MSc Occupational Therapy

Postgraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 60% or equivalent.

English language proficiency:

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 or 7.0 with no individual component below 6.
• TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 100.
• PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 76.
• Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.

Cardiff University offers a range of scholarships to support international students pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate studies. These scholarships are designed to attract high-achieving students from around the world, easing the financial burden and recognizing academic excellence. 

Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship: Cardiff University’s Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship is a merit-based award that provides partial funding for exceptional international undergraduate and postgraduate students. This scholarship rewards high academic achievement and study, making it ideal for students with strong academic backgrounds.

Global Wales Postgraduate Scholarship: This scholarship offers substantial funding to international postgraduate students from certain countries, including the USA, India, Vietnam, and EU nations. The scholarship covers part of the tuition fees and is awarded based on academic merit and potential for success.

Chevening Scholarship: Offered in collaboration with the UK government, the prestigious Chevening Scholarship is available to international students who demonstrate leadership potential and academic excellence. The award covers tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and other allowances, supporting future leaders and influencers in various fields.

Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships: For students from Commonwealth countries, the Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships provide funding for postgraduate students who would otherwise be unable to study in the UK. The scholarship includes full tuition, living expenses, and airfare, ensuring accessibility for students from developing nations.

British Council GREAT Scholarships: Cardiff University partners with the British Council to offer the GREAT Scholarships for students from specific countries, including China, India, Malaysia, and Thailand. These scholarships provide financial assistance for tuition fees and are intended to encourage bright students to pursue postgraduate studies in the UK.

Subject-Specific Scholarships: Certain academic departments at Cardiff University offer additional scholarships tailored to specific fields of study, such as engineering, business, and life sciences. These scholarships provide partial funding and are aimed at attracting talented students to specific programs.

Financial Aid and External Scholarships: In addition to Cardiff University scholarships, students can explore external funding options such as loans, grants, and scholarships provided by their home countries or private organizations. The university’s financial aid office offers guidance to help students find external financial support.

The MSc Occupational Therapy program from Cardiff University offers a broad range of career opportunities across various healthcare settings. With its comprehensive curriculum and strong industry ties, graduates are well-positioned to make a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals and communities, advancing the field of occupational therapy globally.

Occupational Therapist: Graduates of the MSc Occupational Therapy program from Cardiff University are fully equipped to work as occupational therapists in a wide range of healthcare settings. Occupational therapists help individuals of all ages who have physical, mental, or developmental disabilities improve their ability to perform daily activities. These therapists work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, clinics, schools, and community settings to support clients in overcoming barriers to daily functioning.

Pediatric Occupational Therapist: With specialized knowledge in child development and therapy techniques, MSc graduates can pursue careers as pediatric occupational therapists. These professionals work with children who have developmental delays, physical disabilities, or learning difficulties. They design therapeutic interventions to help children engage in daily activities, including schoolwork, play, and social interactions.

Geriatric Occupational Therapist: Graduates can also work with older adults, providing services aimed at improving their quality of life and independence. Geriatric occupational therapists help elderly clients manage age-related physical and cognitive challenges, such as arthritis, dementia, or stroke recovery, through tailored interventions that promote safety and enhance daily living activities.

Mental Health Occupational Therapist: Occupational therapists in mental health work with individuals experiencing mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. Graduates of the MSc Occupational Therapy program can pursue this career path, providing therapeutic interventions that help patients engage in meaningful activities, manage their symptoms, and improve overall well-being.

Rehabilitation Specialist: MSc graduates may also pursue careers in rehabilitation, helping patients recover from injuries, surgeries, or illnesses. Rehabilitation specialists assist patients in regaining independence by designing personalized treatment plans that incorporate physical, cognitive, and emotional healing.

Assistive Technology Specialist: Occupational therapists with an interest in technology may work as assistive technology specialists, helping individuals with disabilities find and use technologies that support independence. These professionals assess the needs of clients and recommend devices or adaptations that assist with mobility, communication, and other activities of daily living.

Health and Social Care Manager: With the advanced knowledge gained from the MSc program, graduates may also pursue leadership roles in health and social care management. These positions involve overseeing occupational therapy services, managing teams, ensuring high-quality care delivery, and coordinating with other healthcare professionals to improve patient outcomes.

Occupational Therapy Researcher: For those interested in academic or clinical research, a career as an occupational therapy researcher is a potential option. Graduates may contribute to the development of new therapy methods, interventions, and treatment techniques by conducting research that explores the effectiveness of occupational therapy practices, leading to innovations that improve patient care.

Educator/Trainer in Occupational Therapy: Graduates with an interest in teaching can pursue careers as educators in the field of occupational therapy. They may teach at universities, colleges, or professional development programs, sharing their expertise and experience with future occupational therapy students or working as trainers in healthcare organizations.

Policy Advisor or Advocate: With a deeper understanding of healthcare systems and patient needs, MSc Occupational Therapy graduates may work in policy-making or advocacy roles, influencing public health policies and ensuring that occupational therapy services are accessible to all who need them. These professionals may collaborate with government agencies or non-governmental organizations to advocate for improved healthcare services for individuals with disabilities.