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European Master of Science in Occupational Therapy part-time

What do you learn during the OT-EuroMaster?

The European Master of Science in Occupational Therapy is a 2-year, part-time postgraduate programme. It consists of 6 modules. The first 5 modules are taught at partner universities across Europe. The final module is a semi‑independent research project related to human occupation that leads to your Master’s thesis.

You study in a small international group of about 20–30 students from at least 6 countries. Together you exchange experiences, develop your professional identity and improve your intercultural understanding.

Overall programme structure

  • Modules 1 - 4 (Year 1)
    2 weeks of self‑study, 2 weeks of intensive classes on site and 8 weeks of self‑study with an assignment.
  • Module 5 (Year 2)
    1 week of classes on site at a partner university.
  • Module 6 (Year 2)
    An independent research project and thesis, written in the format of a journal paper with a critical reflection, completed in your home country.

Online sessions throughout the programme support your learning. All modules combine Occupational Therapy, Occupational Science and research, and each module ends with an assignment.

Year 1

Module 1 – Brighton, United Kingdom

In this module you:

  • Are introduced to the programme and the expectations at Master of Science level.
  • Explore the history and current status of Occupational Therapy in each student’s home country.
  • Are introduced to Occupational Science.
  • Practise problem‑based learning.

Module 2 – Amsterdam, the Netherlands

In this module you:

  • Are introduced to qualitative research methods that capture subjective dimensions, such as lived experiences and the meaning of human occupation and participation.
  • Explore the concept of positionality and reflect on your own position in research and OT‑related questions.
  • Examine how environment, diversity and culture influence occupations and participation in society.

Module 3 – Winterthur, Switzerland

In this module you:

  • Explore quantitative approaches and measurement in relation to human occupation, for example occupational performance and participation.
  • Learn how to collect, analyse and interpret data, and how context shapes data.
  • Learn how to use numbers to tell people’s stories, support arguments and improve OT practice.
  • Integrate quantitative research methods into Occupational Therapy assessment and intervention.

Video: Module 3 in Winterthur, Switzerland

Module 4 – A Coruña, Spain

In this module you:

  • Explore socio‑cultural perspectives of human occupation and discuss, critique and synthesise how occupation is shaped by societal, political, economic, healthcare and cultural conditions in diverse contexts.
  • Further develop your literature review skills to identify knowledge gaps and formulate relevant research questions.

Year 2

Module 5 – Stockholm, Sweden

In this module you:

  • Synthesise and apply the knowledge and research skills gained in previous modules.
  • Use the reflections on your research interests, design, methods and ethical considerations from Module 4 as a starting point.
  • Develop a research proposal for your Master’s thesis.

Module 6 – your home country

In this module you:

  • Conduct a research project on a complex topic or issue in relation to human occupation in a country and context of your choice.
  • Receive online supervision from a qualified staff member from one of the partner universities.

Title and diploma

After completing all 6 modules of the European Master of Science in Occupational Therapy programme, you are awarded the degree European MSc in Occupational Therapy. You may use the Master of Science (MSc) title.