Curtin University

What you'll study

This accredited graduate programme develops clinical reasoning, assessment and intervention skills across the lifespan. Core study areas include occupational therapy practice and theory, neuroscience and human movement, lifespan development, mental health, paediatrics, ageing and rehabilitation, assistive technologies, and community and population health approaches. Research methods and evidence-based practice are threaded throughout the course, and students complete a capstone or research project to consolidate academic learning.

Learning is delivered through a mix of classroom-based modules, simulated clinical skills laboratories, case-based learning and extensive work-integrated learning. Multiple supervised fieldwork placements in hospitals, community services, schools, aged-care and disability settings provide practical exposure to real-world caseloads and interprofessional teamwork.

Typical modules and subjects

• Foundations of occupational therapy practice and professional behaviour
• Clinical assessment and intervention across physical and neurological conditions
• Paediatric occupational therapy and school-based practice
• Mental health and psychosocial approaches to occupation
• Assistive technology, environmental modification and inclusive design
• Occupational performance, participation and ageing
• Research methods, evidence-based practice and a professional project or dissertation
• Professional fieldwork placements with supervised practice and reflective learning

Entry requirements

Applicants normally require a recognised bachelor's degree in any discipline. Admission is competitive and may consider academic transcripts, relevant health or community experience, and a personal statement. Some applicants may be asked to attend an interview or provide references.

Prerequisite study in human anatomy, physiology or related life sciences may be required if not covered in the first degree; Curtin provides advice on how to meet any missing prerequisites. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency equivalent to Curtin's graduate entry requirements.

Successful offers are conditional on meeting professional practice requirements before placements, which typically include a satisfactory police or background check, immunisation status, and any other health clearances required by placement providers.

Career prospects

Graduates qualify to work as occupational therapists across public and private sectors. Typical employment settings include acute and subacute hospitals, community health services, aged-care facilities, disability services, mental health services, schools and paediatric centres, and private practice. Occupational therapists also work in vocational rehabilitation, workplace health, policy and advocacy roles, and in research or academic positions following further study.

The course prepares graduates for entry to professional registration pathways and for roles that require clinical competency, interprofessional collaboration and applied research literacy.

Why study at Curtin University

Curtin combines practice-focused teaching with extensive placement networks across metropolitan and regional health services, giving students broad clinical exposure. The faculty uses purpose-built simulation facilities and industry-standard equipment to develop practical skills before students enter placements. Teaching is informed by active research in rehabilitation, assistive technologies and occupational science, and students learn from experienced clinicians and academic staff involved in local health services.

Curtin provides student support for placement coordination, professional development and transition to practice, and offers pathways for further research or specialist study in occupational therapy and allied health.