La Trobe - Occupational Therapy

Studying Occupational Therapy at La Trobe

Help people maximise their quality of life and reach their full potential with La Trobe's Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours).

Discover the science behind human activity and get the know-how to conduct evidence-based occupational therapy assessments and interventions for people of all ages and backgrounds.  This 4-year course ensures students learn with a combination of face-to-face tutorials and workshops, online learning and hands-on experience, including 1,000 hours of professional placements. By studying La Trobe's Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours), students will:

• gain essential knowledge in occupational science, anatomy, physiology and psychology
• uncover the best treatment options for people with special needs and chronic conditions
• understand cultural identity and responsiveness in relation to health and wellbeing, including First Nations' perspectives
• apply their learning with individuals and families and collaborate with employers, policymakers and other health professionals
• build skills in both qualitative and quantitative research design, then pursue an applied research project or industry-based thesis in their embedded Honours year
• graduate eligible to apply for registration with the Occupational Therapy Board of Australia (OTBA).

The VCE entry requirements are Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 30 in English (EAL) or at least 25 in English other than EAL.  The ATAR for 2026 entry was 85.60 (Bundoora Campus) and 75.90 (Bendigo Campus).  

Students who do not meet the abovementioned prerequisite study scores or ATAR may wish to consider the Bachelor of Health Sciences (Allied health major) as a possible pathway option.  

Students with the highest Weighted Average Mark (WAM) will be eligible to apply to transfer into the Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours). 

Students should note that this pathway is very competitive with only 5 – 10 students successful each year.