MSc Occupational Therapy (Pre-Registration) at University of Essex

Programme overview

The MSc Occupational Therapy (Pre-Registration) is a two-year accelerated full-time postgraduate course for graduates who want to qualify as occupational therapists. It is accredited by the Royal College of Occupational Therapists and approved by the HCPC, with more than 1,000 hours of practice education.

What you will study

Core modules include Interprofessional Collaboration and Development, Using Evidence in Health Care Practice, Foundations for Occupational Therapy, Occupational Performance and Process, Mastering Occupation, The Thinking Therapist, Research Activity and practice placements (Initiate, Lead, Manage).

Career pathways

Successful completion makes graduates eligible to apply for registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) as an occupational therapist.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

2:2 honours degree in any subject or international equivalent, plus successful performance at interview (via Zoom), a personal statement of at least 500 words, a satisfactory CV and one satisfactory academic or work-based reference. Applicants with a lower-level degree and significant relevant work experience are considered case by case. Applicants previously enrolled on a pre-registration healthcare programme must submit a fitness-to-practise self-declaration. A satisfactory enhanced DBS check (with registration for the DBS Update Service within 30 days) and an Occupational Health check are required, plus an overseas criminal record check if lived outside the UK for 6 months or more in the last 5 years. International applicants whose first language is not English: IELTS 7.0 overall with a minimum of 6.5 in each component. A pre-sessional English pathway is available for applicants who do not meet the IELTS requirement.

Domestic applicants: GBP 10,050 a year Source

International applicants: GBP 25,925 a year Source

Intake: October 2027

Duration: 2 years

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