Occupational therapy is a health discipline concerned with the occupational performance of people in their environments. Occupational Therapy is needed when an individual's ability to live independently, to care for their personal needs, and to participate in work, school, family, and community life is disrupted by factors such as disability, illness, disaster, socio-economic disadvantage or injury.

Occupational therapists work with individuals, their carers and communities to provide services, using occupation, to facilitate each person to achieve an independent, productive and as satisfying a lifestyle as possible. Intervention provides opportunities for the person to explore and master the tasks essential to their life roles at home, work and leisure. Occupational therapists also provide expert input and support for wellness and prevention concerns.

Occupational Therapy is part of the School of Allied Health within the Faculty of Education and Health Sciences. This vibrant discipline provides innovative opportunities for graduates from a range of disciplines wishing to further their career in health and social care settings as an Occupational Therapist. Our MSc in Occupational Therapy (Professional Qualification) is fully accredited by the Association of Occupational Therapists of Ireland and is approved by CORU.

Occupational Therapy teaching expertise and research interests include:

  • Mental health
  • Education
  • Clinical reasoning
  • Physical and sensory disability
  • Sustainable health service delivery
  • Assistive technology
  • Community care
  • Rehabilitation