Postgraduate programmes
The Master of Occupational Therapy qualification is obtained through completion of one of the following programmes:
» Master of Occupational Therapy (Structured)
» Master of Occupational Therapy by Thesis
Applications for the Master in Occupational therapy close on 31 October of each year. To apply, go to http://www.maties.com/apply.htm
The Stellenbosch University Website offers information to prospective students on the cost of programmes offered. The calculation of cost is inclusive of a number of components – some you might not need. To access information please follow these steps:
• Go to: Stellenbosch University Website – www.sun.ac.za
• Click on: Prospective students – Postgraduate
• Click on: Fees
• Click on: Provisional Fees Statement
• Enter information – Submit
If you experience problems with this service please contact Ms Lesanne Matthee at:
Email address: [email protected],
Tel: +27 21 938 9208
The Occupational Therapy Division at Stellenbosch University is proud to host the first-ever PhD programme in Occupational Science in Africa. The programme enrolled its first student at the beginning of 2026, marking an important milestone in advancing occupational science on the African continent. It aims to support innovative research, promote collaboration between African and global scholars, and strengthen the relevance of occupational science in practice, policy and international development.
This pioneering doctoral programme offers scholars the opportunity to explore human occupation within diverse cultural, social and community contexts, with a strong focus on Africa and the Global South.
The PhD in Occupational Science enables scholars to:
- Investigate the role of occupation in promoting health, well-being and sustainable development.
- Explore occupation within diverse African communities and cultural contexts.
- Develop context-specific knowledge that supports participation, inclusion and occupational justice.
- Contribute to research on disability, mental health, non-communicable diseases and community-based approaches to well-being.
- Strengthen the global body of knowledge in occupational science through African and international perspectives.
For more information about the PhD in Occupational Science, please contact Dr Susan de Klerk at [email protected]
Occupational therapy is a relatively young profession that is undergoing rapid development in terms of qualification at doctoral level. Our doctoral programme in is ideal for occupational therapists who endeavour to further develop the scientific and/or evidence-base for occupational therapy or make a contribution to occupational science. Scholars engaging in doctoral studies will network with other scholars exploring environmental influences on occupational behaviour or vice versa. Research tends to focus on the relationship between occupation and health or development within contextual dimensions that include policy.
Contact Person:
Dr Susan de Klerk
[email protected]