Occupational Therapy

Course overview: An occupational therapist (OT) supports people experiencing illness or disability to facilitate recovery and overcome barriers, enabling them to do the daily activities they need or want to do to improve their function, independence and quality of life. An OT works with adults and children of all ages with a diverse range of physical and mental health conditions in settings including health and social care organisations (hospitals and the community), education, charities and private practice.

The course is accredited by the Health and Care Professions Council and the Royal College of Occupational Therapists. This offers you a wider range of future working opportunities in the countries affiliated to the World Federation of Occupational Therapists. It also enables students from the Republic of Ireland to work in Eire.

Technology is integral to your learning, ensuring you are future-ready. Our on-campus facilities offer you the opportunity to develop and practice your skills within a simulated area, and a four-bed ward that mirrors the real practice environment. Other facilities include creative, art and pottery areas for you to gain group work and activity analysis skills.

The course has been written with the involvement of service users and carers lived experiences which ensures your learning remains relevant to the ever-changing landscape of professional practice. Modules include traditional health and social care employability, and private practice and entrepreneurship.

On successful completion of the course, you will be eligible to apply for registration as an occupational therapist with the Health and Care Professions Council. Our pre-registration occupational therapy provision has been accredited by the Royal College of Occupational Therapists.

Please note 100% attendance is expected during this course.

Top reasons to study this course


1. Industry-standard facilities: our OT facilities mirror aspects of clinical practice environments including creative group work rooms, a four-bed hospital ward and a simulated home.
2. Experienced teaching team: our teaching team has over 60 years academic experience and knowledge in a wide range of clinical practice.
3. Financial support: study this course and you may be eligible for a £5,000 maintenance grant each year from the NHS Business Service Authority. Visit our course page to find out more.


After the course: Registered occupational therapists practise in the UK and overseas, in all areas of health and social care. You will work closely with other professionals such as doctors, physiotherapists, speech and language therapists, social workers, psychologists and nurses. Alternatively you may choose a career in a charity or any other emerging areas of practice. Occupational therapists also work in private practice, research and education.

Choosing Teesside University means joining a modern, ambitious university that puts students first. Named Modern University of the Year 2026 (Daily Mail University Guide 2026) and recognised for its outstanding student experience, Teesside combines award-winning teaching with the support you need to succeed.

Based in Middlesbrough, the university has invested millions into creating a vibrant campus packed with industry-standard facilities, study spaces and social hubs. You'll also have access to Adobe Creative Campus tools, helping you build valuable digital skills alongside your degree.

From day one, you'll be part of a welcoming student community with excellent support services, societies, sports clubs and opportunities to boost your career prospects. If you're looking for a university that helps you achieve more and make the most of student life, Teesside could be the perfect fit.