95.4% employed within four months of graduating.
Graduate Outcomes Survey 2021-2023, Undergraduate Rehabilitation
Degree overview
Training world-class occupational therapists
Our graduates work with people and communities to help them overcome challenges and participate in the activities of everyday life. Occupational therapists work with people to promote their health and wellbeing through enabling them to participate in activities that are important to them, such as taking care of themselves and others, working, studying, and participating in hobbies and social activities. They work with children to help them reach developmental milestones, support recovery and inclusion in their communities for people with mental health difficulties, assist people to return to their daily lives after a stroke or hip replacement and support return to work following an accident.
As an occupational therapist, your skills will be invaluable as you work with individuals and communities to assess their unique situation, determine goals and put together a plan for success.
Career opportunities
Careers in occupational therapy are immensely rewarding.
Graduates of the Bachelor of Occupational Therapy will find employment in both public and private sectors. These roles are in a wide range of practice settings, from hospitals through to industry.
Professional outcomes:
- Occupational Therapist
- Case Manager/Care Coordinator
- Disability Services Manager
- Hand Therapist
- Injury Management Advisor
- Lifestyle Coordinator
- Rehabilitation Consultant
85.3% of students rated learning resources positively.
Student Experience Survey 2021-2023, Undergraduate Rehabilitation
Course overview
You'll learn theoretical knowledge in biomedical, behavioural and occupational sciences. Hands-on professional placements offer you opportunities to hone your learnings and skills. You will study a variety of courses to:
- Gain professional occupational therapy skills through case-based training
- Learn exceptional communication and interpersonal skills
- Develop critical research skills
Student experience
Creating meaningful opportunities for students 0:44
At the University of Newcastle, we embed practical, hands-on learning in all our degrees. Check out just some of the opportunities our students have had to build their experience.
Career-ready placements
Commencing first year, occupational therapy students complete 1,000 hours of professional practice. Be mentored and supervised by qualified occupational therapy educators during placement which can be local, national, or rural.
Studying at Newcastle campus
Living in Newcastle
Nestled on Australia's spectacular east coast and surrounded by some of the state's most popular destinations, Newcastle is an all-round wonderful choice as a safe and friendly place to live.
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Campus Life
Our campuses are welcoming, inspiring, and collaborative places for students, staff, and the community. Explore our beautiful campuses and discover what it’s like to study at the University of Newcastle.
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Scholarships
Our scholarships recognise achievement and support enthusiastic and dedicated students. If you are a current student, or planning to study with us, we encourage you to apply for all scholarships you meet the criteria for.
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Accommodation
Living on campus is an experience unlike any other. Whether you're from across Australia or around the globe, your home on campus is where you'll form lifelong friendships and harness your potential in a supportive and diverse community.
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How to apply
Apply as a domestic student
You are a domestic student if you are:
- An Australian or New Zealand citizen (including dual citizens)
- A permanent resident of Australia
- A holder of a permanent Australian visa.
Apply as an international student
Entry requirements — Senior secondary school qualification
Admission to our undergraduate degree programs usually requires successful completion of a senior secondary school qualification similar to the Higher School Certificate (HSC), the highest educational award in New South Wales schools.
English proficiency requirements
Applicants who do not speak English as a first language must demonstrate that they meet the University's English proficiency requirement. Further information regarding English language proficiency requirements can be found at the English Language Proficiency for Admission Policy.
- IELTS overall minimum - 7.0
- IELTS section minimum - 7.0
- About English Language Pathways
Apply to the University via our online application portal.
In the application portal, you can enter the program you wish to study and upload relevant documents needed as part of your application. It is recommended you submit your application a minimum of 12 weeks before your intended semester of trimester start date.
If you are applying through an education agent, they can also apply through the application portal. Ensure your agent is contracted to the University to avoid delays with your application.
Once you have started your application you will be provided with a reference number. You or your education agent will be able to track your application as it progresses.
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Bachelor of Physiotherapy (Honours)
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1 Indicative annual fees are based on a full year full time load (80 units). Learn more.
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Graduates of this program are eligible to apply for registration with the Occupational Therapy Board of Australia in partnership with the Australian Health Practitioners Regulatory Agency (AHPRA). Board registration standards must be met in order to practice in Australia.
This program is accredited by the Occupational Therapy Council of Australia Ltd (OTC) and approved by the Occupational Therapy Board of Australia (OTBA). The program is also approved by the World Federation of Occupational Therapists.
Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
Disclaimer Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information on this website. However, changes to courses and programs may occur. The University accepts no responsibility for any information supplied on this web site or any actions taken on the basis of the information. Users are advised to seek confirmation of the information from the relevant area of the University.
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.