University of KwaZulu-Natal

Bachelor of Occupational Therapy

Health Sciences and Social Services - Curative Health

Purpose and Rationale

  • The programme aims to provide qualifiers with a wide range of specialised knowledge, skills, and applied competence in occupational therapy. This will enable qualifiers to practice in various settings such as governmental, non-governmental, and private organisations/centers related to health, welfare, education, correctional services, and industry, in both institutional and community settings. Qualifiers will also be eligible for registration with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA).

  • Another objective is to train practitioners who can address the functional/occupational performance needs of individuals of all age groups who are ill, distressed, or disabled. This training aims to ensure that these needs are effectively met at each level of healthcare provision.

  • The programme also aims to adequately prepare practitioners for independent occupational therapy practice, equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to work autonomously in the field.

Outcomes

  1. Occupational therapists should, on referral, be able to correctly select and effectively apply occupational therapy screening and assessments/analysis as these would apply to individuals, small groups, large number, communities, institutions, facilities and/or services at all levels of health care provisions.
  2. Occupational therapists should be able to accurately record, interpret and plan/design (together with relevant stakeholders) appropriate and realistic OT programmes (including educative programmes) for individuals, groups, large numbers, communities and/or services at all levels of health care provision.
  3. Occupational therapists should be able to critically evaluate and monitor the effectiveness of own and other interventions against expected outcomes (from point 2 above) in order to modify, grade, continue or terminate interventions.

Assessment Criteria

Integrated Assessment

Assessment is an integral part of the learning process and serves both formative and developmental purposes. Multiple assessment techniques will be utilized to ensure a comprehensive evaluation of the students' progress. These techniques include:

  • Tests (written)
  • Oral/Practical tests (OSPE & OSCE)
  • Examinations (written papers, oral/practicals)
  • Assignments (individual and group)
  • Case studies (written, verbal, and treatment demonstration)
  • Reports (written and verbal)
  • Clinical observation during fieldwork

By employing a variety of assessment methods, students will have the opportunity to demonstrate their understanding and skills in diverse ways, providing a well-rounded evaluation of their learning outcomes.

Qualification Details

Type
National First Degree(Min 480)
NQF Level
08
Min. Credits
480
SAQA Source
More Information

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University of KwaZulu-Natal
Description
The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) is a public research university located in the province of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. It was formed in 2004 through the merger of the University of Natal and the University of Durban-Westville. UKZN is one of the top-ranked universities in South Africa and is known for its excellence in teaching, research, and community engagement. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, engineering, health sciences, and business. The university has multiple campuses spread across the province, including Durban, Pietermaritzburg, and Westville. Each campus has its own unique character and facilities, providing students with a diverse and vibrant learning environment. UKZN is committed to producing graduates who are academically competent, socially responsible, and globally competitive. It strives to promote innovation, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills among its students. The university also actively engages with local communities through various outreach programs and initiatives. Overall, the University of KwaZulu-Natal is a prestigious institution that offers high-quality education and research opportunities to students, contributing to the development and advancement of South Africa and the African continent as a whole.

This page includes information from the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) . Builtneat Pty Ltd trading as Study Start, has modified all or some of this information. SAQA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.