Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (CRICOS course code 079926A) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by Griffith University over 4 years. This course prepares graduates to support individuals of all ages to participate in meaningful daily activities, addressing physical, psychological, and social challenges. As a CRICOS-registered program, it meets Australian quality standards and qualifies international students for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Griffith University (CRICOS 00233E) is a public university ranked among the top 300 globally, with campuses in Brisbane and Gold Coast. The course includes 1,040 hours of supervised work-integrated learning, ensuring hands-on experience in real healthcare settings. Whether you aim to work in hospitals, community health, or private practice, this degree provides the foundation for accreditation as an occupational therapist in Australia.
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Occupational Therapy sits within the Health field (06) under Rehabilitation Therapies (0617). At the Bachelor Degree level (AQF 7), students develop theoretical knowledge in anatomy, physiology, psychology, and occupational therapy theory, combined with practical skills in assessment, intervention, and evaluation. Graduates learn to enable participation by adapting tasks, environments, and strategies for people with disabilities, injuries, or age-related changes. The curriculum typically covers client-centred practice, evidence-based intervention, professional ethics, and interprofessional collaboration. While specific subjects are set by Griffith University, the CRICOS registration confirms the course meets national standards for international student education. Upon completion, graduates may apply for registration with the Occupational Therapy Board of Australia, subject to additional requirements.
The Bachelor of Occupational Therapy is a 4-year full-time program, comprising 208 weeks as registered on CRICOS. Instruction is in English. It is a single qualification (no dual degree) and does not include foundation studies. Students must attend on campus; online-only study is not available. The program includes mandatory work placement, meaning full-time attendance with off-site placements is expected. Griffith University offers two intakes per year (typically February and July) – check the provider's website for exact dates.
Tuition fees for the entire program are A$168,000 (indicative, sourced from CRICOS register). Non-tuition fees (including material fees, student services, and administration) amount to A$4,017, giving an estimated total of A$172,017. These figures do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or visa application charges. International students should budget approximately A$21,000–A$30,000 per year for living costs in Brisbane or Gold Coast – this cover accommodation, food, transport, and incidentals. Always confirm current fees directly with Griffith University at www.griffith.edu.au, as fees are set by the institution and subject to change.
Minimum English language proficiency: IELTS 6.0-6.5 overall, with no band below 5.5-6.0 (or equivalent). Academic entry typically requires completion of Australian Year 12 (or overseas equivalent) with prerequisites in biology, chemistry, or health sciences – exact prerequisites vary. Foundation/pathway programs may be available if you do not meet direct entry. Griffith University also accepts other English tests (e.g., TOEFL, PTE). For definitive requirements, refer to the provider's website. Note that meeting minimum entry does not guarantee admission; places are competitive. All applicants must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for visa purposes.
This course includes a mandatory work component: 52 weeks of supervised placement, typically 20 hours per week, totalling approximately 1,040 hours. This work-integrated learning (clinical placements, internships) gives students real-world experience in hospitals, rehabilitation centres, schools, or community health organisations. It is an assessed part of the degree and essential for professional accreditation. Placements are arranged by Griffith University in partnership with health service providers across Queensland. Students may need to travel to various locations; costs such as travel, accommodation, and uniforms may be additional.
Griffith University delivers this course at two campuses: Brisbane South (Nathan) in NATHAN, QLD, and Gold Coast campus in Southport, QLD. Brisbane is Queensland's capital with a large student population, affordable living (weekly rent ~A$250–A$400), and extensive public transport (buses, trains). Gold Coast offers a vibrant lifestyle, with beaches and a growing healthcare sector; weekly rent ~A$280–A$450. Both campuses are well-served by buses and light rail. Queensland is home to over 140 CRICOS-registered providers and thousands of international students. Studying in a major city provides access to diverse placement sites, networking opportunities, and a strong job market for occupational therapists.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Key requirements: proof of enrolment (CoE), genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient funds for tuition, living costs (A$21,041 per year from 1 July 2025), and OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) for the duration. Student work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). The ESOS Act protects international students; all CRICOS-registered courses (like this one) must meet quality standards. For visa guidance, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA migration agent. HeadStart Academy provides general information only.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Bachelor of Occupational Therapy at Griffith University: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to compare occupational therapy courses across Australia. Filter by level, location, and fees. All listed providers are CRICOS-registered and government-approved. 2. Apply directly to Griffith University: Check entry requirements (English test, academic prerequisites, document transcripts) and submit an online application through their international admissions portal. Note application deadlines – typically months before the start date. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, Griffith will issue a CoE. Use it to submit your visa application with visa application charge (currently A$1,600), OSHC, and evidence of financial capacity. Do not book flights until your visa is granted.
Both locations offer strong healthcare industries with demand for occupational therapists. Brisbane, with over 2.5 million residents, has major hospitals (e.g., Princess Alexandra, Royal Brisbane) and a lower cost of living than Sydney or Melbourne. Gold Coast, home to 700,000+ people, features a rapidly growing health sector and a subtropical climate. Factor in lifestyle preferences: if you like big cities and public transport, Brisbane; if you prefer beach culture and a more compact city, Gold Coast. Both campuses are accessible and provide placement opportunities across Southeast Queensland. Speak to current students or visit during an open day if possible.
Ready to apply? Use HeadStart Academy to explore more CRICOS-registered Occupational Therapy courses, then contact Griffith University for application details.
Bachelor of Occupational Therapy is a CRICOS-registered programme at Griffith 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.