Occupational Therapy in Bangladesh

Occupational Therapy in Bangladesh

In Bangladesh, occupational therapy is an emerging and essential rehabilitation profession. OT services are provided for individuals with physical disabilities, neurological conditions, mental health disorders, developmental delays, and age-related functional limitations. Occupational therapists work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, special schools, mental health facilities, NGOs, community-based rehabilitation (CBR) programs, and private practices.

Definition of Occupational Therapy

Occupational Therapy (OT) is a client-centered healthcare profession that helps individuals of all ages participate independently in their daily activities (occupations). These activities include self-care, work, education, and leisure. Occupational therapists use therapeutic activities, adaptive techniques, assistive devices, and environmental modifications to improve functional independence and quality of life.

Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy (BSc in OT)

The Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy (BScOT) is a professional undergraduate degree designed to prepare competent occupational therapists. The program emphasizes human anatomy, physiology, psychology, occupational science, therapeutic activities, assistive technology, mental health, pediatrics, neurology, and community rehabilitation.

Course Duration

• Duration: 4 years academic study + 1 year compulsory internship
• Total Duration: 5 years
• Internship: The internship provides hands-on clinical training in hospitals and rehabilitation centers.

Admission Criteria for BSc in Occupational Therapy under Dhaka University (DU) – Bangladesh

Affiliation

The BSc in Occupational Therapy programme under the Faculty of Medicine, University of Dhaka.

Academic Eligibility

To be eligible for admission into the BSc in Occupational Therapy programme under Dhaka University, applicants typically must meet the following criteria:

• • Education Background:Passed SSC (or equivalent) and HSC (or equivalent) examinations from the Science group (with Biology, Physics, and Chemistry).
• • Minimum Grade Requirements:

  Total combined GPA (from SSC and HSC) of at least 8.00.
  Separate minimum GPA of 3.50 in each of SSC and HSC.

Entrance Test / Selection

• Admission is usually merit-based. Historically for this professional programme, rather than a separate university unit test, selection may be done based on SSC/HSC results and institute-specific merit criteria set by the affiliated college under Dhaka University.

Documents Usually Required
Typical documents required at admission time include:

• SSC & HSC certificates and mark sheets
• Recent passport-size photos- 4 copies
• National ID or Birth Certificate
• Character/transfer certificates (as required by the college)

Career Path / Career Opportunities
Graduates in Occupational Therapy have diverse career options, including:

• Clinical Occupational Therapy (Hospitals & Clinics)
• Rehabilitation Specialist
• Special Schools and Inclusive Education Settings
• Pediatric or Geriatric Occupational Therapist
• Community and Public Health Therapist
• Academic Career (Lecturer/Instructor)
• Researcher
• Private Practice / Occupational Therapy Center Owner
• NGO and International Organization Jobs Owner

Higher Education Opportunities

• Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy or Rehabilitation Sciences
• MPH, MPhil, or PhD
• Specialized training in Pediatrics, Mental Health, Neurology, Hand Therapy, and Assistive Technology