ROBOT BEATING CAREERS: OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST
It’s time to begin planning your robot beating career. Why not take a look at occupational therapy as one of your options?
Back in August we explored robot beating careers, specifically Sports Scientists, this time around we take a look at Occupational Therapists.
We all know that robots are coming. In fact, in many professions they are already here.
Robots are increasingly being used by businesses to improve the efficiencies of their operations and employ less people. As Artificial Intelligence (AI) become more prevalent across industry we take a look at a profession that is regarded as one of the top ten least likely to be automated.
In our previous article about Sports Scientists we discussed what AI was and how its use across industry is growing. A report by Goldman Sachs written in March suggests that generative AI could automate the equivalent of 300 million full time jobs. Have a look at this article if you want to know more about what AI is and why should you be aware of it. If you want to plan a robot-beating career then you need to look at things AI is not good at.
The Royal College of Occupational Therapists describe occupational Therapy as a science-based, health and social care profession that’s regulated by the Health and Care Professions Council.
Occupational Therapists help people to live their best life.
This could be at home or at work. An Occupational Therapist helps their client overcome their personal challenges. These are different for different people and could include learning at school, going to work, or playing sport. Simply put, it’s about improving people’s well-being and their ability to participate in activities.
How do you become an Occupational Therapist?
You need to complete a degree or a degree-level apprenticeship in occupational therapy. Alternatively, if you already have a degree in another subject, you can qualify by studying on a postgraduate programme. An Occupational Therapy degree apprenticeship is offered through employers like the NHS or a social care service. You’ll become fully qualified by spending 80% of your of time in paid work and 20% at university.
If you decide to take the traditional university route, the grades you’ll need to get a place will vary. Generally speaking, you’ll need a minimum of five GCSEs at A–C and three A-levels. Think about taking these in a related subject such as Human Biology, Health and Social Care, Psychology, or Social Sciences. Other options include a BTEC Diploma in a health and social care-related subject or an access course. Most universities will also want to interview you, so having some work experience as well as good predicted grades will help. You might also want to consider shadowing an occupational therapist. The RCOT have tips on how to arrange this.
The Occupational Therapy Degree at University of Liverpool will teach develop the skills and knowledge to deliver occupational therapy assessments. You’ll study how to devise interventions that help your clients enjoy an optimal quality of life. You‘ll also build the soft skills to help you communicate effectively and develop a therapeutic relationship with your clients. The degree also includes over 1,000 hours of clinical experience.
It’s time to begin planning your robot beating career. Why not take a look at occupational therapy as one of your options?
