Occupational Therapy (Hons) 

Overview

Occupational therapists work with all age groups starting from birth and continuing to old-age, and in all the different health care areas which can be as diverse as hand-injury clinics, schools and the mental health sector. Intervention is aimed to restore the best possible performance and participation in “occupations”, a term which, from the occupational therapy perspective, refers to activities of everyday life which are valued and given meaning by individuals and their culture. Very broadly occupations fall under the categories of work, self-care, education and leisure.

Intervention relies on a comprehensive assessment which helps to establish the baseline capabilities of the client. Information concerning physical abilities, perceptual, cognitive, psychosocial functioning, environmental aspects and occupational history, is evaluated to enable the therapist to draw up a comprehensive treatment plan.

Occupational therapy intervention may aim to improve the function of the components involved in the carrying out of occupations such as strength, movement, coordination, endurance, perception and memory; or modify the skills involved in the carrying out of such occupations. Clients may also be guided to adapt their habits, routines and lifestyles in order to help accommodate their level of function. Education of the family, carers or co-workers also forms part of the occupational therapist's job. Another important contribution is the modification of the environment which may involve adjustments to the home, work-place, school or even the community to allow individuals with disabilities to function optimally in their immediate surroundings.

Career opportunities and access to further studies

This Occupational Therapy (Hons) programme from University of Malta  prepares occupational therapists for registration with the Council of Professions Complementary to Medicine and entry to the occupational therapy profession. Graduates of this programme are also eligible to register with professional bodies within EU member States. Furthermore, the programme of studies in recognised by the World Federation of Occupational Therapists.