Program summary

Program title: Bachelor of Occupational Therapy
Award abbreviation: BOccThpy
QTAC code: 013421
OP/Rank for 2011 entry: OP-10 / Rank-81
Duration: 4 years full-time or equivalent part-time
Commence: Semester 1 only
Prerequisites: English (4,SA); plus one of Biology, Chemistry, Physics or Health and Physical Education (4,SA)
Recommended prior preparation:  Criminal History check, Hepatitis B immunisation, First Aid and CPR training (refer to Program requirements)
Fee type 2011: Commonwealth supported places, visiting non-award domestic places, international fee-paying places
Total units: 384
USC program code: SC372
CRICOS code: 073920M

Highlights    

• Learn in specialised teaching facilities: splint lab, independent living unit and allied health clinic

• Fieldwork experiences are integrated into each year of the program
• Case studies provide practical learning experiences

Occupational therapists are trained to assess an individual’s skills and abilities, and then work with them to improve their skills for increased independence, wellbeing and quality of life.

This program prepares you to work with people experiencing preformance problems in daily living caused by injury or illness, psychological or emotional difficulties, developmental delay, or the effects of ageing. You undertake courses in occupational therapy biological and social sciences, and public health. The program also offers more than 1,000 hours of clinical experience to meet the requirements for professional accreditation.

Post-admission requirements

Before undertaking clinical placements, you must complete a criminal history check, Hepatitis B immunisation, and first aid and CPR training. Students are required to undertake some clinical placements outside the Sunshine Coast region in metropolitan and regional/rural centres. A Suitability Card may be required, refer to Program requirements.

Career opportunities

Public and private hospitals, community health, disability/mental health services, private practice, vocational/occupational rehabilitation, child and adolescent services, aged care.

Professional recognition

Graduates may become members of OT Australia (Australian Association of Occupational Therapists).* Graduates are also eligible for registration with the Occupational Therapists Board of Queensland.* Registration is a requirement to work as an occupational therapist in Queensland.

* Pending professional registration. Please note: USC cannot apply for full accreditation of the program until the first cohort of students are eligible to graduate.

Study Plan

This Study Plan is valid from Study Period 1, 2011.

For students who commenced study in this program prior to Study Period 1, 2011:

• Find the Student Handbook for the semester in which you commenced.
• Select the program in which you are enrolled.
• Either scroll down to the Program Structure, or select the Recommended Enrolment Pattern link.

Program requirements

In order to graduate you must:

• Complete all courses as listed below.

In order to commence fieldwork placement you must:

• Hold a valid Suitability Card (Blue Card), throughout the duration of your program, which is issued by the Commission for Children and Young People and Child Guardian (CCYPCG). You should allow 12 weeks for CCYPCG to issue the card. Note: students who do not possess a valid Blue Card will be unable to complete the clinical practice component of their program and will be unable to meet graduation requirements.
• (Recommended) Undergo Hepatitis B vaccination (3 inoculations over a period of six months).

Program notes

• Completing this program within the specified (full-time) duration is based on studying 48 unit points per semester (normally 4 courses).
• Courses within this program are assessed using a variety of assessment methods including essays, seminar presentations, reports, in-class tests and examinations. Not all courses will necessarily include all methods.
• As part of your USC program, you may apply to participate in the Global Opportunities (GO) Program to undertake courses with an overseas higher education provider. It is advisable to contact your Program Advisor to discuss timing and course issues.
• Only a full-time study option is available to international students on a Student Visa. Please refer to the English language requirements.

Program structure

Year 1

Required courses: (8)

Please note: SCI110 should be studied in Semester 1

^ Students who have not successfully completed the prerequisite courses of LFS100 or LFS103 (or equivalent) must seek permission from the Course Coordinator to enrol in this course. Students who have not met the prerequisite requirements, or who need to refresh their knowledge of biology and chemistry are advised to enrol in ENB126 , which is conducted prior to the commencement of Semester 2.

Year 2

Core course: (1)
Complete one COR coded course in Semester 1.

Select 1 COR coded course from:

Required courses: (7)

Year 3

Required courses: (7)

Year 4

Required courses: (5)

TOTAL UNITS 384

Enquiries 

Faculty of Science, Health and Education
Tel: +61 7 5430 2869
Email: sheinfo@usc.edu.au

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