In this interview, we sit down with Angela Miguez Barreiro, Programme Director of our MSc in Occupational Therapy (pre-registration).
Academic interests and expertise
Can you tell us about your academic and research background?
I began my professional journey in Spain, where I completed a BSc in Occupational Therapy and an MSc in Global Health. My early research focused on adolescent motherhood and the social determinants of health, fostering a strong commitment to equity and access to healthcare and education. After working across healthcare settings in Spain and England, I specialised in neurology and neuroscience.
These experiences have shaped my commitment to promoting equity and inclusivity, cultural awareness, and person-centred practice within healthcare education. More recently, I completed a PgCert in Healthcare and Biomedical Education at St George's University, further developing my interests in professional identity formation, assessment, and the use of artificial intelligence in education. I remain actively engaged in occupational therapy research nationally and internationally, with a particular interest in community experiences, occupational justice, and the ongoing evolution of occupational therapy practice and professional identity.
What inspired you to specialise in your current field of study?
I was inspired to specialise in occupational therapy education because of my interest in professional identity formation and the process through which students develop into confident, reflective, and effective practitioners.
I am particularly passionate about bridging the gap between theory and practice, helping students apply knowledge and evidence to complex real-world situations while developing their professional reasoning. As an educator, I am motivated by the opportunity to support the next generation of occupational therapists and contribute to the continued growth and advancement of the profession.
What do you enjoy most about teaching and mentoring students?
I enjoy supporting students' growth as learners and future professionals. Seeing their confidence, professional identity, and critical thinking develop over time is incredibly rewarding, while their experiences and feedback also encourage me to continually reflect on and improve my own practice.
Why this course?
What makes this postgraduate programme unique within its field?
This programme combines academic knowledge with extensive practical experience, helping you develop the skills required for contemporary occupational therapy practice.
Based within a hospital environment, you will learn alongside students from a range of healthcare professions, benefiting from a multiprofessional learning experience that enhances communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills. Through problem-based learning, real-life case scenarios, simulation in the Art of Living Suite, anatomy teaching, and 1,000 placement hours across diverse settings in London, you will gain valuable hands-on experience and develop confidence in applying theory to practice. A distinctive feature of the programme is the inclusion of an independent research dissertation, enabling you to develop advanced research skills and contribute to the occupational therapy evidence base.
What support is offered to help students transition from undergraduate to postgraduate study?
We recognise that transitioning from undergraduate to postgraduate study can be a significant step, particularly for students returning to education or entering a fast-paced professional programme. To support this transition, the curriculum is carefully scaffolded, progressing from foundational knowledge and skills to more advanced clinical reasoning and professional practice. Throughout the programme, students receive guidance, feedback, and pastoral support from a dedicated academic team, helping them build confidence, develop independent learning skills, and successfully adapt to the demands of Master's-level study.
Career paths
Are there opportunities for students to tailor the programme based on their specific academic or career interests?
While the programme has a defined curriculum to ensure students meet the professional requirements for registration, there are opportunities to tailor aspects of the learning experience to individual interests, backgrounds, and career aspirations. Students are encouraged to draw on their own experiences and perspectives throughout the programme, enriching discussions, reflection, and professional development.
A key opportunity for personalisation is the independent research dissertation, where students design and develop their own research proposal based on their own interests and motivations in relation to the profession of occupational therapy.
How does the programme help students develop skills for their future careers, whether in academia or industry?
The programme helps students develop skills for future careers through a combination of problem-based learning, real-life case scenarios, and extensive practice placements. These experiences enable students to apply theory to practice, develop professional reasoning, and build confidence in real-world settings.
Students also benefit from learning alongside an experienced academic team, guest lecturers, and specialist practitioners from across the profession, exposing them to diverse perspectives, contemporary practice, and potential career pathways. Through workshops, placement experiences, and engagement with experts in the field, students develop the communication, collaboration, critical thinking, and professional skills needed for careers in both clinical practice and academia.
What career paths have graduates from this programme typically followed?
Most graduates go on to careers within the NHS, working across a wide range of settings including acute hospitals, community services, mental health services, social care, and specialist services for children and adults. Others pursue opportunities in the voluntary and third sectors, charities, education, independent practice, and non-governmental organisations. The breadth of placement experiences and professional skills developed throughout the programme prepares graduates for diverse and rewarding career pathways within occupational therapy.
Tips for offer holders
What advice would you give offer holders as they prepare to join this course?
My advice would be to come prepared for an intensive and rewarding learning experience. Accelerated occupational therapy programmes are demanding, so being organised, proactive, and open to learning will help you succeed. Embrace opportunities to problem-solve, think critically, and work collaboratively with your peers, as these skills are essential for both the programme and future professional practice. Most importantly, stay curious and engaged, as the course is designed to challenge and support you in becoming a confident occupational therapist.