Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

This four-year honours-level bachelor's degree combines foundational biomedical and social science knowledge with applied occupational therapy theory and clinical skills. Early units introduce anatomy, physiology, human development and professional practice. Core occupational therapy subjects cover occupational performance assessment, activity analysis, therapeutic use of self, clinical reasoning and evidence-based practice.

Later-year topics typically include paediatric practice, mental health, neurological rehabilitation, ageing and gerontology, assistive technology and community-based practice. Interprofessional education, research methods and an honours research project are integrated into the curriculum to develop critical appraisal and research literacy.

The course includes multiple supervised fieldwork placements in a variety of settings such as acute and subacute hospitals, community health services, schools, mental health services, aged-care facilities and rehabilitation centres, giving students practical experience in assessment, intervention planning and multidisciplinary teamwork.

• Foundations of anatomy and human movement
• Occupational science and occupational therapy theory
• Assessment and outcome measurement
• Clinical practice in paediatrics, neurology, mental health and aged care
• Assistive technology, adaptive equipment and environmental modification
• Health systems, policy and interprofessional practice
• Research methods and honours research project

Entry requirements

Entry is competitive and based on tertiary selection criteria. Prospective domestic applicants typically enter via the state/territory tertiary admissions centre using an ATAR or recognised equivalent; mature-age applicants and those with prior tertiary study may be considered on academic and/or pathway grounds. International applicants must meet ACU's academic and English language requirements for undergraduate study.

Successful applicants are expected to demonstrate suitability for professional practice, including communication skills, empathy and ethical awareness. Before commencing clinical placements students must satisfy additional requirements such as police checks/criminal history checks, immunisation and health screening, and any jurisdictional working-with-children clearances. Specific prerequisite subjects are not generally mandated, but studies in biology or human sciences are advantageous.

Career prospects

Graduates are eligible to apply for registration with the national occupational therapy regulator and to practise as occupational therapists in Australia. Career pathways are broad and may include roles in public and private hospitals, community health and rehabilitation services, paediatric services, mental health teams, schools and educational support, aged-care facilities, indigenous and rural health services, private practice and assistive technology or case management roles.

Many graduates also pursue postgraduate study in specialised clinical areas, research, leadership and policy, or allied health management. The skills gained in assessment, intervention planning, client advocacy and interdisciplinary collaboration are also valued in roles outside traditional health settings, such as vocational rehabilitation and disability support services.

Why study at Australian Catholic University

ACU provides an occupational therapy programme with a strong emphasis on person-centred and evidence-informed practice delivered across campuses with clinical teaching facilities and established placement partnerships. The degree integrates practical placement experience with small-group learning and interprofessional education opportunities with other health disciplines, supporting development of teamwork and communication skills essential to clinical practice.

ACU's focus on ethics, social justice and community engagement aligns with occupational therapy's client-centred values and prepares graduates to work with diverse populations. Students benefit from academic staff who are practising clinicians and researchers in occupational therapy, and from support services for clinical placement preparation and career development.