Physiotherapy

Chartered physiotherapists have an important role to play in the healthcare of people of all ages. They assess an individual’s ability to move and return to normal activities, then combine physical means (such as therapeutic exercise, electrotherapy and manipulative therapy) with a psychosocial approach to facilitate a return to functional independence and a normal lifestyle. They work in multidisciplinary teams and practise in a variety of settings, so good communication skills are of paramount importance, alongside a scientific background and a passionate interest in maximising recovery and promoting good health.

Course Structure

Year One is mostly university-based with emphasis on foundation studies and shared learning with undergraduates from other healthcare professions: medicine, nursing, radiography, radiotherapy and biomedical science.

The modules introduce the basic biomedical and psychosocial science and physiotherapeutic knowledge and skills relevant to physiotherapeutic practice. They contain theoretical and practical components and you are encouraged to work closely together and independently. Opportunities to visit practice settings are available from the first year.

Years Two & Three integrate physiotherapy education in both university and clinical-practice settings, promoting your development into a competent professional. There are strong links with specialist clinicians who contribute to the academic course.

A substantial part of the course follows a rigorous clinical education programme that provides broad experience in the management and rehabilitation of patients with a variety of problems and disorders. Much emphasis is placed on clinical reasoning and the evaluation of practice.

All aspects of the curriculum are soundly underpinned by knowledge and application of the research and evidence-based supporting practice.

The course covers the following areas:

• Anatomy
• Physiology
• Pathology of diseases and disorders
• Psycholosocial issues
• Therapeutic exercise
• Manual techniques
• Electro-physical modalities
• Health promotion

Teaching and Assessment

We offer a range of innovative and flexible approaches to teaching and learning which includes:

• Classroom based learning
• Simulated practical exercises
• Case based learning
• Clinical placements
• Self-directed learning
• Individual and group working
• Research
• Online resources

You will also benefit from the support of a personal tutor, peer group learning and a range of web-based learning materials and online discussion forums.

Assessment
Assessment includes a combination of coursework (e.g. essays, written reports and presentations), written and practical examinations, clinical assessments and research reports.