Allied Health
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
Become a qualified occupational therapist through this hands-on, practice-based degree, recognised by the World Federation of Occupational Therapists and the Occupational Therapy Board of New Zealand. Complete five fieldwork placements preparing you to register and work as an occupational therapist in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Blended study
This is a mix of online learning & face-to-face sessions
Available in 5 locations
It will take a total of 3 years
This course requires 40 hours per week

Understand the significance of occupation to health and wellbeing and apply the fundamental principles of occupational therapy in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Apply effective communication, reflective practice, and client-centred skills in a variety of healthcare settings.

This highly regarded three-year full-time (or part-time equivalent) Bachelor of Occupational Therapy degree involves a blend of on-campus, online, and work-augmented learning. Students gain comprehensive knowledge and practical skills to support diverse populations in achieving independence, participation, and wellbeing in daily life. The curriculum includes healthcare theory, professional practice, five fieldwork placements, Māori kaupapa and cultural competencies, and preparation for registration with national and international bodies. Delivered from campuses in Dunedin, Hamilton, and work-augmented options in Te Tai Tokerau (Northland). Graduates are eligible to apply as registered occupational therapists in New Zealand.
What you need to know first

Health
Allied Health
Community Health

Occupational Therapist (Aotearoa New Zealand and internationally)
Community health practitioner
Rehabilitation services

Otago Polytechnic is known for high quality, hands on learning that leads to strong outcomes. With excellent student satisfaction, high graduate employment rates, and a commitment to sustainability, it’s a place where practical skills meet purpose. Their award winning programmes span design, fashion, creative arts, trades, health, and business, giving you real experience and real confidence for whatever comes next.
Allied Health
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
Become a qualified occupational therapist through this hands-on, practice-based degree, recognised by the World Federation of Occupational Therapists and the Occupational Therapy Board of New Zealand. Complete five fieldwork placements preparing you to register and work as an occupational therapist in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Blended study
This is a mix of online learning & face-to-face sessions
Available in 5 locations
It will take a total of 3 years
This course requires 40 hours per week

Understand the significance of occupation to health and wellbeing and apply the fundamental principles of occupational therapy in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Apply effective communication, reflective practice, and client-centred skills in a variety of healthcare settings.

This highly regarded three-year full-time (or part-time equivalent) Bachelor of Occupational Therapy degree involves a blend of on-campus, online, and work-augmented learning. Students gain comprehensive knowledge and practical skills to support diverse populations in achieving independence, participation, and wellbeing in daily life. The curriculum includes healthcare theory, professional practice, five fieldwork placements, Māori kaupapa and cultural competencies, and preparation for registration with national and international bodies. Delivered from campuses in Dunedin, Hamilton, and work-augmented options in Te Tai Tokerau (Northland). Graduates are eligible to apply as registered occupational therapists in New Zealand.
What you need to know first

Health
Allied Health
Community Health

Occupational Therapist (Aotearoa New Zealand and internationally)
Community health practitioner
Rehabilitation services

Otago Polytechnic is known for high quality, hands on learning that leads to strong outcomes. With excellent student satisfaction, high graduate employment rates, and a commitment to sustainability, it’s a place where practical skills meet purpose. Their award winning programmes span design, fashion, creative arts, trades, health, and business, giving you real experience and real confidence for whatever comes next.
Explain the human musculoskeletal system, kinesiology, biomechanics, and psychological theories relevant to occupational therapy.
NCEA Level 3 with 14 credits in each of three NZQA approved university entrance subjects, 10 Literacy credits (Level 2+), 10 Numeracy credits (Level 1+)
Or Level 4 qualification (at least 60 credits in one year)
Or successful completion of university courses equalling at least 50% of a first-year workload
Elementary understanding of occupational therapy in Aotearoa (through observation, contact, or reading)
Contact details for two referees
Health declaration, medical examination, and conviction declaration (including police vetting)
Level 2 Comprehensive First Aid Certificate (units 6400, 6401, 6402)
Immunisation status (required for placements)
Aged care
Mental health services
School-based occupational therapy
Explain the human musculoskeletal system, kinesiology, biomechanics, and psychological theories relevant to occupational therapy.
NCEA Level 3 with 14 credits in each of three NZQA approved university entrance subjects, 10 Literacy credits (Level 2+), 10 Numeracy credits (Level 1+)
Or Level 4 qualification (at least 60 credits in one year)
Or successful completion of university courses equalling at least 50% of a first-year workload
Elementary understanding of occupational therapy in Aotearoa (through observation, contact, or reading)
Contact details for two referees
Health declaration, medical examination, and conviction declaration (including police vetting)
Level 2 Comprehensive First Aid Certificate (units 6400, 6401, 6402)
Immunisation status (required for placements)
Aged care
Mental health services
School-based occupational therapy