Professional Doctorate of Occupational Therapy (CRICOS course code 111161D) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Bond University over 4 years. This AQF Level 10 program focuses on advanced professional practice in rehabilitation therapies, specifically occupational therapy. Bond University, a private CRICOS-registered provider (00017B) located on the Gold Coast, offers this course with a significant work-integrated learning component of approximately 1,600 hours. As an international student, you will gain the skills to assess and treat individuals with physical, mental, or developmental conditions, helping them engage in meaningful daily activities. This page provides key details—including fees, entry requirements, delivery locations, and student visa information—so you can make an informed decision. Always verify the latest information with Bond University, and remember that all CRICOS-registered courses meet Australian Government quality standards under the ESOS Act.
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The Professional Doctorate of Occupational Therapy is a doctoral-level program designed for qualified occupational therapists seeking advanced clinical or research skills. It is not an entry-to-practice degree; rather, it builds on existing professional qualifications. The field of education is Occupational Therapy (061703) under Health (06). Graduates typically emerge as leaders in clinical practice, research, or academia. CRICOS registration ensures this course meets Australian quality standards for international students. Bond University is a private institution on the Gold Coast, Queensland, known for its small class sizes and accelerated degrees. This particular program spans 208 weeks (4 years full-time) and includes a substantial work placement of 57 weeks (around 1,600 hours). The course is taught entirely in English. For the most up-to-date information, refer to Bond University's official website: http://www.bond.edu.au/.
While specific curriculum details are set by Bond University, doctoral degrees in Occupational Therapy at this level typically cover advanced theoretical frameworks, evidence-based practice, research methodologies, and specialised clinical skills. Students may engage in topics such as neurorehabilitation, mental health, paediatric occupational therapy, ergonomics, or community-based practice. The program often includes a substantial research component, culminating in a thesis or capstone project. Given the work-integrated learning requirement, you will also apply your knowledge in real-world settings, such as hospitals, clinics, or community organisations. This combination of rigorous coursework and practical experience prepares graduates for senior roles in healthcare, education, or policy. Always confirm the exact subjects and structure with Bond University, as curricula are subject to change.
The Professional Doctorate of Occupational Therapy is a 4-year full-time program, equating to 208 weeks on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification — it does not lead to a dual award. There are no foundation studies components integrated into the course. Bond University's accelerated semester system may allow students to complete the program in a shorter calendar time, but the CRICOS duration is fixed at 208 weeks for visa purposes. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with their student visa conditions. If you need to extend your studies, you may need a new Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).
The indicative tuition fee for the Professional Doctorate of Occupational Therapy is A$174,800, with non-tuition fees of A$6,663, giving an estimated total of A$181,463. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. They do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. As a guide, international students should budget for OSHC (approximately A$500–A$700 per year for single cover), living costs (at least A$21,041 per year for a single student, per Department of Home Affairs guidelines), and the current visa application fee (A$710 for Subclass 500). Always confirm current fees directly with Bond University before applying. Bond University may offer scholarships or payment plans — check their website for details.
Entry requirements for doctoral programs are set by Bond University and are not guaranteed to be the same for all applicants. Typically, you need to have completed a recognised bachelor's degree in occupational therapy or a related field, plus relevant professional experience. A minimum English language proficiency of IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall (or equivalent) is expected. Some applicants may also need to provide a research proposal or evidence of prior research experience. Since this is a doctoral-level program, you will likely have already qualified as an occupational therapist. No foundation studies or pathway programs are offered as part of this course. For precise requirements, consult Bond University's admissions page or contact their international office. Note that meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission.
This course includes a mandatory work component totalling 57 weeks, with approximately 1,600 hours of supervised professional practice. This work-integrated learning may take the form of clinical placements, internships, or industry projects in healthcare settings. The exact number of hours per week is not specified in the CRICOS register, but it typically requires full-time commitment during placement periods. This component is designed to bridge theory and practice, allowing you to apply advanced occupational therapy skills under supervision. Students are usually responsible for arranging their own travel and accommodation for placements, which may require relocation within Queensland. The work component is a critical part of the course and must be completed to graduate. International students must ensure their visa allows for any paid or unpaid work — the Subclass 500 visa permits 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks.
The Professional Doctorate of Occupational Therapy is delivered at Bond University's Gold Coast campus, located in ROBINA, Queensland (postcode 4226). The Gold Coast is a major city with a population of over 700,000, known for its beaches, tourism, and growing education sector. It hosts several CRICOS-registered providers, including Bond University and Griffith University. Living costs on the Gold Coast are moderate compared to Sydney or Melbourne: indicative weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around A$300–A$450, groceries about A$100–A$150, and public transport A$40–A$60. The campus is accessible by bus and light rail, and the nearest major airport is Gold Coast Airport (OOL). For detailed campus information, visit Bond University's website.
International students enrolled in this CRICOS-registered course are eligible to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time in Australia and includes work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during the academic term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must maintain satisfactory course attendance and progress to comply with visa conditions. Additionally, you must hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. When applying for your visa, you will need to demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) intentions and sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. CRICOS registration of this course is a key requirement for your visa application. Note that HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice; always consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs (homeaffairs.gov.au) for personalised guidance.
Follow these three steps to start your journey:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** — Filter by course level (Doctoral Degree), field of education (Occupational Therapy), and location (Gold Coast) to compare options. Bond University is one of many CRICOS providers.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** — Visit Bond University's website (www.bond.edu.au) to review specific entry requirements, English language test scores, application deadlines, and required documents. Submit your application along with supporting materials.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** — Once accepted, Bond University will issue your CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application online through the Department of Home Affairs. Arrange OSHC and prepare for your move to Australia.
The Gold Coast offers a vibrant lifestyle with sunny weather, extensive beaches, and a growing international student community. Living costs are generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, with weekly expenses for a single student averaging A$450–A$600 for rent, food, and transport. The city has reliable public transport, including the G:link light rail and buses, connecting major suburbs and campuses. Bond University's campus is in Robina, a suburban hub with shopping centres, medical facilities, and easy access to the M1 motorway. The Gold Coast also has a strong healthcare sector, with multiple public and private hospitals offering potential placement sites. However, it is less centralised than state capitals, so consider your preference for a smaller city feel versus a major metropolitan area. For those seeking a quieter study environment with good climate, the Gold Coast can be an excellent choice.
Ready to take the next step? Explore Bond University's official website or use HeadStart Academy to compare other CRICOS-registered courses in Occupational Therapy.
Professional Doctorate of Occupational Therapy is a CRICOS-registered programme at Bond 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.