Interdisciplinary Occupational Therapy Training Dresden

Occupational therapy training lasts three years full-time and includes theoretical and practical lessons at a vocational school as well as several internship phases in occupational therapy facilities. The training ends with a state examination, after which you are entitled to use the professional title "occupational therapist".

The occupational therapy training programme at Heimerer in Dresden is completely free of tuition fees. You are also entitled to non-repayable student BAföG funding. The only costs you may incur are for learning materials, specialist literature, work clothing and examination fees. The tuition-free training programme keeps your financial burden manageable.

You will need:

• Secondary school leaving certificate (Realschulabschluss) or equivalent educational qualification
• Alternatively: secondary school leaving certificate with at least two years of completed vocational training
• Health suitability confirmed by a medical certificate
• Social skills and enjoyment of working with people
• Interest in creative and manual activities. 

Yes, during your occupational therapy training at school, you are entitled to student BAföG under the Federal Training Assistance Act. You do not have to pay anything back, as this BAföG does not have to be repaid. The amount depends on your income and that of your parents. 

After completing your training, you will have the following options:

• Hospitals and clinics: Treatment of various patient groups
• Occupational therapy practices: Outpatient therapeutic care
• Rehabilitation facilities: supporting patients in rehabilitation
• Facilities for people with disabilities: supporting people with impairments
• Geriatric facilities: Working with elderly people
• Self-employment: Opening your own occupational therapy practice

The job prospects for occupational therapists are very good, as preventive measures and quality of life are becoming increasingly important in society.

Yes, after completing your training, there are numerous opportunities to gain further qualifications:

• Further training: specialisations in neurology, geriatrics, psychiatry or psychosomatics (e.g. at the Heimerer Academy)
• Study: Bachelor's degree in occupational therapy or special education
• Business administrator: Qualification as a business administrator for health and social services for management positions
• Specialist development: In specific treatment concepts and therapy methods

Occupational therapy training at school is not remunerated, as it takes place at a vocational school. Unlike dual training programmes, there is no monthly training allowance. In return, you benefit from comprehensive theoretical preparation and intensive practical phases. And the training is free of school fees. You may also be entitled to non-repayable student BAföG financial support.