Mercy College

What you'll study

This bachelor programme provides a foundation in the theory and practice of occupational therapy, emphasising the relationship between occupation, health and participation. You will study human anatomy and physiology, kinesiology, lifespan development, psychosocial aspects of disability, and activity analysis. Core modules typically cover clinical reasoning, assistive technologies, therapeutic interventions for physical and cognitive conditions, and community-based rehabilitation.

Practical skills are developed through lab-based classes and simulated practice, where students learn assessment techniques, adaptive equipment prescription, and intervention planning. The course also includes supervised fieldwork placements in a range of settings such as hospitals, schools, community health centres and long-term care facilities, giving direct experience with clients and multidisciplinary teams.

• Human Anatomy and Physiology for Rehabilitation
• Foundations of Occupational Therapy Practice
• Activity Analysis and Therapeutic Use of Self
• Clinical Assessment and Intervention Strategies
• Across the Lifespan: Paediatric to Geriatric Practice
• Assistive Technology and Environmental Access
• Research Methods and Evidence-Based Practice
• Professional Issues, Ethics and Community Practice
• Supervised Fieldwork Placements

Entry requirements

Applicants are usually expected to hold a high-school diploma or equivalent with strong passes in science subjects; typical relevant A-levels or equivalents include biology, psychology or physical education. Admissions often take academic performance, a personal statement outlining interest in occupational therapy, and references into account. Some programmes ask for relevant experience with people in health or social care settings, which can be paid or voluntary work.

Mature applicants with prior college study or healthcare experience are considered on an individual basis. Where required, applicants may be invited to interview to discuss motivation, interpersonal skills and suitability for practice. Successful progression to professional qualification often requires completion of a graduate-entry professional programme and meeting local regulatory requirements for licensure.

Career prospects

Graduates with a bachelor-level qualification in occupational therapy build a strong platform for further study and for roles in the wider rehabilitation and health sector. Common next steps include applying for graduate-level professional programmes in occupational therapy (required for independent, licensed practice in many jurisdictions).

With a bachelor’s, graduates can also work as occupational therapy assistants/technicians (where local certification permits), therapy aides, rehabilitation support workers, community support coordinators, or rehabilitation case managers. Other options include roles in health promotion, disability services, educational support, research assistance and outreach programmes. The course also prepares students for postgraduate study in allied health, public health, counselling, and healthcare management.

Why study at Mercy College

Mercy College combines classroom teaching with practical, supervised clinical experiences in local care settings, helping students develop client-focused skills and professional behaviours. Small-group teaching and simulation labs allow hands-on practice of assessment and intervention techniques under faculty supervision.

The college has established partnerships with hospitals, schools and community agencies that provide placement opportunities and exposure to multidisciplinary teams. Students benefit from career support services, academic advising and a focus on evidence-informed practice that prepares them for graduate study and a range of roles in rehabilitation and community health.