Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (CRICOS 082680C) – Southern Cross University

Course overview

The Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (CRICOS 082680C) is a four-year undergraduate degree at AQF Level 7. Southern Cross University (SCU) designed this program to equip students with the knowledge and skills to assess, plan, and implement interventions that enable individuals to participate in meaningful occupations. The curriculum blends theoretical foundations in health sciences, psychology, and occupational therapy theory with practical placements. Students learn about human development, activity analysis, environmental modifications, and therapeutic techniques. Graduates are eligible to apply for registration with the Occupational Therapy Board of Australia and to become members of Occupational Therapy Australia. As a CRICOS-registered course, it is approved for international student enrolment under the ESOS Act, ensuring legal protections for overseas students.

What you'll study

This program falls under the field of education 061703 – Occupational Therapy (within Health). Students explore the relationship between occupation, health, and wellbeing across the lifespan. Core subjects include anatomy and physiology, neuroscience, occupational therapy theory and practice, research methods, and professional ethics. Practical placements in healthcare, community, and rehabilitation settings allow students to apply learning in real-world contexts. The course emphasises client-centred care, evidence-based practice, and interprofessional collaboration. Graduates develop competencies to work in hospitals, aged care, mental health, disability services, schools, and private practice. While the CRICOS register does not provide a detailed syllabus, the generic curriculum for this level includes these typical learning outcomes.

Duration and study mode

According to the CRICOS register, the Bachelor of Occupational Therapy has a duration of 208 weeks (4 years). The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification (not a dual or combined degree). No foundation studies are included in this course code. The program is delivered on-campus at SCU's Coffs Harbour and Gold Coast (Bilinga) campuses. Study mode is full-time, with some online components possible. International students must maintain full-time enrolment as per student visa conditions.

Fees (indicative – set by Southern Cross University)

Tuition fees for the Bachelor of Occupational Therapy are indicative at A$104,000 total for the 4-year program. Non-tuition fees (e.g., materials, student services) are estimated at A$8,000, bringing the estimated total to A$112,000. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as of April 2026 and are subject to change. Fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (rent, food, transport), or the visa application charge. For current fees, always confirm on SCU's website (www.scu.edu.au). The table below summarises indicative costs.

Entry requirements (general guidance)

International applicants typically need an IELTS overall score of 6.0–6.5 with no band below 5.5–6.0 (or equivalent English test). Prior qualifications should be equivalent to Australian Year 12 or a recognised foundation program. Some pathways may be available through SCU's foundation or diploma programs – check the provider's website. Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission; selection is competitive. All applicants must comply with the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion for the student visa. HeadStart Academy does not assess individual eligibility; contact SCU directly for specific entry requirements.

Work component

This course includes a mandatory work-integrated learning component: 22 weeks of placement at 37.5 hours per week (total ~825 hours). These placements are industry placements, clinical placements, or internships in healthcare settings such as hospitals, rehabilitation centres, or community organisations. Placements are supervised by qualified occupational therapists and are integral to developing professional competence. International students must ensure their visa allows for unpaid placement. The student visa (Subclass 500) permits work rights of 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, but placement hours are typically not counted toward work limits.

Delivery locations

The Bachelor of Occupational Therapy is delivered at two SCU campuses: (1) Coffs Harbour – located in Coffs Harbour, NSW, a regional coastal city with a student population supported by several CRICOS providers. (2) Gold Coast Airport Development Park – Bilinga, QLD, near Gold Coast Airport, within the Gold Coast region. The Gold Coast has a large international student community with over a dozen CRICOS-registered providers. Living costs in Coffs Harbour are generally lower than in major cities, while Gold Coast costs are moderate (indicative weekly rent: $200–$350 for shared accommodation; groceries $80–$150; transport $30–$50). Both campuses are accessible by public transport. ESOS Act protections apply at all CRICOS-registered locations.

Student visa

International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for CRICOS-registered course 082680C, Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration, and demonstrated financial capacity (tuition + living costs + travel). Student work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays, subject to visa conditions. Dependants (if applicable) may have work rights. The ESOS Act provides tuition protection and refund rights. HeadStart Academy provides general guidance; for specific visa advice, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA).

How to apply

Follow these three steps to apply for the Bachelor of Occupational Therapy at Southern Cross University:

1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy or the CRICOS register to confirm that SCU is registered (CRICOS 01241G) and the course (082680C) is active. Compare course duration, fees, and locations.

2. Apply directly to Southern Cross University – Check entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines on SCU's website (www.scu.edu.au). Submit your application through SCU's online portal or via an authorised education agent.

3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your student visa – If accepted, SCU will issue a CoE. Use the CoE to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through ImmiAccount. Ensure you have OSHC, sufficient funds, and a valid GTE statement.

Is Southern Cross University right for your occupational therapy studies?

SCU is a government-owned university with a strong reputation in health sciences. Its regional campuses in Coffs Harbour and Gold Coast offer a focused learning environment with smaller class sizes compared to metropolitan universities. Coffs Harbour is known for its natural beauty and lower cost of living, while the Gold Coast campus is near major health facilities and the airport. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, but only those with specific accreditation can deliver occupational therapy programs. As a CRICOS-registered course, the Bachelor of Occupational Therapy at SCU meets Australian quality standards. Consider your preferred location, lifestyle, and career goals when choosing. HeadStart Academy is a free resource providing factual data from the CRICOS register without bias.

For the latest fee updates and application details, visit Southern Cross University's official course page.

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