Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours)
Allied Health
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
Advanced your professional occupational therapy practice and research skills with this honours degree, preparing for research or higher practice roles.
Blended study
This is a mix of online learning & face-to-face sessions
Dunedin (for block courses), Dunedin
It will take a total of 1 year
This course requires 36 hours per week
Core skills this course teaches
Deepened understanding of occupational therapy
Demonstrate significant understanding of professional and practice issues within their wider social, political, cultural, and historical contexts.
Critical research skills
Critically evaluate research in professional literature and apply evidence-based practice in occupational therapy.
Undertake original research
Design and conduct a small-scale dissertation research project on a topic in occupational therapy.
What You're Signing Up For
The Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours) at Otago Polytechnic is a postgraduate qualification designed for occupational therapists seeking to deepen their understanding of practice and develop advanced research skills. It enhances professional practice, employment potential, and provides a pathway to academic careers. The programme covers the social, political, cultural, and historical contexts of occupational therapy, evidence-based practice, and includes a research dissertation. Delivered online with block courses in Dunedin, it is suitable for professionals looking to expand into research or higher-level positions.
Course Content
- Research for Practice (30 credits, Level 8)
- Research Design (30 credits, Level 8)
- Dissertation (60 credits, Level 8)
- Analysis of professional and practice issues in occupational therapy
- Critical evaluation of research literature
- Small-scale research projects
- Understanding of contexts: social, political, cultural, historical
What you need to know first
Bachelor of Occupational Therapy with a grade point average of 5.0 or above across three years of study OR equivalent
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Health
Allied Health
Future employment opportunities might be
Research-focused roles in health sector
Higher-level occupational therapy practice positions
Preparation for academic career and further postgraduate study
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.