Study Master of Occupational Therapy (Graduate Entry) at the University of South Australia (UniSA). Information for Australian students.

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Entry requirements Degree overview Career outcomes How to apply Study experience

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Australian students

Start Date
February

Campus
City East

Duration
2 year(s) full-time

Program Code
IMOG

SATAC Code
4CM107 (Internal)

Study as
Full-time

Mode
On-campus

Fees
Commonwealth Supported

Entry requirements

Applicants must:
- Have completed a recognised Bachelor Degree or higher within the past 10 years with a minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) of 5.0
- Have completed the prerequisite courses at a Bachelor level or higher within the last 10 years
All applicants are required to demonstrate their eligibility by completing the Additional Information Form and providing supporting evidence.

Prerequisite courses
Applicants are required to provide evidence of satisfactory completion of the following prerequisite courses:
- 0.125 EFTSL of Human Anatomy that includes musculoskeletal and systems anatomy; AND
- 0.125 EFTSL of Human Physiology; AND
- 0.125 EFTSL of either Human Psychology or Sociology/Anthropology; AND
- 0.125 EFTSL of Research Methodologies
Note: Applicants who are overseas trained occupational therapists and are eligible to apply for assessment by the Occupational Therapy Council of Australia to meet the qualification requirements for registration by the Occupational Therapy Board of Australia are not eligible to apply for this program.
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Preliminary assessment of pre-requisite courses not available. See Additional Information Form for details.
International: only available to UniSA graduates with relevant undergraduate degree within last 10 years. Applications open for 7 days from last Monday in November.

Degree overview

Take your bachelor’s degree to the next level and gain the requirements practise as a registered occupational therapist with two extra years of study.
Be part of a university with more than 50 years' experience in occupational therapy education and research.
Study at the No.1 university in South Australia for graduate careers.¹
Benefit from our strong industry alliances with not-for-profit organisations, aged care facilities, community programs, disability and children’s service providers.
Take part in real-world industry placements as part of your study.
Learn from award-winning teaching staff, academics, practising health professionals and researchers in the field.
Learn from a university with above world-class research in occupational therapy.²
UniSA is an unstoppable university for unstoppable people. As one of the World’s Top Young Universities,³ we’ll ensure you get the experience your future profession demands so it’ll feel like you’re studying one minute and in a career the next.

¹ComparED (QILT) Graduate Outcomes Survey 2021-23– Full-time Employment Indicator (Domestic Undergraduate). SA public universities. ²Results in Clinical Sciences – 2018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA). ³Ranked #43, 2024 THE Young University Rankings.

Snapshot

Designed for students who have already completed a bachelor’s degree and meet entry requirements, this intensive master’s degree will qualify you to practise as a registered occupational therapist with two extra years of study.

Occupational therapists empower people to live full and rewarding lives. They help people of all ages achieve their goals, optimise their lifestyles and actively participate in society irrespective of limitations.

At UniSA, you’ll learn from registered occupational therapists and accomplished researchers at the top of their field. With a strong focus on practical skills, you’ll complete 1,000 hours of field placements across health, rehabilitation and community agencies, children’s centres, kindergartens, schools and aged care facilities. This prepares you for professional practice and a seamless transition from study to work.

What you'll need

Students who undertake activities where interaction with patients/the public is required for their degree, such as field or clinical placements/visits and in University clinics and gyms, must demonstrate they meet mandatory pre-placement conditional requirements. These include criminal history clearance, a Working with Children Check and immunisation requirements. Please visit the Clinical Placement Unit for information on key requirements, and to access the full student checklists.

All students enrolled in a program leading to professional registration must be registered with the relevant national board. The student registration process is undertaken by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) with the University providing notification to AHPRA following enrolment in the program.

What you'll learn

Rochelle Mutton, OT graduate

In the Master of Occupational Therapy (Graduate Entry), you’ll study the major theoretical approaches and practical skills occupational therapists use to work across all types of clients.

In the first year, you’ll focus on foundational occupational therapy knowledge and skills in the areas of:

occupational science
environmental modification and occupational adaptation
evidence-based practice
human neuroscience
professional competencies through simulated and part-time field work

In the second year, you’ll apply your knowledge to areas of practice such as mental health, chronic conditions and community, rehabilitation and return to work. As part of this, you’ll work on a collaborative project with a community agency.

You’ll get hands-on experience in real scenarios when you complete 1,000 hours of field placements. Emphasis is placed on preparing you to become a contemporary health professional, so with industry placements built-in to your degree, you’ll get to work on building your professional relationships and networks while you study.

Degree structure

Course name	Area and cat no.	Units
FIRST YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Introduction to Occupational Therapy Practice GE	REHB 5109	4.5
Enabling Occupation 1	REHB 5105	4.5
Occupational Therapy Field Placement 1	REHB 5070	4.5
Evidence Based Practice Skills	REHB 5108	4.5
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Human Neuroscience GE	BIOL 5013	4.5
Enabling Occupation 2	REHB 5106	4.5
Occupational Science (GE)	REHB 5110	4.5
Occupational Therapy Field Placement 2	REHB 6005	4.5
SECOND YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Enabling Occupation 3	REHB 5107	4.5
Enabling Occupation 4	REHB 6012	4.5
Participatory Community Practice GE: Planning	REHB 6014	4.5
Evidence Based Practice GE	HLTH 6012	4.5
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Enabling Occupation 5	REHB 6013	4.5
Participatory Community Practice GE: Implementation	REHB 6015	4.5
Occupational Therapy Field Placement 4	REHB 6006	9

Rules & notes

Rules

1. Student registration with the relevant board of the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) is required in order to study this program. Students who do not meet registration criteria and are refused registration by AHPRA, or who have their registration rescinded during the program, will be unable to continue in the program. Further information will be provided by the University with offer letters.

2. To undertake field/clinical placements students are required to have current criminal history and screening checks as published by the Clinical Placement Unit (unisa.edu.au/CPU). These checks will list disclosable court outcomes that may prevent field / clinical placement involvement and subsequently may prevent completion of the program.

3. Students are required to have a "Provide First Aid" certificate, Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Certificate (CPR), Mandatory Notification Training Certificate, and vaccinations prior to the commencement of the first placement or clinic activity.

4. Students are required to attend a mandatory three day intensive program-specific orientation held the week prior to commencement of the program.

5. Students will be required to undertake field practice placement outside of normal university teaching weeks.

6. Students are required to satisfy the standard of dress and behaviour prescribed by institutions in which the field practice placements are undertaken. Failure to satisfy such requirements may prevent them satisfying the requirements for the completion of the program.

7. The program requires participation in practical classes where manual skills are practiced. Essential learning activities in some classes may require that students partially remove their clothing to a level that is appropriate to the learning activity. Students may also be asked to act as subjects for their peer group members. If a student is unable to meet these requirements they may be at risk of being unable to successfully complete course objectives and assessments and progress through the program.

8. Participation is required in practical classes and clinical placements where students are required to physically handle people including lifting and supporting people with disabilities.

9. Students who do not maintain continuous enrolment in this program after commencing work integrated learning placements, or are returning from a period of absence of more than 12 months will be required to undertake a competency assessment and/or recency training at an upfront cost, in addition to the program tuition fees. This is to ensure students have maintained competency in the required skills to protect the safety of the public during work integrated learning arrangements.

Notes

1. Students are advised that a current South Australian driver's licence may be required by some field practice agencies and a driver's licence is considered an advantage for field practice.

2. Students are advised that they may be required to spend time in a field placement outside Adelaide in a country or interstate location.

3. Students are strongly encouraged to study full-time. Students seeking part-time study must discuss this with the Program Director prior to enrolment. Part-time students are normally expected to complete the program in four years.

4. Students are advised that an interstate or international field practice placement may be possible in the final semester of study.

5. Credit will not normally be granted due to the accelerated nature of the program.

6. Students are strongly encouraged to study full-time. Students seeking part-time study must discuss this with the Program Director prior to enrolment. Part-time students are normally expected to complete the program in four years.

Study hours

For each course you study, you will need to allocate time for various classes such as lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Plus you will need additional hours to study in your own time to complete assignments, readings and projects, as well as to contribute to online discussion forums. So as a general rule, if you are studying full-time you would need to allocate 12–26 hours of study when at university and 14–28 hours of independent study per week.

Assessment

Your studies will incorporate practical, professionally focused and research-based learning, so assessment types will vary. You can expect them to include:

portfolios
presentations
case studies
evidence based practice reviews
reports
skill demonstrations and clinical assessments
essays and assignments
examinations

Global opportunities

Enrich your studies and your life – make overseas study part of your qualification. You may have the option to undertake an exchange, short-term program or study tour overseas while you study. We have links with universities worldwide, as well as a range of travel grants available to make going overseas much more accessible.

You can choose short-term or semester-long study from a range of universities and countries depending on your area of study and cultural interests.

Take a look at the global opportunities available.

Why Master of Occupational Therapy (Graduate Entry)

This degree is a high-demand, highly intensive program with core occupational therapy knowledge condensed into two years of study.

As an occupational therapist, you’ll make a real difference in people’s lives. You’ll help people overcome any barriers they have – physical, environmental or emotional – to doing any activity big or small, and empowering them to live their best lives.

With UniSA, you’ll benefit from more than 50 years' experience in occupational therapy education and research. We’re proud of the rich knowledge base we’ve created and continue to evolve in line with industry and our above world-class research1, which means your career path is always informed by evidence-based practice.

Students who successfully complete this degree will be eligible to register as an occupational therapist through the Occupational Therapy Board of Australia/Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA)

¹2018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA).

Real-world connections

You’ll complete over 1,000 hours of practice placements in metropolitan, rural or regional settings, providing you with valuable networking opportunities and industry connections.

UniSA’s educators are registered occupational therapists and accomplished researchers, which means you receive exceptional learning opportunities and develop valuable industry contacts. During your industry placements you’ll develop relationships and networks to prepare you for entering the workforce. You’ll also have the opportunity to work on a collaborative project with a community agency.

We also host regular University-wide alumni events, employee master classes and employment expos in Australia and overseas.

Occupational Therapy Careers Snapshot

Gain insight into the rewarding careers of UniSA Occupational Therapy graduates, Rochelle Mutton and Jordan Liseno. Rochelle is the Owner and Director at Motivate Kids and employs Jordan as part of her growing team.

Career outcomes

Your career

A successful occupational therapist is professional, an excellent communicator, observant, logical, a critical thinker, and evidence based. You’ll be the type of person who enjoys working with people; and be mentally, emotionally and physically capable. This field of work is immensely rewarding and can offer exciting challenges, assisting people in the everyday occupations of life.

You can gain employment in a range of settings, including:

public and private hospitals
private practice
community mental health services
ambulatory and rehabilitation services
aged care facilities
home based services
local council services
government departments
schools
not-for-profit and non-government sector.

This degree prepares you for working overseas, as the qualification is recognised in most countries.

Some key areas of activity where occupational therapists provide support include:

daily living activities such as showering, dressing, grooming and eating
activities which involve caring for others such as household management activities, shopping, childcare, budgeting, banking, financial management, home maintenance and driving
education activities which allow a person to participate in a learning environment
leisure and play activities
social participation
work (paid and voluntary).

Professional accreditation and recognition

This program is accredited by the Occupational Therapy Council of Australia Ltd (OTC).

This program is approved by the Occupational Therapy Board of Australia for the purpose of professional registration as an occupational therapist in Australia.

This program is approved by the World Federation of Occupational Therapists

Industry facts

Employment for occupational therapists in Australia is projected to increase by 7.4 % by November 2026.

Australian Government National Skills Commission Employment Projections 2021

To November 2026, healthcare and social assistance is projected to make the largest contribution to employment growth in Australia – an increase of 301,000 jobs.

Australian Government National Skills Commission Employment Projections 2021

Healthcare and social assistance has been the primary provider of new jobs in the Australian labour market since the 1990s.

Australian Government National Skills Commission Employment Projections 2021

UniStart - your 100% online pathway to a degree

Just starting out on your university journey, don’t meet the entry requirements for your chosen degree, or want to refresh your study skills? Set yourself up for success and pave the way to a degree with UniStart, UniSA Online’s six-month pathway program launching in 2025.

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How to apply

Applying to study with us:

Go to the top of this page and make note of the SATAC code, then click Apply.
You will be redirected through to the SATAC website to continue your application.

Credit Transfer

Get a head start on your degree. Find out if you're eligible for credit from previous studies.

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Entry pathway

We believe in equal access to further education, so we offer a range of pathways to university.

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Scholarships

Every year, over 2,500 UniSA students are supported in their studies through scholarships and grants worth millions of dollars. Check out the scholarships below. One of them may be perfect for you. Visit our scholarships page for more.

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Scholarship for student leadership

Available for students who are interested in undertaking specified activities with the aim of enhancing the overall student experience at UniSA.

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International travel grants

Travel Grants are available to participate in our Study Overseas Programs. UniSA has agreement with over 80 institutions globally.

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Your study experience and support

Our campuses have fantastic facilities including modern lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, tech zones, and spaces that simulate real work environments. You’ll also find student gyms and campus sport activities to keep you active. We also offer flexible study options, with online resources available for accessing lecture recordings, virtual classrooms, library resources and learning support.

Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit different requirements and budgets. Options include dedicated student accommodation and private rentals. See our long-term accommodation pages, or explore our student accommodation by Scape on Bank Street in Adelaide’s lively cultural precinct, an ideal location for students. It is within easy reach of UniSA’s city and metropolitan campuses, Rundle Mall shopping, the Central Market, Chinatown, and the West End’s vibrant nightlife. It is also across the road from the Adelaide train station, and on bus and tram routes.

Student services

Our student services provide you with all the support you need at university. You can access a full range of support services including academic and personal counselling, career advice, social support services, as well as those through our student association, USASA. When you become a UniSA student, you can also contact Campus Central for help with anything related to your degree. They will help you with your enrolment, ID cards, fees, timetables and more.

24/7 digital environment

Our learnonline facilities include a personal learning environment with virtual classrooms, lecture recordings, emails, learning support, administration, library access and results. The environment is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, so you can tailor your learning to your life. We are continually investing in innovative digital technologies for a high-quality student learning experience.

Your campus

We have six campuses in metropolitan and regional areas, each with modern facilities including lecture theatres, libraries and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments.

Your study spaces

Anatomy laboratory.jpg

You’ll have access to:

occupational therapy teaching rooms

You’ll also get to use a range of on-campus spaces including modern lecture theatres, libraries, collaborative teaching rooms, and relaxed student lounges.

Your program director

With over twenty years of knowledge and research experience in Occupational Therapy, I make sure students learn with the latest information to support innovative and responsive practice. With a strong focus on primary health care, my teaching combines the theory and practice of the field, preparing students to understand the full scope of their future role. I aim to have all students graduate confident to face challenges raised by clients, families, health services and policymakers alike when they step into their careers.

Dr Ben Sellar

Program Director

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Dr Ben Sellar

Program Director

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Ask UniSA

How do I apply?

The way you apply for UniSA will depend on the undergraduate or postgraduate coursework degree you're interested in studying.

The majority of applications are made via the South Australian Tertiary Admissions Centre (SATAC). Check out more information on the SATAC website and follow the appropriate process for your degree of interest.

There are a small number of degrees that you need to apply for through direct application processes. The process you need to follow will be listed on the 'How to Apply' section of the degree homepage, but you'll also be taken to where you need to go if you hit the 'apply' button.

If you are interested in studying one of our 100% online degrees you'll need to apply directly to UniSA Online.

You can find more information about the application processes for UniSA on our How to Apply webpage.

If you're more interested in applying for a postgraduate degree by research, check out and follow the information in our step by step guide to applying.
Is there a closing date for applications?

Applications for all degrees will close ahead of study commencing, but the timelines may vary for undergraduate and postgraduate degrees.

Undergraduate

The deadline to apply to study a degree at UniSA for semester one (commencing late February) and be guaranteed equal consideration is generally in very late November or early December. While you may be able to apply after this date, you are not guaranteed to be considered equally with other applicants and your application may not be assessed in time for the main round of offers. More competitive degrees may not make any offers after the main offer round. Find more information on the Key Dates section of the SATAC website, but you can also call the Future Student Enquiries team for more information on 08 8302 376.

Postgraduate

Many postgraduate by coursework degrees do not have set closing dates. The exceptions are highly competitive degrees, so it is best to check – either on the degree homepage on the SATAC website or by checking with our Future Student Enquiries team.

As most postgraduate applications are assessed as they are submitted and offers are continuous, there are no set closing dates for applications. Degrees can be filled and closed with little notice so it is best to apply as soon as possible to avoid missing out on a place. For more information, please contact our Future Student Enquires team on (08) 8302 2376 or submit an enquiry.
What credit can I receive for previous studies?

You may be eligible for credit or advanced standing for your chosen UniSA degree based on your previous studies, if they are in a related area and completed within a certain timeframe. Receiving credit or RPL will reduce the number of courses you undertake within the degree, and may also reduce the overall duration of your degree. You can read more about our pre-existing credit agreements through our online Credit Assessor. If you have related industry experience, you may also be eligible to receive recognised prior learning (RPL) for this experience. Credit and RPL is assessed by the Program Director once you've received an offer, and you apply through UniSA's current student experts, Campus Central.
Can I speak to someone regarding my study options?

Future Student Enquiries welcomes the opportunity to meet with you to discuss your study options at UniSA. We can discuss degree information, entry requirements and pathways, applications, general career outcomes and student life, so you have the information to make the best study decision for your future. Head to our Book an Appointment webpage to find a date and time to speak with us, and take your next steps on journey to university study.

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What others are saying

I was interested in helping people maintain or regain their independence at an occupational level. I liked that I would have the ability to work with people at different developmental stages, whether it be children or the elderly community.

Brian Lai

Master of Occupational Therapy (Graduate Entry)

Brian Lai

Master of Occupational Therapy (Graduate Entry)

I have always wanted to help people and I see Occupational Therapy as a way to enrich the lives of others through enabling individuals and providing a holistic rehabilitation service. In the future I wish to have my own private practice after I have experienced the many different areas of Occupational Therapy. I hope to develop my skills in the fields of pain science and neurological injuries.

Christian Burden

Master of Occupational Therapy (Graduate Entry)

Christian Burden

Master of Occupational Therapy (Graduate Entry)

After completing a degree in human movement, I was attracted to the diverse areas of occupational therapy and wanted to help others reach their full potential. I completed placements within mental health, aged care, school and rehabilitation settings. From these experiences I explored different opportunities that aligned with where I saw myself in the future, which was a great steppingstone to achieving my current position working with children at Motivate Kids.

Jordan Liseno

Bachelor of Human Movement and Master of Occupational Therapy (Graduate Entry) graduate
Occupational Therapist | Motivate Kids