Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours) (CRICOS course code 001132B) is a Bachelor Honours Degree delivered by The University of Newcastle (UoN) over 4 years. This AQF Level 8 program in the field of Rehabilitation Therapies (061703) prepares students to become accredited occupational therapists, eligible for registration with the Occupational Therapy Board of Australia. Delivered at UoN's Callaghan campus in Newcastle, NSW, the course combines theoretical study with 30 weeks of supervised professional practice. All listed providers are CRICOS-registered with the Australian Government; data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026. HeadStart Academy is a free resource covering 26,433 courses across all study levels and states — no commission, no referral fees.
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Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours) (CRICOS course code 001132B) is a Bachelor Honours Degree (AQF Level 8) in the field of Occupational Therapy (061703), part of Rehabilitation Therapies in the Health discipline. The course is designed to equip graduates with the knowledge and skills to assess, plan, and implement interventions that enable people to participate in everyday activities. Graduates typically work in hospitals, rehabilitation centres, aged care, community health, and private practice. The University of Newcastle (UoN) (CRICOS 00109J) is a government-funded public university known for its strong health sciences research and industry connections. This program is fully accredited by the Occupational Therapy Council (OTC).
Students in this Bachelor Honours Degree develop competencies in anatomy, physiology, psychology, and professional reasoning specific to occupational therapy. The curriculum covers assessment techniques, intervention planning, and evidence-based practice across the lifespan. You will learn to work with individuals and communities to overcome barriers to participation. Fieldwork placements form an integral part of the learning, allowing you to apply theory in real-world settings. The honours component includes a research project that builds analytical and critical thinking skills. While specific subjects are determined by the provider, graduates are prepared for entry-level practice in occupational therapy.
According to the CRICOS register, this course has a duration of 4 years (208 weeks). The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification — not a dual or combined degree. Study mode is typically full-time on-campus, with some components delivered via online learning for theory. Newcastle's Callaghan campus provides modern teaching facilities, including simulation labs and dedicated health sciences spaces. No foundation studies or VET components are included.
Indicative tuition fees for the full program are A$189,150. Non-tuition fees (such as student services and amenities) are estimated at A$1,608, bringing the estimated total to A$190,758. This does NOT include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. OSHC costs vary by provider and duration — budget approximately A$600–$1,200 per year for single cover. Living costs in Newcastle: weekly rent A$250–$450, groceries A$80–$150, and transport A$30–$50. Always confirm current fees on the provider's website at www.newcastle.edu.au. Fees shown are indicative, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, and subject to change without notice.
International applicants typically need academic qualifications equivalent to an Australian Year 12 certificate with strong results in relevant science subjects (e.g., biology, chemistry). English language proficiency: IELTS overall 6.0–6.5 with no band below 5.5–6.0 (scores vary by provider — check directly with UoN). Other accepted tests include TOEFL, PTE, and Cambridge English. Some prior study in health or science may be recommended. Foundation or pathway programs are available through UoN's colleges or affiliated partners. Always refer to the institution's admissions page for detailed entry requirements, as they can change annually.
The course includes a mandatory work component of 30 weeks, at 34 hours per week — approximately 1,020 total hours. This is classified as work-integrated learning and includes clinical placements in hospitals, community health centres, aged care facilities, and rehabilitation units. Students are supervised by qualified occupational therapists and gain hands-on experience with diverse patient populations. Placements may require travel within the Hunter region or beyond. Vaccinations, police checks, and other compliance requirements apply. This practical exposure is essential for meeting accreditation standards and preparing for registration.
The course is delivered at The University of Newcastle (Callaghan) — CALLAGHAN, NSW, 2308. Callaghan is approximately 12 km from Newcastle's city centre, accessible by public bus and car. Newcastle is Australia's second-oldest city, with a population of over 500,000, a vibrant student community (over 38,000 students at UoN), and a lower cost of living compared to Sydney (about 20% cheaper). The city has excellent beaches, a growing arts scene, and convenient train connections to Sydney (2.5 hours). There are over 50 CRICOS-registered providers in the Newcastle and Hunter region, offering diverse study options.
To study this course as an international student, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for 001132B, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient funds for travel, tuition, and living costs (A$21,041 per year for a single student as per DHA guidelines), and OSHC for the entire visa duration. Student work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. Under the ESOS Act, you have protections including access to student support services, refund policies, and complaints processes. Always consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit homeaffairs.gov.au for personalised advice.
Follow this 3-step process: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Bachelor Honours Degree), field (Health/Occupational Therapy), and location (Newcastle). Verify the provider's CRICOS code (00109J) and course code (001132B). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements (academic and English language), prepare your supporting documents, and submit an application through UoN's online portal. Note application deadlines — UoN typically has two intakes per year (February and July). 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa: Once you accept an offer and pay your deposit, UoN issues a CoE. Use this to apply for a Subclass 500 visa. Include evidence of OSHC, funds, and GTE. Visa processing times vary — apply early.
Newcastle offers a blend of urban convenience and coastal lifestyle. As a student, you'll benefit from smaller class sizes compared to Sydney and Melbourne, and a strong sense of community. The health precinct at the John Hunter Hospital provides extensive placement opportunities. Living costs are moderate: rent A$250–$450/week, groceries A$80–$150/week, public transport A$30–$50/week (with concessional Opal cards). The city has over 130,000 university students between UoN and the University of Newcastle's other campuses. If you prefer a quieter, more affordable environment with easy access to Sydney, Newcastle is an excellent choice.
Ready to apply? Follow the 3-step process above to start your journey at The University of Newcastle.
Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours) is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of Newcastle (UoN). Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.