City

What you'll study

This programme combines theoretical study, practice‑based learning and a research project to develop the clinical reasoning, assessment and intervention skills required of an occupational therapist. Core content covers the science of occupation and occupational therapy models, anatomy and clinical neurosciences relevant to daily functioning, approaches to assessment and goal setting, and therapeutic intervention across the lifespan.

• Foundations of occupational therapy – professional roles, ethical practice, models of occupation and the therapeutic relationship.
• Clinical sciences – anatomy, physiology and neuroscience as they relate to physical and cognitive impairment and functional performance.
• Assessment and intervention – standardised and non‑standardised assessment tools, activity analysis, assistive technologies and environmental adaptations.
• Specialist practice areas – mental health, neurorehabilitation, paediatrics, older adults, community and primary care settings.
• Research methods and evidence‑based practice – quantitative and qualitative research design, critical appraisal and a substantive dissertation or practice‑based project.
• Professional practice and clinical placements – multiple supervised clinical placements across a range of settings with reflective practice and portfolio development to meet regulatory competencies.

Teaching is delivered through lectures, small‑group tutorials, simulation and skills labs, interprofessional learning activities and supervised clinical placements with registered occupational therapists.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally required to hold an undergraduate degree in a relevant subject (health, social sciences or a related discipline) at a good honours level. Applicants with a different academic background but substantial relevant healthcare or social care experience will also be considered.

• Evidence of relevant experience or exposure to health and social care settings is desirable and may be required as part of the selection process.
• Applicants must meet professional and statutory requirements for practice, including satisfactory occupational health clearance, up‑to‑date immunisations where required, and an enhanced criminal record check (DBS or equivalent).
• International applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English; the programme expects a high level of spoken and written English appropriate to clinical practice (evidence from recognised tests or equivalent qualifications is required).
• Selection typically includes academic review and may include interview and practical scenarios to assess communication, empathy and suitability for clinical practice.

Career prospects

Graduates are eligible to apply for registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and to practise as occupational therapists in the UK. Career destinations include:

• Clinical roles in the NHS and independent sector across hospital, community, mental health and paediatric services.
• Roles in social care, education (including school‑based therapy), vocational rehabilitation and workplace wellbeing.
• Specialist practice pathways such as neurorehabilitation, sensory integration, assistive technology and hand therapy.
• Non‑clinical roles in management, service development, research, education and occupational health.
• Further study options, including postgraduate research (MPhil/PhD) or postgraduate clinical and leadership qualifications.

Why study at City

City, University of London sits at the heart of a large NHS and social care network in London, providing diverse placement opportunities across acute, community and specialist services. The School of Health Sciences offers modern clinical skills and simulation facilities alongside interprofessional learning with other health disciplines.

Students benefit from established links with local trusts and community partners, an emphasis on employability and professional readiness, and academic staff with clinical and research expertise in occupational therapy and allied fields. Support services include careers guidance, academic skills development and dedicated placement coordination to help you make the transition into practice.