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A day in the life
- Assess how people manage daily tasks
- Plan goals and therapy programmes
- Recommend equipment and home adaptations
- Visit patients at home, in hospital or at school
- Work with families, carers and other professionals
Your career roadmap
Every milestone from school to senior. Track progress as you complete each stage.
- 1Usually 2 years at school; resit timings vary
GCSEs / Level 2
educationBuild English, maths and science knowledge for further study towards occupational therapy.
- 2Usually 2 years; Access courses often 1 year
A Levels or equivalent
educationComplete Level 3 study accepted by occupational therapy degrees, choosing subjects that match your shortlisted courses.
- 3Usually 3 years undergraduate; 4 in some courses; often 2 years postgraduate
Occupational therapy degree
qualificationStudy occupational therapy theory, assessment and interventions on an HCPC-approved pre-registration course with integrated practice placements.
- 4Blocks throughout the degree, not an additional qualification
Clinical placements
experienceComplete supervised practice placements during your degree, helping people manage everyday activities across different health and care settings.
- 5Final part of the degree
Degree completion
qualificationPass the remaining academic and placement assessments so your university can confirm your approved occupational therapy qualification.
- 6Processing time varies
HCPC registration
certificationApply to the HCPC with your approved qualification and required identity, health and character information.
- 7Ongoing; experience before promotion varies
Occupational Therapist
roleWork as a registered occupational therapist, assessing everyday activity needs and planning interventions, equipment or environmental adaptations.
- 8Usually after several years; requirements vary
Senior / specialist Occupational Therapist
roleManage more complex occupational therapy work, develop specialist expertise and often supervise colleagues or improve services.
Skills you'll build
- Approved occupational therapy degree
- Occupational therapist degree apprenticeship (Level 6)
- HCPC registration
- Royal College of Occupational Therapists membership