Master of Occupational Therapy

The Master of Occupational Therapy at Charles Darwin University is a two-year postgraduate degree designed for those who hold a bachelor's qualification in a related field and want to become registered occupational therapists in Australia. Across four semesters, students undertake a mix of academic and practical subjects, earning credit points through units in occupational science, therapy across the lifespan, and professional practice. The course is structured to include significant clinical placement hours at various healthcare and community settings across the Northern Territory and other parts of Australia, offering real-world experience that builds practical skills and professional confidence.

Australian master's degrees typically require students to complete specified units of study, each with its own credit point value. In this course, students also engage in capstone projects or research tasks that develop critical thinking and evidence-based practice. Placement experiences are an essential part of the qualification, and at CDU, these could involve working alongside experienced therapists in hospitals, rehabilitation centres, schools, or community health organisations.

Students develop skills in assessment, intervention planning, and client-centred care. The degree also covers professional ethics, communication, and research skills, key competencies for effective practice in Australia's diverse healthcare environments. This master's suits graduates from health science, psychology or other relevant disciplines who want a career that directly supports people to live independently and participate fully in daily life.

Graduates gain an Australian qualification recognised nationally. The course can lead to eligibility for registration as an occupational therapist with the Occupational Therapy Board of Australia, subject to ANZOC approvals. International students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while studying, and those who complete the master's may be eligible for post-study work rights under the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485). For the most current admission, placement and accreditation details, always check the official CDU and CRICOS pages.

• Occupational Therapist in hospitals, private practice, schools, and aged care
• Community Rehabilitation Worker
• Paediatric Occupational Therapist
• Mental Health Occupational Therapist
• Consultant in workplace health and safety
• Regional and remote health practitioner (especially in the Northern Territory)

Australian industries hiring graduates include public and private hospitals, community health organisations, rehabilitation services, disability support agencies, aged care, and educational settings.