Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy is the healthcare profession concerned with assessing, treating and rehabilitating people whose movement and function have been affected by injury, illness, disability or the processes of ageing. Physiotherapists work across the full spectrum of clinical settings and patient populations, from acute hospital wards and intensive care units to community clinics, sports organisations and residential care homes. The scientific foundation of the discipline spans biomechanics, anatomy, physiology, neuroscience and exercise science, and its clinical application requires both technical skill and the interpersonal intelligence to support patients through sometimes lengthy and difficult rehabilitation processes.

At the University of Plymouth you will study for three years full-time, developing knowledge and skills in movement science, functional anatomy, kinematics, posture, neuromuscular control and gait alongside the clinical assessment and treatment techniques that physiotherapy practice requires. You will learn to evaluate the biomechanics of human movement and to understand anatomy and physiology in the context of health and wellbeing, building the scientific grounding that underpins effective clinical reasoning. Clinical placements are a fundamental part of the programme, taking you into real healthcare settings where you develop the practical competence and professional judgement that qualified physiotherapy demands.

Registered physiotherapists work across NHS trusts, community healthcare providers, private practice, occupational health settings, sports organisations and residential care. Specialisms include musculoskeletal physiotherapy, neurological rehabilitation, respiratory care, paediatrics, women's health, sports and exercise physiotherapy, and extended scope practice in areas such as clinical assessment, injection therapy and first-contact primary care. Many physiotherapists pursue postgraduate qualifications in specialist clinical areas, advanced practice or education.

The profession offers strong and consistent employment prospects across the UK and internationally.