Bachelor of Occupational Therapy

Summary

Work Augmented Learning

This tailored delivery begins in July 2026, is for those who are already in work and has been developed to enable a flexible learning approach.

You will learn through attending one day on campus per learning week, an evening online hui once a week which will create strong links between your learning and your everyday experiences in work, engaging with online learning content and completing fieldwork experiences.

• Study locally at NorthTec's Kaitaia, Ngāwhā and Whangārei campuses.
• Earn while you learn – Continue working (minimum 15 hours/week) in your job in a health, wellbeing or social service role.
• Culturally grounded – A strong bicultural lens including marae-based learning experiences
• Flexible delivery – Combines online learning, campus days, noho marae weekends, and fieldwork.

Your workload

• one day a week on campus (for 32 weeks in year 1, and 28 weeks in years 2 and 3)
• one 3-hour online hui per teaching week. This will be in an evening.
• fieldwork placements (4 full weeks in year 1, and 8 full weeks in year 2 and year 3)
• two additional days for fieldwork in year 1 and in year 3.
• noho marae (Friday – Sunday) four times in year 1, and two times in year 2 and year 3.
• spend around 4 hours per week engaged in online learning, along with some self-directed learning.

About the Programme

This programme is delivered at NorthTec Campuses, by Otago Polytechnic tutors. To apply, you will need to complete an Otago Polytechnic Application form.

• 3-year full-time degree (part-time options available).
• 1000 hours of fieldwork across diverse settings.
• Blend of academic courses and hands-on experiences.
• Eligible for registration with the Occupational Therapy Board of NZ upon graduation.
• Entry requirements NCEA Level 3 or equivalent qualifications, and engagment in relevant mahi (paid or volunteer) for at least 15 hours/week.

Support for Employers

Otago Polytechnic will help you and your employer understand study commitments and fieldwork requirements. View the FAQ.

What is whakaora ngangahau | occupational therapy?

Whakaora ngangahau | occupational therapy is a registered health profession under the Health Professions Competence Assurance act. Kaiwhakaora ngangahau | occupational therapists work alongside people to enable them to do the things they need and want to do to lead a satisfying life, however that may look for them. Occupational therapists work in health services (in hospitals and community, physical health settings and mental health settings), correction services, hauora services, NGOs, GP practices, schools and many other places.