BSc (Hons) Sports Therapy and Rehabilitation

Program Overview

Canterbury Christ Church University's Sports Therapy and Rehabilitation program provides a comprehensive education in musculoskeletal injury assessment and management. Through a blend of theoretical and practical learning, students develop essential clinical skills and prepare for careers as sports rehabilitators, fitness advisors, or in health screening and prevention roles. The program is accredited by BASRaT, ensuring graduates meet industry standards and can register as sports therapists.

Program Outline

Outline:

Year 1:

• Orientation to Higher Education and Research in the Sport and Exercise Sciences: Introduces key research and academic skills, critical thinking, and effective communication in the context of sport and exercise science.
• Professional Practice 1: Develops professional skills and behaviors essential for success in the field of sports therapy, including communication, teamwork, and ethical practice.
• Lower Limb Anatomy and Musculoskeletal Injury: Explores the anatomy of the lower limbs, focusing on the musculoskeletal system and common injuries.
• Clinical skills and Soft Tissue Practice: Introduces fundamental clinical skills and techniques for the assessment and management of musculoskeletal conditions, including soft tissue mobilization.

Year 2:

• Upper Limb Anatomy and Musculoskeletal Injury: Focuses on the anatomy and common injuries of the upper limb.
• Pathology and Pharmacology of Musculoskeletal Disorders: Examines the pathology of musculoskeletal disorders and the use of pharmacological interventions in their management.
• Professional Practice 2: Further develops professional skills, including communication, collaboration, and business management.

Year 3:

• Advanced Musculoskeletal Disorders and Practice: Explores advanced topics in musculoskeletal disorders and their treatment.
• Clinical Research Methods and Evidence: Introduces research methods, critical appraisal of scientific literature, and application of evidence in clinical practice.
• Major Project: Undertake an independent research project, demonstrating critical thinking, research skills, and knowledge application in a chosen area of sports therapy.
• Professional Practice 3: Consolidate professional skills and apply them in a simulated clinic environment.
• Students may also have the opportunity to choose optional modules, depending on their interests and career goals.
• The program includes multiple placements in second and third years, providing real-world experience and building confidence.
• The program is accredited by the British Association of Sport Rehabilitators (BASRaT), allowing graduates to register as sports therapists upon meeting specific criteria.

Assessment:

• Each module is assessed through a combination of:
• Observer Structured Clinical Examinations (OSCEs) or Observed Structured Practical Examinations (OSPEs):
Practical demonstrations of clinical skills and competencies.
• Portfolio workbooks: Regular evidence of acquired practical skills and clinical competency.
• Written examinations: Assessing theoretical knowledge and understanding.
• Presentations: Developing communication skills and presenting research findings.
• Essays and reports: Demonstrating critical thinking and writing abilities.

Teaching:

• Blended approach: Combines lectures, seminars, practical sessions, labs, workshops, and tutorials for a comprehensive learning experience.
• Small group teaching: Practical learning delivered in a 1:20 ratio, and on-site clinic sessions in a 1:10 ratio, ensuring individual attention and feedback.
• Experienced teaching team: Highly qualified academics with expertise and research experience in various disciplines related to sports therapy and rehabilitation.
• Emphasis on practical learning: Developing essential skills and applying knowledge in real-world scenarios.

Careers:

• Sports rehabilitator or therapist: Working with athletes in various settings, including sports teams, clinics, and private practice.
• Health screening and prevention roles: Promoting healthy lifestyles and preventing health problems in various populations.
• Further education: Pursue postgraduate studies at MSc, MRes, or PhD level in specialized areas of sports therapy or related disciplines.

Other:

• Opportunity to work at various sporting events: Gain practical experience and enhance knowledge through participation in events like London Marathon, Canterbury and Whitstable Runs, and Brighton Marathon.
• Collaborations with charities: Work with organizations like Pilgrim's Hospice to practice skills and gain experience in a community setting.
• Access to state-of-the-art facilities: Utilize the Verena Holmes building for learning and practice, equipped with industry-standard equipment and resources.

UK

Full-time: £9,250

Overseas

Full-time: £15,500

Home (UK) Fees

The fees above are for the 2024/25 academic year but may be subject to change following any announcements by the UK Government (approved by Parliament) regarding maximum Undergraduate tuition fee caps for 2024/25. In addition, the University reserves the right to increase all full-time and part-time Undergraduate tuition fees mid-course, in line with any further inflationary increase in the Government tuition fee cap which is approved by Parliament. Students with an Overseas fee status will be eligible for an International student Scholarship fee discount of £1,500, which will be applied to all Full-time Undergraduate courses with a tuition fee of £15,500.