Occupational Therapy Degree Apprenticeship

Benefits as an apprentice, a Higher or Degree Apprenticeship won’t cost you anything. Your employer and the government cover the costs of your training and assessment. Studying an apprenticeship with us means that you will:

• earn while you learn, and be paid at least the national minimum apprenticeship wage
• develop in-demand workplace skills for a defined professional role
• get a head-start with an employer who wants to invest in your future
• begin your journey towards membership of a professional body
• benefit from our state-of-the-art facilities, multi-million pound investments, and student learning opportunities.

Apprentices will attend the University's Walsall campus for theoretical modules and assessments one day per week.

Apprentices will also undertake four full time placements throughout the 3 years of study in a location outside the usual workplace to meet the requirement of 1000 hours practice-based learning. The placements may be undertaken in a range of settings where occupational therapists currently work or may be in a role emerging setting where there is not currently an occupational therapist in practice.

The placements will be identified by the employer and agreed by the university prior to the start of the course. Assistance with sourcing placements outside the employed setting will be facilitated by the occupational therapy practice lead at the university.

Qualifications

On successful completion of this course, you will have achieved a Bachelor’s Degree in Occupational Therapy and will be eligible to apply for registration with the Health and Care Professions Council as an Occupational Therapist.

For employers with a payroll below £3 million: The Government will pay 95% of the cost of the apprenticeship training and assessment for apprentices of any age, for employers who will not be paying the apprenticeship levy. You may also be eligible for extra employer incentives.

For employers with a payroll above £3 million: Since May 2017 employers are able to use their Apprenticeship Levy contributions towards the cost of the apprenticeship using their digital account. We will agree a payment schedule and discuss funding availability before you start your apprenticeships and ensure the cost to your business is clear upfront.

Applicants must be employed within a health or care setting for a minimum of 30 hours a week in England and supported by their employer.

You must have a minimum of 3 GCSEs at grade C+/ 4 in an English-based subject, Maths and Science or equivalent qualifications.

PLUS 104 UCAS points or equivalent. The University will work with employers to consider other relevant qualifications. 

Other Entry Requirements

• Evidence of a satisfactory enhanced DBS check undertaken within 12 months of the start of the course.
• Evidence of a satisfactory occupational health assessment; vaccinations need to be up-to-date.
• A values-based interview.
• The employer must be able to release the apprentice to reach the requirements for off the job training and placements for the duration of the apprenticeship.

Previous Study

Where an applicant has previously studied a professional course or an apprenticeship at another higher education institution, recognition of prior learning for up to one third of the programme can be considered.