student standing in front of health clinic

Course snapshot

Domestic snapshot

  • Start Date

    March, October

  • Duration

    4 years full-time; 8 years part-time

  • Location

    Coffs Harbour, Gold Coast

  • Placement

    Yes  Learn more

  • Course abbreviation

    BOccThy

  • Course code

    3007224

  • Credit points

    384

  • Equivalent units

    32

  • Scholarships

  • Indicative fee

Please note, some locations may not have all intake periods available. See the full availability details for further information.

International snapshot

  • Start Date

    February

  • Duration

    4 years full-time

  • Location

    Coffs Harbour, Gold Coast

  • Placement

    Yes  Learn more

Please note, some locations may not have all intake periods available. See the full availability details for further information.

Overview

Do you want a health career that could transform the lives of others by helping them achieve tangible results?

The work of occupational therapists is diverse. They adapt environments, activities or equipment to enhance participation in everyday tasks, assisting people of all ages and abilities to do what they need and want to do at home, work, school and in the community.

You will develop a range of health professional skills in the University’s state-of-the-art facilities and during your professional placement, preparing you for work in diverse health care environments.

As an occupational therapist you can make a difference to the lives of individuals, groups and communities. As examples, you can work with people with disabilities to engage in daily activities that have meaning to their lives, develop inclusive playground experiences and environments for children of all abilities, or you could design home modifications or public transport changes that would ensure access for a person using a power wheelchair. Occupational therapy has been identified as a high job growth area by the Australian Government’s Job Outlook.

Woman getting into a car

“Allied Health is an area where the emotional impact is high, especially in OT, and having empathy with people is vital. I want to make a positive difference for people.”

The Southern Cross Model is a game-changer in higher education study.

Our students now engage in shorter, six-week unit structures designed around immersive and interactive learning experiences. The shorter unit structure gives students a greater sense of momentum as they achieve milestones quickly, resulting in increased student success rates, and course and teacher satisfaction. Lectures are a thing of the past - students will be engaged in active, interactive and discussion-based learning.

On-campus students experience a variety of teaching approaches including lectures, tutorials, online activities and video-linked or podcast virtual classes.

Our online study option is highly interactive and may include a combination of podcast or video-linked lectures, electronic study materials, workshops, online discussion forums and virtual classes.

The method of teaching and assessment may vary from unit to unit.

Learn more

Course Learning Outcomes express learning achievement in terms of what a student should know, understand and be able to do on completion of a course. These outcomes are aligned with the graduate attributes (GA).

Course Learning Outcome

GA1: Intellectual rigour

Effectively implement critical thinking, problem solving, professional reasoning and self-reflection to occupational therapy service provision and evaluation.

Analyse the systemic, interpersonal and personal factors influencing health and disability across diverse communities living in metropolitan, regional and rural areas and create innovative and effective occupational therapy practice.

GA2: Creativity

Demonstrate an occupation-centred, evidence-based and client-centred approach to occupational therapy practice for individuals, groups and communities.

GA3: Ethical practice

Understand and comply with various legislative requirements, guidelines and standards influencing professional practice to ensure ethical application of professional knowledge and skills.

Contribute to collaborative, respectful and ethical interprofessional practice which collectively implements effective client-centred practice.

GA4: Knowledge of a discipline

Demonstrate theoretical and practical knowledge of the person-environment-occupation relationship and the link between occupation and health and wellbeing.

GA5: Lifelong learning

Commit to, and engage in, critical reflection and lifelong learning initiatives to ensure effective contributions to contemporary and future occupational therapy practice.

GA6: Communication and social skills

Communicate professionally and respectfully with professional partners including clients, carers and colleagues using appropriate levels of written and verbal language.

GA7: Cultural competence

Demonstrate cultural safety and inclusive collaborative professional practice that is respectful to all people, nationally and globally, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Work Integrated Learning (WIL) provides opportunities to develop professional skills in a range of settings including aged care, hospitals, community health, disability and mental health services, primary schools, work environments and private practice. Students complete over 1,000 hours in WIL during the course.

Pre-requisites to meet national and state-based regulatory requirements, as detailed on the Faculty of Health Professional Experience page must be met prior to attending professional experience placement. All professional experience learning hours must be completed and professional behaviour and conduct must be demonstrated. Students should expect to travel away from their local area as placements can be located anywhere in Australia. Students are required to support themselves financially (including accommodation, travel and living expenses) during WIL. 

Optional major: Indigenous Health.
This major can be studied at Gold Coast and Coffs Harbour campuses and offers students the opportunity to build theoretical and practical capabilities in cultural protocols and Indigenous ways of knowing and being. Embedded placement opportunities equip graduates with the professional skills required to contribute to the improvement of health and social outcomes in Australian communities.

In order to meet the Australian occupational therapy competency standards this course is structured in accordance with professional body recommendations. All students complete studies in Professional areas and those not completing the Indigenous Health major complete Social Sciences:

Professional Areas: occupational therapy theory and practice; occupational therapy assessments and interventions related to biomechanical, sensorimotor, psychosocial and cognitive performance, activities, engagement and participation at home, at school, at work and in the community; occupational transitions across the lifespan; evaluation of occupational therapy programs; health promotion; and Work Integrated Learning. 

Social Sciences: wellbeing and mental health, interprofessional health care, Indigenous studies, evidence-based practice, and small business and entrepreneurship.

Biological Sciences: anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, and neuroscience.

Location Teaching period
Coffs HarbourTerm  1
Gold CoastTerm  1, Term  5
Location Teaching period Annual Fees CRICOS
Coffs HarbourTerm  1$30,832 ($3,854 per unit)082680C
Gold CoastTerm  1$30,832 ($3,854 per unit)082680C

Tuition fees are in Australian dollars, and are subject to change, including annual increases over the duration of a course. Annual tuition fee is based on completing 8 units per year. In addition students are required to pay OSHC for the duration of their visa in advance. Non-tuition fee covers textbooks, stationery and excursions.

Career Outcomes

Career opportunities as an occupational therapist exist in hospitals, community health, mental health services, schools, work rehabilitation and occupational health and safety in various industries, private practice, early intervention, aged care and a variety of health, education and disability services, including the provision of occupational therapy services under the National Disability Insurance Scheme.

This course is accredited by the Occupational Therapy Council and is approved by the World Federation of Occupational Therapists. Graduates of accredited occupational therapy programs are eligible for national registration.

Graduates are also eligible for membership of Occupational Therapy Australia.

Please note: In order to register to practise, the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency standards for English language must be met.

As an occupational therapy student it is important to be aware of the registration standards required by the Occupational Therapy Board (OTB). See the details on the OTB website.

Students enrolled in the Bachelor of Occupational Therapy will be registered by Southern Cross University with the Occupational Therapy Board as an enrolled student and will remain registered for the duration of study.  Please see the AHPRA website for more details.

The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) is responsible for the registration and accreditation of various health professions in Australia. If you are enrolled in a course to enter one of these professions, we will provide AHPRA with your details for student registration. 
 
You do not need to apply or pay for your student registration. We will provide all the required information to AHPRA directly. You can find more information about AHPRA student registration and what we are required to report to AHPRA on their website.
 
Please be aware that as part of the registration process, AHPRA will collect your personal information (including your USI). AHPRA’s Privacy Policy explains how you may access and seek correction of your personal information held by AHPRA; complain to AHPRA about a breach of your privacy; and how a complaint will be dealt with. AHPRA’s Privacy Policy can be accessed on AHPRA’s Privacy webpage.

Requirements

We encourage you to apply for the courses you most want to study. If you are not eligible to enter your chosen course right now, our team will work with you to find the best pathway option.

Before applying, make sure you double check all entry requirements, gather required documentation and review the University’s Rules Relating to Awards, noting any specifics listed below.

Entry requirements

Applicants must have achieved:

  1. satisfactory completion of at least six years of primary and secondary education taught and assessed in English in one of the Recognised Countries (see below), including at least two years between years 7 and 12; or
  2. completed at least two years (full time equivalent combined secondary and/or tertiary and/or vocational education taught and assessed solely in English, in one of the Recognised Countries; or
  3. the IELTS (academic module) with a minimum overall score of 7 and a minimum score of 7 in each of the four components: or
  4. the OET with a minimum score of B in each of the four components; or
  5. the PTE Academic with a minimum overall score of 65 and a minimum score of 65 in each of the four communicative skills;
  6. the TOEFL iBT with a minimum total score of 94 and the following minimum score in each section of the test: 24 listening, 24 reading, 27 writing, and 23 speaking; or
  7. successful completion of the English for Academic Purposes 3 program at SCU College. Applicants who enrol via this pathway will need to separately meet the English language requirements of registration to practice.

Recognised Countries means the following countries: Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Republic of Ireland, South Africa, UK and USA.

Please note, Rule 2 Schedule B test scores equivalencies do not apply to this course.

In order to register to practice, the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency [AHPRA]’s  standards for English language must be met. See  https://www.ahpra.gov.au/Registration/Registration-Standards/English-language-skills.aspx for further information.

An applicant who has completed a Certificate III qualification will not be admitted solely on the basis of this qualification

Language requirements

English language requirements apply to International applicants and other applicants whose previous study was undertaken in a language other than English. The minimum English language requirements for such applicants for entry to this course are as follows

CategoryScore
Overall Score7.0
Reading7.0
Writing7.0
Listening7.0
Speaking7.0

CountryScore
Austria AMC3.1
Bangladesh HSC4
Brazil SSLC8.8
Canada High School OSSD70
Chile PSU6.3, overall 700-749
China Gao Kao500
Colombia CB (NAT)82, overall 350-400
Denmark USSLE6.6
France FB11.5
German Abitur2.9
Hong Kong HKDSE15
India CBSE (best 4)10.0 external exam
India CISCE77
India Higher Secondary School Certificate (best 4)80 in academic
Indonesia SMA8.8
International Baccalaureate26
Japan USSLC4.3
Korea, Republic of, CSAT303
Malaysia ICSSUEC74
Malaysia STPM6 (best 3 A levels)
Nepal Higher Secondary Education Certificate80
Nepal Proficiency Certificate88
Norway GPA3.6
Pakistan HSSC Humanities and Science streams83
Pakistan HSSC Pre-Eng and Pre-Med streams60
Papua New Guinea HSC (best 5)3.0 pass Eng & Math
Peru OCSE17.8
Phillipines NSAT92
Russia FCCSE4.5
Saudi Arabia MESSLC88
Singapore SCGCE16.5
Spain SSSD8.8
Spain STBPU7.8
Sri Lanka GCE5
Sweden SSLC13.6
Taiwan GSAT57
Taiwan Senior High School Certificate90
Thailand CSE(Matayom 6) 2.2
Turkey HSD4.3
UK Board GCE A Levels14 (4 subjects)
USA SAT & ACTSAT 1460, ACT 21
Vietnam (in 4 subjects)8.8 in academic

Course requirements

To be eligible to receive the Bachelor of Occupational Therapy, students must complete the equivalent of 32 units (384 credit points), comprising:

  • 22 core units (288 credit points); and
  • 1 major (96 credit points).


Professional Experience Learning

This course includes professional experience learning. Pre-requisites to meet national and state-based regulatory requirements, as detailed on Faculty of Health Professional Experience page must be met prior to attending professional experience placement. All professional experience learning hours must be completed and professional behaviour and conduct must be demonstrated. Students will likely have to travel away from their local area and placements may be located anywhere in Australia. Students are required to support themselves financially (including accommodation, travel and living expenses) during placements.


Progression

Students are not permitted to have an extended period of more than 24 months between study of any two (2) units with professional experience learning.

Students are not permitted to have an extended period of more than 24 months between study of a theory unit that relates specifically to a particular unit with professional experience learning.

Students who have an interrupted study sequence of more than 24 months will be assessed on a case-by-case basis and may be required to undertake a specified supported professional experience placement to ensure professional experience currency prior to continuation of the course.


Inherent Requirements

Inherent Requirements apply to this course as defined on the Student Equity and Inclusion website. Students who have a disability or health condition which may impact on their ability to meet these requirements are encouraged to visit the Student Equity and Inclusion website for further information and contact details.

Other things to consider

As part of our commitment to admissions transparency, the University provides a snapshot of how students were admitted to their courses and the profile of students studying with us here.

There are different pathways into an undergraduate degree.

Whether you are returning to study after some time or you have just finished school and you need some extra academic preparation before embarking on a degree, Southern Cross University offers two excellent, fee-free academic preparation programs that develop the skills you need to be successful at university.

SCU College also offers a range of one-year Diplomas that provide extra academic support as you commence university. Diplomas are a great pathway to a degree and may also prepare you for diverse paraprofessional roles.

Learn more

Credit for Prior Learning, also referred to as ‘Advanced Standing’ or Recognition for Prior Learning (RPL), is the process of looking at your prior study and/or experience to assess if you can be awarded academic credit or gain entry to a course on the basis of your existing knowledge and skills.

Learn more

The Early Offer program allows Year 12 students to secure a place in a Southern Cross University undergraduate degree before Year 12 results are released. It’s designed to remove some of the pressure from Year 12 and provide a pathway directly into university study that is not based solely on Year 12 results.

Learn more


Course structure

Your course progression is in the recommended order you should complete your course in. It is important that you follow this to ensure you meet the course requirements. For further assistance see How to Enrol in Units using My Enrolment.

Students should use course progression information to select units specific to their course and enrol in these units using My Enrolment.

Current Students should select their units by checking the Handbook for the year of their enrolment as these may be different.

View Student Handbook

Unit CodeUnit TitleAvailableCredit pointsNotes

Complete units in the following order to satisfy the Requirements of the Award

First Year

OCCU1001Introduction to Occupational Therapy and Human Occupations
Term1
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Coffs Harbour
Term1
Term1
Gold Coast
Term1
Term1
Enrolment informationPlease note this unit has assessments scheduled in Week 7 which will require attendance on-campus. Details will be provided closer to the time.
HLTH1006Foundations of Interprofessional Health Practice
Term1,5
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Coffs Harbour
Term1,5
Term1,5
Gold Coast
Term1,5
Term1,5
Lismore
Term1,5
Term1,5
HBIO1009Introductory Anatomy and Physiology
Term2,3,5
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Coffs Harbour
Term2,3,5
Term2,3,5
Gold Coast
Term2,3,5
Term2,3,5
Lismore
Term2,3,5
Term2,3,5
Enrolment informationPlease note this unit has assessments scheduled in Week 7. Details will be provided closer to the time.
OCCU2005Lifespan Development and Occupational Transitions
Term2
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Coffs Harbour
Term2
Term2
Gold Coast
Term2
Term2
Pre-requisitesOCCU1001 - Introduction to Occupational Therapy and Human Occupations
HBIO1010Integrated Anatomy and Physiology
Summer Term
Term3
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Coffs Harbour
Summer Term
Term3
Summer Term
Term3
Gold Coast
Summer Term
Term3
Summer Term
Term3
Lismore
Summer Term
Term3
Summer Term
Term3
Pre-requisitesHBIO1001 - Human Anatomy AND HBIO1007 - Human Physiology I; OR HBIO1009 - Introductory Anatomy and Physiology
HLTH1005Understanding Wellbeing and Mental Health
Term3,4
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Coffs Harbour
Term3,4
Term3,4
Gold Coast
Term3,4
Term3,4
Lismore
Term3,4
Term3,4
Online
Term3,4
Term3,4
Enrolment informationThis unit contains content on mental health and psychological trauma which may be triggering for some students. Please consider this when enrolling in the unit.
INDG2001Health and Indigenous Australian Peoples
Term2,4
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Gold Coast
Term2,4
Term2,4
Lismore
Term2,4
Term2,4
Online
Term2,4
Term2,4
STAT2001Foundations of Evidence for Health Science Practitioners
Term1,4
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Coffs Harbour
Term1,4
Term1,4
Gold Coast
Term1,4
Term1,4
Lismore
Term1,4
Term1,4
Online
Term1
Term1
Pre-requisites36 credit points

Second Year

OCCU2013Occupational Therapy Theory and Practice
Term1
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Coffs Harbour
Term1
Term1
Gold Coast
Term1
Term1
Pre-requisitesOCCU1001 - Introduction to Occupational Therapy and Human Occupations
Enrolment informationPlease note this unit has assessments scheduled in Week 7 which will require attendance on-campus. Details will be provided closer to the time.
OCCU1002Personal Care Occupations
Term1
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Coffs Harbour
Term1
Term1
Gold Coast
Term1
Term1
Pre-requisitesOCCU1001 - Introduction to Occupational Therapy and Human Occupations
OCCU2004Musculoskeletal and Reduced Energy Assessments and Interventions
Term2
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Coffs Harbour
Term2
Term2
Gold Coast
Term2
Term2
Pre-requisitesOCCU2013 - Occupational Therapy Theory and Practice OR OCCU3001 - Occupational Therapy Theory and Practice; AND HBIO1010 - Integrated Anatomy and Physiology; OR HBIO1001 - Human Anatomy AND HBIO1007 - Human Physiology I
Enrolment informationPlease note this unit has assessments scheduled in Week 7 which will require attendance on-campus. Details will be provided closer to the time.
HBIO2003Functional Kinesiology of the Upper Limbs and Trunk
Term2
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Coffs Harbour
Term2
Term2
Gold Coast
Term2
Term2
Pre-requisitesHave completed or be enrolled in OCCU2004 - Musculoskeletal and Reduced Energy Assessments and Interventions
OCCU2006Home and Community Occupations
Term3
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Coffs Harbour
Term3
Term3
Gold Coast
Term3
Term3
Pre-requisitesOCCU2013 - Occupational Therapy Theory and Practice AND OCCU1002 - Personal Care Occupations
OCCU2002Sensory Motor Assessments and Interventions
Term3
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Coffs Harbour
Term3
Term3
Gold Coast
Term3
Term3
Pre-requisitesOCCU2013 - Occupational Therapy Theory and Practice OR OCCU3001 - Occupational Therapy Theory and Practice; AND OCCU2004 - Musculoskeletal and Reduced Energy Assessments and Interventions
Enrolment informationPlease note this unit has assessments scheduled in Week 7 which will require attendance on-campus. Details will be provided closer to the time.
OCCU2003Learning and Applying Knowledge for Individuals and Groups
Term4
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Coffs Harbour
Term4
Term4
Gold Coast
Term4
Term4
Pre-requisitesOCCU2005 - Lifespan Development and Occupational Transitions
OCCU2014Work Integrated Learning in Occupational Therapy I
Term4
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Coffs Harbour
Term4
Term4
Gold Coast
Term4
Term4
Pre-requisitesOCCU2005 - Lifespan Development and Occupational Transitions AND OCCU2006 - Home and Community Occupations AND OCCU2002 - Sensory Motor Assessments and Interventions; AND HLTH1006 - Foundations of Interprofessional Health Practice OR PBHL1001 - The Australian Health Care System
Enrolment informationPlease note this unit has assessments scheduled in Week 7 which will require attendance on-campus. Details will be provided closer to the time.

Third Year

Gnibi Elective Unit
OCCU2009Education, Leisure and Play Occupations
Term1
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Coffs Harbour
Term1
Term1
Gold Coast
Term1
Term1
Pre-requisitesOCCU2002 - Sensory Motor Assessments and Interventions AND OCCU2005 - Lifespan Development and Occupational Transitions
OCCU2008Cognition Assessments and Interventions
Term2
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Coffs Harbour
Term2
Term2
Gold Coast
Term2
Term2
Pre-requisitesOCCU2014 - Work Integrated Learning in Occupational Therapy I OR OCCU2012 - Clinical Reasoning in Professional Experience Learning; AND OCCU2003 - Learning and Applying Knowledge for Individuals and Groups
OCCU2011Psychosocial Assessments and Interventions
Term2
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Coffs Harbour
Term2
Term2
Gold Coast
Term2
Term2
Pre-requisitesOCCU2003 - Learning and Applying Knowledge for Individuals and Groups AND HLTH1005 - Understanding Wellbeing and Mental Health OR PSYC1003 - Psychology and Sociology for Health Sciences
Enrolment informationPlease note this unit has assessments scheduled in Week 7 which will require attendance on-campus. Details will be provided closer to the time.
OCCU2010Work and Employment Occupations
Term3
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Coffs Harbour
Term3
Term3
Gold Coast
Term3
Term3
Pre-requisitesOCCU2014 - Work Integrated Learning in Occupational Therapy I OR OCCU2012 - Clinical Reasoning in Professional Experience Learning; AND OCCU2004 - Musculoskeletal and Reduced Energy Assessments and Interventions
HLTH1003Small Business and Entrepreneurship for Allied Health, Fitness and Sport
Term3,5
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Online
Term3,5
Term3,5
OCCU2015Work Integrated Learning in Occupational Therapy II
Dual Term4
24 Note 1
LocationDomesticInternational
Coffs Harbour
Dual Term4
Dual Term4
Gold Coast
Dual Term4
Dual Term4
Pre-requisitesOCCU2014 - Work Integrated Learning in Occupational Therapy I OR OCCU2012 - Clinical Reasoning in Professional Experience Learning; AND OCCU2008 - Cognition Assessments and Interventions AND OCCU2011 - Psychosocial Assessments and Interventions AND OCCU2009 - Education, Leisure and Play Occupations AND OCCU2010 - Work and Employment Occupations
Enrolment informationThis unit is double-weighted and includes placement. Students should not enrol in any other units at the same time. This unit contains Work Integrated Learning (WIL) activities that require students to meet mandatory fit to practice obligations prior to attending. Failure to comply by the fit to practice deadline will result in the cancellation of your WIL activity. Full details are available at www.scu.edu.au/healthplacements.

Fourth Year

OCCU3002Evaluation of Occupational Therapy Programs
Summer Term
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Coffs Harbour
Summer Term
Summer Term
Gold Coast
Summer Term
Summer Term
Pre-requisitesSTAT2001 - Foundations of Evidence for Health Science Practitioners AND; OCCU2015 - Work Integrated Learning in Occupational Therapy II
HLTH3004Transition to Practice
Summer Term
Term2
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Coffs Harbour
Summer Term
Term2
Summer Term
Term2
Gold Coast
Summer Term
Term2
Summer Term
Term2
Lismore
Summer Term
Term2
Summer Term
Term2
Pre-requisitesStudents must complete 192 credit points in 3007229 - Bachelor of Midwifery OR 3005105 - Bachelor of Nursing OR 3007303 - Bachelor of Nursing OR 3005113 - Bachelor of Sport and Exercise Science; OR Students must complete 192 credit points in 3007012 - Bachelor of Clinical Exercise Physiology AND must have completed or be currently enrolled in SPRT3001 - Professional Preparation; OR Students must complete 288 CP in 3007306 - Bachelor of Speech Pathology OR 3007224 - Bachelor of Occupational Therapy OR 3007308 - Bachelor of Podiatry; OR Students must complete 120 CP in 1209320 - Master of Nursing (Graduate Entry)
Enrolment informationThis unit must be done in the final year except for Bachelor of Clinical Exercise Physiology students who should complete it in Year 3.
OCCU3003Work Integrated Learning in Occupational Therapy III
Dual Term2,3
36 Note 2
LocationDomesticInternational
Coffs Harbour
Dual Term2
Dual Term2
Gold Coast
Dual Term2,3
Dual Term2,3
Pre-requisitesOCCU2015 - Work Integrated Learning in Occupational Therapy II OR OCCU2007 - Regional Rural Remote Fieldwork
Enrolment informationThis unit is triple-weighted and includes placement. Students should not enrol in any other units at the same time. This unit contains Work Integrated Learning (WIL) activities that require students to meet mandatory fit to practice obligations prior to attending. Failure to comply by the fit to practice deadline will result in the cancellation of your WIL activity. Full details are available at www.scu.edu.au/healthplacements. Students will likely have to travel away from their local area and placements are located anywhere in Australia. Students are required to support themselves financially (including accommodation, travel and living expenses) during placements.
PBHL2002Health Promotion
Term3
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Coffs Harbour
Term3
Term3
Gold Coast
Term3
Term3
Pre-requisites288 credit points in 3007224 - Bachelor of Occupational Therapy OR 3007306 - Bachelor of Speech Pathology; OR 192 credit points in any other course
Enrolment informationIt is recommended that students who need to complete both PBHL2002 Health Promotion and PBHL3001 Health Promotion Project as part of their course, enrol in both units in the same year.
HLTH3005Interprofessional Health Practice
Term2,3
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Coffs Harbour
Term2,3
Term2,3
Gold Coast
Term2,3
Term2,3
Lismore
Term2,3
Term2,3
Pre-requisitesBe admitted to course: 3007308 - Bachelor of Podiatry AND PODR2014 - Work Integrated Learning in Podiatry III ORREHB2002 - Clinics in Multimodal Intervention: Internal; OR be admitted to course: 3207309 - Bachelor of Podiatry, Bachelor of Pedorthics AND PODR2014 - Work Integrated Learning in Podiatry III; OR be admitted to course: 3007229 - Bachelor of Midwifery AND MIDW3006 - Midwifery Practice: Mentorship A; OR be admitted to course: 3005105 - Bachelor of Nursing AND NURS3007 - Nursing Practices 2; OR be admitted to course: 3007303 - Bachelor of Nursing AND NURS3007 - Nursing Practices 2; OR be admitted to course: 1209320 - Master of Nursing (Graduate Entry) AND NURS6001 - Clinical Nursing II; OR have completed 288 credit points in either 3007224 - Bachelor of Occupational Therapy OR 3007012 - Bachelor of Clinical Exercise Physiology
PBHL3001Health Promotion Project
Term4
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Online
Term4
Term4
Pre-requisitesPBHL2002 - Health Promotion OR PBHL1002 - Health Promotion and Wellness
Enrolment informationPlease note this unit has assessments scheduled in Week 7 which will require attendance on-campus. Details will be provided closer to the time. This unit contains Work Integrated Learning (WIL) activities that require students to meet mandatory fit to practice obligations prior to attending. Failure to comply by the fit to practice deadline will result in the cancellation of your WIL activity. Full details are available at www.scu.edu.au/healthplacements.

Unit CodeUnit TitleAvailableCredit pointsNotes

Complete units in the following order to satisfy the Requirements of the Award

First Year

OCCU1001Introduction to Occupational Therapy and Human Occupations
Term1
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Coffs Harbour
Term1
Term1
Gold Coast
Term1
Term1
Enrolment informationPlease note this unit has assessments scheduled in Week 7 which will require attendance on-campus. Details will be provided closer to the time.
HLTH1006Foundations of Interprofessional Health Practice
Term1,5
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Coffs Harbour
Term1,5
Term1,5
Gold Coast
Term1,5
Term1,5
Lismore
Term1,5
Term1,5
HBIO1009Introductory Anatomy and Physiology
Term2,3,5
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Coffs Harbour
Term2,3,5
Term2,3,5
Gold Coast
Term2,3,5
Term2,3,5
Lismore
Term2,3,5
Term2,3,5
Enrolment informationPlease note this unit has assessments scheduled in Week 7. Details will be provided closer to the time.
OCCU2005Lifespan Development and Occupational Transitions
Term2
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Coffs Harbour
Term2
Term2
Gold Coast
Term2
Term2
Pre-requisitesOCCU1001 - Introduction to Occupational Therapy and Human Occupations
HBIO1010Integrated Anatomy and Physiology
Summer Term
Term3
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Coffs Harbour
Summer Term
Term3
Summer Term
Term3
Gold Coast
Summer Term
Term3
Summer Term
Term3
Lismore
Summer Term
Term3
Summer Term
Term3
Pre-requisitesHBIO1001 - Human Anatomy AND HBIO1007 - Human Physiology I; OR HBIO1009 - Introductory Anatomy and Physiology
HLTH1005Understanding Wellbeing and Mental Health
Term3,4
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Coffs Harbour
Term3,4
Term3,4
Gold Coast
Term3,4
Term3,4
Lismore
Term3,4
Term3,4
Online
Term3,4
Term3,4
Enrolment informationThis unit contains content on mental health and psychological trauma which may be triggering for some students. Please consider this when enrolling in the unit.
INDG2001Health and Indigenous Australian Peoples
Term2,4
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Gold Coast
Term2,4
Term2,4
Lismore
Term2,4
Term2,4
Online
Term2,4
Term2,4
STAT2001Foundations of Evidence for Health Science Practitioners
Term1,4
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Coffs Harbour
Term1,4
Term1,4
Gold Coast
Term1,4
Term1,4
Lismore
Term1,4
Term1,4
Online
Term1
Term1
Pre-requisites36 credit points

Second Year

OCCU2013Occupational Therapy Theory and Practice
Term1
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Coffs Harbour
Term1
Term1
Gold Coast
Term1
Term1
Pre-requisitesOCCU1001 - Introduction to Occupational Therapy and Human Occupations
Enrolment informationPlease note this unit has assessments scheduled in Week 7 which will require attendance on-campus. Details will be provided closer to the time.
OCCU1002Personal Care Occupations
Term1
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Coffs Harbour
Term1
Term1
Gold Coast
Term1
Term1
Pre-requisitesOCCU1001 - Introduction to Occupational Therapy and Human Occupations
OCCU2004Musculoskeletal and Reduced Energy Assessments and Interventions
Term2
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Coffs Harbour
Term2
Term2
Gold Coast
Term2
Term2
Pre-requisitesOCCU2013 - Occupational Therapy Theory and Practice OR OCCU3001 - Occupational Therapy Theory and Practice; AND HBIO1010 - Integrated Anatomy and Physiology; OR HBIO1001 - Human Anatomy AND HBIO1007 - Human Physiology I
Enrolment informationPlease note this unit has assessments scheduled in Week 7 which will require attendance on-campus. Details will be provided closer to the time.
INDG2005Working with Aboriginal Communities I (Professional Engagement)
Term2
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Online
Term2
N/A
Enrolment informationThis unit has a compulsory 5-day residential for internal and online students at the Lismore campus.
OCCU2006Home and Community Occupations
Term3
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Coffs Harbour
Term3
Term3
Gold Coast
Term3
Term3
Pre-requisitesOCCU2013 - Occupational Therapy Theory and Practice AND OCCU1002 - Personal Care Occupations
OCCU2002Sensory Motor Assessments and Interventions
Term3
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Coffs Harbour
Term3
Term3
Gold Coast
Term3
Term3
Pre-requisitesOCCU2013 - Occupational Therapy Theory and Practice OR OCCU3001 - Occupational Therapy Theory and Practice; AND OCCU2004 - Musculoskeletal and Reduced Energy Assessments and Interventions
Enrolment informationPlease note this unit has assessments scheduled in Week 7 which will require attendance on-campus. Details will be provided closer to the time.
OCCU2003Learning and Applying Knowledge for Individuals and Groups
Term4
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Coffs Harbour
Term4
Term4
Gold Coast
Term4
Term4
Pre-requisitesOCCU2005 - Lifespan Development and Occupational Transitions
OCCU2014Work Integrated Learning in Occupational Therapy I
Term4
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Coffs Harbour
Term4
Term4
Gold Coast
Term4
Term4
Pre-requisitesOCCU2005 - Lifespan Development and Occupational Transitions AND OCCU2006 - Home and Community Occupations AND OCCU2002 - Sensory Motor Assessments and Interventions; AND HLTH1006 - Foundations of Interprofessional Health Practice OR PBHL1001 - The Australian Health Care System
Enrolment informationPlease note this unit has assessments scheduled in Week 7 which will require attendance on-campus. Details will be provided closer to the time.

Third Year

INDG1010Trauma and Resilience I
Term1
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Online
Term1
Term1
OCCU2009Education, Leisure and Play Occupations
Term1
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Coffs Harbour
Term1
Term1
Gold Coast
Term1
Term1
Pre-requisitesOCCU2002 - Sensory Motor Assessments and Interventions AND OCCU2005 - Lifespan Development and Occupational Transitions
OCCU2008Cognition Assessments and Interventions
Term2
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Coffs Harbour
Term2
Term2
Gold Coast
Term2
Term2
Pre-requisitesOCCU2014 - Work Integrated Learning in Occupational Therapy I OR OCCU2012 - Clinical Reasoning in Professional Experience Learning; AND OCCU2003 - Learning and Applying Knowledge for Individuals and Groups
OCCU2011Psychosocial Assessments and Interventions
Term2
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Coffs Harbour
Term2
Term2
Gold Coast
Term2
Term2
Pre-requisitesOCCU2003 - Learning and Applying Knowledge for Individuals and Groups AND HLTH1005 - Understanding Wellbeing and Mental Health OR PSYC1003 - Psychology and Sociology for Health Sciences
Enrolment informationPlease note this unit has assessments scheduled in Week 7 which will require attendance on-campus. Details will be provided closer to the time.
OCCU2010Work and Employment Occupations
Term3
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Coffs Harbour
Term3
Term3
Gold Coast
Term3
Term3
Pre-requisitesOCCU2014 - Work Integrated Learning in Occupational Therapy I OR OCCU2012 - Clinical Reasoning in Professional Experience Learning; AND OCCU2004 - Musculoskeletal and Reduced Energy Assessments and Interventions
INDG2011Aboriginal Social Realities
Term3
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Online
Term3
N/A
OCCU2015Work Integrated Learning in Occupational Therapy II
Dual Term4
24 Note 1
LocationDomesticInternational
Coffs Harbour
Dual Term4
Dual Term4
Gold Coast
Dual Term4
Dual Term4
Pre-requisitesOCCU2014 - Work Integrated Learning in Occupational Therapy I OR OCCU2012 - Clinical Reasoning in Professional Experience Learning; AND OCCU2008 - Cognition Assessments and Interventions AND OCCU2011 - Psychosocial Assessments and Interventions AND OCCU2009 - Education, Leisure and Play Occupations AND OCCU2010 - Work and Employment Occupations
Enrolment informationThis unit is double-weighted and includes placement. Students should not enrol in any other units at the same time. This unit contains Work Integrated Learning (WIL) activities that require students to meet mandatory fit to practice obligations prior to attending. Failure to comply by the fit to practice deadline will result in the cancellation of your WIL activity. Full details are available at www.scu.edu.au/healthplacements.

Fourth Year

OCCU3002Evaluation of Occupational Therapy Programs
Summer Term
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Coffs Harbour
Summer Term
Summer Term
Gold Coast
Summer Term
Summer Term
Pre-requisitesSTAT2001 - Foundations of Evidence for Health Science Practitioners AND; OCCU2015 - Work Integrated Learning in Occupational Therapy II
HLTH3004Transition to Practice
Summer Term
Term2
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Coffs Harbour
Summer Term
Term2
Summer Term
Term2
Gold Coast
Summer Term
Term2
Summer Term
Term2
Lismore
Summer Term
Term2
Summer Term
Term2
Pre-requisitesStudents must complete 192 credit points in 3007229 - Bachelor of Midwifery OR 3005105 - Bachelor of Nursing OR 3007303 - Bachelor of Nursing OR 3005113 - Bachelor of Sport and Exercise Science; OR Students must complete 192 credit points in 3007012 - Bachelor of Clinical Exercise Physiology AND must have completed or be currently enrolled in SPRT3001 - Professional Preparation; OR Students must complete 288 CP in 3007306 - Bachelor of Speech Pathology OR 3007224 - Bachelor of Occupational Therapy OR 3007308 - Bachelor of Podiatry; OR Students must complete 120 CP in 1209320 - Master of Nursing (Graduate Entry)
Enrolment informationThis unit must be done in the final year except for Bachelor of Clinical Exercise Physiology students who should complete it in Year 3.
OCCU3003Work Integrated Learning in Occupational Therapy III
Dual Term2,3
36 Note 2
LocationDomesticInternational
Coffs Harbour
Dual Term2
Dual Term2
Gold Coast
Dual Term2,3
Dual Term2,3
Pre-requisitesOCCU2015 - Work Integrated Learning in Occupational Therapy II OR OCCU2007 - Regional Rural Remote Fieldwork
Enrolment informationThis unit is triple-weighted and includes placement. Students should not enrol in any other units at the same time. This unit contains Work Integrated Learning (WIL) activities that require students to meet mandatory fit to practice obligations prior to attending. Failure to comply by the fit to practice deadline will result in the cancellation of your WIL activity. Full details are available at www.scu.edu.au/healthplacements. Students will likely have to travel away from their local area and placements are located anywhere in Australia. Students are required to support themselves financially (including accommodation, travel and living expenses) during placements.
PBHL2002Health Promotion
Term3
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Coffs Harbour
Term3
Term3
Gold Coast
Term3
Term3
Pre-requisites288 credit points in 3007224 - Bachelor of Occupational Therapy OR 3007306 - Bachelor of Speech Pathology; OR 192 credit points in any other course
Enrolment informationIt is recommended that students who need to complete both PBHL2002 Health Promotion and PBHL3001 Health Promotion Project as part of their course, enrol in both units in the same year.
INDG3001 -  Caring for Country OR INDG2008 -  Racism and Eugenics
PBHL3001Health Promotion Project
Term4
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Online
Term4
Term4
Pre-requisitesPBHL2002 - Health Promotion OR PBHL1002 - Health Promotion and Wellness
Enrolment informationPlease note this unit has assessments scheduled in Week 7 which will require attendance on-campus. Details will be provided closer to the time. This unit contains Work Integrated Learning (WIL) activities that require students to meet mandatory fit to practice obligations prior to attending. Failure to comply by the fit to practice deadline will result in the cancellation of your WIL activity. Full details are available at www.scu.edu.au/healthplacements.


Note 1:

Double-weighted Unit

Note 2:

Triple-weighted Unit

Unit CodeUnit TitleNotes
Core Units
OCCU1001Introduction to Occupational Therapy and Human Occupations
HLTH1005Understanding Wellbeing and Mental Health
HLTH1006Foundations of Interprofessional Health Practice
HBIO1009Introductory Anatomy and Physiology
OCCU1002Personal Care Occupations
HBIO1010Integrated Anatomy and Physiology
STAT2001Foundations of Evidence for Health Science Practitioners
OCCU2013Occupational Therapy Theory and Practice
OCCU2005Lifespan Development and Occupational Transitions
OCCU2004Musculoskeletal and Reduced Energy Assessments and Interventions
OCCU2006Home and Community Occupations
OCCU2002Sensory Motor Assessments and Interventions
OCCU2003Learning and Applying Knowledge for Individuals and Groups
OCCU2014Work Integrated Learning in Occupational Therapy I
OCCU2008Cognition Assessments and Interventions
OCCU2009Education, Leisure and Play Occupations
OCCU2010Work and Employment Occupations
OCCU2011Psychosocial Assessments and Interventions
OCCU3003Work Integrated Learning in Occupational Therapy III Note 2
OCCU3002Evaluation of Occupational Therapy Programs
HLTH3004Transition to Practice
PBHL2002Health Promotion
Majors

Unit CodeUnit TitleNotes
INDG2001Health and Indigenous Australian Peoples
HLTH3005Interprofessional Health Practice
OCCU2015Work Integrated Learning in Occupational Therapy II Note 1
HBIO2003Functional Kinesiology of the Upper Limbs and Trunk
Elective unit - any unit from Gnibi College of Indigenous Australian Peoples
HLTH1003Small Business and Entrepreneurship for Allied Health, Fitness and Sport
PBHL3001Health Promotion Project

Unit CodeUnit TitleNotes
INDG2001Health and Indigenous Australian Peoples
INDG2005Working with Aboriginal Communities I (Professional Engagement)
OCCU2015Work Integrated Learning in Occupational Therapy II Note 1
INDG2011Aboriginal Social Realities
INDG1010Trauma and Resilience I
PBHL3001Health Promotion Project
Plus one of:
INDG3001Caring for Country
INDG2008Racism and Eugenics

Why Health at SCU

One of the best clinical lab facilities in Australia

Health Clinics on-campus provide safe and supervised environments for practicums

5-star health ratings

We are 5-star rated in psychology, nursing and health services and support

(GUG 2023)

Graduates in very high demand

Health graduates in very high demand as Health Care and Social Assistance is Australia's largest and fastest growing industry

Fees and Scholarships

Domestic students

You are a domestic student if you are an Australian citizen or permanent resident, New Zealand citizen, or Australian humanitarian visa holder. Your course will either be a Commonwealth Supported Place or a full fee-paying place. This is noted in the course snapshot.

Commonwealth Supported Places:

In a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP), the Government pays some of your fees and you pay the rest as the Student Contribution Amount (SCA).

SCA is calculated per unit, not per course. Eligible students can defer the SCA through a HECS-HELP loan.

Full Fee-Paying Places:

A full fee-paying place is where you pay the full (unsubsidised) tuition fee for your course. Eligible students can defer the payment of their tuition fees through the FEE-HELP scheme (including employer-reserved places for The Hotel School courses).

Also known as SSAF, the Student Services and Amenities Fee is a compulsory fee for most students used to provide important services and amenities to students both on and off campus. It’s charged per unit, based on the unit’s credit point value. Eligible domestic students have the option of deferring this fee through the SA-HELP loan scheme. More about SSAF

Depending on your course, your costs could also include computer equipment and software, books, stationery, field trips, uniforms or other course-specific expenses such as art materials, musical equipment or travel for practicums, internships, vaccinations or industry experience.

Scholarships vary in amount, from a few hundred to several thousand dollars each year. Eligibility isn't limited to top-performing students or those facing financial challenges; there are opportunities for individuals from diverse backgrounds and with different accomplishments. This ensures that education remains accessible to all, changing lives and helping individuals achieve their goals for a brighter future.

More about scholarships

Further fee information

Fees and Scholarships

International Students

If you're an international student, you can find the annual course cost in Australian dollars (AUD$) on our International Courses and Fees page or on the web page for your course under fees.

Also known as SSAF, the Student Services and Amenities Fee is a compulsory fee for most students used to provide important services and amenities to students both on and off campus. It’s charged per unit, based on the unit’s credit point value. Eligible domestic students have the option of deferring this fee through the SA-HELP loan scheme. More about SSAF

Depending on your course, your costs could also include computer equipment and software, books, stationery, field trips, uniforms or other course-specific expenses such as art materials, musical equipment or travel for practicums, internships, vaccinations or industry experience.

Southern Cross University offers a range of scholarships designed to support you while you study, available for a variety of backgrounds and achievements. Scholarships range from a few hundred dollars a year to several thousand dollars a year. Southern Cross has also introduced Access25, a new initiative for 2025 to deliver a quality education combined with a straightforward tuition model, ensuring every international student has equal access.

More about scholarships

Further fee information

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Dates for the diary

Our shorter, more focused six-week unit structure gives students a greater sense of momentum and motivation as they achieve milestones quickly. Application dates per Term are shown on each course page however refer to our key dates and teaching calendar for detail on when enrolment opens, studies commence and when grades are published. There are also Dual Term and Tri Term calendars for those who have specific subjects.

See key dates

Credit Transfer

Get a head start on your degree. Find out if you’re eligible for credit from previous studies.

Go to credit assessor

Entry Pathway

We believe in equal access to further education, so we offer a range of pathways to university.

Find a pathway