Occupational therapy

Our courses provide the knowledge to empower people to meaningfully engage in activities that improve their lives and overcome significant challenges. 

There’s no one-size-fits-all definition of what this can entail though, and that’s part of what makes it such a satisfying career.  You could work in a diverse range of settings including: hospitals, clinics, prisons, hospices, care farms, supported accommodation, charitable organisations, government departments, schools… and the list goes on.

Here at Essex, you’ll learn about the relationship between occupational engagement and health and well-being.  This will inform how occupation can be used therapeutically to enable people to lead full and satisfying lives.

When you choose to study with us, you'll gain more than just a qualification.  You'll be part of our learning community, and we've got plenty to offer.  We offer BSc Occupational Therapy as a three-year course, or as an apprenticeship (for those in employment within a relevant role and with support from their employer).  For those who have already studied at undergraduate level, we also offer MSc Occupational Therapy which is also a pre-registration course.

Occupational therapy courses 

Our pre-registration occupational therapy course is highly sought after.  You'll develop the knowledge, skills and personal qualities to work with people of all ages, enabling them to engage in occupations to promote their health and wellbeing. Focusing on inter-professional learning, you’ll be encouraged to learn with, and from, other professionals. In just two years, you’ll be eligible to register with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and the Royal College of Occupational Therapists (RCOT) as a qualified Occupational Therapist.

When you choose to study with us, you'll gain more than just a qualification.  You'll be part of our learning community, and we've got plenty to offer.    Check out our facilities, and find out more about the School of Health and Social Care here.

We offer world-class supervision and training opportunities, and encourage you to engage with other researchers, professionals, practitioners and research users, where possible.

When you choose to study with us, you'll gain more than just a qualification.  You'll be part of our learning community, and we've got plenty to offer. Check out our facilities, and find out more about the School of Health and Social Care here.

Our research is organised into four research groups: Public health and social policy, Assessment and management of neuro-developmental and acquired disorders, Physical and mental health and wellbeing across the lifespan, and Pedagogy research for health and social care.  Explore each group to find out more about our current projects and doctoral research, as well as a list of our academic staff, research staff and postgraduate students associated with each group.

Read more about our portfolio of courses, as well as hints and tips on making your application.

Do you know about our scholarships and studentships?

Find out more about our university wide funding, and opportunities specifically for Health and Social Care students.