Occupational Therapy University of British Columbia

Overview

The Occupational Therapy programme at the University of British Columbia provides a comprehensive professional education designed to prepare students for the complexities of modern rehabilitative practice. This twenty-four month course is the only one of its kind in British Columbia, offering a curriculum that balances theoretical knowledge with extensive practical experience. Students engage in a rigorous schedule that integrates academic learning with multiple fieldwork placements to ensure they are ready for the national licensing examination.

Why Occupational Therapy at University of British Columbia?

This programme is distinguished by its distributed learning model, which allows students to study at geographically distinct sites including Vancouver, Prince George, and Surrey. By utilising advanced technology for real-time interaction, the University of British Columbia ensures all cohorts receive the same high-quality curriculum while benefiting from unique rural or urban placement opportunities. The programme is one of the smallest in Canada, fostering an intimate learning environment with small class sizes and significant individual attention from a teaching team of over 50 experienced clinicians.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: CAD 56064 per year
• National fee: CAD 8336 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is structured around a modular format that blends academic study with hands-on clinical training. Modules may include:

• Occupational Science
• Occupational Therapy Theory
• Clinical Skills
• Fieldwork Placement
• Rehabilitation Services
• Professional Practice
• Research Methods
• Environment and Skill Adaptation

Careers with Occupational Therapy

Graduates are in high demand across British Columbia and the wider national healthcare sector due to a significant shortage of qualified professionals. The programme equips students to work in diverse settings, including public and private practice, general hospitals, specialised rehabilitation centres, and community health clinics. Alumni have successfully secured roles as occupational therapists with prominent organisations such as Fraser Health, Island Health, and the Tall Tree Integrated Health Centre. The training focuses on enabling clients of all ages to perform essential daily activities, improving quality of life through environmental adaptation and skill development.