University of Liverpool

What you'll study

This three-year honours degree integrates academic learning with clinical practice to develop the knowledge and skills required for professional registration. Core subjects cover anatomy and physiology, lifespan development, human occupation and activity analysis, models and theories of occupational therapy, clinical reasoning, and applied research methods. You will study modules in specialist practice areas such as mental health, physical and neurological rehabilitation, paediatrics, and community and social care, alongside modules on professional standards, ethics and interprofessional practice.

• Foundations of practice: introduction to occupational therapy, therapeutic use of activity, communication and professional behaviour.
• Health sciences: anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology and pharmacology relevant to OT practice.
• Assessment and intervention: occupational assessment, intervention planning, adaptations, assistive technology and environmental modifications.
• Specialist pathways: mental health, paediatrics, older adults, neurological conditions and community rehabilitation.
• Research and evidence-based practice: research methods, statistics, critical appraisal and a research project or dissertation.
• Practice education: a series of clinical placements across a range of statutory, independent and voluntary settings, supported by on-campus skills teaching and simulated practice.

Assessment methods include practical examinations, written assignments, case-based portfolios, simulated client work and evaluation of performance in placements.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have a strong secondary-school level academic record and relevant experience demonstrating commitment to health and social care. Typical offers are based on A‑level or equivalent qualifications; applicants with vocational BTEC or other recognised qualifications are also considered. In addition, successful applicants usually have GCSE-level or equivalent passes in English and mathematics.

The programme places emphasis on relevant experience of working with or supporting people in health, care or community settings; this can include volunteering, paid work or caring responsibilities. All applicants must satisfy occupational health and enhanced criminal-record (DBS) checks prior to placement.

International applicants must meet English language requirements and provide evidence of equivalent academic qualifications. Mature applicants and those with non‑traditional qualifications are welcome and assessed on the strength of their overall application, including references and interview performance.

Career prospects

Graduates qualify to apply for professional registration and commonly go on to work as occupational therapists across the NHS, social care, education, primary care and independent sectors. Typical roles include hospital and community occupational therapist posts, specialist roles in mental health, paediatrics or neurorehabilitation, and positions within disability services, schools or vocational rehabilitation programmes.

Many graduates pursue postgraduate training, clinical specialisation, research or management roles. Career pathways can also lead to case management, commissioning, academic positions or further clinical qualifications and advanced practice posts.

Why study at University of Liverpool

The University of Liverpool delivers occupational therapy education with close links to local NHS trusts and community services across Merseyside, which supports a diverse range of placement opportunities. Students benefit from dedicated clinical skills facilities, interprofessional learning with other health disciplines and a practice education team that supports placement preparation and assessment.

The programme is designed to meet the professional standards required for registration and to prepare graduates for contemporary practice through a curriculum informed by current research and clinical developments. The university provides structured student support, careers services and opportunities to engage in research and optional international or elective placement experiences.