COURSE CURRICULUM

The Physiotherapy programme provides a comprehensive combination of academic study, clinical training and professional development to prepare students for contemporary physiotherapy practice across a wide range of healthcare settings. During Stage 1, students study Enhancing Professionalism, Leadership and Service Improvement Skills for the Future Ready Practitioner, which develops understanding of healthcare policies, professional standards, leadership and reflective practice while supporting personal and professional development through an electronic portfolio. Human Movement and Function for Physiotherapists provides an integrated understanding of the structure and function of the neuromuscular, musculoskeletal, cardiovascular and respiratory systems that underpin human movement and physical performance. Integrated Physiotherapy Practice develops the knowledge and practical skills required to assess, treat and evaluate individuals experiencing musculoskeletal, neurological, cardiovascular and respiratory conditions while promoting health and wellbeing across the lifespan. Students also complete Physiotherapy Practice Placements 1, 2a and 2b, totalling thirteen weeks of clinical experience, where they develop communication, assessment, treatment and clinical reasoning skills within a variety of healthcare environments. During Stage 2, Clinical Rehabilitation develops advanced understanding of rehabilitation approaches within musculoskeletal, neurological, cardiac and respiratory care while strengthening practical rehabilitation skills. Dissertation Preparation for Health Professionals introduces research methodologies, evidence evaluation and data analysis techniques required for healthcare research and ethical project management. Students also undertake a Physiotherapy Elective Placement and study Physiotherapy in the Management of Long-Term and Life-Limiting Conditions, focusing on integrated physiotherapy management for individuals with chronic illnesses, disabilities, mental health conditions and end-of-life care needs. Additional placements, Physiotherapy Practice Placements 3a and 3b, further develop autonomy, professional judgement and clinical expertise across diverse practice settings. In Stage 3, students complete a Major Project involving substantial primary or secondary research based on an area of physiotherapy practice, supported by academic staff and research teams. Together, these modules and placements develop the knowledge, research capabilities, clinical competence and leadership skills required for professional registration and successful careers as physiotherapists.