The Occupational Therapy programme is offered within the Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences in the Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Cape Town.

At UCT, the undergraduate Occupational Therapy programme exposes students to diverse areas of practice, including Child Learning, Development and Play, Work Practice, Physical Health, Mental Health and Community Development Practice.

Occupational therapy
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Occupational therapists help people of all ages participate in the everyday activities that are meaningful and important to them. These activities, known as occupations, include self-care, learning, work, play, leisure and participation in the community.

Occupational therapy recognises that what people do every day is closely connected to their health, wellbeing and sense of meaning. Illness, injury, disability or barriers within a person's environment can affect their ability to participate in these activities.

Occupational therapists work with individuals, families and communities to identify and address these barriers. They take a holistic approach, considering the person, their abilities and the environments in which they live, work, learn and participate. Intervention may involve developing skills, adapting activities or modifying environments to support greater participation and independence.

Occupational therapists work with people experiencing a wide range of challenges, including:

  • Physical disabilities and injuries
  • Developmental delays
  • Mental health challenges
  • Neurological conditions
  • Difficulties participating in everyday activities at home, school or work

Occupational therapy services are provided across a range of settings, including hospitals, schools, clinics and community environments. Occupational therapists also contribute to research, teaching and advocacy, promoting inclusion, participation and wellbeing.

Download the Occupational Therapy Brochure Here

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Why Choose Occupational Therapy at UCT?

Study Occupational Therapy at UCT and develop the knowledge, skills and experience to support people of all ages whose lives have been affected by illness, injury, disability or social barriers. The programme combines academic learning, practice experience and community engagement to prepare students for meaningful professional practice.

Highlights

  • Four-year BSc in Occupational Therapy (Honours)
  • Practice learning begins in second year
  • Experience across diverse practice areas
  • Clinical and community-based learning
  • Research experience from third year
  • Four days per week in practice learning settings during fourth year
  • Opportunities for community engagement through SHAWCO
  • Senior student mentoring and ongoing student support
  • One year of community service after graduation
  • Registration with the HPCSA to practise as an independent occupational therapist
  • Opportunities to continue to Master's or PhD study