What kind of practice placement experience can I expect during the BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy programme?
The BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy programme has strong links with clinical practice and provides students with an opportunity for experience within a variety of settings, sectors, and specialisms. This will include the NHS, private, voluntary and charity organisations, and will vary in length from 5-7 weeks for each placement block. The expected working week is 37.5 hrs. This is to ensure that every student completes the required 1000 hrs of practice, which is stipulated by our professional body. Practice placement experience is an important aspect of the qualifying programme, to allow the transference and application of theory into practice.
Students will also have the opportunity to participate in role-emerging placements, those aimed at social innovation in collaboration with local organisations, and others with a specific leadership or research focus. They are completed under the supervision of registered physiotherapists and supported by the academic team.
What facilities are there to support my learning?
The BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy programme has purpose-built facilities with specialist equipment for teaching and learning to enable practical and simulated sessions. All students are fully provided with the technological support required to study in an active-blended learning format.
How is evidence-based research integrated into our teaching approach in the curriculum?
The BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy programme emphasises evidence-based research and practice. Students will learn to analyse research studies, assess their findings for clinical applications, and conduct their research projects. The programme employs an active learning approach, integrating classroom and online learning, and practical skills sessions, where students work collaboratively to enhance their problem-solving skills. Students engage in interactive online activities and practical skills sessions to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations, preparing them for the challenges of the profession.
How does the programme ensure that all material is contemporary and relevant to current service needs?
The academic team are specialists within their field and have strong links with practice, which ensures that all teaching and learning is informed by the latest research and best practice. The academic team are all registered physiotherapists who maintain their own continuing professional development and are actively engaged in conferences, research and clinical practice. There is also an emphasis on external and guest lecturers from practice/specialist fields as well as active involvement from our Service User and Carer Group, to ensure diversity and enhance the teaching and learning process. The programme is regularly reviewed through internal and external quality assurance processes, which also take into consideration the student voice, to ensure it remains contemporary, facilitates the learning process and is relevant to the changing needs of the profession.
How do we teach?
We aim to ensure a ‘community of enquiry’ is facilitated within the classroom. Working with diverse student groups, due to varied previous background experiences and education, allows for a more in-depth exploration of the contemporary physiotherapy profession and facilitates the opportunity for interesting debates and conversations within the classroom.
How will I be assessed on the Physiotherapy course?
The programme utilises a variety of assessment strategies, including practical assessments, presentations, essays, reflections, producing digital medium, discussions and reports. Methods of peer feedback and assessment, group and individual work will all be utilised. All methods of assessment are aligned to the requirements of physiotherapy practice and what you will be expected to complete as a registered physiotherapist to drive the profession forward. Our practice partners agree that our assessments are replicable to that required as a physiotherapist and will prepare you well for employment.
What career prospects are available upon completion of the programme?
Graduates of the BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy programme will be eligible to apply for registration with both the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP). This will allow them to work as qualified physiotherapists in a range of settings, including the NHS, private, sports, voluntary and charity organisations. We host an Employability Fair annually, with large representation from local and national networks of employers which also includes workshops for preparation for applications and interviews for our newly qualified physiotherapists. There is also information on the UON website on Employability and the support schemes available.
What financial or otherwise support is available to students?
Please see the Fees & Funding section above. In addition, our Student Life webpage has a host of information on Fees & Funding as well as Academic Support, Wellbeing Support, Accommodation, Bursaries and Scholarships, Student Perks and a lot more.
For International students, please see the dedicated International Student page.
How to contact?
If you need further information, please contact our MSc Physiotherapy academic team