About Occupational Therapy @ AUT

Hello and welcome to the web pages for the Department of Occupational Science and Therapy at AUT University. We offer an exciting range of papers at postgraduate level and an internationally recognised undergraduate qualification as well as a wide range of research opportunities.

Staff within the Department of Occupational Science and Therapy are a creative and dynamic team who are highly qualified and committed to ensure that students are well supported during the course of their studies. The Department's approach to Occupational Therapy education is grounded in values which set high expectations for excellence and innovation. The Department attracts students who are motivated to enter a profession which contributes to the health and well-being of individuals and communities.

Hopefully, by exploring our web pages you will consider joining the Occupational Therapy Community @ AUT. This might be as an undergraduate or postgraduate occupational therapy student, research partner or participant, or as a staff member to assist us with contributing to the growth and development of occupational therapy in New Zealand/Aotearoa.

Overview

The Department of Occupational Science and Therapy was established in 1991, it is one of only two occupational therapy programmes in New Zealand and we are based at the AUT University North Shore Campus on Auckland’s North Shore. The Department offers an undergraduate programme, including honours; post graduate certificates and diplomas; masters by coursework as well as research degrees to doctoral level.  The Department of Occupational Science and Therapy is World Federation of Occupational Therapists approved. It sits within the School of Rehabilitation and Occupation Studies in the Faculty of Health and Environmental Sciences. The School includes the Department of Physiotherapy and the Department of Podiatry and is home to the National Institute for Rehabilitation Research which incorporates the Health Rehabilitation Research Centre.

The Educational Experience

The educational experience provides a mix of theoretical knowledge with practical skills for the workplace. Graduates of the Bachelor of Health Science (Occupational Therapy) are able to apply for registration with the Occupational Therapy Board of New Zealand.

Postgraduate options provide an opportunity for specialisation in a broad range of practice areas and for developing further understanding of occupation. Our research direction includes exploring barriers and strategies for participation in everyday occupations.

We trust we offer something that is interest to you and warmly invite you to join us.

Kirk Reed
Head of Department