Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours)

The Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours) at Griffith University is a four-year degree focused on enabling people to achieve independence and participate in everyday life through occupational therapy. The course blends scientific knowledge from health, psychology and anatomy with the skills needed to assess and address barriers to an individual’s daily functioning. Throughout their studies, students cover theoretical frameworks, research approaches, and evidence-informed intervention methods suitable for a broad range of populations including children, older adults, and communities affected by injury or disability.

Australian bachelor honours degrees such as this one run over eight semesters and comprise specific units of study, each carrying designated credit points. In addition to core and elective units, students complete an honours research project, allowing deeper investigation into a topic relevant to occupational therapy practice. This combination of coursework and research prepares students for advanced clinical reasoning and potential postgraduate research pathways.

A key component of the degree is work-integrated learning: students participate in supervised professional placements across various health and community settings around Brisbane and potentially wider Queensland. These placements solidify practical skills and understanding of occupational therapy within the Australian context, as well as promote connections with the local industry. The curriculum aligns with Australian professional standards, preparing graduates to apply for registration through the Occupational Therapy Board of Australia (consult official sources for the latest details on registration eligibility).

This course suits students interested in health, rehabilitation, or helping others overcome barriers to full participation in daily living. The honours qualification supports both clinical and research engagement and meets the requirements for those seeking a structured, hands-on degree with clear outcomes in the Australian healthcare sector.

• Registered Occupational Therapist in hospitals, private practice or community health agencies
• Rehabilitation consultant in insurance or disability services
• Roles within aged care, paediatrics, mental health and workplace health sectors
• Research assistant or policy adviser in health research organisations
• Opportunities in Australian healthcare, education, and social service industries

Graduates are typically eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream and can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during studies while their visa is valid. Confirm professional registration requirements and visa eligibility on official sources.