COURSE CURRICULUM

The MSc Physiotherapy (Pre-Registration) at Queen Margaret University provides an intensive two-year curriculum that combines scientific knowledge, professional development, research, and extensive clinical placements to prepare students for a career as a physiotherapist. In Year One, students study Foundations of Physiotherapy 1 and 2, developing a strong understanding of anatomy, physiology, assessment techniques, and problem-solving skills that underpin physiotherapy practice. The Preparing for Professional Practice module explores the factors that influence health and social care delivery and the role of allied health professionals. Principles of Rehabilitation introduces theoretical and practical rehabilitation skills, while specialist modules in Neurological Physiotherapy, Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy, and Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy develop knowledge and evidence-based clinical skills for assessing and managing a wide range of conditions across acute, rehabilitation, and long-term care settings. Students also undertake Applied Research Methods to gain an in-depth understanding of research processes and develop skills to solve clinical and professional problems using evidence-based approaches. Throughout the first year, students complete foundation and practice-based placements that allow them to apply their learning in real healthcare environments. In Year Two, the programme focuses on managing increasingly complex clinical scenarios through the Complexity in Physiotherapy modules, enhancing students' clinical reasoning, critical thinking, and educational skills. Students also choose between Public Health Practice for Physiotherapists, which examines public health principles and their application to physiotherapy, or Entrepreneurship and Leadership for Professional Practice, which explores leadership, innovation, and change management in health and social care. A 40-credit Dissertation enables students to conduct an independent, evidence-informed research project that contributes to professional knowledge and practice. The programme includes further practice-based learning and an elective placement, with more than 1,050 hours of clinical experience across diverse settings. This combination of academic study and practical training prepares graduates for professional registration and employment as skilled, reflective, and evidence-based physiotherapists in healthcare systems around the world.