Postgraduate Physiotherapy Courses at University of Portsmouth

Physiotherapy is an important allied health profession, focussing on the treatment of injuries and illnesses through physical methods such as exercise, stretching, massage and heat treatment, rather than relying on medication or surgery. Physiotherapists often concentrate on specific areas like orthopaedics, endocrinology, sports medicine or women's health, becoming specialists in their chosen area. They work in a large variety of professional environments from elite sports facilities to public or private hospitals, care homes, and even in their client’s own residences.

In the UK, physiotherapy is a very popular degree programme, with 146 postgraduate courses available in 68 higher education institutions. Pursuing a master's degree typically requires candidates to have an undergraduate degree in physiotherapy or a related field. Practical experience in a healthcare setting is often a prerequisite, and gaining a postgraduate degree in physiotherapy can lead to enhanced employment opportunities and the option for research level study.

What to expect

At the master's level, the curriculum delves deeper into the modules studied at undergraduate level, like anatomy, physiology, and the biomechanics of the human body. Students learn to assess and treat a broad spectrum of physical conditions and injuries, acquiring advanced skills in therapeutic exercises and manual techniques. Postgraduate courses usually have a large clinical component with practical placements available in diverse healthcare settings. You’ll be able to tailor your postgraduate education to the type of career ambitions you’re aiming for.

Physiotherapy is accredited by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), ensuring graduates meet the professional standards for professional practice. Once you’ve finished your course, you can also register with the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP), which is the UK's sole physiotherapy-specific professional body with over 60,000 members.