Hello everyone! I'm a fellow OT Student from Vienna. While browsing the forums I came across a couple concepts that I couldn't quite figure out.
Can somebody please explain what a degree apprenticeship is?
What's the difference to a regular degree program ?
And also what does an OT Assistant do? In Austria we don't have this role as far as I'm aware.
Looking forward to any insights :)
Thanks a lot, Julia
Here's an excerpt from the UK professional body's website on apprenticeship degrees (these may differ in other countries):
'Degree level apprenticeships are becoming a popular way to study occupational therapy in England. The first apprenticeships were launched in 2019 and numbers are growing steadily. By completing the route to becoming an occupational therapist in this way, the apprentice is able to work and study simultaneously, therefore in a position to earn an income as well as studying.'
In the UK, these last two years (vs three years for a traditional BSc degree). Read more here: https://www.rcot.co.uk/degree-level-apprenticeship-occupational-therapy
An OT assistant has not completed formalised degree training, but supports occupational therapists in day-to-day work and rehabilitation. They work under guidance of the OT and often get to spend more face-to-face time with patients/clients than the OT, depending on the setting and specialism.