Bay including the Wales Millennium Centre.It is close to areas of outstanding beauty including the Gower Peninsula,the Brecon Beacons National Park, and the Black Mountains.

About the programme/universityA Russell Group University with an international reputation for highquality research and teaching.

Key features of the programme3 Year Full time ProgrammeThe three year modular full- time programme is largely delivered throughthe educational approach of problem -based learning (PBL). PBL requiresstudents to contextualise knowledge to real life case study scenarios fromwhich students are able to see the relevance of what they learn tooccupational therapy practice. From the outset of the course students arerequired to develop self directed learning skills and gradually take on moreresponsibility for their own learning (with support) as they progressthrough the course.

4 Year Part Time ProgrammeThe four year part-time occupational therapy programme is based on anintegrated spiral, modular curriculum which takes a holistic view of serviceusers, integrating theory with practice. It is divided into three levels ofstudy, each level equating to 120 credits towards a BSc.(Hons) Degree.Four practice placements in a range of health and social care settings takeplace during the four years and complement the academic programme.The development of independent learning and independent reflective

Cardiff UniversitySchool of Healthcare StudiesOccupational Therapy DepartmentSchool of Healthcare StudiesCardiff UniversityHeath ParkCardiff, CF14 4XN

Cardiff UniversityOccupational Therapy Department7th Floor , Eastgate House35-43 Newport Road,Cardiff, CF24 0AB

www.cardiff.ac.uk

ContactsTeena Clouston, Full time course Programme Managertel: 029 20687759email: [email protected]: 029 206877967Deborah Hearle, Part time course Programme Managertel: 029 20 917714email: [email protected]: 029 206877967Dr Gail Boniface, PG.Diploma Programme Managertel: 029 20687686email: [email protected]: 029 206877967

How to applyApplication packs available on request Tel:01206 518350

Application and interview processFor both programmes applicants meeting entry requirements will beinterviewed. Decisions are made based on fulfilment of personspecification criteria

FundingAll places are funded by the Strategic Health Authority. Students areeligible to apply for an NHS bursary.

Standard entry requirementsGCSE2 A levels - grade D or above5 GCSE’s to include English and a science –preferably Human Biology - grades A-C

GNVQ/AVCEGNVQ in Health and Social Care at level 3BTEC National Diploma in Health Studies,EdExcel Professional Development Certificate

ACCESSAccess to HE award,Open University degree level foundation course.

ACCELERATED ROUTESHonours degree in any subject

APELAccreditation of prior learning procedures are in accordance withUniversity of Essex policy. Further information can be obtained from theAdmissions Officer

Additional information regarding standardentry requirementsNo mandatory subjects are required although biology and psychology havethe potential to assist undergraduate studyGenerally entry qualifications must be completed no more than 6 yearsprior to application (except degree entry on to accelerated programme)More recent study will be an advantage.

Non standard entry requirementsStudents are considered individually and informal contact to discussspecific circumstances is welcomed.

Overseas applicantsWhere English is not first language, proficiency in English must beevidenced. Contact for details.

Post qualifying programmesApple – experiential routeInter-professional Educators coursesEducator Development workshops

International/EU linksLinks are currently in development and it is hoped that students willshortly be able to consider role emerging placements in Europe, Africa andother areas.

Research profileResearch is embedded within the programmes delivered and staff areactively involved in research at masters level. Further developments up todoctoral level are being pursued.

COT HANDBOOK 2009

England

Colchester

University of EssexColchester Institute School of Occupational TherapySheepen RoadColchesterEssexCO3 3LL

www.colchester.ac.uk

ContactsChris Millstel: 01206 518350email: [email protected]

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• Students are encouraged to joinregional BAOT group


• As at September 2007 Colchesteris not paying student BAOT membership


• 6 occupational therapy teaching staffAll are BAOT members

• Other professions contributing to theprogramme: Physiotherapy, Health &Care, Counselling

• 56 APPLE accredited PracticePlacement Educators(currently in process of accreditation).

• 4 Occupational therapy staff belong tospecialist sections – Mental health, OlderPeople, Housing, Independent Practice.

Qualifying programmesBSc(Hons)Duration of Programme2 years full time4 years part-timeProgramme startsSeptember 2009Number of places available16 full-time20 part-time

About the areaColchester is Britain’s oldest recorded town and is a unique blend ofancient and modern with its Norman castle and museums, alongsideexcellent shopping facilities, pubs, restaurants, multi-screen cinema andprestigious sports and leisure centre. Colchester Institute is close to therailway station (central London 50 minutes) and within walking distance ofthe town centre.

About the programme/universityColchester Institute is a large college and benefits from extensivefacilities made up of different centres of study across higher and furthereducation areas. The programme is delivered alongside physiotherapywith inter-professional education and teaching a key principle. Smallclasses are enjoyed across the college and students will be knownindividually to their tutors.

Key features of the programme4-year part-time BSc(Hons)This modular programme includes inter-professional modules (withphysiotherapy). Students progress through 3 academic levels. Atcertificate level foundation perspectives are covered includingbiopsychosocial considerations, performance and occupation, reflectionand health and well-beingAt intermediate level Occupational Therapy in Physical and Mental healthis considered together with skills for practice and professional enquiry.At higher level, 2 further modules consider professional enquiry andcontexts of practice. The programme culminates in an inter-professionalconference and workshop exploring students dissertation subject areas.Attendance is required on 2 consecutive days each week.Learning is facilitated by a combination of lectures, seminars, tutorials,workshops and independent learning5 practice placements of between 4-8 weeks occur throughout the 4 yearsduring which times students are expected to attend full time.

2-year full-time BSc (Hons)This programme is structured in the same way as the 4 year programmebut delivered at a faster pace over 2 years.Students are expected to be available full time although attendance ismostly structured over 3 days with independent learning on the other two.5 practice placements occur throughout the 2 years and students areexpected to attend full time during these periods.

University of Essex

How to applyApplications to the full time route should be made via UCAS.Applications for the part time and part time in-service routes should bemade direct to the university

Application and interview processThrough small group interview, assessing interpersonal skills andknowledge of and motivation for occupational therapy

FundingAll places funded through the NHS bursary scheme

Standard entry requirementsGCSEFive GCSEs including maths and English at grade C or aboveor accredited equivalents

GNVQ/AVCEGNVQ Full Award 12 units – Distinction in 12 unit health related course.AVCE - BB in an AVCE 12 unit award in Health and Social Care

ACCESSMinimum of 60 credits at level three in a kite-marked healthrelated Access course.

SCOTTISH HIGHERS240 points

IRISH LEAVING CERT380 points

APEL Available in first year

Additional information regarding standardentry requirementsFor all other requirements other than GSCE and GCE A Level-Minimum of 240 points in vocational qualifications, usually to include2 x 6 unit awards to the same value and depth as A levels and topreferably include natural and/or health/social sciences.

Non standard entry requirementsAll applicants are considered on an individual basis

Overseas applicantsNot eligible for NHS bursary. European Union students are eligible fortuition fees but not the maintenance grant

International/EU linksVocational University of Oulu, Finland, and Boden University College ofHealth Sciences, Boden, Sweden. Student and staff exchange.

Post qualifying programmesProfessional Development Diploma in Social and Therapeutic HorticultureBSc Honours Degree in Health StudiesMSc in Occupational TherapyMSc in Neurological Occupational TherapyPostgraduate Certificate in the Effective Use of Assistive TechnologyUndergraduate Certificate in Assistive Technology for Life Improvement

Research profileResearch is actively encouraged. Current areas include housing, issues ofaccessibility for disabled occupational therapy students, problem-basedlearning, evidence-based practice and assistive technologies.Students on the programme are encouraged to explore the evidence andresearch base of occupational therapy professional practice. A dynamicprogramme of collaborative research exists including the supervision andsupport of postgraduate students.

COT HANDBOOK 2009

England

Coventry

Coventry Universityand Outreach Programme at Stafford UniversityDepartment of Occupational TherapyFaculty of Health and Life SciencesCoventry UniversityPriory StreetCoventry, CV1 5FB

www.coventry.ac.uk

ContactsAdmissions Officetel:02476795957email: [email protected] Granttel: 02476888234email:[email protected]: 02476888020Laraine Epsteintel: 02476888005email: [email protected]: 02476888020

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Links with the professional body• Student BAOT group


• As at September 2007 Coventryis paying student BAOT membership


• 35 occupational therapy teaching staffAll are BAOT members

• Other professions contributing to theprogramme: Dietetics, Nursing,Physiotherapy, Psychology, Social Work


• Occupational therapy team belong tospecialist sections – Children and YoungPeople (2) Older People (2) Neurology(2) Housing (1)

Qualifying programmes1. BSc(Hons) Occupational Therapy Full time2. BSc(Hons) Occupational Therapy Part time3. BSc(Hons) Occupational Therapy Part- time Inservice4. BSc(Hons) Occupational Therapy Part- timeand Part-time Inservice (Outreach Programme atStafford University)

Duration of Programme1. 3 years2. 4 years3. 4 years4. 4 yearsProgramme startsSeptember 2009 (All)Number of places available1. 1482. 63. 154. 10

About the areaCoventry University is well positioned as a city centre campus allowingeasy access to the city.The city has good links to the surrounding areas of Birmingham,Warwickand Stratford by road and rail. A wide range of social and leisure facilitiesare in the area including clubs, bars and sports opportunities. The newsports centre offers a wide range of high quality services.


Recognised profile for Occupational TherapyEducation for excellence in both coursedelivery and student support.• Shared teaching and learning with other professions• Complimentary optional foundation courses in Biology and Psychology• Optional study skills programme at all levels• Option modules• Staff group with varied research and practice interests

Key features of the programmeThe course curriculum is delivered through a range of lectures, interactiveseminars and practical workshop sessions and builds upon a knowledgebase from a variety of disciplines including anatomy, physiology, sociologyand psychology, as well as exploring occupational therapy theory andpractice. The integration of practice education throughout the programmeenables and encourages students to transfer learning and providesopportunities to integrate theory with practice. Shared learning withdietetics, nursing, physiotherapy and social work students will be providedthroughout the course as it is recognised that it is essential foroccupational therapists to appreciate and understand the philosophy androle of all related professions with whom they will work in practice.

How to applyApplications for BSc (Hons) full time should be made through UCAS :Lancaster B920L, Carlisle B920CFMSc Occupational Therapy and part-time route are by Direct Application tothe University.

Application and interview processProspective students are invited to an information session and campustour, followed by an individual interview. The selection is based on theacademic profile, personal statement, and reference, as well asdemonstrating a thorough understanding of occupational therapy. Thisunderstanding would be greatly enhanced, either by taking part in workexperience or visiting at least two work-places. Interests and experienceare also considered, but, above all, we look for motivation, commitmentand potential.

FundingStudents who meet the Department of Health residency criteria are eligiblefor a NHS means-tested bursary and student loan. The NHS normally paystuition fees.

Standard entry requirementsGCSE - It is also a University requirement that you attain GCSE English atgrade C or above.BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy ProgrammeThree ‘A’ levels at 240 UCAS tariff points.

GNVQ/AVCEAVCEBTEC/HND

ACCESSQAA recognised Access Course to HE

SCOTTISH HIGHERS4 highers.

IRISH LEAVING CERT Irish Leaving Certificate.Candidates should have a minimum of 4/5 subjects at Honours/ Higherlevel.

ACCELERATED ROUTESMSc Occupational Therapy ProgrammeStandard entry requirementsRelevant honours degree, classification (2ii) or above, or equivalent.Demonstration of an interest in occupational therapy

Additional information regarding standardentry requirementsYou must pass health and CRB clearance checks.It is also a University requirement that you attain GCSE English at grade Cor above.

Non standard entry requirementsMSc Occupational Therapy ProgrammeCandidates who hold another relevant professional qualification such as a

Diploma in Physiotherapy, Nursing, Chiropody or Podiatry.It is necessary for these candidates to show post qualification academicperformance, a range and breadth of CPD, relevant professionalexperience, professional recommendation, and the motivation and abilityto succeed at Masters level study.Admission is discretionary and subject to approval by the University AP(E)LSub-committee.

Overseas applicantsIf English is not your first language we will require one of the following :IELTS – an overall mark of 7 with no less than 6.5 in any one component.TOEFL – 550 points paper based or 213 points computer based.Cambridge Proficiency Grade C

Post qualifying programmesPost Grad Certificate

International/EU linksWe actively participate in the European Network of Occupational Therapyin Higher Education as well as having links for study and placement inother countries including Norway, Spain, Finland and Canada.

Research profileAll staff are committed to continued professional development andinvolved in research at different levels, relating to both clinical andeducation areas of interest.Staff teaching on the MSc programme have Masters degrees and havecarried out research in a variety of subject areas. The department has aReader in Occupational Therapy as well as several members of staffcurrently undertaking a PhD who are engaged in active research.

Provision for students with disabilitiesThere are robust procedures in place for ensuring availability of reasonableadjustments to promote positive access and participation for disabledstudents in line with the Special Needs and Disability Act (2001), as well asthe Health Professions Council Guidelines.

COT HANDBOOK 2009

England

Cumbria

University of CumbriaLancaster CampusBowerham Road, Lancaster,LA1 3JD

Carlisle CampusFusehill Street, Carlisle,CA1 2HH

www.cumbria.ac.uk

ContactsLancaster Ken Beesley Lancaster (Campus)(BSc (Hons)01524 [email protected]: 01524 384591CarlisleMike Doak (Campus)(BSc (Hons)tel: 01228 616022email: [email protected]: 01228 616235CarlisleJanice Bell (Campus)(MSc)01228 616022email:[email protected]: 01228 616235

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• As at September 2007 Cumbriais paying student BAOT membership



• Other professions contributing to theprogramme: Physiotherapy, Nursing,Radiography, Social Work

• Occupational therapy team belong toa wide range of specialist sections

Qualifying programmes1. BSc (Hons) Lancaster2. BSC (Hons) Carlisle3. MSc (pre-reg) CarlisleDuration of Programme1. 3 years full-time, 4 years part-time2. 3 years3. 2 yearsProgramme startsSeptember 2009 (All)Number of places available1. 45 full time, 15 part-time2. 25 full - time3. 10 full - time

About the areaLancaster is a historic and vibrant university city which is located on theedge of Morecambe Bay and close to the southern Lake District.Carlisle is a small historic city which is located close to the northern LakeDistrict and the border with Scotland.Both campuses have excellent sports facilities and are close to the citycentre with a good selection of restaurants, shops, theatres and nightlife.

About the programme/universityThe University of Cumbria offers a very high quality learning experienceon each Campus, with good employment potential. It is student centredand works closely with agencies in the region to offer research,scholarship and knowledge development . Students are welcomedwhatever their age, background or personal circumstances.

Key features of the programmeBSc (Hons) Occupational TherapyThe 3 year full-time and 4 year part-time modular programmes aredelivered through a range of lectures, tutorials, interactive seminars andpractical workshops, with the focus being on occupation and health. Thereis a range of inter-professional learning opportunities both at Universityand in the practice placement setting alongside student physiotherapists,nurses, radiographers and social workers. Practice placements areintegrated into each level, providing important links between theory andpractice. Students are assessed through coursework, presentations, groupwork and individual assignments. The incorporation of key skills into thecurriculum provides the opportunity to fulfil the graduate skillrequirements. Optional study modules are also available.MSc Occupational Therapy (Pre-Registration)On this newly developed modular programme you can gain theknowledge and experience to be eligible to register with the HealthProfessions Council and practise as an occupational therapist. Mostmodules mix academic with practical elements and will includeconsideration of holistic, occupation-based, client-centred practice, as wellas working with other professional groups. The programme is designed toprovide the opportunity to develop professional practice and the ability towork at Masters level. Practice placements are also an integral part of thisprogramme.

FundingEU applicants’ fees are funded through an NHS contract. Students areeligible to apply for an NHS bursary. Other applicants are self-funding orthrough sponsorships.

Standard entry requirementsGCSE5 passes at grade C or above to includeEnglish, science and maths

GNVQ/AVCEAVCE Health and social care or sciencecombined with either 1 or 2 A levels(dependent on 6 or 12 unit AVCE) or with 6additional units

ACCESSFull kite marked Access qualification.

SCOTTISH HIGHERSEquivalent of 240 academic points.

IRISH LEAVING CERT6 subjects – 4 to be at Higher level. Must include maths Englishand a science.

ACCELERATED ROUTESPrevious degree at 2:2 classification or above, gained within the previous 5year period.

APELStudents may apply for APEL according to University of Derby regulations.

Non standard entry requirementsMature applicants are considered on merit but normally evidence ofsuccessful achievement (degree, Open University Foundation, A level orAccess to Health Sciences) acquired in the two years prior to entry isrequired. Relevant life/work experience also considered.

Overseas applicantsApplications are welcomed from EU citizens.Entry requirements as equivalent of UK requirements with addition of theInternational Baccalaureate.Must be competent in spoken and written English to IELTS 7 with noelement lower than 6.5.

Post qualifying programmesMSc Occupational TherapyMSc Occupational Therapy CommunityMSc Hand Therapy

International/EU linksENOTHE

Research profileAcademic staffs are actively involved in research of teachingmethodologies, areas of occupational therapy and occupational science.

COT HANDBOOK 2009

England

Derby

Linkswith the

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• As at September 2007 Derbyis not paying student BAOT membership



• Other professions contributing to theprogramme: Social Work, Diagnostic Radiography

• 460 APPLE accredited Practice Placement Educators.

• Occupational therapy team belonging to specialistsections are Mental Health(1), Neurological(1), OlderPeople(1), Rheumatology(1), Trauma andOrthopaedics(1), Work(1).

Qualifying programmes1. BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy2. MSc (pre-reg)Duration of Programme1. 3 years full-time, 4.5 years part-time2. 2.5 years acceleratedProgramme starts1. September 20092. September 2009 (subject to validation)Number of places available1. 70 full time, 15 part-time2. 30

About the areaThe programmes occur across 2 campuses situated in Derby’s universityquarter, close to the historic city centre.

Derby is centrally located in the United Kingdom with good access todifferent areas of the country via excellent travel links. The city has anactive student life and is relatively economical in cost of living. Derby isclose to a number of active areas of leisure and situated on the edge of thePeak District, with many different outdoor pursuits available.

About the programme/universityDerby city was the first to have an occupational therapy programme inthe NHS, which commenced in 1948.

The University of Derby offers a wide range of academic programmes andstudent services, including learning centres and student support. There aremodern purpose built halls of residence, and information on vetted privaterented accommodation is available. The university has close links with theStrategic Health Authority and private industries throughout thesurrounding community.

Key features of the programmeThe undergraduate programmes and MSc Pre-registration programme aretaught programmes that utilise a wide range of learning experiences,including experiential learning, problem solving and reflective practice, andhave an established interprofessional learning experience.The post-registration MSc in Occupational Therapy/ Occupational Therapy(Community) and the MSc Hand Therapy are distance learning programmeswith a variety of blended learning experiences.

How to applyFull time students apply via UCAS. All other students apply directly to theuniversity; the application form is available to download via universitywebsite or for completion online.

Application and interview processUndergraduate and pre-registration MSc students are required toundertake interviews.

University of DerbyFaculty of Education, Health and SciencesSchool of Social Care and Therapeutic Practice(Occupational Therapy)Britannia MillMackworth Road, Derby, DE22 3BL

www.derby.ac.uk

ContactsJoan HowarthProgramme Leader for Undergraduate Educationtel: 01332 594029email: [email protected]: 01332 5597763Dr Helen Stoneley, Programme Leader for MScOccupational Therapy/Occupational Therapy (Community)tel: 01332 594022email: [email protected]: 01332 5597763Teresa RushtonProgramme Leader for MSc Hand Therapytel: 01332 594025email: [email protected]: 01332 5597763

Postgraduate Diploma in Occupational Therapy/MSc Health throughOccupationThis innovative pre-registration Postgraduate Diploma/MSc course is basedat Eastbourne and lasts for two years, each year consisting of 45 weeks offull-time study. The intensive programme has a student-centred, problem-based learning philosophy. Students work in small groups with a tutor todevelop knowledge and critical reasoning skills and learn practical skillsthat may be used in occupational therapy practice, including group work,craft, pottery, horticulture, cooking and performing arts. The programmehas an eye to the future, since it is based around occupational science –the study of humans as occupational beings – which emphasises thecontribution of occupational therapy to the prevention and relief of healthproblems. Practice placement education is fully integrated – studentsattend alternative modules, on campus and in the field. Students maygraduate with a post-graduate diploma which affords eligibility to practicevia registration with the Health Professions Council, or they chose tocomplete a dissertation which leads to a master of science degree.

How to applyFor both courses please contact the relevant person for further informationabout the course and the application process.

Application and interview processWe are looking for people with excellent inter/intra personal skills who arecommitted to a career in occupational therapy. Applicants for each coursewill be invited to a meeting with some of the staff, local practitioners andexisting students, a tour of the facilities, and a group interview. Theseselection days takes place from April each year.

FundingThere are 20 funded places a year for the BSc (Hons) programme, for thosewho have been resident in the UK for three years or more.We have 40 funded places each year for the MSc/PGDip programme, forpeople who have been resident in the EU for three years or more. A smallnumber of privately funded students may be accepted.

Standard entry requirementsGCSE1 A level

ACCELERATED ROUTES2.2 degree and aboveAPELOn application

Non standard entry requirementsEach applicant will be considered on an individual basis.

Overseas applicantsAs for home students plus an overall IELTS score of 7 with no elementbelow 6.5.Post qualifying programmesOur post-reg MSc programme has three routes. MSc Occupational Therapy,

MSc Occupational Therapy and Management, MSc Occupational Therapy.Education comprises three core modules plus three modules related to therespective route and a research dissertation. The modules are integratedwithin the university’s health and social science graduate programme andprovide cross-disciplinary experience through shared modules.We also runone module of the acclaimed European Masters of Science in OccupationalTherapy (see www.ENOTHE.hva.nl). Our new professional doctorateprogramme is becoming popular, designed for senior practitioners.Graduates receive a Doctorate in Occupational Therapy. Our PhDprogramme is also very strong.

International/EU linksWe are active members of ENOTHE, the European Network ofOccupational Therapists in Higher Education. The OT team, together withthe Hogeschool vanAmsterdam, Holland, School of Occupational Therapy,Naevsted, Denmark and the Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden areinvolved in the running of the European Masters in Occupational Therapy,a truly unique programme which unifies OT post-registration training inEurope.

Research profileWe are developing a strong research focus on occupational science,problem based learning and evaluating occupational therapy.We currentlyhave seven occupational therapists registered for their PhD and fiveoccupational therapists studying on the new professional doctorateprogramme.

Future developmentsThe Division of Occupational Therapy has a mission to become a highquality international level, thriving centre for occupational therapyeducation at all levels and for occupational therapy and occupationalscience research.We are reaching the point where the majority of staffhave doctoral degrees. The pre-registration programmes are exemplars, inbeing wholly problem-based.

COT HANDBOOK 2009

England

Eastbourne

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• As at September 2007 Brighton is not paying forstudents BAOT membership

• Programme Leaders or equivalent areoccupational therapists


• Other professions contributing to theprogramme: artists, physiotherapists,psycholgists, OTpractitioners, nurses, medics

• The school is in the process of gaining membership ofall specialist sections.

Qualifying programmes1. MSc Health Through Occupation2. BSc Occupational TherapyDuration of Programme1. 2 years accelerated2. 4 years part timeProgramme startsSeptember 2009Number of places available1. 40 full time2. 20 part time

About the areaThe University of Brighton has campuses in Brighton, Eastbourne andHastings. The School of Health Professions is in Eastbourne, set in the leaof the South Downs. Eastbourne is a beautiful, friendly and unspoiledseaside town that attracts people from all walks of life, creating a reallybalanced and vibrant community. The unspoilt South Downs offer anamazing backdrop to the developing pub, restaurant and club life, whichhas positively exploded in the last couple of years. The weather’s great too,being one of the warmest towns in the UK!

About the programme/universityThe University of Brighton is a dynamic and forward-looking universitywith a flexible approach, and is based in one of the most exciting partsof the UK.

Find out what our students say about studying here:www.brighton.ac.uk/audience/app/.Other courses offered to the health and social care professions at theUniversity of Brighton include medicine, nursing, midwifery, pharmacy,physiotherapy, podiatry, and social work.

Key features of the programmeBSc(Hons) Occupational Therapy (part-time, in-service)This four year programme is very similar in design to the course below,with the same modules and problem-based learning curriculum. It isdesigned firstly for part-time students employed within health and socialcare, although not necessarily from an occupational therapy background.Support from employers can be given for attendance on this course, asstudents need to be absent from their duties for two days a week duringuniversity-based modules, and full-time for a total of 32 weeks of practiceplacements. and insert 'In addition a small number of places are availableeach year for applicants who are not working in health and social care.Students attend the university for 2 days a week, and are expected tostudy independently in addition to this. Learning takes place in smalltutorial groups as well as in larger resource sessions. Practical and creativeskills are also a very important component of this course, as are the fivepractice placements, which are scheduled for the beginning of the course,to alternate regularly with campus studies. In this way. Theory and practiceare integrated.

University of BrightonRobert Dodd Building49 Darley RoadEastbourne, East SussexBN9 9ND

www.brighton.ac.uk

ContactsDr Heidi von Kurthy,Course leader and Admissions tutortel: 0127364111email: [email protected]: 1273643652Lisa Harford, course administratortel: 01273643772email: [email protected] Koakae (Course Administrator)[email protected] Martin, BSc (part time) Course Leadertel: 01273643675email: [email protected]: 01273643652

MSc/postgraduate programmeWith the exception of the first semester students are in the practiceplacement setting at least two days per week for the duration of theirprogramme, allowing a unique opportunity to integrate theory andpractice. Learning is via a problem-based learning approach using casestudies. Assessments methods are varied and are designed to complementthis style of learning. E-Learning opportunities support this programme. Onthis programme there is a small student cohort. There is an opportunity forstudents to graduate with either a post graduate diploma in occupationaltherapy or an MSc in occupational therapy studies both of which producean eligibility to register as an occupational therapist with the HealthProfessions Council

How to applyBSc( Hons) applications are through UCASPost Grad Dip/MSc in OT studies direct to the university

Application and interview processSelection for the BSc(Hons) is based on information submitted on UCASforms. Selection criteria include academic qualifications, commitment tooccupational therapy as a career choice and the reference.Applicants for the postgraduate programme are invited for interview todiscuss their awareness of occupational therapy and the unique teachingand learning opportunities the programme has for the candidates.

FundingUndergraduate students should contact either the Students Awards Agencyfor Scotland or their Local Education Authority (LEA).Postgraduate students are normally required to be self-funding but thereare limited SAAS funded post graduate awards.

Standard entry requirementsGCSE3 at 240 UCAS Tariff points

GNVQ/AVCE240 UCAS Tariff points with preference for one discursive subject

ACCESSAppropriate access courses are also considered

SCOTTISH HIGHERS4 at 240 UCAS Tariff points

IRISH LEAVING CERT240 UCAS Tariff points with preference for one discursive subject

ACCELERATED ROUTESAn Honours degree or unclassified degree withdistinction or equivalent that can be accreditedfor relevant prior learning by the universitycollege.

APELDirect entry to level two of the undergraduateprogramme can be offered to applicants with anHNC in Occupational Therapy Support or a 2:1Honours degree in social or biological sciences

ACLEntry with HNC in healthcare/social care will also be considered

Overseas applicantsInternational students are required to have a minimum IELTS score of 5.5,with no individual element below 5.0 for the undergraduateprogramme.For the post graduate programme the minimum IELTS score is 6.0.

Post qualifying programmesThe university offers a successful MSc in Occupational Therapy, which hasboth full-time and part-time students from the UK and abroad.This allows students the opportunity to specialize in some areas of practiceincluding paediatrics, mental health and neurology. Additionally thereare funded scholarship for students who wish to study to PhD level.

International/EU linksThe department has a long established network of international links withoccupational therapy schools. Students have opportunities to undertakeinternational practice education placements. Currently there are fourformal exchanges in America, Canada and Europe

Research profileStaff are very active in research and this feeds directly into theoccupational therapy curriculum. Staff are affiliated with three majorresearch centres, concerned with older people, integrated healthcare andchildren all of whom have recently received major research funding. Thereis a thriving research student community with several PhD students

Future developmentsStudent and staff exchanges are being developed with several countriesEuropean competencies/dimension being introduced within the curriculumInterprofessional Education in the honours year

COT HANDBOOK 2009

Scotland

Edinburgh

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• No student BAOT group - plans to form one

• Students are encouraged as BAOT members

• As at September 2007 Queen Margaret is not payingfor students BAOT membership



• Other professions contributing to theprogramme: Physiotherapy, Nursing, Speech &Language Therapy, Audiology, Dietetics, Podiatry,Radiology, Sociology, Psychology, Physiology

• 100 plus Practice Placement Educators areAPPLE accredited

• 4 members of the occupational therapy team belongto specialist sections. Neurology practice, CYPF, Paingroup and Work

Qualifying programmes1. BSc( Hons)2. Post Grad Dip in OT3. MSc in OT studiesDuration of Programme1. 4 years2. 72 weeks3. 2 yearsProgramme startsSeptember 2009Number of places available1. 60 full -time2. 20 part time3. Variable

About the areaEdinburgh, Scotland’s historic capital city, has an extensive range oftheatres, galleries, sites of cultural interest and each year hosts both thefamous Edinburgh International Festival and Fringe Festival. It has avibrant nightlife and offers easy access to the beaches of East Lothian andto the Highlands. Visitors often comment on the friendliness of theEdinburgh people. It also supports a strong academic community withlively student clubs and associations

About the programme/universityThe programme offers an extensive range of health related, business andcultural courses up to PhD level. It has the reputation of being a smalland friendly place to study. Over 90% of QMU graduates are in full-timeemployment or undertaking further study within six months ofgraduating. QMU was voted in the top ten of new universities in the UKfor 2007 in the Sunday Times survey. In 2007 QMU moved to a brandnew,purpose-built campus on the east of Edinburgh. Staff are committedto student support and learning. They are all research active many withinternational links.

Key features of the programmeBSc (Hons) programmeApproximately one third of the course is devoted to practice-basedlearning. A strong feature of the programme is the integration of theoryand practice. Opportunities exist for students, in the later stages of theirprogramme, to undertake placements abroad. Another sixth of the courseis devoted to interprofessional education. This exciting newdevelopment involves occupational therapy students along with otherallied health professions in a variety of educational experiences. The taughtelement of the undergraduate programme offers students a variety ofeducational experiences and assessment methods. As well as learning informal lectures students work in small groups and undertake individualprojects. The assessment methods include a limited number of short tests,written assignments as well as group and individual projects. Theprogramme primarily focuses on continuous assessment.

Queen Margaret UniversityQueen Margaret UniversityQueen Margaret University DriveMusselburghEast LothianEH21 6UU

www.qmu.ac.uk

ContactsDr Derek Jones BSc( hons) OTtel: 01313730000email: [email protected]:01314740001Ian Mc Millantel: 01313730000email:[email protected]:01314740001

Module: GAPNM01 between February and June prior to thebeginning of the programme, unless they can supply evidence for anAccreditation of Prior Learning (APL) application.

How to applyBSc (Hons) programme - through UCAS.MSc programme - to the registry department of the university.

Application and interview processSelection is based on the academic profile, evaluative personal statementand references.

FundingFor the BSc (Hons) programme, applicants in Scotland are eligible toapply to have their fees paid for by the Health Department meanstestedbursary. Applicants from England,Wales and Northern Ireland should seekadvice from their Local Education Authority (LEA) or Library Board.For the MSc programme, some funding may be available, however,this cannot be guaranteed.

Standard entry requirementsGCSEA levels 2 at grade C or above

ACCESSScottish Wider Access Programme(SWAP) Access to Health and BiologicalSciences (Cardonald College, Glasgow)

SCOTTISH HIGHERS4 SCE HighersEnglish essential (H) Biology recommendedStandard Grade Maths (3 or above) is also required.

IRISH LEAVING CERT6 H level - BBCCCC

ACCELERATED ROUTESHNC OT Support can support application for direct entry in to level 2

APELRelevant experience will be considered alongside minimum entryrequirements

ACLOpen University modules and other qualifications discussed andconsidered.

Additional information regarding standardentry requirementsApplicants are required to visit at least two occupationaltherapy centres prior to an interview to establish a realisticperception of the demands of the profession.

Non standard entry requirementsStudents are welcomed from a wide diversity ofbackgrounds. All profiles will be assessed on an individual

basis and discussion with an admissions tutor is welcomed.Again, visits with occupational therapists are advised.

Standard entry requirements (MSc programme)One of the following:• Bachelors degree from a UK institutionPreferably in health, behavioural or social sciencesNormally lst or 2:1

• Degree with relevant pre-professional experience• Equivalent degree from non-UK institutionPlus

• A basic knowledge of statistics• A Pass in a Negotiated Learning ModuleGAPNM01 agreed at interview

Overseas applicantsApplications from overseas are welcomed. Demonstration of proficiency inEnglish may be required, e.g. International English Language TestingSystem (IELTS) test score 6. There is a requirement by the HealthProfessions Council (HPC) that a score of 7 must be achieved by the timeof application for registration.

Post qualifying programmesMSc post reg programmes within the School of Health and Social CareMasters Framework but they would not necessarily be solely taught byoccupational therapistsThis flexible part time master’s programmes are for practicing occupationaltherapists and other health care professionals who want to continue theirprofessional development and at the same time gain academic credit.Awards available to occupational therapists are:MSc/PgD/PgC Occupational TherapyMSc Occupational Therapy (Forensic Studies)MSc Occupational Therapy (Employment Rehabilitation)MSc/PgD/PgC Health and Social Care

International/EU linksThe Division has been an active member of the European Network ofOccupational Therapy in Higher Education (ENOTHE) for ten years.Collaboration and support for the development of occupational therapyprogrammes has been undertaken with the Czech Republic, Armenia andthe Republic of Georgia during this period. Students from Spain andSweden have undertaken placements in Scotland, supported by theDivision while staff have undertaken teaching visits to Greece.Internationally, the Division also maintains links with colleagues anduniversities in the area of work rehabilitation in the USA and Australia.involved with ENOTHE for eleven years.We have links with New Zealandand South Africa and after work rehabilitation, falls and falls prevention,gerontology and mental health

Research profileAn active member of HealthQWest, the Division of Occupational Therapyhas a current research strategy with four current broad themes of work,occupational therapy professional education issues and effective practice.Student projects are also integrated into this research strategy, withacademic staff supervising in one of these theme areas.With the appointment of our first professor of occupational therapy in

COT HANDBOOK 2009

Scotland

Glasgow

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• No student BAOT group

• 100% Students are BAOT members

• As at September 2007 Glasgow is paying for studentsBAOT membership (apart from international students)

• Programme Lead is an occupational therapist

• 9 occupational therapy teaching staff. One secondeeAll are BAOT members

• Other professions contributing to theprogramme: Psychology, Sociology, Physiology,Mathematics and Role Emerging Practice Placements.

• 3 Practice Placement Educators areAPPLE accredited

• 1 member of the occupational therapy team belongsto a specialist section for Older People

Qualifying programmes1. BSc( Hons)2. MSc Occupational Therapy (Pre-registration)Duration of Programme1. 4 years2. 2 yearsProgramme startsSeptember 2009Number of places available1. 65(plus 10 originally funded by Scottish Exec.)

2. 30

About the areaThe campus is situated in the centre of a vibrant city offering shops,clubs, cinemas and a wide range of cultural activities such as thetheatre and art galleries. Transport is easily accessible to thesurrounding Scottish countryside and many outdoor and sportingactivities. Student and city life is enhanced within Glasgow, which hasthree universities within close proximity.

About the programme/universityThe Saltire Centre: This is a new building which opened in 2006,providing an inspirational learning space at the heart of the University’sstrategy to meet the individual needs of learners and empower them todevelop their skills. It harnesses the power of social learning, usingimaginative use of space, to provide an immensely stimulatingenvironment where students can talk and listen, as well as write,research and think. It is a modern, multifunctional building that willinspire staff, students and community alike, catering for the learners ofthe future.

Key features of the programmeBSc (Hons) programme

Students from all programmes with a health and social care focusjoin together at level one to study a module called inter professionallearning. The programme encourages lecturer-student partnershipsand emphasis is placed on how to learn, so that this process willcontinue with professional development. The modularisedprogramme within a semester system allows for a developmentalapproach to curriculum development and delivery. There are fourpractice education placements over the four years, with two twelve weekblocks where students return once a week or at intervals tofacilitate a high degree of theory/practice integration.MSc programmeThe programme’s aims, objectives and subsequent curriculum areconstructed so that students will be able to demonstrate fitness foraward, fitness for practice and fitness for purpose. Students areencouraged to discuss, interpret, analyse and evaluate information at adepth appropriate to their academic level and in so doing, becomeactive, self directed participants in the learning process.All applicants must successfully complete the Negotiated Learning

Glasgow Caledonian University70 Cowcaddens RoadGlasgowG4 OBA

www.gcal.ac.uk

Dr Sheena Blair0141 331 [email protected] 331 8112Mrs Catriona Khamisha0141 331 [email protected] 331 8112Mrs Sandra Robertson0141 331 [email protected] 331 8112Ms Kirstine McCormack0141 331 [email protected] 331 8112Miss Jeanette Napier0141 331 [email protected]@gcal.ac.uk0141 331 8112

2007, our research strategy will change in accordance with currentresearch interests and staff expertise.There are four doctoral candidates currently registered in the Division andstaff supervise doctoral students from other institutions as well.

A twelve month evaluation of the Condition Management Programme(Glasgow) in Job Centre Plus, Department of Work and Pensions £60k iscurrently underway. The Division is leading the development of a newCentre for Work and Health in the School of Health and Social Care whichis intended in part, to foster research activity in these areas by alliedhealth practitioners, social work and related disciplines.In the last year, the Division has secured the opportunity forfunding for evaluation of the integration of occupationaltherapy across health and social care in Glasgow City (£75,000over three years)

The appointment of our first professor of occupationaltherapy has enabled us to add expertise in qualitativeresearch to our portfolio.

Future developmentsIn 2007/8 it is hoped that the Division will be able to offera full time international MSc OT post reg. opportunity andour internationalisation activities will expand in terms ofinvited sabbaticals for visiting academics and continuedlinks with practice placements.

COT HANDBOOK 2009

Scotland

Glasgow

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You will share some of your studies with students from other health andsocial care professions, for example physiotherapists and social workers,and have opportunity to work on interdisciplinary projects in year three.

The school has excellent practical facilities for healthcare studentsincluding new flexible resources for occupational therapy students. Thecourse forms part of the West Yorkshire Collaboration of OccupationalTherapy Education (WYCOTE), which involves Bradford University andLeeds Metropolitan University and local services.We work together toensure that West Yorkshire’s students receive education that is an excellentpreparation for dynamic work in health and social care.

There is a full time Ofsted registered nursery on site for students whichtakes youngsters from six weeks to five years.

How to applyApplications via UCAS

Application and interview processShort listed students are invited to attend a selection day which involvesindividual and group exercises and an interview

FundingStudents who meet the Department of Health residency criteria are eligiblefor a NHS means tested bursary and student loan. The NHS normally paystuition fees.

Standard entry requirementsGCSE• 5 GCSE at grade C or above to include maths,English and a science subjectand3 Advanced at grade C or above including a biological science orpsychology. General studies is excluded

GNVQ/AVCEGCE (A2) + AVCE (6 units)2 Advanced subjects at grade C or above including biological science orpsychology and AVCE 6 units in health and social care. General studies isexcludedorGCE (A2) + AVCE (12 units)1 Advanced subject at grade C or above in a biologicalscience or psychology and AVCE 12 units in health and social careorBTEC national diplomaPreferably in health and social care. To include at least three merits in yeartwo

ACCESSG.C.S.E Maths and English at grade C or above or equivalentQAA recognised course offering 54 credits at level 3 .

SCOTTISH HIGHERSMinimum of 4 subjects at grade B or above toinclude biology / psychology and English.Maths at standard grade.

IRISH LEAVING CERT6 subjects at higher level to include 3 subjects at grade B to includebiology or psychology and 3 subjects at grade C to include Maths andEnglish

APELIndividual assessment of prior learning can be made against somemodules

Additional information regarding standardentry requirementsOther qualifications and/or experience may be considered. Acceptance tothis course is subject to a satisfactory health screening and enhancedCriminal Records Bureau disclosure

Non standard entry requirementsWe welcome students of all ages from diverse backgrounds. As eachstudent is considered individually we welcome informal contact to discussspecific circumstances and requirements. Applicants must have evidence ofrecent academic study. A foundation course for health professionals isavailable for those without the necessary academic background.

Overseas applicantsEntry requirements as equivalent of above.In addition for applicants who do not speak English as a first subject theymust have an IETS score of 7 which no element is below 6.5

International/EU linksThe course meets the requirements of the World Federation ofOccupational Therapists (WFOT). The course is currently developing anumber of European links

Research profileThere are 15 research units within the school, with particular expertise inapplied social sciences and health and social care. All members of theoccupational therapy team are involved in research and continuingprofessional development.

COT HANDBOOK 2009

England

Huddersfield

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• As at September 2007 Huddersfield is not paying forstudents BAOT membership


• 4 occupational therapy teaching staff.

• Other professions contributing to theprogramme: Physiotherapy, Podiatry,Social work, Health physiology


• 3 of the occupational therapy team belong tospecialist sections: Children and families, HIV/AIDS,OHPC and Neurology practice

Qualifying programmesB,Sc (Hons)Duration of Programme3 yearsProgramme startsSeptember 2009Number of places available18 full time

About the areaHuddersfield is a large, friendly town full of culture, history and aestheticbeauty. Our striking town-centre campus with modern facilities straddlesthe refurbished Huddersfield Narrow Canal and offers extensive views ofthe Pennine foothills.The vibrant town provides a safe environment in contrast to some of thelarger cities and is relatively inexpensive“It’s big enough for there to be a lot going on, small enough to benoticed.”Comment from a former student

About the programme/universityThe University of Huddersfield is a dynamic institution which is goingfrom strength to strength in academic achievements and studentsatisfaction.Huddersfield has scored very highly for student satisfaction in the 2005,2006 and 2007 National Student Surveys.There is a long tradition of providing education for health careprofessionals. It has a friendly reputation, an excellent graduateemployment record and high level of student support. Students come fromall over the UK and from over 80 countries worldwide. The student villageoffers a beautiful living environment, a superb social atmosphere andsome of the best student accommodation in the UK. Situated in attractiveparkland to the south of the town it offers a total of 1,432 bedspaces,There is an active student union which offers a wide range of differentsporting, leisure, cultural activities.The university has strong links with the community, with a strong emphasison vocation and enterprise.

Key features of the programmeThe occupational therapy course at Huddersfield is modern and innovativeaiming to develop occupational therapists who are flexible and dynamicequipped to work in a changing context within health and social care. Thesupportive tutors ensure you have a head start in your employment byworking closely with clinicians creating exciting service developments inwhich the students are active partners. The focus of your studies will be onoccupation and how this impacts on individuals, groups and communities.

You will study in a small friendly and supportive cohort of 18 students. Avariety of teaching approaches are used including experiential, practicaland creative activities which will help you develop the wide variety ofpersonal, interpersonal and academic skills needed to be effectiveoccupational therapists. Practice placement is an integral part of thiscourse throughout.

We have been commended on our close links with service colleagues anduser representatives and regularly invite guest speakers and practiceassociates to support our teaching.

University of HuddersfieldSchool of Human and Health SciencesDepartment of Clinical and Health ScienceQueensgateHuddersfieldHD1 3DH

ContactsJoanne Steadtel: 01484 473769email: [email protected]: 01484 472380Denise Richardsontel: 01484 473493email: [email protected]: 01484 472380

FundingFull time: Apply for fees and student loan through Student Awards AgencyScotland (www.saas.gov.uk)Day Release: Apply for fees through employer or if self financing apply forinstalment plan to pay fees directly to college.Distance Learning: Apply as Day Release. However if the candidatesincome will allow them to apply for Individual Learning Account (ILA) thisis accepted as part payment for this route only.Applicants are encouraged to make application through SAAS as individualcircumstances vary.

Standard entry requirementsGCSEEnglish

SCOTTISH HIGHERS2 Highers including English or Communication:Core Skills at Higher or Communication 4

Additional information regarding standardentry requirementsDay Release and Distance Learning : should be currently working as asupport worker within an occupational therapy setting.Full time : 2 Highers or equivalent. Should have practical care experienceof a relevant nature and quality and a reference. Enhanced DisclosureScotland.Individual circumstances may also be considered.

Overseas applicantsIn addition to standard entry requirement applicant would have toevidence English language at e.g. IELTS 5.5 minimum or equivalent.

COT HANDBOOK 2009

Scotland

Langside

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• Two occupational therapists on course team

• Both are BAOT members

• Other professions contributing to theprogramme are lecturers from Anatomy andPhysiology, Social Work, Psychology and Sociology.Occupational Therapy workplace supervisors alsocontribute to the programme.

Qualifying programmesHNC Occupational Therapy SupportDuration of Programme1. 2 year Day Release2. 2 year Distance Learning3. 1 year Full TimeProgramme starts1. Annual August intake2. Ongoing intakes3. Annual August intakeNumber of places available1. 202. Minimum cohort of 83. 20

About the areaGlasgow is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city offering many culturalattractions, facilities and sights and easy access to the Highlands andIslands. It is often referred to as the friendliest of cities and is a verypopular student destination. Excellent public transport connections withinGlasgow and around Langside College.

About the programme/universityLangside Further Education College has been unique in the development,support and delivery of the HNC Occupational Therapy Supportprogramme since 1991. This programme is jointly validated by SQA andCOT.

Key features of the programmeDay Release – 1 day a week (college term times) over 2 years. Class basedlearning with integration to practice base.Distance learning – study one Unit at a time. Programme takes approx 2years to complete. Learners will be part of a distance learning cohort.Telephone tutorials, email and VLE support.

How to applyDirect to Langside College

Application and interview processDay Release and Full Time : application + reference (Full Time) followed bypersonal interviewDistance Learning: application, workplace reference and telephoneinterview

Langside College50 Prospecthill RoadGlasgowG42 9LB

www.langside.ac.uk

ContactsLesley Newtontel: 0141 272 3917email: [email protected]: 0141 632 5252Sheila Watsontel: 0141 272 3917email: [email protected]: 0141 632 5252Margaret Cunninghamtel: 0141 272 3806email: [email protected]: 0141 632 5252

FundingEligible students will be able to have their fees paid by an NHS bursaryand can apply for a means-tested bursary.

Standard entry requirementsDue to the fact that the programme is a two year, accelerated mastersdegree, all of the following are required:Honours degree, normally a 2:1, relevant to occupational therapy.Good understanding of the occupational therapy profession andoccupational therapy practice.Understanding of health and social care.Health screening and enhanced Criminal Records Bureau check.

Overseas applicantsApplications are welcomed from international students who meet theentry criteria which can be found on the website.

Post qualifying programmesThe school has a long history of providing high quality post-registrationeducation opportunities for health professionals, from postgraduatecertificates, through to Masters and Doctorates. Current programmesinclude professional diplomas in Parkinson’s disease and dementia care,and MSc degrees in particular areas of rehabilitation. In September 2006two post-registration degrees commenced – an MSc Occupational Therapyand an MSc Occupational Science.

International/EU linksThe university is truly international and attracts students from all over theworld. Links specific to occupational therapy are being developed in areassuch as Europe, Hong Kong, Malaysia, North America and Australasia.

Research profileHealth research is organised at faculty level with collaboration acrossschool boundaries and with many external partners. All permanentacademics involved in the occupational therapy course are research activeand most have, or are working towards, a PhD.

Future developmentsThe Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy group are consistentlydeveloping their research activities both in terms of partners and topics.

Staff are involved in Consultancy activities for a variety of organisations.

COT HANDBOOK 2009

England

Leeds

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• No student BAOT group


• As at September 2007 Leeds is not paying forstudents BAOT membership



• A range of other professionals are involved in boththe development, review and delivery of theprogramme; included service users and carers,Travellers Education Services, Youth Workers,Practitioners from differing health and social caresettings

• 35 Practice Placement Educators are APPLEaccredited

• 2 occupational therapy team belong to specialistsections: 1-Mental Health, 1-Learning Disabilities

Qualifying programmesMSc Occupational Therapy (Pre-registration)Duration of Programme2 years acceleratedProgramme startsJanuary 2009Number of places available18 full-time

About the areaLeeds is one of the most popular student cities in the UK. The culturallydiverse city is geared to students’ needs and has something to offereveryone: a vibrant nightlife, cultural attractions, great shopping,restaurants, and sport and leisure facilities. The city is friendly andcosmopolitan with a cost of living lower than many parts of the UK.

About the programme/universityLeeds Metropolitan University is one of the largest universities in thecountry. Part of the excitement of studying at Leeds MetropolitanUniversity is that you will soon have met thousands of students who aredrawn to Leeds from across the UK and the world. The employability ofLeeds Metropolitan University graduates is excellent.

Key features of the programmeThe programme adopts a problem-based learning approach, which willenable you to become a competent occupational therapist that has thenecessary skills, knowledge and attitudes to develop, deliver and evaluateoccupational therapy services in a range of traditional and innovativesettings. The Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy group atLeeds Metropolitan University is the first of its kind in the UK and so thehallmark of the programme is its occupational focus, for which it has beencommended.You will participate in a wide range of learning experiences includingshared learning with other student health professionals. You will alsoundertake a minimum of 1000 hours of supervised professional practice,including an innovative role emerging placement.The programme is unique in that part of the West Yorkshire Collaborationfor Occupational Therapy Education, working with Bradford andHuddersfield universities and local occupational therapy service.

How to applyApplications should be made direct to the university – please contact thecourse administrator for details.

Application and interview processThere are two stages to the application process – screening of theapplication form and some applicants may need to attend for astandardised interview.

Leeds Metropolitan UniversityOccupational Science and Occupational Therapy GroupFaculty of HealthLeeds Metropolitan UniversityCivic QuarterLeedsLS1 3HE

E: [email protected]/health/osot

ContactsChris KitchenCourse Administratortel: 0113 8123910email: [email protected] WindleyAdmissions Tutortel: 0113 8125832email: [email protected] Cronin-DavisCourse Leadertel: 0113 8125727email: [email protected]

MSc Occupational Therapy (pre-registration)This course has been validated to commence from September 2008 andwill complement the current BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy full andpart-time.It has been designed as an alternative route for students who already holdan Honours Bachelor degree who wish to gain a license to practice as wellas enhancing their research profile. The programme takes place full timeover two years. Some modules are shared with other postgraduateprogrammes and the practice placements occur over the summer months.

How to applyBSc/OT Full-time – all applications must be via UCASBSc/OT Part-time – applications direct to the UniversityMSc/OT Pre-registration – direct application to the University

Application and interview processBSc/OT Full-time – Interviews may be required as appropriate toapplicationBSc/OT Part-time – Interviews may be required as appropriate toapplicationMSc/OT Pre-registration – Interviews may be required as appropriate toapplication

FundingBSc/OT Full-time – NHS and independent fundingBSc/OT Part-time – Limited NHS funding and independent fundingMSc/OT Pre-registration – Limited NHS and independent funding

Standard entry requirementsGCSE5 at grade C or above to include English language and mathematics

GNVQ/AVCEA23 at grade BCC, 260 UCAS Tariff points including one from human sciencee.g. human biology, psychology or sociology

AVCE(Double Award) Health and social care BB plusGrade D at A2, 260 UCAS Tariff points

AVCE(Single Award) Health and social care B plus2 A2 at grade CC, 260 UCAS Tariff Points

Other e.g. Irish & Scottishequivalent to the above with 260 UCAS Tariff points

ACCESS For ACCESS see non-standard entry

SCOTTISH HIGHERS260 UCAS tariff points in 3 subjects at advanced higher level or equivalent

IRISH LEAVING CERT 260 UCAS tariff points from at least 5 subjects one ofwhich should be from Biology, Human Biology, Psychology or Sociology

ACCELERATED ROUTESAn Honours first or upper second class degree. Graduates from alldisciplines will be considered, while strong applicants will demonstrate ascience profile and evidence of informed insight into the profession ofOccupational Therapy. Applicants with a lower second Honours Degreeand experience of working in a health or social care setting will also beconsidered.Applicants will be expected to provide evidence of recent (in the previousfive years) appropriate academic achievement prior to entry onto theprogramme.

Additional information regarding standardentry requirementsInternational Baccalaureate or equivalent qualifications are welcomed. Allapplicants are strongly encouraged to visit occupational therapy units priorto entry to the course.

Non standard entry requirementsGCSE5 GCSE subjects including mathematics and English Language orequivalent

GNVQ/AVCEA minimum of 2 AS subjects from Human Biology/Biology, Psychology orSociology

ACCESSRelevant ACCESS courses will be considered provided that the number ofLevel 3 and level 2 credits meets the University course requirement.Normally this will be determined by the number of credits available andrequired to successfully complete an ACCESS course.

SCOTTISH HIGHERS As above

IRISH LEAVING CERT As above

ACCELERATED ROUTES As above

Additional information regarding non standardentry requirementsApplicants holding relevant HE Diplomas or Degrees will be considered.Additionally non-standard applicants should demonstrate relevant workexperience, together with their academic profile.

Overseas applicantsOverseas students are welcomed and are supported by BrunelInternational, the University Services and by the occupational therapy staffteam.

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London

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• Student BAOT group


• As at September 2007 Brunel is not paying forstudents BAOT membership



• Other professions contributing to theprogramme: Psychologists, Physiotherapists,Specialist Teachers, Health & Social Service managersand practitioners.

• The majority of our Placement Educators are APPLEaccredited,

• COT specialist interest groups include: mental health,neurological practice, older people, work andpaediatrics.

Qualifying programmes1. BSc/OT Full-time2. BSc/OT Part-time3. MSc/OT Pre-registrationDuration of Programme1. 3 years2. 4 years3. 2 years (fast track)Programme startsSeptember 2009Number of places available1. 1452. 403. 30

About the areaThe Uxbridge Campus has the benefits of London without the high cost,the noise and the numbers of people. On the western edge of London, itoffers a pleasant environment with recently improved on-site facilities andexcellent accommodation within striking distance of central London,Heathrow Airport and the M4/M25 motorway system.

About the programme/universityBrunel University is a research-led University, which has invested in a newpurpose built, state of the art building for the School of HealthSciences and Social Care with specialist occupational therapy facilities. Ithas on-site halls of residence, sports gym, extensive catering andsocial facilities, libraries, computer centre, together with excellent welfareservices and support for overseas students.

Key features of the programmeBSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy (full and part-time)As a large occupational therapy course situated in cosmopolitan WestLondon, students benefit from good facilities, a large, well qualified staffgroup and studying with students from a wide variety of backgrounds.Much of the teaching is in small seminar groups, and all students have apersonal tutor, therefore students also benefit from more individualattention.The degree integrates theory with practice and periods of university studyprepare students for practice placements in a variety of health, socialcare and voluntary settings. Experience gained in practice placements isintegrated and shared through campus-based studies. The course utilizes arange of learning strategies, enabling students to become independentlearners prepared for lifelong professional development. Using real casestudies in student centered seminars assists preparation for futureprofessional practice.Full and part-time students study the same modules. Part-time studentsstudy university modules two days per week and placement modules full-time. Some modules are shared with full and part-time physiotherapystudents and social work students.

Brunel UniversityMary Seacole BuildingUxbridgeMiddlesexUB8 3PH

www.brunel.ac.uk

ContactsChristopher BaileyFull-time programmetel: 01895268739email: [email protected] TempestPart-time programmetel: 01895268689email: [email protected] WilsonMSc (Pre-registration) programmetel: 01895268779email: [email protected]

International/EU linksFor the full-time programme only, there is limited opportunity to study insome other European countries at the end of year 2.

Research profileThe Division of Occupational Therapy contributes to the research profile ofthe School of Health Sciences and Social Care with a high proportion ofthe teaching team being research active. In 2007 a Centre for ProfessionalPractice Research was approved by the University with the Director andAssociate Director both being occupational therapists.

The aim of the Centre is to excel in professional practice research tosupport and empower students, academics, clinicians and service users topromote high standards in clinical practice in the disciplines ofoccupational therapy, physiotherapy, social work and nursing through theapplication of best evidence and by bridging the theory-practice divide.

Future developmentsAs well as ongoing research projects with colleagues in practice, thedevelopment of several Masters programmes linked to occupationaltherapy is being considered by the School.

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MSc/PgDip Programme:The Masters/Postgraduate Diploma programme is based on philosophies ofself-directed learning, problem-based learning and critical reflection com-bined with self-assessment. It offers an intensive programme of study sup-ported by lectures, seminars and individual and group study developedaround problem-based triggers. Thirty-three weeks (1200 hours) of practiceplacement is also integrated within the programme. The curriculum framesthe study of human occupation and its application to health and socialcare across the lifespan. Educational experience is designed and se-quenced to ensure that a clear and confident role identity is developedalong with a strong understanding of the occupational needs of people.

This Masters level programme focuses on producing competentoccupational therapy practitioners who are able to:– Demonstrate strong professional role identity– Work in partnership with colleagues, users, carers, to promote healththrough occupation

– Work in partnership with change, across a range of health and socialservice settings

– Contribute to modern, high quality care for the benefit of clients, users,carers and employers

– Contribute to the evolution of the profession through theimplementation of evidence-based practice and scholarship

Standard entry requirementsBSc (Hons) Programme:– 160 UCAS Tariff points– 2 A or A/S levels at grade C– GNVQ or NVQ Level 3– Access courses in health or social care– HND or BTec both with level 3 units)– Relevant foundation diploma– Relevant diploma– If you do not possess a qualification identified here but feel it is at entrylevel to university then do discuss this with us

– If you are an inservice applicant and have been working in the publicsector for more than 2 years and do not hold any qualifications but havekept up with regular CPD activities, then do discuss your options with us

MSc/PgDip Programme:Applicants must have an Honours degree in any subject area and relevantexperience of working in a health, social care or related area.

Additional information regarding non standard entry requirementsThe selection process includes a number of strands: you will have to pro-vide a report, an application form and references. Once initially selected,some people may be interviewed before they are offered a place. If you areoffered a place you must successfully complete both a CRB and occupa-tional health check.

Post qualifying programmesLSBU also offers a postgraduate/masters course and masters modules.Please see our postgraduate prospectus for more information.

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London

Links with the professional body• As at September 2007 LSBU is not paying forstudents BAOT membership

Qualifying programmes1. BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy2. MSc/ PgDip (Pre-reg) Occupational TherapyDuration of Programme1. 4 years (part-time)2. 2 yearsProgramme starts1. September or February 20092. September 2009Number of places available1. September: 40 February: 302. September: 70

Key features of the programmeBSc (Hons) Programme:The course is designed specifically to meet the needs of individuals who,for personal circumstances, are unable to access a full-time course in Occu-pational Therapy or who wish to remain in employment whilst studying.

The design of the Occupational Therapy course and all the other AlliedHealth Profession courses at LSBU has an interprofessional learning pro-gramme of shared units. The course uses particular modes of teaching andlearning, recognising that students will be studying part-time.

Those qualifying from this course will have the necessary knowledge andunderstanding to practice in Occupational Therapy with a diverse popula-tion within a wide variety of settings. Practice placements provide opportu-nities for students to develop graduate key skills as well as coreOccupational Therapy skills. The course is delivered in partnership betweenemploying authorities (in-service) and university staff.

Prospective employers:– (in-service) are expected to ensure that the employee:– has leave to attend all scheduled sessions & placements related tothe course

– receive the support as agreed at the start of the course– receives appropriate supervision as a support worker– can gain access to resources to undertake learning in the workplace– has support managing the transition from unqualified to qualifiedmember of staff

Prospective students:– (in-service) must be responsible to ensure continuing communicationbetween the university and the employer regarding their progress onthe course

– must ensure continuing communication with their employer (in-service)and course unit leaders when not able to attend the scheduled studydays

– must identify a mentor who is an Occupational Therapist who is not partof the establishment that they work in. If this is deemed difficult thenthe student will get guidance

London Southbank UniversitySouthwark

ContactsMish Ahmed-Landeryouemail: [email protected]: 020 7815 8454

Maria Caunceemail: [email protected]: 020 7815 8096

How to applyFull time UCASPart time direct to the University

Application and interview processApplication forms will be screened for qualifications, personal statementand references. Short-listed applicants are invited for group interviews.Conditional offers will be made on the basis of this and successfulOccupational Health and enhanced disclosure screening.

FundingNHS bursaries are available for UK and EU students

Standard entry requirementsGCE240 UCAS Tariff points including 2 GCE A-level / AVCE awards at aminimum grade C in subjects other than General Studies or one AVCEdouble award at a minimum of grade CC.

GNVQ/AVCEEquivalence to 240 UCAS pointsBTEC:18 units; graded MERIT, MERIT, MERIT.

ACCESSPass

SCOTTISH HIGHERS240 Tariff points as above to include at least 3 Highers.

IRISH LEAVING CERTHighers at grades AAA or BBBB.

APELApplicants are welcome to apply for accreditation. A School of Healthpanel will make decisions based on individual circumstances

ACLAs above

Additional information regarding standardentry requirementsThe applicant will have English as his/her first language or achieve level 7in IELTS or equivalent, with no element below 6.5.The applicant will demonstrate a knowledge and understanding ofoccupational therapy practice.The applicant will show a desire to practise as an occupational therapist.The applicant’s lifestyle will be well rounded, showing a range of work,leisure and social interests.The applicant will have experienced a variety of environments and eventswithin her/his life.The applicant will be reliable and trustworthy.

Non standard entry requirementsEach application is considered on its own merit.Evidence of successful recent study at degree entry level is required.

Overseas applicantsApplications from overseas are welcomed. Individuals are considered onhis/her merits but must have attained a satisfactory level in a pre-degreecourse of study or equivalentApplicants with English as his/her second language must have achievedlevel 7 in IELTS or equivalent, with no element below 6.5.

Post qualifying programmesContinuing professional development modules are delivered as stand-alone modules or can form part of the MSc framework. Occupationaltherapists can complete an MSc in Advanced Occupational Therapyor an MSc Health Studies degree.Three occupational therapy specific modules are available: Current Issuesfor Therapists, Advanced Skills and Occupation for Occupational Therapists.In addition opportunities exist for occupational therapists to undertakeresearch higher degrees (MPhil and PhD).

International/EU linksStaff and student exchanges are positively encouraged. Links have beenformed between Sweden, Finland, Canada, Chile, USA, Australia and NewZealand.

Research profileThe university has a Professor in Occupational Therapy and a readership inoccupational science. Occupational therapy staff are currently engaged inactive research. The division’s research focus is ‘Health throughOccupation’. The division’s wide range of expertise in researchmethodology includes specialisation in Q methodology. Students areinvolved as primary data collectors. The division regularly publishes papersand presents at conferences.

Future developmentsThe university is developing an expanding distance learning,internationally linked and inter-professional education.

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Northampton

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• As at September 2007 Northampton is not paying forstudents BAOT membership



• Other professions contributing to theprogramme are: Sociologists

Qualifying programmesBSc (Honours) Occupational TherapyDuration of Programme3 years full time4 years part timeProgramme startsSeptember 2009Number of places available64 full time15 part time

About the areaIn the heart of the Midlands, with easy rail and motorway access,Northampton is a charming 800 year old market town that combines thetraditional and the modern to create a very special place to visit - at anytime of year. In the centre you will find a superb range of retail outletsfrom major high street names to individual specialist shops, to the historicMarket Square – one of the largest and most impressive in England. Sports,leisure and nightlife are all locally accessible offering a range of activitiesto suit all tastes.

About the programme/universityThe University of Northampton is a dynamic, modern university. It is largeenough to offer top quality opportunities and small enough to retain afriendly atmosphere. The School of Health is a major school in theinstitution and offers interprofessional learning opportunities and agrowing reputation for research. The Division has a Professor and Readerin Occupational Therapy. There are excellent library, media and IT services.The university is very much an international player with over 700international students from 100 different countries each year.

Key features of the programmeBSc programmeThe degree is taught in a range of delivery styles, including lectures,tutorials, seminars and enquiry based learning, catering for differingstudent needs. A variety of assessment styles are used including essays,projects, presentations, examinations and vivas. There is also theopportunity to undertake primary research. Interprofessional learningopportunities are an integral part of the course.Full-time programmeDelivered over three terms per year with practice placements over oneterm of each year. Most placements are Midlands based but national andinternational placements form part of the practice portfolio.Part-time routesThe programme is designed to suit the learning needs of part-timestudents. It is delivered over three extended terms per year requiring acommitment of three days per week; two days in university and a third dayfor study. Part-time placements are organised at appropriate intervalsand the programme can be adjusted to full-time if required.

University of NorthamptonDivision of Occupational TherapyBoughton Green Road,NorthamptonNN2 7AL

www.northampton.ac.uk

ContactsGlynis HillAdmissions TutorFull time and part timetel: 01604 892675email: [email protected] Teamtel: 01604 735500 ext 2651email: [email protected] 720680

How to applyBSc (Hons) via UCASMSc (pre-reg) direct to institution, (online application available)

Application and interview processA comprehensive programme of introductory talk, campus tour withcurrent students, talk by new graduate, group problem-solving exerciseand group interview, seeks to demonstrate the excellence of theNorthumbria experience whilst selecting students in an effective andrelaxed way.

FundingThe Northern Strategic Health Authority/Workforce DevelopmentConfederation pays the fees of eligible students, who may apply for ameans tested NHS bursary. Alternative funding may be availablethrough secondment, sponsorship or private funding.

Standard entry requirementsGCSE5 passes at grade C or above,to include English language and a science subject

GCE/AVCE280 UCAS Tariff points from a maximum of 3 subjects, excluding GeneralStudies. No more than 20 poinits from key skills.

ACCESS48 credits at level 3

SCOTTISH HIGHERSBBBCC (Advanced Highers BBC)

IRISH LEAVING CERTBBBBC

ACCELERATED ROUTESMSc (pre-reg) - One of the followingHonours degree in a health subject or related subject to occupationaltherapy, within last 5 years (1st or 2:1).

An Honours degree within last 5 years (1st or 2:1) and relevant pre-professional experience.

Overseas trained therapists with professional occupational therapyqualifications at higher education diploma level. Applicants should alsohave an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) scoreof 6.5.

Accredited Prior Learning (APL), Accredited Prior Experiential Learning(APEL), Accredited Work Based Learning (AWBL) may be appropriate.

APELEntry with advanced standing will be considered through the University’sAP(E)L system.Additional information regarding standardentry requirementsGeneral studies not considered.

• Candidates normally over 18 years.• Candidates subject to health screening/ enhanced Criminal RecordsBureau (CRB) clearance.

BTEC National Diploma4 Distinctions and 1 Merit• European Baccalaureate 68 per cent• International Baccalaureate 26 points

Vocational Diplomas will be accessed on an individual basis

Non standard entry requirementsNon-standard entries individually assessed.

Overseas applicantsOverseas recruitment is undertaken through the International office of theuniversity. General enquiries about the programme are welcomed bythe admissions team.

International/EU linksWithin the programme structure, the opportunity exists for students toundertake an elective placement abroad

Post qualifying programmesMSc in Health and Social Care (practice development and education):prepares health and social care professionals to facilitate studentlearning in the practice setting.

Postgraduate framework: provides taught postgraduate units at M leveland above, combinations of which will lead to named awards.

Individual units can be studied leading to PG certificate and PG diplomaawards.

Continuing Interprofessional Development Framework (CiPD).

COT HANDBOOK 2009

England

Northumbria

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• As at September 2007 Northumbria is not paying forstudents BAOT membership


• Other professions contributing to theprogramme: physiotherapy, nursing, social work,midwifery, medicine and operating departmentpractitioners.

Qualifying programmes1. BSc (Hons)2. MSc (pre-reg)Duration of Programme1. 3 years2. 2 yearsProgramme starts1. September 20092. January 2010Number of places available1. 602. 15

About the areaNewcastle is the regional capital of the North East. A bright, lively,energetic and youthful city – one in six of the population of Newcastle is astudent. Newcastle offers easy access to York, Carlisle, Durham andScotland, together with the spectacular beaches and moors ofNorthumberland.

About the programme/universityNorthumbria University is one of the largest institutions in the UK, withover 23,000 students studying full-time or part-time. The two maincampuses are in Newcastle, with Coach Lane Campus about three milesfrom the city centre. The university has its own free bus servicebetween the two sites plus regular bus and metro services.There is a wide range of services and resources, including health centres anexcellent library, computing and sports facilities, as well as counselling andaccommodation services. The students’ union also provides a wide range ofrecreational and welfare facilities.

Key features of the programmeModules are credit weighted within the Credit Accumulation and TransferScheme (CATS). Somemodules offer opportunities for shared learning with, for example, nursing,midwifery, social work and physiotherapy students.Practice placements are interspersed with university based learning. Themajority of these are undertaken within the Northern and Yorkshire region.However, a year 2 placement is elective and offers choice of location.Assessment takes a variety of forms, including individual assignments,group work and presentations.The pre-registration two year Master’s degree has been designed to meetthe needs of graduates with a first degree in a subject related tooccupational therapy, e.g. psychology. The programme is structured aroundan enquiry-based learning approach, in which students work together andindividually to further their comprehension, analysis and application of thematerial underpinning occupational therapy. There is a balance betweensessions in which new material is developedand those in which consolidation of learning takes place. Practical sessionsare facilitated by staff to help students to gain competence in skills prior topractice placements. All modules have been designed with 3 themes –skills, theory and enquiry/research, to ensure the evidence-base of practiceis integral to all learning.

Name of awarding higher education institutionUniversity of Northumbria at NewcastleNewcastle City CampusEllison PlaceNewcastle upon Tyne, NE1 8STUK

Coach Lane CampusCoach LaneBentonNewcastle upon Tyne, NE7 7 XAUK

www.northumbria.ac.uk

ContactsAdmissionstel: 0191 243 7900email: [email protected]: 0191 227 4561

‘campus’ across a diverse health, education and social care environment,and the integration of theory and practice in all settings preparesgraduates for the challenges of practice and registration with the HealthProfessions Council.The School has consistently received recognition for excellence inprovision; in 2006 the School achieved the highest awards in QualityAssurance Agency Major Review. The most recent endorsement was in2007 with the BSc occupational therapy programme receiving formalapproval from the Health Professions Council and accredited by theCollege of Occupational Therapists. In addition, UEA was the highestranked University (excepting the Open University) for student satisfactionin the National Student Survey 2006.Special provision for students with disabilitiesUEA operates an equal opportunities admissions policy. For furtherinformation about student support please visit the Dean of Students webpages: http://www.uea.ac.uk/dos/Additional informationHome to approximately 13,000 students and 2,400 staff, UEA is a leadingUniversity with a dynamic community. Excellent facilities such as the sportspark and library which houses an extensive range of literature includingelectronic resources are available for students to access.The University has an excellent on-site nursery catering for babies andchildren of students and staff. The nursery is registered by Ofsted, for moreinformation visit the nursery website at www.ueanursery.co.uk.

Key features of the programmeBSc programmeThis is a full time three year BSc (Hons) programme which shares a paralleland interlaced curriculum with physiotherapy and speech and languagetherapy students. The programme is designed to encourage students toacquire the skills of life long learning and problem solving alongside theprofessional knowledge and skills required to work as an occupationaltherapist. The learning processes are facilitated by a variety of teachingmethods including lectures, workshops, seminars, case study work,practical work and presentations.Placement Education is a compulsory element of learning and as such,students are expected to meet both personal and professional obligationsto facilitate the placement experience. Each student will achieve abalanced placement profile by the end of the course. Placements areundertaken across a range of health and social care settings and studentsare placed across the Eastern region and in some instances, further afield.To fulfil the requirements of this aspect of training, students are expectedto travel, stay in alternative accommodation and make arrangements forcommitments outside the course during the placement blocks.Accommodation for the placement is arranged when required. There is acost implication associated with placement experience which students willbe responsible for. For this reason, the School encourages students to takethe opportunity to apply for NHS Bursary funding.The student on placement is supported by an identified placementeducator within the placement setting and by a visiting tutor from theSchool.Students select and organise an ‘elective’ placement in their final year ofstudy and may choose to undertake this placement in a national orinternational setting.Assessment on the BSc programme adopts a continual assessment processthroughout the three years of study rather than a system of final exams. Allassignments must be successfully completed. Assessment comprisesunseen course tests, essays, practical demonstrations, poster presentations,

vivas and a research proposal – all of which ensure that students candemonstrate both theoretical and practical knowledge and skills.MSc programmeA partly shared curriculum with physiotherapy, this full time two yearprogramme is designed to encourage students to link theory and practiceby a two-way process of reflection and action. Reflecting the graduatestatus of students, the programme promotes increasingly self-directedstudy and uses IT-based learning where appropriate. Case scenarios areused to lead professional development through problem solving. Masterslevel study will be facilitated and demonstrated through applied andadvanced clinical reasoning and the justification of client management viaa critical application of the evidence-base. Day conferences will take place,focusing on placement experiences.Placement Education is a compulsory element of learning and as such,students are expected to meet both personal and professional obligationsto facilitate the placement experience. Each student will achieve abalanced placement profile by the end of the course. Placements areundertaken across a range of health and social care settings and studentsare placed across the Eastern region and in some instances, further afield.To fulfil the requirements of this aspect of training, students are expectedto travel, stay in alternative accommodation and make arrangements forcommitments outside the course during the placement blocks.Accommodation for the placement is arranged when required. There is acost implication associated with placement experience which students willbe responsible for. For this reason, the School encourages students to takethe opportunity to apply for NHS Bursary funding.The student on placement is supported by an identified placementeducator within the placement setting and by the student’s personaladvisor from the School.Students select and organise an ‘elective’ placement in their final year ofstudy and may choose to undertake this placement in a national orinternational setting.Assessment on the MSc programme adopts a continual assessment processthroughout the two years of study rather than a system of final exams.Allassignments must be successfully completed.Assessment comprises unseencourse tests, essays, practical demonstrations, poster presentations, vivas anda research proposal – all of which ensure that students can demonstrate boththeoretical and practical knowledge and skills.Both the BSc (Hons) and the MSc programmes prepare students for thedemands of future practice through an emphasis on professional issuesboth within the university and the placement setting. Course work isdesigned to link theory and practice and students are taught by membersof faculty who are experienced subject specialists and by expertpractitioners. Most faculty are also engaged in research, many with anational profile and some an international profile.The programmes are designed to develop therapists who are:competent to practise using knowledge and skills specific to theirprofession in order to enable individuals and groups to optimise theirhealth and social well-being;life-long learners, capable of using reflective practice within a frameworkof continuing professional development;critical in evaluating their practice, seeking to base their practice onresearch evidence and able to contribute towards the culture of enquirywithin their profession;flexible and responsive to change, able to manage themselves and otherswithin changing contexts of health and social care whilst ensuring bestvalue;able to operate in interdisciplinary teams and work effectively withdifferent professionals, agencies and individuals.

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Norwich

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• As at September 2007 UEA is not paying forstudents BAOT membership



• Other professions contributing to the programme:Lecturers in physiotherapy and speech and languagetherapy, occupational therapy clinicians, service users,carers and representatives from a variety oforganisations relevant to the delivery of health andsocial care services.

• 5 members of teaching staff in total belong tospecialist sections

Qualifying programmes1. BSc (Hons)2. MSc (pre-reg)Duration of Programme1. 3 years full time2. 2 years full timeProgramme starts1. September 20092. February 2009Number of places available1. 452. 21

About the areaActor and writer Stephen Fry summed up Norwich as ‘.. a fine city. Nonefiner.’ His words reflected the city’s own motto but also the strong culturalheritage that has seen Norwich maintain the best of its historical characterwhilst developing to become one of the most vibrant and attractive citiesin Europe.Norwich has been a thriving trading city for the last 900 years and formuch of that time was England’s second city after London. The Cathedral,the Castle, the Royal Arcade, the University of East Anglia and the Forumare all exemplars of high quality design and architecture across the ages.Major recent developments include the 42-acre Riverside leisure, retail andresidential development, the £275m Chapelfield shopping developmentand the £229m Norfolk and Norwich Hospital. The city is consistentlyrated as one of the top ten shopping venues in the UK and is a foundermember of the Cultural Cities Network.The city is surrounded by beautiful countryside and within easy reach ofthe sea. A wide variety of visitors come to the region every year to enjoyboating on the Broads, the protected nature and wildlife habitats as wellas differing traditions of seaside towns.

About the programme/universityBased in award winning, purpose built premises in the heart of campus,the School of Allied Health Professions provides pre-registrationeducation and training in occupational therapy, physiotherapy andspeech and language therapy. The School operates within the Faculty ofHealth alongside the Schools of Medicine, Health Policy and Practice,Nursing and Midwifery and offers students an environment to studyalongside healthcare students from nine different disciplines includingmedicine, all branches of nursing, paramedics and pharmacy.

As a centre for international health research, the School is home to athriving research community and delivers high quality postgraduateresearch and taught programmes catering for all health professionals.Renowned for its unique and distinctive interprofessional andinterdisciplinary pre and post registration provision in the education andtraining of health professions, the School of Allied Health Professionsdelivers research-led and evidence based curricula that ensure graduatesare fit for practice in the modern health and social care sector.The student experience and learning environment is central to the learningand teaching strategy with teaching programmes operating on strong staffstudent ratios, with personal advisors providing individual professional,academic and pastoral support. Placement learning extends the University

University of East Anglia: NorwichSchool of Allied Health ProfessionsFaculty of HealthUniversity of East Anglia (UEA)Earlham RoadNorwichNorfolkNR4 7TJ

www.ahp.uea.ac.uk

ContactsSally Lloyd (BSc programme)tel: 01603 597136email: [email protected]: 01603 597019Emma Roper (MSc programme)tel: 01603 593085email: [email protected]: 01603 593166

UEA offers a Professional Skills Training Programme (‘Transitions’ – basedon the UK Research Council’s Joint Skills Statement) to all Post GraduateResearch students. This aims to support the student at all stages of studyin developing skills now and for the future. Training sessions organised bythe UEA Centre for Skills Education Development are available to thestudent (e.g. use of bibliographic software packages; writing forpublication).

Individual units on the post registration MSc for Health Sciences areavailable to all students so, for example, if the student does not have arecent MSc qualification they may also attend the Introduction to ResearchMethods – quantitative & qualitative methods with an option to continueon the Advanced Research Methods units or the Self-Directed LiteratureReview unit.Students also attend monthly Allied Health Professions postgraduateresearch seminars and are expected to formally present at one of theseseminar per year. They also have the opportunity to attend a variety ofresearch development seminars, which are presented by both internal andexternal speakers.Research supervisionThe PhD programme at the School of Allied Health Professions has a well-established supervision process. Students are allocated two supervisors toguide the development of their research. Full time students have plannedsupervision the equivalent of once every two weeks while part timestudents meet once a month. There are established principles of submittingagreed written work, recording the supervision and developing an actionplan based on that supervision. Formal student progress meetings takeplace four times a year.Further supervisory support is provided through a postgraduatesupervision panel whose membership will reflect the students’ researchneeds. This brings together the supervisors with three or four otheracademics who may be drawn from Schools within the University or otheruniversities or research bases. Supervisory panels are convened three timesa year for full time students (twice a year for part time students). Beforeeach panel the student is expected to circulate discussion papers of 2-3,000 words. During the panel the student presents on a focussed aspectof the paper. The panels allow the student and the supervisory team toreview progress, to develop the project and to gain advice and supportfrom external experts.Post Graduate Research students also have access to a range of expertsacross the Faculty of Health, as well as being part of a large researchcommunity.The School also offers an extensive range of post graduate short courseprogrammes.

International/EU linksWithin the programme structure there are opportunities for students toundertake an elective placement abroad; this does however need to meetthe approval of the Placements Team. The school has international links inresearch and education.

Research profileThe School’s research programme is based on building project partnershipswith professional and special interest groups, health trusts and voluntaryorganisations. The School’s research mission is to produce high qualityresearch which supports the clinical effectiveness of occupational therapy,physiotherapy, speech and language therapy and the promotion of healthand well-being.Dedicated support staff are employed for various research programmes.All faculty are active in research and scholarly work. Senior specialist

research posts in research synthesis and in health statistics have beendeveloped and funded. The School of Allied Health Professions now has asubstantial number of MPhil/ PhD students and a growing programme offunded research.The School has been successful in attracting substantial research fundingfrom a wide range of establishments including:the Department of HealthResearch Councilsprofessional bodiesmedical research charities and trustslocal purchasers and providers of health care.

Future developmentsThe School of Allied Health Professions continues to build upon itsacademic and research profiles, both of which contribute towards a strongidentity in terms of establishing occupational therapy as a valuableprofession. There are numerous future initiatives includingthe development of an Allied Health Professions clinic and expanding uponthe current range of short course programmes delivered by faculty withinthe School.

How to applyApplications for the BSc (Hons) programme should be made throughUCAS. To apply for the MSc programme, contact the MSc admissionssecretary at the School of Allied Health Professions.

Application and interview processOur policy is to interview all candidates who pass the preliminary stage ofselection. All offers are subject to a satisfactory health and policescreening.

FundingCurrently all programmes offered by the School of Allied HealthProfessions are NHS Funded. This means that the Department of Healthcovers the course fees. Successful applicants are also able to apply for ameans-tested NHS bursary towards living costs.For more information regarding NHS Funding please visit the NHS StudentGrants website: www.nhsstudentgrants.co.uk

Standard entry requirementsGCSE5 GCSEs at grade C or above to include English,mathematics and double science

GNVQ/AVCEA23 at grade BCC

SCOTTISH HIGHERS5 at grade C or above

BTEC4 Distinctions and 3 Merits (2nd year level of work)

ACCELERATED ROUTESAccelerated Routes - MSc programmeDegree in any subject preferably at grade 2:1 or above. Be able toarticulate orally and on paperAPELConsult admissions officerACLConsult admissions officer

Additional information regarding standardentry requirementsClear understanding of occupational therapy, relevant work shadowing, astrong academic attainment, a broad academic base at GCSE level orequivalent and an interest in people.

Non standard entry requirementsGNVQ/AVCEA2Relevant subject e.g. biology, human biology or psychology at grade C oraboveACCESSAccess in health and social care/Access innatural sciences at 70%+ or Distinction or 4 credits above the minimumnumber of level 3 credits required for a pass

Degree 2:2 in any subject

ACCELERATED ROUTESAccelerated Routes - MSc programmeDegree in any subject preferably at grade 2:1 or above. Be able toarticulate orally and on paper

Additional information regarding non standardentry requirementsClear understanding of occupational therapy, relevant work shadowing,evidence of recent academic study and an interest in people. Consultadmissions officer to discuss individual needs.

Overseas applicantsOnly applicants who are also eligible to apply for a UK NHS trainingbursary can be considered for a place on the programmes. If you are not aHome/EU student, please visit the NHS Student Grants Website:www.nhsstudentgrants.co.uk or contact the relevant Admissions Secretarybefore applying to ensure your eligibility.If you meet this requirement and pass the preliminary stage of selection,you will be called for interview. Please note these interviews will takeplace at UEA.

Post qualifying programmesResearch environmentThe Faculty of Health was created in 2004 with the intention of promotinghigh quality interdisciplinary research and teaching. The School of AlliedHealth Professions has excellent facilities housed in a purpose-builtbuilding in close proximity to the other schools within the Faculty ofHealth. In addition to the pre-registration and postgraduate taughtprogrammes, the School offers a well organised PhD programme in anexciting and supportive environment. The support, high quality tuition andsupervision of our research students and their projects, reflect the breadthof research and experience among the members of faculty and theircommitment to an interdisciplinary approach. The last Subject Reviewcarried out by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Educationconfirmed the School’s commitment to teaching excellence.Students will have ready access to training & support across the wholeFaculty, including expertise in both quantitative and qualitativemethodologies. Research in the Faculty of Health comes under three broadheadings – Health Services and Healthcare Research; Biomedical Research;and Clinical Educational Research – and is organised in six major themes,including ‘Chronic Disease and Rehabilitation’ & ‘Evidence-Based Practice’.Students will be expected to join one of the research groups.Research skills trainingThere is an individual assessment of each student’s skills needs but thestandard provision is:

COT HANDBOOK 2009

England

Norwich

may be offered a place on the course on their application alone or theymay be invited to submit a supporting essay, attend an interview and/orprovide additional references.

Funding70 full time and 5 part time students who meet the eligibility criteria forNHS funded tuition fees.In-service students are funded by their local Strategic Health Authority.International students must pay full international student fees.

Standard entry requirementsGCSEFive passes at grade C or above to include English, Math and Science

GCE/VCEThree A levels at Grade C or above

ACCESSMinimum of 54 credits at level 3

SCOTTISH HIGHERS240 UCAS points

IRISH LEAVING CERTGrade B1 or above in two subjects and three grades C1 or above in fiveHonours level subjects to include English and Biology.

Additional information regarding standardentry requirementsBTec National Diploma at DMM

Non standard entry requirementsGCSEPass in GCSE English and Maths or equivalent

GCE/vCEOne A level at grade C or above

ACCESS54 credits at Level 3

SCOTTISH HIGHERSGrade C in one Advanced higher subject or two grades of C in Highersubjects

IRISH LEAVING CERTTwo grades of C1 or above in Honours subjects

APEL2:2 Honours degree in a subject relevant to occupational therapy

Additional information regarding non standardentry requirementsFor specific details about joining the Occupational Therapy course as amature student please contact the Programme Administrator.

Overseas applicantsApplications are welcomed from international students. An Englishlanguage proficiency test may be required and applicants are required toachieve 6.5 in the IELTS, plus be eligible for matriculation into a universityin their home country.For general details about joining a course as an international student goto our website; shsc.brookes.ac.uk/international.html. For specific detailsabout joining the Occupational Therapy course as an overseas studentplease contact the Programme Administrator.

Post qualifying programmesCertificate in Posture Management (administered by the NuffieldOrthopaedic Centre Oxford)MSc Rehabilitation

International/EU linksA generous annual scholarship is currently available to enable anoccupational therapy graduate of Oxford Brookes University to study fulltime for an MSc in Occupational Therapy at the Boston School ofOccupational Therapy, Tufts University, USA,.

Research profileA designated occupational therapy Reader in Occupational Therapy, andthe Professor of Occupational Therapy, work with the teaching staff on anumber of research projects. They also work with local occupationaltherapists and in collaboration with other universities. Current research isfocused on occupational therapy in a number of diverse clinical areas, andthe education of health and social care students. The school has adesignated research laboratory.

COT HANDBOOK 2009

England

Oxford

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• As at September 2007 Oxford Brookes is not payingfor students BAOT membership



• Other professions contributing to theprogramme: Physiotherapists, Nurses, Social Workers,Osteopaths and Midwives


• Staff belonging to specialist sections:(1) Neurological Practice Specialist Section(1) Mental Health Specialist Section(1) People with learning disabilities Specialist Section.

Qualifying programmes1. BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy2. BSc (Hons) Occupational TherapyDuration of Programme1. 3 years2. 4 yearsProgramme startsSeptember 2009Number of places available1. 70 Full Time, 5 Part time2. 15 In-service

About the areaOxford Brookes University is located in the beautiful city of Oxford. With itslarge student population, the city provides a rich and unparalleled studentexperience. Despite its centuries of history and tradition, Oxford is athoroughly modern and forward-looking city with a cosmopolitanpopulation, vibrant atmosphere and tantalising nightlife. Oxford hasexcellent transport links to London and the rest of the South-East.

About the programme/universityThe University is situated on a hill overlooking the dreaming spires ofOxford. The School of Health and Social Care has dedicated ‘state of theart’ clinical simulation suites for practical skills tuition, such as manualhanding, communication, activities of daily living and orthotics. A largelecture theatre, canteen and student computing facilities provide acampus dedicated to the education of health and social care studentsbut within walking distance to the main University campus.

Key features of the programmeThe BSc (Hons) in Occupational Therapy at Oxford Brookes University isinter-professional and modular in programme structure. The programmecurrently consists of 24 module credits, a percentage of which are takenalongside physiotherapy, social work and nursing students. The programmeuses case based learning to equip students with the knowledge, values andprofessional strategies to be able to function effectively and autonomouslyin all spheres of occupational therapy. Students are assessed at the end ofeach semester using a variety of assessment strategies such ascoursework, examinations and portfolios. All students are supported by apersonal tutor throughout their occupational therapy degree at OxfordBrookes University. Practice placement modules are taken during eachacademic year of the degree at locations across London and the South-East.

How to applyBSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy Full time via UCASBSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy Part Time and In-service Directapplication to the university

Application and interview processApplicants, who meet the academic entry requirements, demonstrate anunderstanding of occupational therapy and provide satisfactory references

Oxford Brookes UniversityOccupational TherapySchool of Health & Social CareOxford Brookes UniversityJack Straws LaneMarstonOxfordOX3 0FL

www.brookes.ac.uk

ContactsLesley Maudsleytel: 01865 485526email: [email protected]: 01865 482775

FundingEligible applicants can apply for NHS funding which will pay tuition feesand may provide an additional bursary. Self-funding may be considered.

Standard entry requirementsGCSE5 GCSE Grades A - C to include English, maths and ascience subject.Plus the following:Minimum of 180 UCAS points(160 points from either two A Levels/one 12-Unit award). Science/SocialScience subjects preferred.AS/3 Unit awards combined with above accepted.GNVQ/AVCE

APELMay be considered on an individual basis.

Additional information regarding standardentry requirementsAlternative qualifications are considered, for example, BTEC, InternationalBaccalaureate.BTEC New National Certificate grade DM, New National Diploma gradeMMP – preference in Health, science and or social science subjects

Non standard entry requirementsACCESSEvidence of study within the last 5 years.Access students should complete a QAA recognised course with aminimum of 45 credits at level 3 - science/social science preferred.

APELMay be considered on an individual basis.

Overseas applicantsOverseas applicants are considered on an individual basis, contact us forfurther information.

Post qualifying programmesIf you are looking to develop your studies beyond the BSc (Hons) OT to beat the forefront of cutting edge Occupational Therapy and to gain the skillsrequired to undertake specialist consultancy based OT roles then the MScAdvanced Professional Practice in OT will provide the route. Our worldrenowned MSc is only one of a range of programmes and is studieduniquely via distance learning. This course will provide practitionersnationally and internationally with leading edge competencies.Continuing professional development with the Faculty of Health & SocialWork can be done via Certificates, Diplomas, Masters, Credited Modules,Conferences & Research Degrees in Multi-Professional Health Careenvironments.

International/EU linksQualification is recognised by the WorldFederation of Occupational Therapists.

Research profileThe Faculty of Health and Social Work has a dynamic research profile thatreflects its commitments to inter-professional and partnership working.This is reflected across the Allied Health Professions with particular interestin the areas of rehabilitation and professional practice.

Future developmentsThe course is constantly reviewed to incorporate the latest trends andinnovations from research and practice

COT HANDBOOK 2009

England

Plymouth

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• As at September 2007 Plymouth is not paying forstudents BAOT membership



• 108 Practice Placement Educators APPLE accredited

• Other professions contributing to theprogramme: Sociology, Biology, Psychology.

• Staff members belonging to specialist sections: 6

Qualifying programmesBSc (Hons) Occupational TherapyDuration of Programme3 yearsProgramme startsSeptember 2009Number of places available55 - 60

About the areaPlymouth is the south west’s largest city with a thriving and energeticstudent community. Our diverse student population covers all walks of lifeand as well as cutting edge buildings for teaching and learning they enjoyall the facilities and social activities of a modern, developing city.In addition students in Plymouth have unrivalled access to some of themost beautiful countryside within the UK; with the beaches and sea forsailing and surfing and the moors for walking or cycling you can beassured of an outstanding environment to learn and relax.

About the programme/universityOur occupational therapy programme is based in a purpose built state ofthe art teaching environment which houses all of our Allied HealthProfession courses; therefore facilitating critical inter-professionallearning. The building benefits from not only the latest lecture andcomputer facilities but also practical teaching areas within which clinicalskills can be practised within an academic environment. The faculty isproud to have been awarded National Centre of Excellence Status for itsplacement learning activities in health and social care. The practiceelements of our courses are always extremely popular with our students.

Key features of the programmeYou will learn how to use everyday occupations and activities, creatively, inorder to promote health and wellbeing. Each academic year is divided intotwo teaching blocks with a mix of profession specific and shared learningas well as the invaluable opportunity to use your developing skills in apractice environment. You will explore theoretical concepts, principles andapproaches and how they underpin practice. At all times you developreasoning, problem solving and communication skills that enable you toemploy this knowledge in relation to a wide range of conditions andsituations. The balance of academic and practice learning will ensure youbecome a well rounded therapist who is confident to act in a variety ofenvironments. Your final year project provides you with the excitingopportunity to focus on an area of particular interest.

How to applyApplications should be made through UCAS.The personal statement is an important element of the application.

Application and interview processApplication and references are assessed against a person specificationbased on key skills and understanding of the OT role. All successfulapplicants are invited to attend a preview day.

University of PlymouthSchool of Health ProfessionsPeninsula Allied Health CentreDerriford RoadDerrifordPlymouthPL6 8BH

www.plymouth.ac.uk

Admissions Officer01752 [email protected] 233258

Standard entry requirementsGCSE5 at grades A to C, including english, mathsand a science subjectA level preferable subjects psychology,sociology, biology, AVCE Health and Social Care240 UCAS Tariff points at A2 level (will acceptAVCE health and social care within the 240points)

GNVQ/AVCEHealth and Social Care preferredMMM

ACCESSQAA approved

SCOTTISH HIGHERS4 passes grade A/B in higher and 2 at ordinary level

IRISH LEAVING CERTGPA 340 A-C in 6 subjects 4 at Higher level

APEL May be considered on an individual basis.

Overseas applicantsApplications are welcomed from overseas – please contact the programmeleader or admissions tutor for further details or access the website.

Post qualifying programmesMSc Advanced Occupational Therapy – from September 2008. Othersinclude a range of workshops, CPD sessions and practice placementeducator accreditation courses are available. Enquiries from thoseconsidering undertaking a PhD are welcome.

International/EU linksThe directorate has links with the European Network of OccupationalTherapists in Higher Education (ENOTHE). At level 2/3 there areopportunities for an ERASMUS international exchange. At level 3 the finalpractice placement can be arranged overseas, with approval.

Research profileThe directorate is very research active with over half of the staffundertaking research and 4 staff currently engaged in doctoral studies. Theareas covered by our research are diverse and range from occupationaltherapy interventions to educational research.

Future developmentsThe MSc in Advanced Occupational Therapy is an e-learning programmeand will be available from September 2008. This programme is deliveredtotally on-line and aims to attract occupational therapists working acrossthe world.

COT HANDBOOK 2009

England

Salford

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• % of student BAOT members unknown

• As at September 2007 Salford is not paying forstudents BAOT membership



• 170+ Practice Placement Educators APPLE accredited

• Other professions contributing to theprogramme: Interprofessional learning takes placewith other health care professions in the universityand on placement.

• Specialist sections: 1 staff member (Incontinence)

Qualifying programmes1. BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy2. BSc(Hons) Occupational Therapy (part time)Duration of Programme1. 3 years2. 4 ¼ yearsProgramme startsSeptember 2009Number of places available1. 582. 20

About the areaSalford has the advantage of being centrally placed in Britain, providingopportunities for exploring Scotland, the Lake District,Wales and theSouth. A close proximity to Manchester makes a wide range of social andcultural venues available to students.

About the programme/universityThe Faculty of Health and Social Care is one of the largest of its type inthe country, offering opportunities to meet and work with students froma range of other professions.A forward thinking university that provides innovative and appliedteaching utilizing up-to date expertise and technology. £130 million isbeing invested in new buildings and facilities.

Key features of the programmeThe programmes are delivered via a problem-based learning approach.Students generally work in groups of 10-15 with keynote lectures deliveredto all. Practical skills are also inherent within the programmes. Six practiceplacements are spread throughout the three/four years ranging from 1week to 10 weeks duration. All students undertake a 6 week role-emergingplacement, working in an area without occupational therapy. Erasmusexchanges are also available for students wishing to complete a shortperiod of study abroad.Interprofessional learning continues to be developed within the universityand students will work with other AHP’s at all levels of the programme andon placement.

How to applyFull time applications – UCASPart time applications – direct to HEI

Application and interview processBoth full time and part-time programmes may interview students

FundingFor the full-time programme NHS bursaries/NHS North West payment oftuition fees are available or students may be self-funded. For the part-timeroute replacement costs may be available for those employed by theNHS/social services in the North West and again tuition fees are paid byNHS Northwest.

University of SalfordDirectorate of Occupational TherapyFaculty of Health and Social CareAllerton BuildingFrederick RoadSalfordM6 6PU

www.salford.ac.uk

ContactsDebbie Whittaker – Directortel: 0161 295 2398email: [email protected] HalliwellProgramme Leader – full time routetel: 0161 295 2394email: [email protected] McKennaProgramme Leader –part time routetel: 0161 295 2393email: [email protected] DavidsonAdmissions Tutor – full time routetel: 0161 295 2364email: [email protected] DavysAdmissions Tutor – part time routetel: 0161 295 2869email: [email protected]

essentially for support workers already employed in services deliveringhealth and social care in an around Lincolnshire. The programme is basedin Grantham and focuses on work-based learning, drawing on localresources to support course delivery. Students learn alongsidephysiotherapy students who are undertaking a similar course. For asignificant part of the course, students engage in extended periods ofpractice learning for three days per week and attend a programme ofworkshops and taught sessions on one or two days per week. Studentsalso access learning resources at Sheffield Hallam University. Independentstudies offer choice within the curriculum. A final full time practicelearning experience enables students to demonstrate their competence topractise occupational therapy. Students are supported throughout theircourse by local occupational therapy practitioners who act as mentors.

The MSc Occupational Therapy (pre-registration) programme enablesstudents already holding a relevant degree or professional qualification toqualify as an occupational therapist and gain the higher academic award.The course aims to develop students’ skills and understanding ofoccupational therapy through work-based learning. In the early stages ofthe course some learning takes place with social work students. For asignificant part of the course students engage in extended periods ofpractice learning within a range of local services. Seminars take placeweekly at Sheffield Hallam University to facilitate the development ofstudents’ knowledge and skills. Time for private study is also scheduled.The course is specifically designed to take account of previous educationalexperiences. It also aims to develop leadership skills and research capacityas students undertake projects in collaboration with local services.Practising occupational therapists act as mentors for students throughouttheir course.All programmes use a variety of assessment strategies. There are no formalwritten examinations in any of the programmes.

How to applyBSc Hons OccupationalTherapyfull time route application through UCASpart time route application direct to admissions officer: [email protected]

BSc Hons Occupational Therapy Full Time InServiceapplications direct to course leader: [email protected]

MSc Occupational Therapy (pre-registration)applications direct to course leader: [email protected]

Application and interview processApplicants are interviewed for all programmes.

FundingFees for all programmes are paid by the Strategic Health Authority

Standard entry requirementsGCSENormally 5 GCSE passes at grade C or above, including mathematics,English Language and a science subject plus one of the following:3 A levelspreferably including a science subject but not including general studies.OR2 A levels and 2 AS levelsincluding at least 160 points from a science subject eg biology, human

biology, sociology, psychology, PE240 points required

GNVQ/AVCEHealth -related topic240 points required

ACCESSHealth-related topic240 points required

SCOTTISH HIGHERS240 points from a maximum of 6 Highers preferably including a sciencesuch as biology, human biology, psychology or sociology

IRISH LEAVING CERT 6grade Cs at higher level preferably including a science such as biology,human biology, psychology or sociology

ACCELERATED ROUTESRelevant first degree or professional qualificationAPEL Application can be made against some modulesACL Application can be made against some modules

Additional information regarding non standardentry requirementsAll applications are considered on individual merit. Applicants must showevidence of recent study at a level equivalent to the standard entryrequirements. Applicants must hold a qualification in a science subject (egbiology, chemistry, human biology, sociology, psychology) and demonstratea good standard of English and mathematics.

Overseas applicantsAll applications from overseas are considered on individual merit.Applicants must hold qualifications that are equivalent to those required inthe UK. All must demonstrate a good standard of English Language andmathematics.

Post qualifying programmesThe MSc Vocational Rehabilitation is managed by the occupational therapyteam. This successful programme attracts occupational therapists andother professionals working in a range of vocational rehabilitationservices. Specific modules related to specialist areas of occupationaltherapy practice are also available for continuing professionaldevelopment which can contribute flexibly to post-graduate qualificationsat Master’s level. Some modules are taught, others are available on line. Aprofessional doctorate is available within the Faculty. The occupationaltherapy team has relevant expertise to supervise PhD and other doctoralstudents.

International/EU linksThe University has wide international links. The occupational therapy teamengage in particular with the University of Alberta in Canada, theUniversity of Cape Town in South Africa and a range of universities acrossEurope. Further links are being established with universities in the USA.Opportunities currently exist for students to undertake independentprojects in South Africa, Europe or other international contexts of theirchoice.

COT HANDBOOK 2009

England

Sheffield Hallam

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• As at September 2007 Sheffield Hallam is paying forstudents BAOT membership




• Other professions contributing to theprogramme: nurses, midwives, radiographers,physiotherapists, social workers, operatingdepartment practitioners, paramedics, radiotherapyand oncology practitioners.

• Specialist Section for Work (3 members) NeurologicalPractice (1 member) Rheumatology (2 members)Older People (3 members) Mental Health (3 members)People with Learning Disabilities (1 member).

Qualifying programmes1. BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy2. BSc Hons Occupational Therapy Full Time InService3. MSc Occupational Therapy (pre-registration)Duration of Programme1. 3 years full time, 4-6 years part time2. 28 months full time3. 28 months full timeProgramme starts1. September 2009 subject to reaccreditation2. January 2011 subject to reaccreditation3. January 2010Number of places available1. 652. 153. 15

About the areaThe occupational therapy programmes are based at Collegiate Crescentcampus which is in a leafy but vibrant area of Sheffield, close to the citycentre. Sport and leisure facilities are accessible and the Peak District iswithin easy reach. Sheffield has a large student population. Nightlife isexciting with a range of activities close by.

About the programme/universityTeaching occurs in well-equipped laboratories in facilities purpose-builtfor health and social care programmes. The Learning Centre hasextensive IT facilities with 24 hour opening during term time.Interprofessional learning is a key feature of the occupational therapyprogramme. Vocational rehabilitation is a specialist area of expertisewithin the teaching team. Services for students with disabilities are welldeveloped. Links with universities in South Africa, Canada and variousEuropean countries exist, providing opportunities for students to traveland engage in international projects.

Key features of the programmeThe BSc Hons Occupational Therapy full time and part time routes aredelivered using various learning and teaching methods includinggroupwork, interprofessional learning, practice learning and independentlearning. In addition, workshops enable students to develop and usespecific professional knowledge and skills. Core modules help students todevelop and apply knowledge of professional principles and processes.Students can then select options from a range of topics to further theirknowledge of occupational therapy in key and emerging areas of practice.Interprofessional learning supports the development of teamwork,communication skills, ethics, reflective practice and evidence basedpractice. A number of different practice learning opportunities are providedthroughout the course to enable students to demonstrate the applicationof knowledge and skills in a variety of health and social services and otherrelevant organisations. In their final year, students work moreindependently to carry out projects of their choice, so developing personalautonomy and readiness for employment.The BSc Hons Occupational Therapy Full Time In Service programme is

SHEFFIELD HALLAM UNIVERSITYFaculty of Health andWellbeingCollegiate CrescentSheffieldS1 1WB

www.shu.ac.uk

ContactsClaire Craig – Full and Part TimeBSc Hons Occupational Therapytel: 0114 225 2586email: [email protected] 225 2394Dr Theresa Baxter –BSc Hons Occupational Therapy Full Time InServiceemail: [email protected] Healey –MSc Occupational therapy (pre-registration)tel: 0114 225 2539email: [email protected]

Research profileSix occupational therapists within the Faculty hold doctoral qualificationsand four others are studying for PhDs. Research interests include:experiences of service users, the lifestyle of people with mental healthproblems, community based rehabilitation, the use of creative media andcreative writing - particularly with older adults, the lifestyle of olderpeople, educational strategies within Higher Education and vocationalrehabilitation.

Future developmentsThe implementation of a BSc Hons Vocational Rehabilitation will offerdevelopmental opportunities for occupational therapy support staffworking in this field. Other relevant awards are being considered for thisgroup of staff. The development of a full time MSc in AdvancedOccupational Therapy Practice may also feature in a future portfolio ofprogrammes.

COT HANDBOOK 2009

England

Sheffield Halam

Our part-time programme runs over two days per week, and clinicalplacements may be completed on a part or full-time basis.Academic study is organised in modules which cover foundation sciences,and areas of professional practice such as research, ethics, and the morepractical skills and knowledge required to be an occupational therapist inspecific areas such as physical rehabilitation, mental health and learningdisabilities. Both academic and clinical skills are taught and assessed usinga variety of methods.

How to applyApplications for the full-time programme should be made through UCAS(B920).Part-time programme applications should be made directly to the School.

Application and interview processFor the full-time programme, conditional offers are generally made basedon the UCAS form. All selected candidates are invited to attend an openafternoon to meet staff, students and view the facilities.Applicants to the part-time programme who meet the entry criteria areoffered an interview.

FundingAll UK places are funded by the Department of Health; this covers courseand tuition fees. A means tested bursary is available to UK students.

Standard entry requirementsGCSEMinimum of five GCSE’s to include maths, Englishand a science all at grade C or above.

A2/AS levels300 UCAS Tariff points from 18 or 21 units, must include a science subject

GNVQ/AVCEAVCE + A212 unit AVCE plus 1 A level or 6 unit AVCE plus2 A levels, 300 UCAS Tariff points, must include a science subject

SCOTTISH HIGHERSMust include a science subject, 6subjects all at Grade B

IRISH LEAVING CERTMust include a science subject, 6 subjects all at Grade B

Additional information regarding standardentry requirementsBTEC/Edexel -No fails in year 1, 5 distinctions and 1 merit in year 2 (300 points)International Baccalaureate - Must include a science subject, 28 points

Entry qualifications must have been achieved in the three years prior tocommencing the programme.

Non standard entry requirementsMature students:1 A level or 2 AS levels in science subjects -all at grade C or above (80 points total)

Additional information regarding non standardentry requirementsHonours Degree - 2.2 or above

Open University Science Foundation course – Pass

University of Southampton Foundation Degree in Health andSocial Care - Pass

Entry qualifications must have been achieved in the three years prior tocommencing the programme.

Overseas applicantsWe welcome applications from international students.The University has a thriving international student population who are wellsupported by the University of Southampton International Office whoprovide advice and support throughout the application process as well asonce your programme commences.

Post qualifying programmesMany of our former graduates and graduates from other universities returnto us on post-qualifying programmes, including one day courses, full-timeor part-time MSc, Clinical Doctorate and PhD studies.These programmes are flexible and designed to support careerdevelopments in clinical, management, education and research, for furtherinformation see our website http://www.sohp.soton.ac.uk/shprs/ orcontact [email protected]

Research profileOur research department has an impressive national and internationalrecord of research, innovation and publication in the allied healthprofessions. This is demonstrated by our score of 3a in the 2001 RAEexercise, the highest score for a stand alone allied health group. Thesefindings feed into our programmes giving you a very current and dynamiclearning experience. Collaborative research is also carried out withacademic and research staff from other Schools in the University.

COT HANDBOOK 2009

England

Southampton

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• As at September 2007 Southampton is not paying forstudents BAOT membership




• Other professions contributing to theprogramme: Psychology, Physiotherapy, Podiatry,other Health Professions for the InterprofessionalLearning Programme

Qualifying programmes1. BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy2. BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy (Part-time)Duration of Programme1. 3 years2. 4 yearsProgramme startsOctober 2009Number of places available1. 602. 10

About the areaSouthampton is a great place to be a student. The city is large enough tobe varied, but not so big that it is totally overwhelming. Our School issituated on the main University campus, which is just outside the citycentre and next to 326 acres of managed woodland.With lots to do,including three internationally celebrated arts venues, its own shops,restaurants, nightclub and a brand new sports complex, our students haveeverything that is needed to relax close at hand.Southampton hosts the Mayflower Theatre (which stages West Endmusicals, opera and comedy), the Southampton Guildhall, and the awardwinning Southampton City Art Gallery. Other attractions include a 13screen cinema and entertainment complex, a stunning art house cinema, awide assortment of restaurants/bars and one of the UK’s top 10 shoppingcentres (West Quay). There are also plenty of sporting amenities.Visit www.vistsouthampton.co.uk to find out more.

About the programme/universityThis University is already one of the top ten research universities in theUK. The School was rated commendable (QAA 2005) for all three areasof learning and teaching, student progression and learning resourcesand their utilisation.We pride ourselves on the quality of our teachingwhich is underpinned by staff expertise and research activity. Theacademic staff within the department are active researchers and expertsin their field. The School is purpose built to train therapists, providingexcellent facilities.Students benefit from studying core modules with physiotherapy andpodiatry students. In addition students participate in the Common Learningprogramme with students from other health professions courses, thisprovides opportunity to work with and learn from other health carestudents, and develop an understanding of the roles of differentprofessionals in a team based service. This opportunity had beenrecognised by the Department of Health as ‘leading edge’ and providesopportunity to undertake placements in a variety of health and social caresettings, working with and learning from other health care students.

Key features of the programmeBoth the full and part-time programmes at Southampton offer acombination of academic study and clinical fieldwork placements, whichare integrated into the programme to allow you to relate the theory learntin School to clinical situations, and then to relate clinical experience gainedto your academic work.

University of SouthamptonSchool of Health Professions and Rehabilitation SciencesUniversity of SouthamptonBurgess RoadHighfieldSouthamptonSO17 1BJ

www.sohp.soton.ac.uk/shprs/

ContactsCorinne Hutt Greenyer - Full–time Programmetel: 023 8059 5261email: [email protected]: 023 8059 5301Juliette Truman – Part-time Programmetel: 023 8059 5261email: [email protected]: 023 8059 5301Kirsty Bartlett (Programme Assistant)tel: 023 8059 5261email: [email protected]: 023 8059 5301

Key features of the programmeFor the BSc we use a range of academic and practice-placementexperiences to develop your skills as an occupational therapist (OT). Ourpurpose-built practice facility, the Activities of Daily Living Suite, providesa fantastic, realistic environment in which you can develop your therapyskills. In Year 1 you’ll build up a core knowledge of normal functioning,looking at anatomy and physiology to see how we respond and adapt tothe environment and how this influences performance. In Year 2 you’lllearn how therapy and activity can reduce illness, disability and trauma,and explore environmental design and rehabilitation in the home. In Year3 you’ll undertake a research project and examine the latestdevelopments in practice. Expect a wide variety of hospital andcommunity settings. You may be able to do a placement elsewhere in theUK or overseas. Also for the PgD/MSc problem based learning is utilisedto enhance the learning opportunities and builds on the higher levelentry of the applicants.Shared learning takes place with a number of different disciplines andgraduates preparation is around working in a health, social care,voluntary sector and social enterprise environment.

How to applyBSc (Hons) – UCASPgD/MSc – direct to institution

Application and interview processBSc (Hons) – paper-based process with invitation to Open DaysPgD/MSc - interview

FundingNHS bursary or self-funding

Standard entry requirements BSc (Hons)GCSEBetween 260-300 tariff points with at least 160 points from two fullA’levels, excluding General Studies. Biology preferred.

GNVQ/AVCEBetween 260-300 tariff points from one 12 unit award, combined withanother award, excluding General Studies

ACCESSPass QAA recognised Access course in Science or Health & Social Care

SCOTTISH HIGHERSFour at grade B and one at grade C at higher level or one at grade B snd 2at grade C at Advanced Higher Level.

IRISH LEAVING CERTFour at grade B and 2 at grade C at Higher Level.

APEL Considered on application

Additional information regarding standardentry requirementsOffers subject to good references, CRB and occupational health checks.

Standard entry requirements PgD/MScAn honours degree with at least a 2.2 classification in a related discipline

Non standard entry requirementsApplicants should show evidence of recent (within the past three years)study at an appropriate level.We are happy to accept Access to higher education qualifications inappropriate subjects such as health and social care or science.

Overseas applicantsWill be considered on application

Post qualifying programmesMSc Advanced clinical practice (occupational performance and mentalhealth) plus a number of others detailed athttp://www.tees.ac.uk/Schools/SOH/subjects/OT/

International/EU linksThe occupational therapy subject group has strong links with occupationaltherapy programmes in Malaysia.

Research profileStaff research interests centre around a number of areas such asneurology, adults who have experienced trauma, disability issues, fallsprevention, paediatrics, mental health and acute services

Future developmentsAdditional pathways on the MSc Advanced clinical practice, for the UK andoverseas.

COT HANDBOOK 2009

England

Teesside

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• As at September 2007 Teesside is not paying forstudents BAOT membership




• Other professions contributing to theprogramme: Physiologist, physiotherapist,radiographer, social scientists, health economist, nurse

• 4 staff members belong to specialist sections.

Qualifying programmes1. BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy2. MSc occupational therapy (pre-registration)3. PgD occupational therapy (pre-registration)Duration of Programme1. 3 years2. 2 years3. 90 weeksProgramme starts1. September 20092. Jan 20093. Jan 2009Number of places available1. 462. 163. 16 (shared with MSc)

About the areaThe University of Teesside is in the heart of Middlesbrough, a town that isleading the way in the Tees Valley. You’ll find investment and confidencealmost everywhere you look in Middlesbrough. A multimillion-poundspend in the town centre and on our own campus has created a reallylively, exciting environment that’s perfect for today’s students.Middlesbrough’s dockland waterfront, Middlehaven, is set for a £500minvestment. This will transform the 250-acre site into a groundbreakinglandscape for work and leisure. Everything you would expect from auniversity town is on your doorstep, within easy walking distance. Andyou’ll find great value for money, as this is one of the least expensiveplaces to live in the UK with student discounts widely available.Middlesbrough really buzzes with activity seven days a week, fromvibrant shopping centres to the colourful bars, cafes, restaurants andnightclubs. There’s a big choice when it comes to entertainment. You’llfind clubs, live music, a multi-screen cinema and comedy venues allaround, as well as plenty of great bars - or try ten-pin bowling atTeesside Park, where there are plenty of shops and themed restaurants.Near to Stewart Park is the Prissick Skate Plaza – recently voted the bestskate park in the country, it recreates skate spots from around the world,including the USA and Spain.Then again, you could join the army offanatical local supporters at the Riverside Stadium, home of the Boro(Middlesbrough Football Club).

About the programme/universityThe University of Teesside is a dynamic modern university dedicated todelivering quality programmes of study; demonstrating a commitment tosocial inclusion and widening participation and contributing to thesuccess of the community it serves. The University is on one compact sitein the centre of the town. All our teaching facilities, support services,student accommodation and Students’ Union are within easy walkingdistance. The campus blends traditional buildings with eye catching newfacilities, the result of the University’s investment of nearly £100 millionin recent years.The School of Health & Social Care is recognised locally, nationally andinternationally for its responsiveness in providing contemporary educationand training in meeting the needs of health and social care users.

University of TeessideSchool of Health & Social Care,University of Teesside,Middlesbrough,TS1 3BA

www.tees.ac.uk

Tricia McElroytel: 01642 384928email: [email protected] Cleminson (BSc (Hons)tel: 01642 384519email: [email protected] McKenna (pre-registration MSc)tel: 01642 384191email: [email protected]

Application and interview processA selection test must be completed in January 2009. This will cost Approx.£90 and assess interpersonal understanding, critical reasoning and writtencommunication.

FundingFunding is provided by the Department of Health to cover university fees.Applicants may also apply to their Education & Library board for meanstested bursaries.

Standard entry requirementsGCSECandidates must satisfy the general entry requirements for a first degreecourse and have obtained a Grade C or above in GCSE Mathematics orequivalent.

GNVQ/AVCEVocational Double Award plus A-level – BBBBTec National Diploma – DIST, DIST, MERITInternational Baccalaureate – 33 pointsNCEA National Diploma – 75%Higher national Diploma –3 Distinctions in final year, remaining units at Merit

ACCESSPass in all subjects with an average of 70% and a pass in GCSE Maths atGrade C in a Maths Module

SCOTTISH HIGHERSAABCC

IRISH LEAVING CERTBBBBB at higher level

Non standard entry requirementsMature students will be asked to provide evidence of recent study at anappropriate level.Contact the Faculty of Life & Health Sciences for further information.

Overseas applicantsUCAS will forward applications to the university for overseas applicantsfrom non-EU countries

Post qualifying programmesPostgraduate programmes in occupational therapy (MPhil and PhD) areavailable. The Masters in Clinical Research provides formalised training inclinical research. The MSc in Health Sciences is currently under review butprovides a research based multidisciplinary programme designed tofacilitate evidence-based practice and clinical effectiveness and provideopportunities for advanced specialist study

International/EU linksInternational research collaborations are being developed and haveincluded exchange visits to sites in Helen Hayes Hospital , New York; theUniversity of Chicago; the University of Otago, New Zealand and Long PortInc. USA. University of California (UCLA) University of Pittsburgh & GeorgiaTech, USA; Monash Universit (Australia).

Research profileWe have a vibrant, rapidly developing research profile. Core areas ofresearch expertise are: seating and wheelchair systems; interface pressuremeasurement; prevention of pressure ulcer development; and caregiverhealth and well-being. Current programmes of research are also offered inconjunction with local healthcare companies through the KnowledgeTransfer Partnerships (KTP) programmes, Fusion and Co-operative Awardsin Science and Technology (CAST). Occupational Therapy Research isleading the development of a spin out seating company.

COT HANDBOOK 2009

Ireland

Ulster

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• As at September 2007 Ulster is not paying forstudents BAOT membership




• Other professions contributing to theprogramme: Physiotherapy, Radiography, Psychology,sociology and communications

• Staff members belonging to specialist sections: Work- 1, Neurology - 1, Children Young people and families- 1, Housing - 1, Mental Health - 2

Qualifying programmesBSc (Hons) Occupational TherapyDuration of Programme3 yearsProgramme startsSeptember 2009Number of places available60

About the areaThe campus is located seven miles north of Belfast on the shore of BelfastLough. Carrickfergus, with its 12th century castle, is a few miles along theLough. The proximity to Belfast is a major attraction for students, whooften choose to live in the city and travel to campus by rail, bus or taxi.

About the programme/universityThe Learning Resource Centre offers hi-tech learning and studyingfacilities. There are plenty of cafes, sandwich bars & restaurants atwhich to meet and relax with friends. There are two banks, a bookshop,students’ union, sports centre, health centre, welfare services, a creche,playgroup and chaplain’s office.Accommodation is available on and off campus.

Key features of the programmeIn year one students are introduced to the philosophical and theoreticalbases for occupational therapy. The use of occupation as a core element ofprofessional practice is emphasised. Students are provided with the skillsand knowledge to practise as reflective occupational therapists.In year two the focus is on occupational therapy in specific contexts, suchas the community and with specific client groups for example children.In year three, the focus is on evidence-based practice in relation tointerventions used by the occupational therapist in a wide range of health& social care contexts. Students will study: Innovations & Diversity in OTPractice and Work Rehabilitation in Occupational Therapy amongst othermodules.A diverse range of teaching, learning and assessment methods are used todeliver the course and encourage the students to become independentlearners in their final year. Opportunity to participate in inter-professionallearning with other professions is integrated throughout the course. E-learning, practice & enquiry based learning and the use of multi-media aresome of the range of delivery approaches used.Professional Practice PlacementsStudents are required to complete 1000 hours of professional practiceplacements successfully. Placements are carried out in each year of thecourse in a variety of settings throughout the United Kingdom and Ireland.Role-emerging placement, to explore new work opportunities forgraduates is included in year 3. There are also opportunities for electiveplacements outside the British Isles in final year.

How to applyApplications must be made through the Universities and CollegesAdmission Service (UCAS).

University of Ulster at JordanstownShore RoadNewtownabbeyCo. AntrimBT37 OQB

www.ulster.ac.uk

ContactsJackie Caseytel: 02890368042email: [email protected]: 02890368419

Non standard entry requirementsStudents are required to provide evidence of recent study within the fiveyears prior to commencing the programme and to demonstrate the abilityto work to an A Level equivalent standard.Relevant work experience in a related field is an advantage although notessential. However, the ability to demonstrate awareness of theoccupational therapists role is essential.

Overseas applicantsWhere appropriate a certificate of proficiency in English must be held eg.International English Language Testing System (IELTS) at Level 7

Research profileAll tutors have or are presently involved in research work in a variety ofspecialisms which include paediatrics, clinical reasoning, vocationalrehabilitation and environmental adaptation.

COT HANDBOOK 2009

Wales

Wrexham

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• As at September 2007 NEWI is paying forstudents BAOT membership



• 50% Practice Placement Educators APPLE accredited

• Other professions contributing to theprogramme: physiotherapy, nursing, dietetics, socialwork, sports and exercise science and Chinesemedicine.

• Staff members belonging to specialist sections:2 – paediatrics and neurology.

Qualifying programmesBSc (Hons) Occupational TherapyDuration of Programme4 years part-timeProgramme startsSeptember 2009Number of places available20

About the areaWrexham is a market town in the heart of North Wales. There is easytravelling distance to the beautiful countryside of Snowdonia, the vibrantcities of Liverpool and Manchester and the historic city of Chester. Studentscan enjoy a varied nightlife including nightclubs, theatre, restaurants andcinema whilst they enjoy residing in a friendly hospitable town.

About the programme/universityThe programme is aimed at students who need to combine learningalongside other commitments and this is reflected in theprogramme structure and organisation. This is the only part-timeoccupational therapy programme in North Wales. The programme structureallows a sequential development of practical and academic skillsfacilitated via a range of dynamic learning, teaching and assessmentmethods. Students can capitalise on the unique collaboration relationshipbetween Occupational Therapy programmes run at Cardiff and BangorUniversities allowing access to staff and physical resources across Wales.All the tutors are experienced occupational therapists and a student-centred philosophy is upheld throughout the programme.

How to applyApplication is direct to Helen Carey, Admissions Tutor at the address above.

Application and interview processApplications are to be submitted by end of January and will be shortlistedfor interviews in February. The procedure includes an interview andinformal group exercise. Applicants are also required to write a short pieceanswering a pre disclosed question.

FundingA proportion of places are funded by the Welsh Assembly. Self financingand employer funded places are available for those not successful ingaining aWelsh Assembly funded place.

Standard entry requirementsAPELThis is considered on an individual basis within level 1 only.

Additional information regarding standardentry requirements240 UCAS Tariff points can include a mixture of A Levels, A/S levels and / orAdvances GNVQs, AVCEs and BTECs.In addition, 5 GCSEs at grade C or above in one sitting which includes anEnglish and a science subject.

North East Wales InstituteOccupational Therapy ProgrammeNorth East Wales InstituteCrispin Lane BuildingWrexhamNorth Wales.

www.newi.ac.uk

ContactsHelen Careytel: 01978 293469email: [email protected]

All programmes are designed to include a minimum of 1000 hours ofpractical professional experience, during which you will work alongside,and learn from, experienced therapists. We attempt to ensure a balancedexperience within health, community, physical, mental health and learningdisability fields with clients and patients of all ages and individual needs.Methods of assessment are varied depending upon which module you aretaking. Assessments may include individual or group presentations,written assignments and case studies. There are practical assessmentsthat allow you to demonstrate your skill development and you willundertake a research project in your final year.Graduates of York St John University are to be found working inoccupational therapy services throughout the UK and abroad. This may bein range of areas in health and social care such as hospitals, schools,community practice and charitable organisations. You will have the abilityto adapt to the constantly changing needs of service users. The course willprepare you to be competent, reflective, critical thinking practitioners, ableto deliver safe and effective services within a wide range of environments.Throughout the course, we encourage and assist you to developentrepreneurial skills. You will then be equipped to explore career areasother than traditional areas, if you so wish.

How to applyBHSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy (including flexible route) through UCASBHSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy In-Service apply directly to York St JohnUniversity Admissions Department. Applicants must also have theirmanagers approval to apply for this programme.

Application and interview processBHSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy (including flexible route) – allapplicants who demonstrate minimum entry requirements and a suitablepersonal statement, are invited for a group interview.BHSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy In-Service – all applicants whodemonstrate the minimum requirements and a suitable personalstatement, will be interviewed individually.

FundingNHS bursaries are available for full time & flexible route students whomeet eligibility requirements.In-Service student fees are available for those who are employed by theNHS or Local Authority within the Yorkshire & Humber Strategic HealthAuthority geographical area

Standard entry requirementsGCSEYou will need 240 UCAS points made up of at least 2 A2 subjects plus3 GCSEs at grade C or above including English Language plus Maths orScience

GNVQ/AVCE12 units in appropriate subject areasNVQ Level 3, BTEC in appropriate subject

ACCESSAccess course in an appropriate subject area

SCOTTISH HIGHERSEquivalent to the above

IRISH LEAVING CERTEquivalent to the above

APELThis will be considered on an individual basis please [email protected] or telephone 01904 876599ACLThis will be considered on an individual basis please [email protected] or telephone 01904 876599

Additional information regarding standardentry requirementsIf you unsure of your qualifications meet our requirements then please donot hesitate to contact the admissions department on 01904 876599Completion of a Health Screening form and a satisfactory enhancedCriminal Record Bureau check.All applicants are required to demonstrate a sound understanding ofdisability issues and occupational therapy. Any relevant experience will belooked upon favourably.

Non standard entry requirementsAPELThis will be considered on an individual basis please [email protected] or telephone 01904 876599ACLThis will be considered on an individual basis please [email protected] or telephone 01904 876599

Additional information regarding non standardentry requirementsIn-Service applicants must be:Working as a support worker in health/social care and have experience ofworking with clients or patients.Significant work/life experienceCompletion of a Health Screening form and a satisfactory enhancedCriminal Record Bureau check.For further advice please contact Fiona Howlett – [email protected] telephone 01904 876407You must demonstrate evidence of having successfully undertaken arecent, assessed course of academic study – for further advice pleasecontact the admissions [email protected] or telephone01904 876599

Overseas applicantsOverseas applicants are welcome but need to be aware that they mayincur additional costs.

Post qualifying programmesYork St John University is a major provider of interprofessionalpostgraduate continuing professional development programmes to

COT HANDBOOK 2009

England

York

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• As at September 2007 York St John is paying forstudents BAOT membership




• Other professions contributing to theprogramme: physiotherapy, radiography, dietetics,social work, drama therapy, nursing, clinical librarians

Qualifying programmes1. BHSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy(Flexible route is available through this programme)2. BHSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy In-ServiceDuration of Programme1. 3 years, Flexible up to a maximum 6 years2. 3 years 6 monthsProgramme starts1. September 20092. January 2010Number of places available1. Validated for 130 places2. Validated for 30 places

About the areaThousands of people every year can’t be wrong! York is an amazing placeto visit – just think what it is like to live here. At York St John you becomea member of the lively, vibrant, citywide community of over 20,000students. You will realise that one of the best things about York is that itappreciates its students.

About the programme/universityThe success of our graduates has earned us a national reputation forexcellence. At York St John University we are one of the largestproviders of Occupational Therapy education in the country, but weremain committed to providing a high quality educational experience forour students, that recognises the importance of individuality. Ouroccupational therapy students come from people of different ages,experience, social and educational backgrounds because we believe thatthe occupational therapy programme is enhanced by the richness of thestudents’ experiences.September 2008 will see the opening of a £11 million purpose built newbase for the Faculty of Health and Life Sciences. The anticipated state ofthe art occupational therapy skills rooms plus the recently constructedFountains Learning Resources, together with Foss and Skell facilities, willcomplement the continued strong contemporary programmes that weoffer.

Key features of the programmeAt Level 1 you will have an opportunity to study subjects such as biologicalsciences, psychological and social sciences, health, wellbeing andoccupational therapy practice. At Level 2 the focus is on applied theory andoccupational therapy skills within the physical and psychosocial domains,together with practical and experiential learning. There is an emphasis oncommunication skills, research, IT and occupational therapy specifictechniques and approaches. At Level 3 you will be able to extend yourparticular interest through completion of a dissertation using research andenquiry techniques. In some modules at level 1 and level 3 you will studyalongside physiotherapy students this enables opportunities for sharedlearning and adds to the richness of the undergraduate experience.

York St John UniversityFaculty of Health and Life SciencesLord Mayors WalkYorkYO31 7EX

www.yorksj.ac.uk

ContactsCaroline Wolverson (Admissions Tutor)01904 [email protected] 876500Fiona Howlett (Head of Programme BHSc (Hons)Occupational Therapy In-Service)01904 [email protected] 876500

Masters level for allied health professionals in Yorkshire. We also offer aninnovative return to practice programme for people who wish to registerwith the Health Professions Council (HPC) after a period away frompractice.

International/EU linksYear 2 students may spend half of the second year on exchange in Oslo.The final placement may be taken in South Africa, Sri Lanka, Malaysia andBotswana with Leonard Cheshire International. We also have a range ofrole emerging placements in a variety of health and social care settings.

Research profileYork St John University has a Professor in Rehabilitation and two Readersin Occupational Therapy; they have considerable applied researchexperience that informs professional bodies, national policy guidance andthe NHS service delivery. The readers have links to the dissertationmodules within the programmes. Currently there are three occupationaltherapy academics that are studying for doctorates. Their work contributesand directly influences the occupational therapy curriculum.

Future developmentsThe new Centre for Enabling Environments and Assistive TechnologyALPS and C4C Teaching Fellows involved in a range of activities, whichinclude: teaching and assessment in ethical practice, utilisation ofelectronic re-usable learning objects and medical humanities.Continued expansion of role emerging practice placements in order toprepare graduates to deliver safe and effective services withincontemporary careers in a wide range of environments.Further expansion of the use of virtual learning environments to enhancethe undergraduate experience for students.Further expansion of international opportunities for students undertakingpractice placements and as previously stated role emerging placements

COT HANDBOOK 2009

England

York

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2009-10_OT career handbook

Documents

Transcript of 2009-10_OT career handbook