MSc (by Dissertation) Occupational Therapy at University of Essex

The MSc by Dissertation (MSD) in Occupational Therapy is a postgraduate research degree in which students undertake an independently supervised research project in health and organisational contexts. Possible topics include sensory integration outcomes for adults following brain injury, dementia management in local communities and occupational justice in exploited or minority populations. It is offered over one year full-time or two years part-time, plus up to one year of completion.

Department: School of Health and Social Care  |  Duration: 1 year full-time to 2 years part-time (plus up to one year for completion)  |  Intake: October 2027; study mode full-time or part-time  |  Study mode: full-time; part-time  |  Location: Colchester, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

There is no taught structure. Students complete a 40,000-word dissertation on a subject relevant to their specialist area of practice, supported by dissertation workshops, access to Masters-level research methods modules and the Proficio research training scheme.

Career pathways

Graduates have taken up clinical and management posts in NHS Trusts, hospitals and care organisations, and in local and county councils. Some use the MSD to build research skills before applying for a PhD.

Official programme page