MSc Occupational Therapy (Pre-Registration)

Program Overview:
The MSc Occupational Therapy (Pre-Registration) at Leeds Beckett University trains students to become fully qualified and registered occupational therapists, blending theoretical learning with over 1,000 hours of supervised practice. It suits graduates from science, social sciences, healthcare or related disciplines who wish to transition into occupational therapy and work with diverse populations.

Curriculum Structure:
Over two years, students begin by engaging with modules such as Occupation, Health & Wellbeing, where they explore models of occupation, occupational justice, and the science of therapeutic occupation. In Core Professional Practice, they learn how to carry out assessments and interventions for people across the lifespan facing physical, mental, or social challenges. They also study Research Methods & Evidence-Based Practice, gaining the ability to evaluate and apply research to clinical occupational therapy. Crucially, the course includes four Practice Placement modules accumulating over 1,000 hours, where students apply their knowledge in real-world clinical settings under supervision. Their academic learning culminates in a major Independent Project, where they design and conduct research into a topic of occupational therapy theory or practice.

Focus areas:
“occupational science; health & occupation; assessment & intervention; lifespan therapy; professional placement”

Learning outcomes:
Graduates will understand how occupation influences health, develop advanced assessment and intervention skills, conduct applied research, and be ready for reflective, ethical professional practice in occupational therapy.

Professional alignment (accreditation):
This MSc is accredited by the Royal College of Occupational Therapists and recognized by the Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC), making graduates eligible to register and practice as occupational therapists. 

Reputation (employability):
Leeds Beckett offers excellent placement opportunities and specialist clinical-skills facilities, and its occupational therapy graduates frequently move into NHS, community, or private-sector roles upon qualification.