Master of Health Sciences Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapists work collaboratively with individuals and groups of individuals to help people engage or re-engage in the activities that are important to them (“occupations”). Occupational therapists are experts in occupation. They help individuals and groups of individuals to identify and prioritize their occupations. They collaboratively explore the supports and barriers to engaging in these occupations and work with individuals and groups of individuals as they identify and implement ways to engage in these occupations despite physical, cognitive, or emotional challenges.

The Master of Health Science in Occupational Therapy at the University of Ottawa is designed for those dedicated to improving well-being through holistic, evidence-based care. This program offers comprehensive training, hands-on experience, and theoretical knowledge to prepare students for impactful roles across various settings.

The program emphasizes equitable occupational participation and effective work in bilingual and multicultural environments, aligning with its mission to serve minority Francophone communities.

Graduates of the University of Ottawa's occupational therapy program are equipped to become leaders who will impact their community by advancing knowledge, building relationships to promote diversity and equity, and fostering opportunities for occupational participation for all.

The occupational therapy program meets the standards developed by the Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists (CAOT). These national standards ensure the quality of professional education. In addition to the coursework, students complete 1,000 hours of clinical training in Ottawa-area hospitals, schools, community organizations, private clinics and rehabilitation centres or at locations outside the National Capital Region.

This limited capacity enrolment program is completed over six consecutive full-time study terms or twelve consecutive part-time¹ study terms (including a leave scheduled in the University calendar in the third term (spring-summer of first year), including placements). However, occupational therapists with an undergraduate degree in occupational therapy and clinical practice at the time of admission may follow the accelerated program, which leads to a master’s degree after one year (three terms).

The objectives of the program are achieved through successful completion of theoretical and practical courses, integration seminars and clinical placements. Teaching activities are grouped under the following six themes:

• Theme 1: Occupational participation: interaction among the person, their occupations, and their environment;
• Theme 2: Fundamental principles for the practice as an occupational therapist (being a professional);
• Theme 3: Knowledge of health conditions and interventions - occupational therapist and the team;
• Theme 4: Occupational therapy practice: collaborating to promote occupational participation;
• Theme 5: Critical evaluation of knowledge;
• Theme 6: Knowledge integration.

Note(s)

¹

Due to the limited number of part-time clinical placements, students admitted to the full-time program cannot request a transfer to the part-time program unless there are places available in the part-time quota.

For the most accurate and up to date information on application deadlines, language tests and other admission requirements, please visit the specific requirements webpage.

Be proficient in written and spoken French and have a working knowledge of written and spoken English. In order to evaluate these language skills, tests in French or English are required in the official language other than that of the undergraduate degree). Visit the Official Languages and Bilingualism Institute.