Occupational Therapy BSc

Occupational Therapy is a rewarding and impactful profession focused on helping individuals overcome physical, mental, or cognitive challenges to live independently and improve their quality of life. For students interested in making a tangible difference in people’s lives, pursuing a degree in Occupational Therapy (OT) in the UK offers a structured, respected, and hands-on route into healthcare.

Course Structure

Occupational Therapy undergraduate degrees in the UK are typically offered as a Bachelor of Science (BSc) and take three years to complete if studied full-time. Some universities also offer a four-year integrated Master’s programme (MOccTher or MSci), and there are part-time or apprenticeship routes available for those looking to balance study with work.

The structure generally includes a mix of academic learning and practical placements. Each academic year builds on your clinical knowledge and practical skills, ensuring you are prepared to meet professional standards upon graduation.

Typical Modules

While modules vary by university, most OT courses cover a core set of topics including:

• Human Anatomy and Physiology

• Psychology for Health and Social Care

• Occupational Therapy Theory and Practice

• Therapeutic Techniques and Interventions

• Evidence-Based Practice and Research Skills

• Professional Practice and Ethics

• Mental Health and Wellbeing

• Working with Children and Young People

• Neurological and Physical Rehabilitation

Practice placements are an essential part of the course, often beginning in the first year. These placements take place in a variety of settings including hospitals, community clinics, schools, and social care environments.

Entry Requirements

To gain entry to an Occupational Therapy degree in the UK, students typically need:

• A minimum of 112 to 128 UCAS tariff points (equivalent to BBC to ABB at A-level)

• Science or health-related subjects such as Biology, Psychology, or Physical Education are often preferred

• Five GCSEs at grade C/4 or above, including English Language, Mathematics, and Science

• Some universities may accept BTECs, Access to HE Diplomas, or international equivalents. Applicants also usually need to demonstrate relevant experience, either through volunteering or shadowing an occupational therapist, to show commitment to the profession.

Useful A-Level or BTEC Subjects

Entry requirements vary, but useful qualifications include:

• A levels: Biology (or Human Biology), Psychology, Sociology or Health and Social Care. Typical offers range from BBB–BCC.

• BTECs: Applied Science or Health and Social Care are commonly accepted, sometimes alongside another A level.

• International Baccalaureate: Biology or Psychology at Higher Level is often preferred.

A strong background in health, science and social sciences will strengthen your application.

What Makes a Strong Application

• Occupational Therapy is competitive, and admissions teams look for candidates with the right mix of academic ability and personal qualities. A strong application should include:

• Good academic results in science or social science subjects.

• Relevant work experience such as volunteering in care homes, hospitals, schools or disability support services.

• A personal statement that demonstrates empathy, creativity, resilience and an understanding of OT as a profession.

• An interview, often scenario-based, to assess problem-solving skills, teamwork and motivation.

Who Is This Course Suited For?

Occupational Therapy is ideal for students who are:

• Empathetic and enjoy working with people from diverse backgrounds

• Strong communicators with good listening skills

• Problem solvers who can think creatively and adapt to individual needs

• Resilient and emotionally mature, especially when working in challenging environments

• Interested in health sciences and human behaviour

• A genuine desire to support others and improve quality of life is essential for success and satisfaction in this field.

Career Opportunities After Graduation

After completing your degree, you’ll be eligible to register with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), a legal requirement for practising as an occupational therapist in the UK.

Occupational therapists are in high demand across various sectors, including:

• NHS hospitals and clinics

• Community health teams

• Mental health services

• Schools and education settings

• Social care and local authorities

• Charities and non-profit organisations

• Private practice and consultancy

There is also scope to specialise in areas such as paediatrics, neurology, geriatrics, or mental health. Many graduates go on to pursue postgraduate study or research, while others progress into management, teaching, or policy roles within healthcare.

Transferable Skills You Will Develop

An Occupational Therapy degree equips you with valuable skills for both healthcare and broader careers:

• Problem-solving and creativity: Designing tailored interventions to help people live independently.

• Communication and empathy: Supporting patients and families through challenging circumstances.

• Collaboration and teamwork: Working with doctors, nurses, physiotherapists and social workers.

• Critical thinking: Assessing patient needs and applying evidence-based approaches.

• Adaptability and resilience: Responding to diverse patient cases and complex challenges.

• Leadership and management: Organising caseloads and, later in your career, leading teams or services.

Wider Reading: Recommended Books for Aspiring Occupational Therapy Students

Reading widely can help you prepare for your degree and interviews. Four excellent titles include:

“Occupational Therapy and Life Course Development” by Ruth E. Zemke and Florence Clark

Explores how OT supports people across different stages of life.

“Willard and Spackman’s Occupational Therapy” by Barbara A. Boyt Schell and Glen Gillen

A comprehensive introduction to OT theory and practice.

“The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down” by Anne Fadiman

A powerful story about cultural differences in healthcare, relevant for all future practitioners.

“An Occupational Perspective of Health” by Ann A. Wilcock

Examines the vital link between meaningful activity and wellbeing.