Introduction

Occupational therapists treat and assist individuals who are unable to perform daily tasks such as learning, communication, mobility, self-care, interpersonal interaction and relationships due to disease, injury, or disability. There are significant benefits to pursuing this career in New Zealand, including high job prospects, salaries, and opportunities for permanent residency in New Zealand. For those passionate about healthcare careers other than nursing, becoming an occupational therapist could be a rewarding option.  

Why Study Occupational Therapy in NZ?

The reasons for choosing to Occupational Therapy (OT) training programs in New Zealand are as follows: 

  • High demand and job opportunities: Occupational Therapy is in demand in New Zealand due to the increasing ageing population. Employment chance is good for those with experience and average for graduates, with a variety of health care settings. 
  • Competitive salaries: Wages for occupational therapists vary according to their employer, experience, and qualifications. However, occupational therapists usually earn NZ$58,000- $119,000 a year. 
  • Quality education and training: Universities in New Zealand is known for outstanding education and training. Courses are accredited by the World Federation of Occupational Therapists, guaranteeing that graduates fulfill global requirement. 
  • Exposure and diversity of cultures: Students have opportunity to experience a wide range of different cultures and healthcare practices while studying in New Zealand, which enhances their education and equips them for a global workforce. 
  • Pathway to Permanent Residency: upon completion of the courses, students will have at least 2 years for their post study work visa and then have a high opportunity to be permanent Resident in New Zealand.  

Programs for International Students

Below are examples of Occupation Therapy courses and schools in New Zealand that offer these courses for international students: 

Otago Polytechnic

Auckland University of Technology (AUT)

Wintec

Entry Requirements

The English language requirement varies depending on the university, but generally, you need an equivalent IELTS (Academic) score of 6.5 or 7.0 overall, with no bands under 6.5.

Academic Requirement

To enroll in an Occupational Therapy program, you must have completed one of the following qualifications (or equivalent):

  • NCEA Level 3
  • A Level 4 Qualification (NQF) equaling 60 credits completed in one year
  • Successful completion of university courses/units equaling at least 50% of the workload required of first-year students in one year

If you wish to know if you are eligible for an OP course in NZ, contact our experienced Education Counsellor at 07 3003 1899 or [email protected]. We will offer you free consultation and free admissions process.    

Tuition Fees

The tuition fee for the course ranges from NZ$ 25,000 – NZ $38,146 per year.

Career Outcomes

Graduates will be occupational therapists who can work in a variety of health care settings such as hospitals, schools, rehabilitation centres, primary health organisations, private clinics, nursing homes and community health services.  

Occupational therapists can advance into contract work, management, teaching, or research positions. Occupational therapists may choose to specialise in one of the following fields: burn management, hand therapy, mental health and addictions, geriatrics (elder people), paediatrics (children). 

Migration Pathway

ccupational Therapist belongs to Tier 1 Occupation in the Green List. Therefore, individuals who (1) are working for an accredited employer or just having a job offer from an employer, and (2) getting paid the median wage ($NZ 31.61) or above, will be eligible for applying the Straight to Residence Visa directly.  

To learn more information on how to apply for a PR in New Zealand, visit our website https://www.soledu.net/en/nz-green-list-pr-pathway/  

FAQs

What OT qualifications are required in New Zealand to work as an occupational therapist?

A Bachelor of Occupational Therapy degree or an equivalent credential accepted by the Occupational Therapy Board of New Zealand (OTBNZ) is normally required to work as an occupational therapist in New Zealand. 

In New Zealand, how long does it take to finish a degree in occupational therapy?

A Bachelor of Occupational Therapy usually takes 3 years full- time. 

What requirements are to become an occupational therapist?

To become a good occupational therapist, you may need the following characteristics: positive and supportive thinking, kindness with strong communication abilities, analytical and observant skills, and the capability to problem-solve and manage time effectively. 

Are there any scholarships for the course?

Yes, there a plenty of scholarships to support international students to study occupational therapy courses in New Zealand. Please contact SOL at [email protected] or 07 3003 1899 for more details.