The three-year degree course in Terapia occupazionale (Occupational Therapy), created in agreement with the Claudiana University Health Professions Centre in Bolzano, trains rehabilitation health professionals specialised in promoting the autonomy and participation in daily life of people with physical, cognitive or mental limitations.
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Faculty:
Medicine and Surgery
Undergraduate Programmes
Terapia occupazionale (abilitante alla professione sanitaria di Terapista occupazionale)
Applications closed for the current academic year
Duration:
3 years
Teaching Hub:
Bolzano
This course is administratively affiliated with the Campus of
Rome, but teaching activities take place at:
Polo universitario delle professioni sanitarie - Claudiana (Bolzano).
Language:
Italian
Degree class:
L/SNT2 (Health professions for rehabilitation)
Credits:
180 ECTS
Admission:
By admission test
What qualification do you hold?
The application process and required documents vary depending on your qualification.
Italian qualification
You have obtained or are about to obtain an Italian qualification.
Go to the Enrolment Portal
International qualification
You have obtained or are about to obtain a non-Italian qualification.
View the international application procedure
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/ Overview
The programme, qualifying for the health profession of occupational therapist, provides for the acquisition of 180 xredits and is carried out in agreement with the Claudiana University Laboratory of Health Professions in Bolzano, in a bilingual and international context.
The training integrates medical and rehabilitation knowledge with contributions from the psychological, pedagogical, social and environmental fields.
At the centre is the concept of employment, understood as the set of significant activities that characterise a person's life, from self-care to productivity and leisure. The rehabilitation intervention considers the person in his or her own life context and may include the recovery of functions, the adaptation of activities, the modification of the environment and the use of aids.
The programme progressively combines theory and practice through the alternation between blocks of academic training and internship activities, present from the first year.
Field experiences take place in different fields, including neurology, orthopedics, geriatrics, pediatrics and psychiatry, allowing students to deal with different types of users and ways of taking charge.
Preparation enhances clinical reasoning, needs assessment and personalisation of interventions based on scientific evidence.
Particular attention is also paid to the care relationship, communication with the person and the family and collaboration with the various professionals involved in the rehabilitation process.
Why choose Terapia occupazionale at Università Cattolica?
The programme prepares for a health profession oriented towards the recovery of autonomy and the improvement of the quality of life, through interdisciplinary training that integrates scientific knowledge, practical skills and attention to the person.
Impact on quality of life
Acquisition of tools to help people of all ages recover, maintain or develop autonomy in daily activities
Global approach to the person
Interventions that consider individual conditions, significant activities and the life context, acting on functions, the environment and the way activities are carried out
Integration of different skills
Combination of clinical and rehabilitation knowledge with relational skills, operational methodologies and creative solutions to build personalised interventions
Practical experience from the first year
Internships in different contexts that allow you to progressively apply the knowledge acquired and deal with real professional situations
Variety of areas of intervention
Experiences in the neurological, orthopedic, geriatric, pediatric and psychiatric areas, in contact with people of different ages and needs
Bilingual and international education
Study in the context of the Claudiana in Bolzano, characterized by the use of Italian and German and an environment open to intercultural confrontation
Progressive professional growth
Alternation between theoretical training and field experience to develop clinical reasoning, decision-making autonomy and professional responsibility
Diversified employment prospects
Opportunity to work in health facilities, rehabilitation services and social welfare realities in the public and private sectors
91,6
%
Overall satisfaction with the degree programme
87,4
%
Students who would re-enrol in the degree programme
The combination of scientific preparation, clinical experience and attention to the person's daily life makes it possible to develop a professional profile capable of intervening in different rehabilitation contexts and responding to complex needs.
/ Study plan
Find your programme
The three-year degree programme in Terapia occupazionale is developed over three years and provides for a progressive integration of scientific knowledge, rehabilitation skills and training in the field.
The study plan accompanies students from the acquisition of the biomedical and functional bases to the application of advanced methodologies, with increasing levels of autonomy and professional responsibility.
First year
The first year is dedicated to the acquisition of basic scientific knowledge and the fundamentals of rehabilitation. The training focuses on:
Biological and biomedical foundations: basic knowledge necessary to understand the structure, functioning and main alterations of the human organism
Movement and functionality: study of the kinesiological, biomechanical and neurophysiological aspects underlying the person's activity and participation
Prevention and health context: knowledge of hygienic-preventive principles and the organization of health services and professions
Introduction to professional practice: first internship to get to know the care environments, observe the activity of the occupational therapist and discuss with the different figures of the team
Second year
The second year explores the main pathological conditions and the assessment and intervention methodologies of occupational therapy. The studies concern:
Orthopaedic and neurological area: understanding of the motor, cognitive and functional changes associated with the main pathologies of adults
Assessment and rehabilitation intervention: development of tools to analyze needs, abilities and limitations and define interventions consistent with the person's goals
Clinical practice: internship experiences in specialized contexts to consolidate operational, relational and professional skills
Evidence-based approach: use of scientific evidence to identify the most appropriate clinical practices and support professional reasoning
Third year
The third year completes the training with advanced methodologies, specialised insights and greater autonomy in clinical practice. The preparation includes:
Advanced professional methodologies: in-depth study of tools and strategies for the evaluation, planning and personalisation of interventions
Specialist areas: in-depth study of specific areas of occupational therapy and comparison with complex rehabilitation needs
Teamwork and organization of services: development of tools to collaborate in multidisciplinary groups and operate in articulated health contexts
Professional autonomy: internship with increasing levels of responsibility in the evaluation and conduct of interventions, under the supervision of expert tutors
Research and management: acquisition of methods for scientific research and organizational and managerial knowledge useful in different professional contexts
Teaching also includes courses in Theology and progressively accompanies students towards an autonomous, responsible and evidence-based professional practice.
Teaching approach
The training integrates theoretical lessons, laboratories and clinical internship through an organisation that favors the progressive application of knowledge and the development of professional autonomy. The teaching approach enhances direct contact with rehabilitation contexts, practical experimentation and constant accompaniment by expert tutors.
Clinical internship from the first year: insertion into real professional contexts to gradually develop operational and relational skills and acquire autonomy in taking care of the person
Alternation between theory and practice: organisation of teaching in blocks that combine lessons and field training, facilitating the connection between scientific knowledge and rehabilitation intervention
Comparison with different clinical areas: presence in neurological, orthopedic, pediatric, geriatric and psychiatric facilities to get to know people of different ages, conditions and needs
Internships in Italy and abroad: attendance mainly in Trentino-Alto Adige in the first two years, with the possibility, in the third year, of accessing facilities in other Italian regions and German-speaking countries
Laboratories and simulations: practical exercises, simulations of rehabilitation interventions and discussion of clinical cases to consolidate technical, manual and decision-making skills
Clinical tutoring: support from experienced professionals who guide learning and accompany the progressive assumption of responsibility
International dimension: Erasmus programmes and other mobility opportunities to learn about different models of care and rehabilitation
Bilingual training: courses in Italian and German, supported by services dedicated to strengthening language skills
Study support: orientation services, accompaniment in the study method and preparation of the thesis and psychological counseling throughout the university process
The integration of scientific knowledge, clinical practice and comparison with different professional realities makes it possible to develop a conscious, evidence-based approach that is attentive to the person and his or her life context.
Small group labs, simulations and case studies in protected environments
Internship from the first year in different contexts, with increasing supervision and autonomy
Focus on the person, clinical reasoning and evidence-based personalised interventions
Teamwork, expert tutors and internships in Italy and German-speaking countries
/ Admission
How to enrol
For admission to the degree courses in the health professions activated by the Faculty of Medicine and Surgery "A. Gemelli" at the teaching site in agreement with Claudiana - University Pole of Health Professions of Bolzano , please refer to the specific call for applications that is published on the portal of the Claudiana University Pole of Health Professions.
At Claudiana - Polo Universitario the degree courses are delivered in Italian and German, therefore, those who intend to enrol at the Bolzano campus must apply for admission through a special online procedure and take a language proficiency test (Italian and German) organised by the Polo itself: the degree of difficulty of the test corresponds to level B2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.
Participation in the eligibility test is mandatory for all candidates who do not have a language certificate, according to the specifications provided on the institutional website of the teaching venue.
Useful information
Practical information to help you enrol and get started at Università Cattolica.
Additional Educational Obligations (OFA)
Admitted students who have not correctly answered at least 20% of the questions in the subjects indicated in the call for applications are assigned Additional Training Obligations (OFA), to be fulfilled within the first year.
To make up for initial deficiencies, it is necessary to attend specific intensive and remedial activities, even remotely, and pass a final multiple-choice exam. Failure to fulfill the OFAs prevents students from taking the exams scheduled for the second year.
Applicants with disabilities or Specific Learning Disorders (SLD)
Students with disabilities or Specific Learning Disorders (SLD) can access learning aids and adjustments to study and assessment arrangements. Full details are available in the University's Services for Inclusion section.
Transfers, programme changes and second degrees
Applicants wishing to transfer from another university, start a second degree or resume their university studies must meet the entry requirements.
/ Fees and funding
Tuition fees and financial support
Tuition fees and scholarships
Starting university often involves questions about fees, deadlines and the support available. Clear information about financial support and accommodation options helps students plan their studies with confidence, allowing them to focus on their academic progress and personal development.
Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, through EDUCatt, offers income- and merit-based scholarships and graduation awards, providing financial support to help students continue their studies.
Visit the dedicated section for information on tuition fees and other costs, use the online fee simulator, and find out about available financial support.
/ Internships and careers
Internships and career opportunities
The Faculty offers several internship and apprenticeship opportunities, allowing students to apply the skills acquired in concrete work contexts.
Internships and vocational training
The professional internship is a central component of the undergraduate degree programme in Terapia occupazionale and accompanies students in the progressive development of clinical, relational and professional skills.
The direct confrontation with different situations and needs allows you to apply the knowledge acquired, refine clinical reasoning and gradually assume greater autonomy and responsibility.
On-the-job training is carried out under the supervision of clinical and educational tutors, coordinated by the Director of Professional Teaching and Internship Activities. Coaching allows you to consolidate operational skills and develop a conscious approach to assessing needs, planning interventions and relating to the person.
At the end of each year, the skills achieved are verified and certified through an internship exam. The evaluation considers the opinions of the tutors, the written papers and the intervention plans developed from clinical cases, as well as a practical test based on the simulation of professional situations in the neurological, orthopedic, pediatric and geriatric fields.
The Career Service supports students and graduates as they prepare to enter the job market, providing career guidance and resources to help them navigate different professional and organisational contexts. It supports the development of transversal skills, creates opportunities to meet employers and helps students develop an informed and coherent career path.
Every year, more than 20,000 students take part in events organised with over 100 partner companies, and more than 9,500 undertake an internship with support from the Career Service and internship tutors.
Learning outcomes
At the end of the programme, graduates in Terapia occupazionale acquires clinical, rehabilitative and relational skills that allow him to assess the needs of the person and carry out personalised interventions to promote autonomy, safety and participation in the activities of daily living.
Functional assessment
Analysis of the person's abilities in daily activities and identification of physical, cognitive, environmental and social factors that facilitate or limit participation
Planning of the intervention
Definition of personalised rehabilitation objectives and strategies, consistent with the needs of the person and based on scientific evidence
Therapeutic Use of Occupations
Use of daily, manual and expressive activities as tools for the recovery of functions and the development of autonomy
Assistive Products & Technologies
Identification, adaptation and training in the use of aids, orthoses and technological solutions adapted to individual needs
Adaptation of the environment
Design of changes to spaces and methods of carrying out activities to improve accessibility, autonomy and safety
Intervention in different rehabilitation areas
Application of specific methodologies in neurological, orthopedic, pediatric, geriatric and psychiatric contexts
Multidisciplinary collaboration
Participation in the overall care of the person through discussion and coordination with the different figures in the team
Communication and care relationship
Effective interaction with patients, family members, and caregivers to foster participation, awareness, and continuity of intervention
Education and counselling
Accompaniment of the person and the family network in the development of useful strategies to support autonomy in daily life
Professional liability
Application of the ethical, deontological and organisational principles governing healthcare practice
Clinical reasoning
Interpretation of the data collected, monitoring of the results and review of strategies based on the evolution of needs
Scientific update
Critical use of available literature and evidence to continuously improve the quality of professional practice
At the end of the programme, graduates have the necessary skills to operate in the various contexts of medical radiology, contributing to the quality of diagnostic and therapeutic pathways and the safety of care.
Career prospects
The three-year degree programme in Terapia occupazionale qualifies you for the health profession of occupational therapist, allowing you to operate with autonomy and responsibility in the various areas of rehabilitation, assistance and social inclusion.
Public and private healthcare facilities
Interventions in hospitals, clinics and rehabilitation centers to promote the recovery of functions, autonomy and participation in daily activities
Specialist rehabilitation services
Taking care of people with neurological, orthopedic, geriatric, pediatric and psychiatric needs through personalised programmes
Community and outpatient services
Continuous rehabilitation accompaniment in outpatient clinics, social and health facilities and proximity services
Home care
Support to the person in their own life context, with particular attention to daily activities, safety and adaptation of spaces
Social care facilities and communities
Promotion of autonomy and social participation in care residences, therapeutic communities and services for people with disabilities
Educational and social contexts
Support for participation and inclusion through interventions aimed at school, relational and daily life activities
Assistive Products & Technologies
Assessment of individual needs, identification of technological solutions and design of environmental adaptations
Freelance
Advice and personalised interventions independently or in collaboration with multidisciplinary teams
Research, training and healthcare organisation
Professional development in applied research, in the training of operators and in the coordination of rehabilitation services
The variety of intervention contexts allows the occupational therapist to work with people of all ages, contributing to the recovery of autonomy and the improvement of quality of life.
Continuing your studies
The degree in Terapia occupazionale allows students to continue their training through specialization and updating courses in the areas of rehabilitation, research and the organisation of health services.
Graduate degrees: access to courses in the area of rehabilitation health professions, such as Health Professions Rehabilitation Sciences, to develop advanced skills in management, training and research
Specialising Maste degrees: specialisation in specific sectors of occupational therapy and rehabilitation, with in-depth studies dedicated to different clinical, social and organisational areas
PhDs: possibility, after obtaining a master's degree, to access research in the biomedical, rehabilitation and health sciences fields
Continuous CME training: professional updating throughout the career to maintain and expand skills in relation to scientific evolution and new rehabilitation practices
The continuation of studies allows students to deepen specific professional areas and to orient themselves towards roles in research, training and coordination of rehabilitation services.
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