Where Can I Study Occupational Therapy In South Africa? (2024)

Occupational therapy is a field of healthcare that focuses on helping people of all ages who have physical, mental, and emotional challenges to live meaningful and productive lives. Occupational therapists work with individuals, families, and communities to help them perform activities of daily living, gain skills, and develop strategies to overcome barriers.

If you are interested in studying occupational therapy in South Africa, several universities and colleges offer programs in this field. Here, you will find information on tertiary institutions where you can study occupational therapy in South Africa, the admission requirements, and the training and qualifications necessary to become a qualified occupational therapist.

Where Can I Study Occupational Therapy In South Africa?

University of Pretoria
University of the Western Cape
University of the Witwatersrand
Stellenbosch University
University of Cape Town
University of KwaZulu-Natal
University of Limpopo
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University
Tshwane University of Technology
Nelson Mandela University
University of the Free State
Walter Sisulu University
North-West University
Durban University of Technology
Vaal University of Technology
Cape Peninsula University of Technology
University of Johannesburg
University of South Africa
University of Venda
Mangosuthu University of Technology
Mpumalanga University of Technology

Educational Requirements to study occupational therapy in South Africa on all levels

Undergraduate

To become an Occupational Therapist in South Africa, one must complete a four-year Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (BOT) degree at an accredited educational institution.

This is a professional degree and requires successful completion of a National Benchmark Test (NBT), as well as a minimum of one year of relevant work experience.

Postgraduate

To practice as an Occupational Therapist in South Africa, one must complete a postgraduate qualification, such as a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT) or Doctor of Occupational Therapy (DOT), at an accredited educational institution. This requires successful completion of a National Benchmark Test (NBT), as well as a minimum of one year of relevant work experience.

Continuing Education

To maintain registration with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA), Occupational Therapists in South Africa must complete ongoing continuing education courses. This includes a minimum of 24 hours of continuing education per year to maintain registration.

How long does it take to study occupational therapy in South Africa & what is the mode of study (i.e. Full time or Part time)?

In South Africa, it typically takes four years of full-time study to become an occupational therapist. Occupational therapy is an undergraduate program and can be completed at several universities in South Africa.

The first two years of the program typically involve completing courses such as anatomy, physiology, psychology, and therapeutic interventions. The final two years of the program involve clinical placements and practical learning.

Most occupational therapy programs in South Africa are full-time. However, some universities may offer part-time study options for those who cannot attend full-time.

Part-time students are expected to complete the same amount of coursework, but the time frame for completion is typically longer. Part-time students may also be required to attend some on-campus classes in addition to online classes.

How much does it cost to study occupational therapy in South Africa?

The cost of studying occupational therapy in South Africa varies depending on the university and type of degree program. Generally, the cost of an undergraduate degree is between R50,000 and R150,000 per year, while a postgraduate degree may cost up to R200,000 per year.

Additionally, there may be additional fees for textbooks, materials, registration, and other expenses. Financial aid is available for those who qualify, and this may help to reduce the overall cost of study.

Are occupational therapists high in demand in South Africa and what Career opportunities are available for occupational therapy for Auxiliary Nurses in South Africa?

Occupational therapy is an in-demand profession in South Africa. The growing demand for occupational therapists is due to the country’sageingg population, which requires more health care services.

Additionally, the prevalence of lifestyle-related illnesses such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and mental health disorders has also led to an increased demand for occupational therapists.

Career opportunities for auxiliary nurses in South Africa in the field of occupational therapy are plentiful. Auxiliary nurses can specialize in providing occupational therapy services to individuals with disabilities or special needs, or those recovering from injury or illness. They may also assist in the development of customized treatment plans and provide support to patients and their families.

They may also provide instruction on how to use adaptive equipment and teach clients how to safely and effectively perform activities of daily living. Additionally, auxiliary nurses may be responsible for monitoring and documenting patient progress and providing education to patients and their families.

How much does an occupational therapist earn in South Africa?

The average salary of an occupational therapist in South Africa is approximately R370,000 per annum. This figure can vary depending on the experience and qualifications of the therapist, as well as the region in which they work.

Highly experienced therapists and those who specialize in certain fields can earn significantly more than the average salary. In addition, occupational therapists may receive additional income from bonuses, commissions, and other incentives.

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Conclusion

In South Africa, several excellent institutions offer courses in Occupational Therapy. Some of the leading universities where you can study occupational therapy in South Africa include the University of Pretoria, the University of the Witwatersrand, the University of Cape Town, the University of KwaZulu-Natal, Nelson Mandela University, and the University of Johannesburg.

Each of these universities has its unique course requirements and offerings, so be sure to research each one to determine which is the best fit for you. With the right training and qualifications, South Africa offers a range of career opportunities for those interested in occupational therapy.