| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2023-09-18 | 2023-05-05 |
Program Overview
The DPT Physiotherapy course from Robert Gordon University is an accelerated programme providing a unique opportunity to qualify as a Chartered Physiotherapist, develop clinically applied research skills, and achieve a Doctorate.
It is the first course of its kind in the UK, and the only physical therapy programme outside North America to be accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education.
The first two years are run in parallel with the MSc Physiotherapy course with integrated research degree training and work placements. You can then apply for
HCPC
registration giving you eligibility to practice in the UK, as you spend the subsequent 18 months working on a doctoral thesis.The course is an innovative pathway to increase your research capacity and capability within the physiotherapy profession and will enable you to improve the quality of care and productivity of health services.
Program Outline
There is a firm emphasis on the development of doctorate-level research skills in conjunction with the clinical reasoning and practical skills required of a Physiotherapist.
Academic modules have been developed to allow you to develop strong core assessment, treatment and research skills, and a deeper knowledge of core areas such as exercise prescription and health improvement theory.
Integrating the core practice areas of cardiovascular respiratory, neurology and musculoskeletal encourages you to think holistically about your patients and to embed this in your practice. The thesis allows the transfer of practical and academic elements to the clinical application of research.
Modules
Modules and delivery order may change for operational purposes. The University regularly reviews its courses. Course content and structure may change over time. See our
course and module disclaimer
for more information. Detailed module informationLearning Methods
How long is a Doctorate of Physiotherapy course?
The Doctorate of Physiotherapy at RGU can be successfully completed in 3 years 5 months.
You will be taught via a mixture of problem-orientated, enquiry-based learning, with practical workshops, projects and simulation, working with volunteer patients, and in our state-of-the-art Clinical Skills Centre which includes our METIman facility. During the course, we also frequently invite external speakers including expert clinicians.
You will work in groups, and undertake practical and tutorial sessions with some group and individual project work, facilitated by experienced tutors with current clinical experienced.
The Doctoral thesis will allow in-depth study of a clinically or service relevant area to PhD level and you will work with a group of experienced clinicians and academics.
Professor Kay Cooper, k.cooper@rgu.ac.uk, is the programme director.
Independent Study
You will develop substantial initiative and autonomy through learning methods which will require a significant amount of independent study. Although supported, the thesis is a significant piece of self-directed work which tests your higher cognitive skills in problem-solving and analysis, synthesis, evaluation and selectivity and improves your ability to learn.
Feedback
We aim to provide you with feedback within 20 working days of hand-in for all written exams, coursework and practical exams.
Academic Support
The Inclusion Centre advises and supports students who disclose a sensory or mobility impairment, chronic medical condition, mental health issue, dyslexia and other specific learning differences. Applicants are encouraged to arrange a pre-entry visit to discuss any concerns and to view the facilities.
The Inclusion Centre
Online Learning & Support
All undergraduate and postgraduate students, whether you are learning on campus or by online learning, benefit from using our collaborative virtual learning environment, CampusMoodle. You will be provided with 24/7 online access to your learning material and resources, along with the ability to interact with your class members and tutors for discussion and support.
CampusMoodle
Study Skills Support
The Study Support Team provides training and support to all students in:
Study Skills Support
Library Support
The Library offers support for your course, including the books, eBooks, and journals you will need. We also offer online reading lists for many modules, workshops and drop-ins on searching skills and referencing, and much more.
University Library
Placements
You will undertake six placements spread over the first 2 years of the course. The final placement is an elective arranged by you, and can be undertaken in any country if the required conditions are met. The Thesis will be undertaken at a clinical or academic site with a clinical supervisor in addition to the research supervision team. Please note that for students from the USA planning to apply for a Federal Loan, no placements can take place in the USA to comply with the requirements of the FERPA.
More information on the US Federal Loan
Find out more about Health Professions Placements and Professional Links
Student Outcomes
Student Outcome Data 2019
PDF - 53KB DOWNLOAD
Job Prospects
The university’s MSc Physiotherapy course has a well established reputation for employable, experienced graduates both in the UK and internationally. DPT graduates will have all of these attributes in addition to highly sought-after doctoral level research skills.
Students will be eligible for HCPC and CSP registration on completion of their DPT after transfer from their PGDip. A DPT is a requirement for registration in the United States. The addition of the PhD is likely to add to graduates prospects in clinical research and academic careers.
Internationally, CAPTE have from 2016 onwards changed the minimum level of qualifying programmes to doctoral level which means the qualification will be in high demand by those wishing to pursue a career in the US and beyond. We have welcomed a number of students from the United States and Canada as well as students from other countries who wish to practice in the USA to this course.
CAREERS