Physiotherapy (pre-registration)

Entry requirements

ou should present evidence of study in a relevant discipline, ordinarily holding an honours degree in a relevant discipline at 1st or 2.1 classifications. It is expected that you will have previous knowledge in human anatomy or physiology. Ideally, we would consider life science degrees that contain modules focused around that area, e.g. Human Biology, Biosciences, Sport and Exercise Science, Sports Therapy, etc, where human anatomy or physiology modules will have formed part of the previous degree programme of study Alternatively, we would consider applications from graduates of other disciplines who have worked in a healthcare field and gained significant practical experience (e.g. healthcare assistant, physiotherapy assistant or those holding existing professional healthcare qualifications). If you are unsure of whether your degree is relevant, you are very welcome to send us your degree transcript so that our Admissions Tutor can take a closer look at what you have studied before you submit an application for the programme. All shortlisted applicants are invited for interview. Please see website for full details of the application process.

Months of entry

September

Course content

Choose physiotherapy at Birmingham and take the opportunity to develop into a qualified competent practitioner of physiotherapy. The programme offers a challenging and stimulating learning experience for graduates wishing to contribute to evolving healthcare needs through the practice of physiotherapy. You will become autonomous, competent and capable graduates that will make a significant contribution to future healthcare services. The programme is based on a philosophy of patient-centred care and respond appropriately to the needs of all different groups and individuals in a non-discriminatory and inclusive manner.

The MSc in Physiotherapy (pre-registration) programme spans two years full-time, starting in September and finishing in August. The aim of the programme is to provide a rewarding educational experience that enables students to develop as competent, evidence-based and patient-centred physiotherapy practitioners, capable of making a valuable contribution to the workplace. We are looking for applicants who can meet our academic requirements and demonstrate personal qualities that are compatible with the values stated in the NHS Constitution. Find out more on the NHS Constitution webpages.

Successful completion of this programme awards you with a Masters degree and gives you eligibility to apply for registration with both the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy and the Health Professions Council.

This two year programme Physiotherapy masters programme is modular and is equally divided between university and clinically based settings. It has been designed around three core areas; the management of neurological, cardio-pulmonary and neuromusculoskeletal dysfunctions, with knowledge from the biomedical and psycho-social sciences recruited as required. Clinical education is spread across both years in equal proportions.

Year One

Year One modules aim to develop physiotherapy practice and clinical reasoning in key areas of practice. An important aspect throughout the programme is the critical analysis and evaluation of physiotherapeutic concepts, skills and treatment approaches. Professional and practice aspects of physiotherapy will also be considered.

Year Two

Year Two of the programme allows students to develop capability in managing more complex presentations and includes a greater proportion of practice-based modules. At the beginning of year two, the research project is introduced, which will become the main focus as the year progresses.

Practice Education Placements

The Practice Education Placement modules are an important aspect of the education of a physiotherapist and are continued throughout the two years of the programme.

Practice education placements comprise 34 weeks of the programme and are organised into six modules, two of which take place in year 1 and four in year 2, to complete a minimum of 1,065 hours of supervised practice. This practice reflects the four pillars of advanced and consultant practice including clinical, leadership, education and research.

You will be seconded to a range of diverse and exciting placements, where you will gain a variety of experiences with a wide range of client groups, under the guidance of skilled clinicians. Each student will gain experience of physiotherapy within various placement settings across the West Midlands. With the support of clinical educators, students will treat patients, observe experienced clinicians and participate in all aspects of care including case conferences, ward rounds and home visits. Community placements may be undertaken in contemporary locations working with a wide variety of healthcare professionals. Advanced practitioners will support you to develop effective leadership skills, engage and participate in clinical research and contribute to a lifelong education culture.

For full details of all modules please go to our webite.

Information for international students

Candidates applying from outside the UK should contact us to confirm their eligibility for the programme.

IELTS 7.0 with no less than 6.5 in any band required.

Fees and funding