Occupational Therapy (Pre-Registration) MSc

University of Derby

Our degree is designed to meet rigorous professional standards. It is accredited by the Royal College of Occupational Therapists, and approved by the World Federation of Occupational Therapists and the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). When you graduate, you’ll be able to apply to the HCPC for registration to practice, as long as you meet the HCPC’s requirements. We have exceptionally strong links with employers which open doors for you.There are three periods of practice-based learning, which you usually undertake full time to enhance your skills in real-world settings. These are normally for ten weeks in each of the spring term and summer terms of the first year, and a further ten weeks in the spring term of the second year. Primarily in the East Midlands, the settings for practice-based learning range from the NHS and social services to the private and voluntary sectors. You’ll experience how occupational therapists work with people in different age groups and with different physical and mental health concerns. This builds the optimum range of skills for becoming a qualified practitioner and helps you make more informed decisions about your future career direction. We find all three placements for you so we can ensure you’ll be supported by qualified occupational therapists who are trained to assess and develop your practical skills. Placement hours are subject to change.As an occupational therapist, you’ll support people who have a range of difficulties to perform the everyday activities which are key to their health and wellbeing – from work, sport and leisure to aspects of self-care. This is a profession with a huge reach. It could mean adapting older adults living environments so they can stay in their own homes, devising strategies to assist people with dementia, helping patients adjust to life after a stroke or surgery, or ensuring children with disabilities can take a full part in school life or at play. Our course equips you for the challenge. You’ll gain the practical, theoretical and interpersonal skills to help people with disabilities, illnesses and long-term conditions to overcome the obstacles that prevent them from reaching their full potential. A career in occupational therapy delivers huge satisfaction – and that starts with your degree.

School of Health and Social Care