Occupational Therapy

Top 3 for Health Professions (Occupational Therapy, Podiatry, Paramedic Science and Health Studies) - The University of Northampton is a top 3 institution for Health Professions in the Best UK University Guardian League table for 2026.

8th for Career Outcomes 15 months after Graduation for Health Professions (Occupational Therapy, Podiatry, Paramedic Science and Health Studies) - data taken from the 2026 Guardian University Guide, Health Professions Subject table, filtered by Career after 15 Months.

The BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy degree prepares you to work as a registered occupational therapist in the UK and overseas. The University of Northampton is one of the longest established Occupational therapy Schools in Britain and offer a wide range of exciting local, national and international practical placement opportunities.

Opportunities are available in the UK and abroad with a wide range of career options; the NHS, social services, private practice, special education, the prison service and in the voluntary sector.

Successful completion of BSc Occupational Therapy will allow you to apply for registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). In addition, it will also give you an opportunity to obtain a licence to practice and become a member of the Royal College of Occupational Therapists.

Why choose the University of Northampton?

At the University of Northampton, you’ll benefit from a supportive, career-focused experience designed to help you succeed.

Personalised learning

Study in small groups led by expert academics, with dedicated one-to-one support. Our close-knit community ensures you receive individual guidance while being challenged to achieve your best.

Built for your future

Whatever your goals, we’ll help you get there. You’ll develop valuable skills, discover your strengths, and gain real-world experience - so you’re ready to stand out when applying for jobs or further study.

Guaranteed accommodation

We guarantee a room in our Halls of Residence for all new full-time first-year students who apply and accept their offer by June 2027*.

Exceptional student benefits

You’ll receive a brand-new laptop at no additional cost**, and all essential textbooks are available through our library - helping you save money throughout your studies.

A modern campus experience

Study at our student-led purpose-built Waterside Campus, designed to provide an inspiring and dynamic environment for learning and student life. Visit us at an Open Day to see it for yourself.

The Northampton Employment Promise

We’re confident you’ll graduate ready to launch your career. If you’re not in employment within six months, you’ll receive dedicated support from a Careers Development Consultant. If you’re still seeking opportunities after that, we’ll offer you a paid internship.

✱ Eligibility criteria apply. See northampton.ac.uk/student-life/accommodation/ for more information
✱✱ Eligibility criteria and terms and conditions apply. See northampton.ac.uk/benefits for more information
✱✱✱ the information provided above is correct for the academic year 2025/26 but please check the NHS LSF website for full details, any changes and updates.
*Calculations are based on Office for Students data based on the average positivity measure across all NSS questions for CAH3 taught all modes, all levels, limited to HEIs.

Course Modules

STAGE 1:
• Exploring Professional Perspectives of Occupation (compulsory)
• Understanding Health and Well-being (compulsory)
• Health and Well-being: Understanding Impact on the Individual (compulsory)
• Core Skills for Occupational Therapy Practice (compulsory)
• Enabling Engagement in Occupation (compulsory)
• Placement 1 (compulsory)

STAGE 2:
• Exploring Evidence to Inform Practice (compulsory)
• Exploring Inequalities and Inclusive Practice (compulsory)
• Placement 2 (compulsory)
• Placement 3 (compulsory)
• Principles Informing Practice (compulsory)
• Rehabilitation Skills (compulsory)

STAGE 3:
• Embedding Evidence to Inform Practice (compulsory)
• Becoming an Autonomous Practitioner (compulsory)
• Developing Creative Practice in Communities (compulsory)
• Placement 4 (compulsory)

*Students must take the compulsory modules. Students who do not complete the Honours Degree will be eligible for an Ordinary Degree upon successful completion of a minimum of 60 Level 6 credits. These can be from any Level 6 modules, whether identified as compulsory or designated. The name of the Ordinary Degree will differ from that of the Honours Degree due to professional body requirements. Details can be found in the relevant Supplementary Regulations..

**Module information is quoted for 2025/26 entry. Please note that modules run subject to student numbers and staff availability, any changes will be communicated to applicants accordingly.

A diverse range of assessments are included in the course to ensure academic and professional competence and to prepare you for the role of an Occupational Therapist. This includes written assignments, multiple choice question tests, poster presentations, group work, reflective essays, case studies and practice portfolios. You may work together in groups for some assignments.

Support is provided by tutors for module assignments in the form of assessment tutorials and marking criteria.

Professionally accredited courses provide industry-wide recognition of the quality of your qualification.

• Health and Care Professions Council