The studies in occupational therapy are tied to year-based study plans and many of the courses require specific advance knowledge. This means that courses should be taken in a specific order and progression as advancement within the knowledge area of occupational therapy then will prove possible . When there is need for the individual student to depart from the set course programme, individual study plans are made to facilitate the course of studies. Through an individually planned extended vocational practice period, choice of subject for the degree thesis and extension studies the student can choose a specific focus within their field.
General studies
The student is familiar with information- and communication technology as well as other study tools that facilitate purposeful and self-directed studies. The student develops the linguistic competence in Swedish, Finnish and English which by law is demanded of public sector employees. The student is familiar with the Nordic welfare model and aware of fundamental structures in society, legislation and possibilities for entrepreneurship within their own field. The student masters the basic principles of the functions and leadership of organisations.
Basic and subject studies
Basic studies
The students develops an understanding for
participation, activity and citizenship and is aware of how different value bases affect the society, working community and individual
the overall development of the human and learning from a life cycle perspective
the physiology and function of the human body and a basic knowledge in internal medicine
The student guides and creates conditions for the individual based on their distinct needs and recourses
The student encounters, supports and inspires people of different ages and life situations with a creative and engaged approach
The student works to enable participation and activity for the individual and this work is characterised by a strong ethical awareness and respect for individual differences and values
The student is able to communicate with and meet the individual with an approach promoting participation and is open for cultural diversity and able to critically reflect on their own role in the context
Subject studies
The competences of the student during the first year of studies in occupational therapy focus on activity and the process in performing activity. The student has knowledge of the theoretical foundation of the profession and perceives the individual from a holistic perspective. The student is aware of the concept of activity in occupational therapy and of the prerequisites for activity and participation of the individual. The student understands how activity affects the health and wellbeing of the individual. The student is able to describe the structure and contents of the occupational therapy process. The student is aware of the interaction between individual and environment and the effect of the environment on activity and participation. The student can identify for them meaningful activities and through that process the concept of activity through their own experience.
The competences of the student during the second year of studies in occupational therapy focus on both a professional relationship and companionship and on professional independence and responsibility. The student can apply theories and evidence in their work with different client groups. The student develops their professional reasoning when working with clients. The student learns to work within the framework of their skills and knowledge and to operate in a multi-professional environment.
The competences of the student during the third year of studies in occupational therapy focus on both research and professional development within the field of occupational therapy. The student learns to apply research findings to develop practices. The student consolidates their professional identity during the practical training periods of the third year and are able to identify their individual need of professional development.
Extension studies
The student has a specific professional interest and engagement that supports the competence development within the field. The student extends and expands their knowledge and abilities within their field. The student is able to cooperate in multi-professional groups and with trade and industry as well as participate in projects that support innovative initiative.
Practical training
The education contains 40 ects practical vocational training within the university of applied sciences, within the different areas of occupational therapy and extended practice. The practical training periods are based on accepted study achievements in occupational therapy and are completed in a specific order during each academic year. The vocational practice is supervised and evaluated by supervisors and teachers and registered by the examiner for the practice period. Practical training periods are performed in different parts in Swedish-speaking Finland, mainly in the capital area. The number of training positions is limited and positions are therefore distributed in consultation with the supervising teacher. Further information on the practice periods is found in the respective course descriptions on ASTA.
Methodology and degree thesis
The student masters the fundamentals of information gathering, can critically evaluate scientific publications and apply research findings and research methods. The student can participate in research-. development- and innovation activities and write a project- or research report.