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UQ occupational therapy students at market stand

Why study occupational therapy at UQ?

Uni life
Published 14 Jan, 2025  ·  7-minute read

Do you dream of a career where you can truly change lives? Occupational therapy (OT) isn’t just a job – it’s a chance to help people overcome challenges and live their best, most independent lives.  

Whether it’s supporting kids to improve their learning or helping older adults stay active and self-sufficient, OT is a hands-on, rewarding career that’s all about making a difference.

What does an occupational therapist do?

Have you ever wondered what it takes to help someone regain their purpose and satisfaction in life? That’s where occupational therapists (OTs) step in.

OTs are healthcare professionals who work with people of all ages to help them tackle everyday tasks, like brushing their teeth, getting dressed, and managing their daily routines.

Student perspectives: why we chose occupational therapy at UQ 

We asked 3 OT students why they chose to study the Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours) at UQ. 

Female in green UQ Occupational Therapy Student polo shirt

I chose to study at UQ because of its renowned OT program, emphasis on research and innovation, diverse extracurricular opportunities, and strong sense of community among students and staff.

Lucy Sullivan
Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours)

Lucy found her passion for occupational therapy through its focus on helping people improve aspects of their lives.

“I was drawn to OT for its client-centred approach, focusing on what is most meaningful to people in their daily lives," says Lucy.

"The variety within the field and its mix of science, creativity, and compassion further inspired my choice."

Lucy shared that UQ's reputation and vibrant student environment also played a big role in her decision to study here.

“I chose to study at UQ because of its renowned OT program, emphasis on research and innovation, diverse extracurricular opportunities, and strong sense of community among students and staff,” she says.

Isaac Robinson always knew he wanted to pursue a career in the health field. While exploring options at the end of high school, the Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours) program at UQ caught his attention.

"I’ve always felt passionate about helping others, and OT seemed like the perfect fit – a career I could make a meaningful impact in," says Isaac.

"The idea of working with people of all ages and empowering them to gain independence really resonated with me. UQ’s hands-on learning approach made it an easy choice."

Female in green OTSA t-shirt standing in front of bush

Working as a disability support worker has shown me firsthand how impactful engaging in everyday activities is for people facing physical, social, or emotional challenges due to disability or illness.

Yvette Callaghan
Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours)

Yvette was drawn to OT for its holistic and client-centred approach, aligning with her personal values.

“My inspiration to become an occupational therapist came from my own personal value of independence; I want to help others achieve this," says Yvette.

"Working as a disability support worker has shown me firsthand how impactful engaging in everyday activities is for people facing physical, social, or emotional challenges due to disability or illness."

Yvette shared that UQ's outstanding reputation and innovative facilities made it her top choice.

“I chose UQ for its renowned programs and supportive learning environment," she says.

"It offers the perfect foundation to become a skilled and compassionate occupational therapist.”

Before starting her degree, Yvette spoke with friends who had experienced the program. This cemented her decision to come to UQ.

“They spoke about the incredible sense of community they built through UQ’s occupational therapy program and how these friendships and networks continue to support them both professionally and emotionally throughout their careers,” she says.

Here are our top 5 reasons to choose the Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours) at UQ

1. Make a meaningful impact

Think about the small tasks you do daily without a second thought – tying your shoelaces, managing your schedule, or preparing a meal. These tasks may be incredibly challenging for a person living with a disability, injury or illness.

Such activities rely on physical ability, mental capacity, communication and self-understanding. These are all areas where OTs make a meaningful difference.

Whether it’s assisting someone recovering from an injury, working with children who have developmental challenges, or supporting older adults in maintaining their independence, OTs play a vital role in improving the lives of their clients.

"The most rewarding part of studying occupational therapy is the profound impact we can have on someone's life," says Isaac.

"Knowing that the skills I’m learning play a key role in helping people regain their independence, find fulfilment, and improve their quality of life inspires me every day."

2. Get exciting practical experience

At UQ, you’ll complete more than 1,000 hours of supervised clinical placements in hospitals, educational facilities, healthcare organisations, private practice and UQ’s occupational therapy clinics.

This enables you to apply your theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios under the guidance of qualified professionals. You’ll graduate with the confidence and experience needed to manage a caseload, assess client needs, and deliver effective interventions.

Lucy highlights the importance of connection and trust in creating a safe environment for patients during her placement.

“During my paediatric placement at a private practice, I conducted an initial assessment with a quiet and nervous teenager," she says.

"At first, it was challenging; however, once we connected over a shared interest in horses, they became engaged and felt comfortable.

"This experience reinforced the importance of building a sense of connection and safety to establish trust. It highlighted the value of forming a strong relationship before starting any therapeutic journey, to enable meaningful collaboration and progress."

"My placement deepened my passion for the profession and its potential to create lasting, positive change.”

3. Build community and industry connections 

Did you know UQ has a student-led society for all things OT? The Occupational Therapy Student Association (OTSA) is here to enhance your university life by providing a supportive community, academic help and guidance, social events and much more.

Joining a student society is a fantastic way to meet like-minded peers, expand your network, develop new skills, and build lasting friendships.

Woman standing in front of OTSA sign at market stall

Lucy has been the treasurer and secretary and is now president of OTSA. These roles have allowed both her personal and professional growth as she prepares for graduation.

“I’ve had so much fun with OTSA, being involved alongside the team," she says.

"I’ve made friendships with students across different cohorts and degrees, and made connections with UQ staff, OT Australia, and OT companies."

"Developing leadership, organisational, and teamwork skills has been very beneficial and a bonus when it comes to future job opportunities.”

4. Gain opportunities to pursue interest areas 

At UQ, studying OT offers flexibility and opportunities to tailor your experience. In your 4th year, you can choose to undertake a research project.

This will allow you to deepen your expertise in a specific area through independent research, supervised by an experienced academic mentor. You can also gain additional clinical experience in specialist areas such as:

  • paediatrics
  • geriatrics
  • mental health
  • rehabilitation
  • disability services.

By tailoring your experience to your passion, no two days will be the same. You’ll open doors to various work settings and specialties, offering continuous challenges and daily fulfilment.

Lucy reflects on how the program fosters exploration and how the invaluable support from staff has been instrumental in helping her discover her areas of interest.

“The program has provided a solid foundation in theory and evidence-based practice, while encouraging exploration of diverse OT pathways, including paediatrics, brain injury rehabilitation, canine-assisted therapy, and research,”  she says.

“The support from staff, along with a focus on reflection and adaptability, has been invaluable in developing my professional identity and areas of interest.”

5. Graduate ready to excel in a thriving, in-demand profession

The demand for occupational therapists is at an all-time high, with jobs expected to reach 25,600 by 2026, according to the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency. This makes now a great time to pursue this rewarding career.

Professor of Occupational Therapy Jodie Copley emphasises the increasing demand for healthcare professionals, driven by initiatives like the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). She expresses her strong hopes and aspirations for students.

"Since its implementation [NDIS], occupational therapists are in high demand."

"OTs are valued for their holistic approach and ability to create tailored solutions that make a real difference in people's lives," says Jodie.

"UQ graduates leave with a solid foundation of knowledge and skills to support diverse populations and champion client-centred care. They will know how to look at the big picture and not just focus on ‘fixing’ people but adapting their environments to work for them.

"Our grads are equipped with self-management skills, enabling them to engage in lifelong learning with determination and resilience. They are ready to advocate for marginalised groups and thrive in this rewarding field."

Lucy shares that she feels prepared to graduate and enter the field of occupational therapy.

“The program has made me feel more confident in entering real-world clinical settings through practical coursework, diverse placements, research projects, and meaningful connections with inspiring professionals," she says.

"These experiences have been invaluable in preparing me for success. I’m now able to apply my knowledge and learnings, essential skills and insight to make a difference.”

Ready to make a meaningful impact? Discover how UQ’s Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours) can set you on the path to an exciting and rewarding career.

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