The course is structured in modules, combining scientific training and basic cultural notions with specific professional skills that are also developed during work experience placements. The aim is to train professional operators who can make a valid contribution to the prevention and resolution of healthcare problems.

Future occupational therapists are taught how to:

• operate professionally taking into consideration the most recent developments arising from both the scientific sector and from evidence-based practice,
• develop and apply problem solving methods, autonomously and in groups,
• take on professional managerial and consulting roles, demonstrating social and individual responsibility,
• conceptualise and act in a global and multidisciplinary manner,
• develop effective communication methods, aimed at and suited to various types of interlocutor.

In view of the limited number of places available, all candidates must sit a competitive examination (which is usually conducted in the month of May).
For admission to the full-time course, applicants must possess one of the following qualifications:

• federal vocational social-healthcare school leaving examination
• specialist healthcare or social school leaving examination
• vocational technical, commercial or artistic school leaving examination
• high school leaving examination or equivalent qualification

Acceptance of applicants without a specific school leaving examination (social-healthcare) is subject to attendance of supplementary modules.
Applicants aged more than 25 and who lack these qualifications may be admitted provided that in the opinion of the Department they have significant training and work experience; applicants belonging to this category must sit a general culture examination.

Occupational Therapy is a profession that promotes health and wellbeing by means of occupation, in order to render people capable of participating in daily life. Clients are involved actively in the therapeutic process and the occupational therapy outcomes are diversified, directed by the client and measured in terms of participation or satisfaction derived from participation. Occupational therapists work together with other healthcare operators to identify and implement educational and therapeutic intervention projects for individuals and for groups. Occupational Therapy is practiced in a broad range of environments, including hospitals, healthcare centres, the home, the workplace, schools, prisons and retirement homes. Occupational therapists practice their profession either as direct employees or as independent professional operators.