Master of Physiotherapy

Program Overview

The Master of Physiotherapy (M7C) is a two-year, full-time program designed to train competent and confident physiotherapists for diverse healthcare settings. It emphasizes evidence-based practice, professional ethics, and lifelong learning. Graduates are equipped to address the health needs of communities, particularly in regional, rural, and metropolitan areas. The program combines theoretical and practical learning experiences, including supervised professional placements, to prepare students for real-world physiotherapy practice.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Master of Physiotherapy (M7C) is designed to train students to become competent and confident physiotherapists in various healthcare settings. It aims to equip graduates with the necessary skills and knowledge to address the diverse health needs of communities, particularly in regional, rural, and metropolitan areas.

Objectives of Master of Physiotherapy:

Apply core physiotherapy principles and values with high professional standards to make ethical, legal, and responsible decisions in healthcare practices. Identify and implement key theoretical, conceptual, and practical approaches for safe and effective physiotherapy practice. Communicate efficiently with clients, families, and healthcare professionals to meet health and physiotherapeutic needs in a culturally sensitive and cooperative manner. Utilize evidence-based clinical reasoning for patient assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and evaluation to improve function, health, and well-being. Demonstrate agility and a commitment to ongoing professional development through lifelong learning, critical reflective practice, and self-directed learning in physiotherapy practice to work in complex and evolving healthcare environments. Act as leaders and advocates for improving public health and driving healthcare system reform through inquiry, innovation, and translational research.

Outline:

The Master of Physiotherapy is a full-time program spanning two years, structured with a semester system. It comprises sixteen (16) core units, covering a diverse range of topics. The coursework emphasizes a combination of theoretical and practical learning experiences to prepare students for real-world physiotherapy practice. The program is sequenced to build upon foundational knowledge and skills, starting with units such as "Foundations of Physiotherapy" and "Introduction to Public Health." As students progress, they delve into specialized areas like "Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy," "Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy," "Neurological Physiotherapy," and "Physiotherapy Across the Lifespan." Throughout the program, students engage in supervised professional experience placements in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and community clinics. These placements provide hands-on opportunities to apply their knowledge and skills under the guidance of experienced physiotherapists.

Assessment:

The assessment methods in the Master of Physiotherapy program are designed to evaluate students' understanding and application of the course material. These methods include: Written assignments: Essays, reports, and case studies that assess students' ability to analyze, synthesize, and communicate their knowledge. Practical assessments: Demonstrations of skills, clinical reasoning, and patient management in simulated or real-world settings. Presentations: Opportunities for students to present their research findings or case studies, fostering their communication and critical thinking skills. Examinations: Written or oral exams that assess students' overall understanding of the course content.

Teaching:

The teaching methods in the Master of Physiotherapy program combine traditional lectures, tutorials, and practical sessions to provide students with a comprehensive learning experience. Lectures are conducted by experienced physiotherapists and academic staff who share their knowledge and insights on various topics. Tutorials offer smaller group discussions, allowing students to engage with the material more interactively and clarify their understanding. Practical sessions are an integral part of the program, providing students with hands-on experience in assessment, treatment, and management of various conditions. These sessions are often conducted in simulation labs or real-world healthcare settings.

Careers:

Graduates of the Master of Physiotherapy are qualified to work as physiotherapists in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, private clinics, and community health organizations. They may also pursue roles in research, education, or health policy. The demand for physiotherapists is expected to grow in the coming years, with opportunities available in both Australia and overseas. Graduates can find employment in a wide range of areas, including:

• Aged Care
• Cardiothoracic
• Emergency
• Government Sector
• Musculoskeletal
• Neurological
• Oncology
• Paediatrics
• Private Industry
• Sports Health
• Women's Health