Occupational Therapy
A popular course in Australia is Occupational Therapy (OT). In order to register as an occupational therapist in Australia, you will need to have undertaken your occupational therapy studies at a WFOT (World Federation of Occupational Therapists) accredited institution. A full and current list of approved programs of study in Australia can be found on the AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency) website.
All the programs given in the list are entry-level programs providing the initial qualification necessary to register oneself as an occupational therapist. The Masters programs on that list are for students with a prior degree of some relevance. It is commonly known that all new graduate occupational therapists will be viewed as equal, regardless of the degree obtained.
A majority of the universities provide an undergraduate program either to all students; or in some cases only for high-achieving students in order for them to get some basic skills in research to aid in future higher degree studies such as a postgraduate Masters or PhD. It not only helps in getting a job, but it also provides important knowledge and skills crucial in helping the research and evaluative aspects involved in being a practicing OT. Postgraduate degrees in OT are only available to those who have an existing entry-level degree in the subject; as has already been stated above.
Occupational therapy degrees clearly require all students to have participated in at least 1,000 hours of clinical fieldwork/ placements/practice education for the application of theory to practice. This is active, practical experience that is usually arranged by the university working with people who receive OT services—done to enrich the student learning experience. Placements will commonly be in rural, regional and remote areas; while placements in new, emerging practice settings are set as mandatory student experiences. This is done to adequately prepare students for work as an occupational therapist.
The field of occupational therapy is unique in that students of OT must have registration; since working with people forms part of the practice education/fieldwork requirements involved in the degree. Once you have enrolled in an accredited occupational therapy program, your university will send in each student’s personal details to the AHPRA for registration. The field of occupational therapy allows for great professional and personal growth, and if you desire to build deep and meaningful connections with people around you—this could be a great career choice for you.
Once you become a licensed occupational therapist, the average weekly salary is around 1,569 AUD. The following are the degrees and academic requirements for courses in Occupational Therapy:
Entry Requirement
Bachelor of Occupational Therapy:
- Education: Class 12th or equivalent
- English Language: IELTS score of 7.0 in each band
Master of Occupational Therapy:
- Education: An Australian undergraduate degree (or equivalent, excluding an Australian Bachelor of Nursing) with at least a credit (60%) average.
- English Language: IELTS score of 7.0 in each band
Career Outcome
Possible career opportunities for graduates of Occupational Therapy can include the following:
- Therapy Aide
- Occupational Counsellor
- Occupational Therapist
Frequently Asked Questions about Courses
I would like to change my course/ university. What should I do?
Please keep in mind that the process involved in changing a course or a university, must strictly comply with your Student Visa conditions to avoid the apparent risks of Visa Cancellation. Specially to maintain AQF level of your study. For example, if you get your visa in bachelor’s degree Course then you must maintain same AQF level. Downgrading course can cause the breach of visa cancellation. Also, you need to complete 6 months of your Principle Course to change the education provider.
It is strongly suggested that you get advice from Qualified Education Agent Counsellor (QEAC) to help you through the entire process. At PFEC Global, our expert counsellors can make sure you have the smoothest journey till the end.
What types of scholarships will be available to me, and how can I apply for them?
These days, numerous Australian institutions offer educational scholarships for eligible international students, with the key focus given to candidates enrolled in diploma, undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. If you would like to explore more details regarding the availability, application requirements criteria and timeline for each scholarship that might be suitable for you; it is a good idea to directly contact the institutions either calling their listed contact number, or by submitting an enquiry on their official website.
Many students find it a little too much to handle the overloaded and doubtful information from the websites of many providers. Our expert counsellors are well-equipped to do this for you. Just come to visit us , and one of our best counsellors will help you find the scholarships that are best suited for you.
What work rights do the Australian Student Visa give me?
A student visa holder is completely free to work for a maximum of 40 hours per fortnight (i.e. 14 days) when their term is in session, and unlimited hours when their term is out of session.
What are the courses can lead me to PR Pathways?
Although there is no guarantee to get PR by studying any particular courses, However, courses such as Accounting, Information Technology, Engineering, Nursing, Social Work, Teaching, Cookery, Automotive are some of the very popular courses.
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