A Matter of Degree: Has Occupational Therapy Graduated as a Profession?

Abstract

This article presents the findings of a survey conducted to determine the range and extent of opinion within the occupational therapy profession concerning the move from diploma to degree level pre-registration courses. Responses from occupational therapists in education, clinical practice and management to a series of statements, based on published opinion about this issue, provide quantitative data revealing concern about the effects of this transition. This is augmented by qualitative data derived from analysis of respondents' commentary. These results, which are discussed in the context of current health care changes, suggest that the regrading of the professional qualification has implications beyond those that have previously been acknowledged.