Fieldwork Placements

As part of the Master of Science in Occupational Therapy Program, and to meet the accreditation requirements of the Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists, students must complete a minimum of 1000 hours of approved clinical fieldwork. Completion of this fieldwork requirement, along with the academic requirements of the program, ensures that students can qualify to write the certification examination and complete all additional licensure requirements necessary to work as an occupational therapist in Canada and abroad.

Fieldwork placements provide students with the opportunity to integrate theoretical and practical knowledge, and to develop professional behaviours and skills. In addition, students have the opportunity to learn more about local facilities and make contacts, which may facilitate their job search after graduation. One block of introductory fieldwork experience (two weeks, full-time) occurs during the first term of the program and allows students to get immediate exposure to occupational therapy practice and clients at two local facilities. Four full-time fieldwork blocks of six to eight weeks in duration occur throughout the program. Students will complete placements focusing on physical and psychosocial health issues, and will have the opportunity to work with a variety of client ages and concerns including, but not limited to, hand therapy, paediatrics, eating disorders, stroke rehabilitation, case management, and private practice. Placements are available in schools, hospitals, rehabilitation centres, community agencies, businesses, professional associations, and private practice.

Resources for the fieldwork program, including forms, placement sites, and the fieldwork manual, are available HERE. The manual contains extensive information about the philosophy of fieldwork and professional standards, health policies, the fieldwork process, evaluation, international opportunities,  and policies.