Health & Social Care

Note: this course is now closed for January 2012.

As a physiotherapist, you can make a real difference to the way people function physically, socially and psychologically, using therapy to make the most of their abilities through health promotion, preventive healthcare and rehabilitation. Through this course you build on your prior learning of anatomy and physiology to develop a critical understanding of contemporary physiotherapy practice. You gain the skills to be a safe, autonomous, professional practitioner. Core skills underpinning physiotherapy include manual therapy, therapeutic exercise, movement analysis and electrotherapy.

We take a problem-based approach to learning, which includes opportunities to share learning with students from other allied health professions to promote teamwork and an appreciation of how other disciplines contribute to healthcare.

Successful completion of the course provides eligibility to apply for registration with the Health Professions Council and membership of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy.

What you study

In Year 1, you study the core clinical sciences underpinning physiotherapy practice and are introduced to a range of physiotherapy interventions which are responsive to client need and underpinned by evidence-based approaches to practice. You also explore contemporary issues in health and social care and research methods. During this Year you complete two clinical placements where you assess and treat your own patients under the supervision of qualified physiotherapists. You may be allocated placements within paediatrics, elderly care, learning disabilities and mental health services in addition to acute, medical, musculoskeletal and neurological areas. Clinical placements are arranged by academic tutors and you should be prepared to travel for some placements.

In Year 2, you complete four more clinical placements. You must complete 1,000 hours of satisfactory clinical practice in order to meet the requirements of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy. You then go on to complete the dissertation module.

How you learn

There is a range of diverse learning and teaching methods used throughout the course which includes keynote lectures, seminars, small group work as well as practical laboratory sessions. You are encouraged and supported to engage in self-directed learning in order to prepare for practical-based and seminar sessions. Problem-based learning is a key feature of the course, where you work in groups with your peers to explore and research key issues. You are given constructive feedback throughout the course to enhance your learning opportunities.

How you are assessed

Assessment is varied and reflects module learning outcomes. You are assessed by written assignments, oral presentations and practical examinations. In the interests of professional safety, you must complete all modules successfully. Essential competencies for this course include:

• conducting assessment and treatment procedures safely and effectively
• demonstrating high-level clinical reasoning and problem-solving skills
• demonstrating satisfactory skills in communication and team working
• evidence of appropriate selection and appraisal of methods of critical enquiry.

Clinical placements are assessed at undergraduate level.

Career opportunities

Opportunities are available for employment within the NHS, private sector or charitable trusts – in hospitals, GP surgeries, schools, industry and in the community. You could also consider a career working in clinical research or teaching, in the UK or overseas.

Entry requirements

Applicants should normally:

• have an honours degree (at least 2.1) in an appropriate related discipline.
• have evidence of study within the last three years.
• You must be eligible for a Department of Health bursary (more info on the NHS Student Bursaries website).

Admission to the course is dependent upon completion of the following selection processes:

• academic entry requirements being met
• satisfactory application form
• successful interview
• satisfactory references
• completed work-based risk assessment process
• receipt of a satisfactory Enhanced Criminal Records Bureau Disclosure.

During the course and on completion you will be required to declare any convictions, cautions or allegations to the University and relevant professional body prior to application for registration.

For additional information please see the undergraduate and postgraduate entry requirements in our admissions section

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