Bachelor of Science (Occupational Therapy) (CRICOS course code 055463C) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by Edith Cowan University over 4 years. This program, offered at ECU's Joondalup Campus in Western Australia, prepares graduates for professional practice as occupational therapists. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00279B), it meets Australian Government standards for international students. Edith Cowan University is a public institution with a strong reputation in health sciences. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses across Australia, this degree stands out for its focus on rehabilitation therapies and hands-on clinical experience. Prospective students can use HeadStart Academy as a free resource to explore CRICOS data and compare options.
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As a Bachelor Degree at AQF Level 7, this course falls under the field of Rehabilitation Therapies (Occupational Therapy). Students gain foundational knowledge in human anatomy, psychology, and health sciences, then progress to specialised areas such as assistive technology, mental health, and community rehabilitation. The curriculum emphasises evidence-based practice, client-centred care, and interdisciplinary teamwork. Graduates develop skills to assess and treat individuals with physical, mental, or developmental conditions, enabling them to participate fully in daily life. While specific subject listings are set by Edith Cowan University, typical learning outcomes include clinical reasoning, professional ethics, and research methods. The course also integrates work-integrated learning to bridge theory and practice.
The Bachelor of Science (Occupational Therapy) is a 4-year program (208 weeks on the CRICOS register). Instruction is delivered in English at ECU's Joondalup Campus. This is a single qualification — no dual awards or embedded foundation studies. Full-time study is standard, and the program is designed to meet the accreditation requirements of the Occupational Therapy Board of Australia. International students must maintain full-time enrolment as a condition of their Student visa (Subclass 500). The duration aligns with the typical 4-year professional bachelor's in Australia.
Tuition for this course is indicative at A$174,800 for the full program, with additional non-tuition fees of A$1,555, giving an estimated total of A$176,355. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (rent, food, transport), or the visa application charge. For current fees, always check the provider's website at www.ecu.edu.au. As a guide, living costs in Perth, WA, are approximately A$500–700 per week for rent, groceries, and transport, but this varies. HeadStart Academy recommends budgeting an additional A$20,000–25,000 per year for living expenses.
International applicants typically need an IELTS overall score of 6.0–6.5 with no band below 5.5–6.0 (or equivalent). Prior qualifications expected include completion of an Australian Year 12 or equivalent, with prerequisites in science subjects (e.g., biology, chemistry). Foundation or pathway programs may be available through Edith Cowan University's own pathway college or other providers; refer to the university's website for details. Meeting minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as places are competitive. All applicants must satisfy the institution's academic and English language criteria. For visa purposes, you must also demonstrate Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) status and financial capacity.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 33 weeks (approximately 1126 total hours, though hours per week are not specified on the CRICOS register). This work-integrated learning takes the form of clinical placements, industry internships, and supervised practice in healthcare settings. Students gain real-world experience under qualified occupational therapists, applying theory to assess and treat clients. Placements may occur in hospitals, rehabilitation centres, community health organisations, or schools. Successful completion of all placement hours is required for graduation and eligibility for professional registration. International students should note that work placements are a compulsory part of the course and may require additional clearances (e.g., Working with Children Check).
The Bachelor of Science (Occupational Therapy) is delivered at Edith Cowan University's Joondalup Campus in Joondalup, a northern suburb of Perth, Western Australia. Perth is the capital of WA, known for its sunny climate and outdoor lifestyle. The city is home to several CRICOS-registered providers, with over 20 institutions offering courses across all levels. Joondalup itself is a major hub with public transport connections via train and bus to Perth's CBD (about 30 minutes by train). Living costs in Perth are generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, with indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment around A$250–350. Students can enjoy beaches, parks, and a vibrant student community. Edith Cowan University also has campuses in Mount Lawley and Bunbury, but this specific course is only at Joondalup.
International students require a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time. Key conditions include maintaining enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, meeting attendance and progress requirements, and holding Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of study. As of April 2026, student work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Applicants must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC. The ESOS Act provides legal protections, including tuition fee refunds if the provider fails to deliver. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; for visa advice, consult a registered MARA agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Bachelor of Science (Occupational Therapy) at Edith Cowan University:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level (Bachelor Degree), field (Rehabilitation Therapies), and location (Western Australia). Confirm that Edith Cowan University (CRICOS 00279B) and this course (055463C) meet your needs.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Check entry requirements on ECU's website (www.ecu.edu.au). Prepare your academic transcripts, English test results (e.g., IELTS), and any prerequisites. Deadlines vary — apply early to secure a place.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)**: Once accepted, ECU will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa online through the Department of Home Affairs. Include proof of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE statement. For visa assistance, consult a MARA-registered agent.
All listed providers are CRICOS-registered — this guarantees Australian Government oversight and quality standards.
Western Australia offers a unique study experience with a relaxed lifestyle, stunning natural beauty, and a growing economy. Perth, the state capital, has a multicultural population of over 2 million and a robust job market, particularly in healthcare and mining. The state boasts over 20 CRICOS-registered providers, offering a range of courses. Living costs are moderate: average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Perth is around A$1,200–1,600 per month, while groceries and transport cost about A$400–600 monthly. Public transport includes trains, buses, and ferries, with student discounts available. WA is known for its outdoor activities — beaches, national parks, and festivals. However, it is geographically isolated from other Australian capitals, so consider travel time and cost. Occupational therapy graduates are in demand across Australia, with strong employment prospects in hospitals, community health, and aged care.
Ready to start your journey? Explore more CRICOS-registered courses in health sciences on HeadStart Academy.
Bachelor of Science (Occupational Therapy) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Edith Cowan University. 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.