Entry to this course is by direct application to Portobello Institute.
An up-to-date CV outlining academic qualifications and relevant experience is required.
A minimum of a 2:2 BSc (Hons) degree in a relevant science-based subject. Examples of relevant subjects include psychology, sociology, public health and human biology. Alternatively, candidates have significant recent relevant work experience in health and social care.
Entry is interview based with a 15-minute interview conducted via MS Teams. We will look holistically at each applicant’s undergraduate degree, experience to date, interest in the subject and commitment to completing this programme and working in the space in the future.
Applicants for whom English is not their first language must demonstrate ability to communicate in English to the standard required by HCPC. Equivalent to level 7 of the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), with no element below 6.5 is required.

Who Is This Master’s Degree For?
This professionally focused master's is designed for individuals who want to make a meaningful difference by helping people live independently and participate fully in everyday life. It will appeal to those who enjoy working with people, solving practical problems, and supporting rehabilitation and recovery.

Students who are empathetic, resilient, collaborative, and interested in health, wellbeing, and human occupation will be well placed to thrive.

To enrol on the master’s programme, applicants will need a minimum of a 2:2 BSc (Hons) degree in a relevant discipline or equivalent. Applicants from a range of health, science, psychology, social science, and related backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

Start Date: 5th October 2026

This course is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests. If these interests do not describe you, this course may prepare you for work you may not find satisfying.

Social

The Social person's interests focus on interacting with the people in their environment. In all cases, the Social person enjoys the personal contact with other people in preference to the impersonal dealings with things, data and ideas found in other groups.

Many will seek out positions where there is direct contact with the public in some advisory role, whether a receptionist or a counsellor. Social people are motivated by an interest in different types of people and like diversity in their work environments. Many are drawn towards careers in the caring professions and social welfare area, whilst others prefer teaching and other 'informing' roles.

Investigative

The Investigative person will usually find a particular area of science to be of interest. They are inclined toward intellectual and analytical activities and enjoy observation and theory. They may prefer thought to action, and enjoy the challenge of solving problems with sophiscticated technology. These types prefer mentally stimulating environments and often pay close attention to developments in their chosen field.

What Career Pathways Are Available?
This programme prepares graduates to practise as qualified occupational therapists, supporting individuals to?participate?in meaningful daily activities despite illness, disability,?injury,?or social barriers.

Over two years, the clinical reasoning, assessment, and intervention skills?required?to work across hospitals, primary care, community health services, rehabilitation centres, mental health services, disability services, schools, and private practice are developed.

Supervised placements support students in applying evidence-based learning in real clinical settings and graduating ready for professional practice.

Graduates are well positioned for roles such as:

Occupational therapist
Community occupational therapist
Paediatric occupational therapist
Mental health occupational therapist
Rehabilitation occupational therapist

Professionals may also progress into specialist clinical practice, leadership, research, education, or further postgraduate study.