If you are looking for universities for occupational therapy in the UK, you have come to the right place.
Occupational therapy is an important field of study that enables people to overcome physical, mental, or emotional barriers that may hinder them from participating in daily activities.
It’s a field that requires both theoretical and practical knowledge, and it is only fitting that you choose the best institution to acquire the necessary skills.
This article will discuss the best universities for occupational therapy in the UK.
Enjoy as you read on!
Table of contents
- What is Occupational Therapy?
- Why Study Occupational Therapy?
- What to Look for in a University for Occupational Therapy?
- Requirements to Study Occupational Therapy at the Best UK Universities
- Overview of the Best Universities for Occupational Therapy in the UK
- The Top 10 Universities for Occupational Therapy in the UK in 2023
- Career Prospects for Graduates of Occupational Therapy from the Best UK Universities
- FAQs
- Conclusion
- References
- Recommendations
What is Occupational Therapy?
Occupational therapy is a form of healthcare that supports people to engage in activities that they find meaningful and purposeful.
It involves assessing the needs of individuals, providing interventions that enable them to participate in daily activities, and evaluating the outcomes of the interventions.
Occupational therapists work with people across the lifespan, from children to older people, who may have physical, psychological, or cognitive impairments.
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Why Study Occupational Therapy?
Studying occupational therapy opens doors to rewarding careers that positively impacting people’s lives.
Occupational therapists work in a wide range of settings, from hospitals to schools, and they have the opportunity to work with diverse populations.
Additionally, the demand for occupational therapists is high, with the UK government projecting a shortage of occupational therapists in the coming years.
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What to Look for in a University for Occupational Therapy?
When choosing a university for occupational therapy, there are several factors that you should consider.
Firstly, you should ensure the university is accredited by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
Accreditation ensures that the university meets the minimum standards to deliver quality education.
Secondly, you should look at the university’s curriculum to ensure it covers all the necessary areas of occupational therapy.
Finally, consider the university’s facilities, such as the availability of occupational therapy labs, equipment, and placement opportunities.
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Requirements to Study Occupational Therapy at the Best UK Universities
If you are interested in studying occupational therapy at one of the best universities in the UK, there are certain requirements that you must meet to be considered for admission.
Here are some of the key requirements to study occupational therapy at any UK university:
#1. Educational Qualifications
To be considered for admission to an occupational therapy program at a UK university, you must have a good academic track record, typically with strong grades in relevant subjects such as biology, psychology, or health and social care.
Some schools may also require you to have a certain level of proficiency in English.
#2. Relevant Work Experience
Many occupational therapy programs in the UK require applicants to have relevant work experience, typically in a health or social care setting.
This could include experience working with children or adults with disabilities or in a rehabilitation or mental health setting.
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#3. Personal Statement
As part of your application, you must submit a personal statement outlining your reasons for wanting to study occupational therapy and your relevant skills and experience.
This is your opportunity to demonstrate your passion for the field and suitability for the program.
#4. References
You will typically be required to provide at least two references, typically from academic or professional sources, to support your application.
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#5. Admission Tests
Some universities may require you to take admission tests, such as the UK Clinical Aptitude Test (UKCAT) or the BioMedical Admissions Test (BMAT), as part of the application process.
Overall, the requirements to study occupational therapy at the best universities in the UK are competitive, reflecting the high demand for these programs.
It’s important to research the specific requirements for each university and program you’re interested in and to prepare thoroughly to give yourself the best chance of success.
Overview of the Best Universities for Occupational Therapy in the UK
- University of Southampton
- Brunel University London
- University of Salford
- Cardiff University
- University of Brighton
- University of Derby
- Coventry University
- University of Plymouth
- University of Northampton
- Teesside University
The Top 10 Universities for Occupational Therapy in the UK in 2023
The universities are ranked based on accreditation, curriculum, facilities, and graduate employability.
#1. University of Southampton
The University of Southampton is one of the UK’s best universities for occupational therapy. It is located in Southampton on the southern coast of England.
The university’s School of Health Sciences offers a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree in Occupational Therapy accredited by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
Also, the tuition fee for international students at the University of Southampton for the 2022/2023 academic year is £20,650 per year for the occupational therapy program.
Lastly, the university is known for its research-intensive approach to education, and its occupational therapy program is no exception. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and placement opportunities in various settings.
#2. Brunel University London
Brunel University London is one of the UK’s best universities for occupational therapy. It is located in Uxbridge, which is a suburb of London.
The university’s College of Health, Medicine, and Life Sciences offers a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree in Occupational Therapy accredited by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
Also, the tuition fee for international students at Brunel University London for the 2022/2023 academic year is £18,900 per year for the occupational therapy program.
The university is known for its hands-on approach to education, and its occupational therapy program is no exception.
Lastly, students can access state-of-the-art facilities and placement opportunities in various settings.
#3. University of Salford
The University of Salford is one of the UK’s best universities for occupational therapy. It is located in Greater Manchester, in the north of England.
The university’s School of Health and Society offers a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree in Occupational Therapy accredited by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
Also, the tuition fee for international students at the University of Salford for the 2022/2023 academic year is £15,500 per year for the occupational therapy program.
The university is known for its focus on employability, and its occupational therapy program is no exception.
Lastly, students can access placement opportunities in various settings and benefit from close partnerships with local employers.
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#4. Cardiff University
Cardiff University is one of the UK’s best universities for occupational therapy. It is located in the capital city of Wales, Cardiff.
The university’s School of Healthcare Sciences offers a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree in Occupational Therapy accredited by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
Also, the tuition fee for international students at Cardiff University for the 2022/2023 academic year is £21,950 per year for the occupational therapy program.
Lastly, the university is known for its research-led approach to education, and its occupational therapy program is no exception. Students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities and close links with Wales’s National Health Service (NHS).
#5. University of Brighton
The University of Brighton is one of the UK’s best universities for occupational therapy. It is located in the seaside town of Brighton, on the south coast of England.
The university’s School of Health Sciences offers a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree in Occupational Therapy accredited by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
Also, the tuition fee for international students at the University of Brighton for the 2022/2023 academic year is £14,400 per year for the occupational therapy program.
The university is known for its emphasis on practical skills development, and its occupational therapy program is no exception.
Lastly, students benefit from various placement opportunities, including international placements.
#6. University of Derby
The University of Derby is one of the UK’s best universities for occupational therapy. It is located in the heart of England, in the city of Derby.
The university’s School of Allied Health and Social Care offers a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree in Occupational Therapy accredited by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
Also, the tuition fee for international students at the University of Derby for the 2022/2023 academic year is £14,045 per year for the occupational therapy program.
The university is known for its strong partnerships with local health and social care providers, and its occupational therapy program is no exception.
Lastly, students benefit from various placement opportunities, including working with individuals across the lifespan and in diverse settings.
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#7. Coventry University
Coventry University is one of the UK’s best universities for occupational therapy. It is located in the city of Coventry in central England.
The university’s School of Health and Life Sciences offers a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree in Occupational Therapy accredited by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
Also, the tuition fee for international students at Coventry University for the 2022/2023 academic year is £14,200 per year for the occupational therapy program.
The university is known for its innovative approach to education, and its occupational therapy program is no exception.
Lastly, students benefit from various teaching methods, including problem-based learning and simulation.
#8. University of Plymouth
The University of Plymouth is one of the UK’s best universities for occupational therapy. It is located in Plymouth, in the southwest of England.
The university’s School of Health Professions offers a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree in Occupational Therapy accredited by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
Also, the tuition fee for international students at the University of Plymouth for the 2022/2023 academic year is £14,200 per year for the occupational therapy program.
The university is known for its strong emphasis on hands-on learning, and its occupational therapy program is no exception.
Lastly, students benefit from various placement opportunities, including working with individuals across the lifespan and in diverse settings.
#9. University of Northampton
The University of Northampton is one of the UK’s best universities for occupational therapy. It is located in Northampton, in the East Midlands region of England.
The university’s Faculty of Health, Education, and Society offers a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree in Occupational Therapy accredited by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
Also, the tuition fee for international students at the University of Northampton for the 2022/2023 academic year is £14,000 per year for the occupational therapy program.
The university is known for its commitment to social justice and inclusion, and its occupational therapy program reflects these values.
Lastly, students benefit from a strong emphasis on working with marginalized and disadvantaged communities.
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#10. Teesside University
Teesside University is one of the UK’s best universities for occupational therapy. It is located in Middlesbrough, in the North East region of England.
The university’s School of Health and Social Care offers a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree in Occupational Therapy accredited by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
Also, the tuition fee for international students at Teesside University for the 2022/2023 academic year is £13,950 per year for the occupational therapy program.
The university has a strong reputation for its innovative and dynamic approach to education, and its occupational therapy program is no exception.
Lastly, students benefit from cutting-edge learning resources, technology, and excellent placement opportunities.
Career Prospects for Graduates of Occupational Therapy from the Best UK Universities
Suppose you are considering pursuing a degree in occupational therapy from one of the best universities in the UK. In that case, you may wonder about the career prospects for graduates in this field.
Here are some potential career paths for graduates of occupational therapy programs:
#1. Occupational Therapist
As a qualified occupational therapist, you will help clients overcome physical or mental challenges that prevent them from carrying out daily tasks or participating in meaningful activities.
You may work in various settings, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools, and community health clinics.
#2. Mental Health Occupational Therapist
As a mental health occupational therapist, you will work with clients with mental health conditions, helping them develop coping strategies and improve their quality of life.
You may work in various settings, including hospitals, community mental health centers, and private practices.
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#3. Paediatric Occupational Therapist
As a pediatric occupational therapist, you will work with children with physical or developmental challenges, helping them improve their motor skills, communication, and overall development.
You may work in hospitals, schools, or private practices.
#4. Rehabilitation Specialist
As a rehabilitation specialist, you may work with clients who have suffered from injuries or illnesses that have impacted their ability to carry out daily activities.
You may work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, or community health clinics.
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#5. Researcher or Educator
With an occupational therapy degree, you may also pursue careers in research or education, working to advance the field of occupational therapy and train the next generation of occupational therapists.
Overall, graduates of occupational therapy programs from the best universities in the UK can expect to enjoy strong job prospects and rewarding careers.
As the demand for occupational therapy services continues to grow, there will be a need for skilled and compassionate occupational therapists to meet this demand.
FAQs
The cost of studying occupational therapy in the UK varies depending on the university and the course. Tuition fees for international students are usually higher than for UK/EU students. On average, you can expect to pay between £15,000 and £25,000 per year for a bachelor’s degree in occupational therapy.
Several scholarships and bursaries are available for occupational therapy students in the UK. Some universities offer scholarships for occupational therapy students, while others offer general scholarships for all students.
Yes, you can work as an occupational therapist with just a bachelor’s degree in the UK. However, some employers may prefer or require applicants to have a master’s degree or higher, especially for advanced or specialized positions. Additionally, earning a master’s degree can increase your earning potential and open up more opportunities for career advancement.
The demand for occupational therapists in the UK is high, and the government has projected a shortage of occupational therapists in the coming years. Occupational therapists can work in various settings, such as hospitals, schools, and community centers, and they have career progression and specialization opportunities. The UK’s average salary for occupational therapists is around £30,000 to £40,000 per year, depending on experience and specialization.
Conclusion
Choosing the right university for occupational therapy is critical to your success as an occupational therapist.
Considering the factors highlighted in this article, you can make an informed decision and choose a university that will prepare you for a rewarding career.
References
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