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Physiotherapy BSc(Hons)

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    Overview

    This course is now full and closed to new applications.

    If you’re fascinated about how our body systems work together to make us function – and how these are affected through illness and injury – our Physiotherapy BSc(Hons) could be for you.

    Perhaps you’d like to work with people across a variety of settings, which could include a role as a physiotherapist for a sports team through to helping people on an intensive care unit.

    Accredited by the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy, this course is regulated by the Health and Care Professions Council. You’ll have the chance to delve into the science behind physiotherapy practice, too. On the course, you’ll build the skills and understanding you need to work in this hands-on and rewarding profession. You’ll also work in small groups and individually.

    Why study Physiotherapy BSc(Hons)

    Working in our physiotherapy practical rooms and biomechanics laboratory, you’ll have the opportunity to practice your skills for assessment, treatment, and rehabilitation, as well as movement analysis. You’ll also benefit from our excellent links with local healthcare providers (private and NHS) and sports clubs, which provide opportunities for you to undertake practical placements.

    You’ll hear the experiences and viewpoints from service users and carers, who are part of the Public Partnership Group. You can benefit, too, from specialist clinical teaching facilities and world-leading research facilities, via the University’s new Daphne Steele Building.

    Exploring all aspects of practice, from neuromusculoskeletal physiotherapy through to cardiovascular conditions, you’ll have the opportunity to build a wide knowledge base. This is designed to prepare you for clinical practice. If you’re keen to help people maximise their potential through physical approaches, education, and empowerment, this course is for you. A healthcare degree like this one will set you up for a career working with people from all walks of life, with a physiotherapy qualification, and the potential to explore further study.

    Students studying this course may be eligible to receive a non-repayable grant of at least £5,000 each year. Further information is available on the NHS Learning Support Fund website.

    Not quite ready to start Physiotherapy BSc(Hons)? Successful completion of our Health Foundation Pathway leading to a BSc(Hons) Degree will equip you with the foundation knowledge to study Physiotherapy.

    Entry requirements

    ABB at A Level including a relevant science subject (Biology, Human Biology, Chemistry, Physics or PE), excluding General Studies and the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ). If you are studying Science A Level, the endorsement for practical work is essential and a requirement for entry to our degree course.

    128 UCAS tariff points from a combination of Level 3 qualifications including at least 40 points in relevant science subject, excluding General Studies and the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ). If you are studying Science A Level, the endorsement for practical work is essential and a requirement for entry to our degree course.

    DDM in BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in a relevant science subject (not Sport or Health and Social Care). Must contain at least 40% externally examined assessment.

    • Access to Higher Education Diploma with at least 45 level 3 credits at Merit or above, 30 of which must be passed at Distinction and must include 15 in a relevant science.
    • 128 UCAS tariff points from International Baccalaureate qualifications including a relevant science at Higher Level at grade 6.

    In addition you must have GCSE English Language or Literature and Maths at grade 4 or above, or grade C if awarded under the previous GCSE grading scheme, or equivalent Ofqual regulated qualification.

    If you do not have the appropriate qualifications for direct entry to this degree you may be able to apply to our Health Foundation Pathway leading to a BSc(Hons) Degree.

    You must have evidence of level 3 study (or higher) within the last four years.

    You must have an understanding of the physiotherapy profession.

    You also need satisfactory enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) and occupational health clearances prior to registration. We arrange these as part of the application process. You'll be required to sign a self-declaration at the start of each year. All police contact during the course must be reported to the course leader as a matter of urgency and may lead to suspension or termination. We will request an Overseas Police Check if you have lived in a country outside of the UK for 6 months or more (whether continuously or in total) in the last 10 years before applying to us and whilst aged 18 or over.

    Placement providers for this course may require you to have received a number of vaccinations, unless medically exempt, and provide evidence of these. As a student on a course with a clinical or healthcare placement, we strongly recommend that you complete any courses of vaccinations required under current guidelines for your future profession. Failure to do so may result in your inability to undertake a placement in certain clinical settings, therefore impacting upon your academic progression, and may result in academic failure of your course.

    Offers will be subject to an interview and satisfactory references. Please note all the information provided in support of your application may be checked and must be verifiable as a true record.

    If your first language is not English, you will need to meet the minimum requirements of an English Language qualification. The minimum for IELTS is 6.5 overall with no element lower than 6.0, or equivalent. Read more about the University’s entry requirements for students outside of the UK on our International Entry Requirements page.

    You may be eligible to gain accreditation for your prior learning towards this course.

    If you have alternative qualifications you may wish to contact us for advice before applying.

    Please note places are limited and attainment of the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee an interview or offer.

    Other suitable experience with a minimum of one third Biological Science content will be considered. For further information please see the University's minimum entry requirements.

    Course Detail

    Core modules:

    Professional Development and Research 1

    This module involves a multidisciplinary team-based learning approach, where you'll work with occupational therapy, physiotherapy, podiatry students and speech and language therapy students. It will introduce you to the role of research and evidence-based practice exploring different research methodologies and the concept of ethics within healthcare research. You'll have the opportunity to develop transferable skills in literature searching using electronic databases, academic writing and referencing. You'll also explore lifelong learning, reflective practice and continuing professional development that underpins the essential skills needed to understand registration requirements for your specific professional and regulatory body.

    Human Structure and Function

    In this module you will have the opportunity to learn about how the structure of the human body relates to function across the lifespan. It will provide you with the foundational knowledge relating to anatomy and physiology, fundamental to the practice of physiotherapy.  

    Foundations of Physiotherapy Practice

    In this module you will learn about fundamental skills in assessment and treatment used across all areas of physiotherapy practice. You will have the opportunity to practise skills with your peers, as well as utilising part-task trainer simulation where appropriate.  This module provides you with the foundations of clinical reasoning, whereby you will be able to explain assessment findings, why certain skills are used, and how to carry out assessment and treatment skills safely and effectively. 

    Health Promotion and Exercise Therapy

    In this module you will learn about the role of the Physiotherapist in promoting health, preventing illness and the use and prescription of therapeutic exercise. You will be introduced to the principles of person-centred care, the skills required to encourage behaviour change, alongside basic strategies to support individuals to reach their goals. 

    Impact of Pathology

    This module will introduce some of the key pathologies that you will see as a physiotherapist and using a variety of case studies explore the impact of pathology from an individual to a societal level. You will also have the opportunity to develop your knowledge through the completion of your first block of practice-based learning (PBL 1). Completion of all mandatory training elements (within HFMT002 Mandatory training (Allied Health) - level 1) will be required before you can start PBL 1.  

    Core modules:

    Research 2

    This module provides the opportunity to build on your knowledge of research from Year 1 and prepares you to undertake an area of research in Year 3. You’ll explore data collection and analysis in relation to methods which are currently used in research and evaluation of practice.

    Acute Care

    In this module you will examine the physiotherapy assessment and management skills required to effectively treat patients in an acute setting. For this module, acute care encompasses the care of patients requiring an in-patient stay in a hospital setting. You will learn to apply evidence-based skills and knowledge to assess and treat common problems occurring within the different body systems requiring an in-patient stay. You will gain insights into formulating personalised treatment plans that prioritise patient safety and optimise functional outcomes, including considerations to ensure safe discharge from the in-patient setting. 

    Outpatient and Community Care

    This module will provide the opportunity for you to develop your ability to assess and manage patients with a range of problems, commonly seen in out-patient and community settings.  You will develop your clinical reasoning, diagnosis and management skills for patients presenting as an out-patient or in the community. You will be able to offer a critical awareness of your role in these settings, and how to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team to reflect changing clinical practice. You will develop an understanding of how to recognise the need to escalate care for deteriorating patients or for those presenting with problems outside of the scope of physiotherapy. Through case studies and practical applications, you will refine your clinical reasoning, fostering a holistic approach to healthcare delivery in out-patient and community-based settings. 

    Clinical Rehabilitation

    In this module you will delve into principles and practices essential for delivering current physiotherapeutic rehabilitation modalities. This comprehensive module spans a spectrum of conditions, emphasising evidence-based rehabilitation approaches to optimise patient outcomes. The module integrates theoretical knowledge with practical skills, fostering a deep understanding of clinical rehabilitation, including health promotion and exercise prescription. Through practical sessions you will study how to deliver clinical rehabilitation safely and effectively to a range of patient groups, identifying commonalities and differences in approaches. You will address contemporary issues in rehabilitation such as the integration of technology and access to services. This module provides you with the skills required to design and deliver exercise interventions across a range of conditions, preparing you to contribute to the rehabilitation needs of the population. 

    Practiced-Based Learning (PBL) 2, 3 & 4

    You will undertake 3 blocks of practice-based learning (PBL) where you will gain experience in the workplace, under the supervision of a clinical educator. You will have the opportunity to build upon your personal development, interpersonal skills, decision-making and implementation of clinical reasoning and practice. You will have the chance to develop independent learning skills, reflect on your practice and personalise your learning journey. Your clinical educator will assess you in practice using the appropriate assessment documentation. Completion of all mandatory training elements (within HIMT002 Mandatory training (Allied Health) - level 2) will be required by the end of term 1, in order to continue with your PBL.  

    Core modules:

    Research 3

    This is a multidisciplinary module which follows on from Research 2. You'll undertake a small-scale research project related to an interdisciplinary research environment. You’ll work in a multi-professional group, with other health professional students on a defined topic area with a named supervisor. You’ll also be involved in data collection. Your research proposals will be subject to the necessary ethical approvals within the University.

    Enhancing Physiotherapy Practice

    In this module you will incorporate the principles of enhancing physiotherapy practice taking an integrated and person-centred approach, across a variety of settings and client groups. 

    Enterprise, Employability and Leadership

    In this module you will gain an understanding of how health and social care is influenced, shaped and provided in the UK. You will explore how leadership at all levels of an organisation is key to transforming and providing quality person-centred care. This module will help you to prepare for future employment and your career progression. It aims to equip you with the skills and mindset necessary for sustained growth, adaptability and leadership throughout your physiotherapy career. 

    Practice-Based Learning (PBL) 5, 6 & 7

    You will undertake 3 blocks of practice-based learning (PBL) where you will gain experience in the workplace, under the supervision of a clinical educator. You will have the opportunity to build upon your personal development, interpersonal skills, decision-making and implementation of clinical reasoning and practice. You will have the chance to develop independent learning skills, reflect on your practice and personalise your learning journey. Your clinical educator will assess you in practice using the appropriate assessment documentation. Completion of all mandatory training elements (within HHMT002 Mandatory training (Allied Health) - level 3) will be required by the end of term 1, in order to continue with your PBL.  

    An average of 16% of the study time on this course is spent with your tutors (either face to face or online) in lectures, seminars, tutorials etc and 28% is spent on placement.

    Teaching on the course is delivered through a variety of methods including seminars, group work, practical experience, lectures and interactive learning packages, as well as the University’s virtual learning environment.

    You'll be assessed through a combination of methods including coursework, practice/competency based learning and examination, in the form of written assignments, presentations, observed assessment of practical skills (OSCE), multiple choice assessments and peer evaluation. Your module specification/course handbook will provide full details of the assessment criteria applying to your course.

    Feedback is normally provided on all coursework submissions within three term time weeks – unless the submission was made towards the end of the session in which case feedback would be available on request after the formal publication of results. Feedback on exam performance/final coursework is available on request after the publication of results.

    Further information

    Once you’ve submitted your application form to UCAS you may be invited to attend an interview.

    The teaching year normally starts in September with breaks at Christmas and Easter, finishing with a main examination/assessment period around May/June. Timetables are normally available one month before registration. This is a full-time course, so you may have to attend every day of the week.

    Your course is made up of modules and each module is worth a number of credits. Each year you study core modules to the value of 120 credits, adding up to 360 credits in total for a bachelor’s qualification.

    If you achieve 120 credits for the current stage you are at, you may progress to the next stage of your course, subject to any professional, statutory or regulatory body guidelines.

    1. The University of Huddersfield has been rated Gold in all three aspects of the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023. We were the only university in Yorkshire and the Humber and the North West to achieve Gold ratings in all three aspects of the TEF among those announced in September 2023. In fact only 13 Universities, out of the 96 that were announced in September 2023, were Gold in all three ratings.

    2. Further proof of teaching excellence: our staff rank in the top three in England for the proportion who hold doctorates, who have higher degrees, and hold teaching qualifications (HESA 2024). So, you’ll learn from some of the best, helping you to be the best.

    3. We are first in the country for National Teaching Fellowships, which mark the UK’s best lecturers in Higher Education, winning a total of 22 since 2008 (2023 data).

    4. We won the first Global Teaching Excellence Award, recognising the University’s commitment to world-class teaching and its success in developing students as independent learners and critical thinkers (Higher Education Academy, 2017).

    At Huddersfield, you'll study the Global Professional Award (GPA) alongside your degree* so that you gain valuable qualities and experiences that could help you to get the career you want, no matter what your field of study is. On completion of the Award, you'll receive a GPA certificate from the University of Huddersfield, alongside the specialist subject skills and knowledge you gain as part of your degree, which may help to set you apart from other graduates.

    Giving students access to the Global Professional Award is one of the reasons the University won ‘Best University Employability Strategy’ award at the National Graduate Recruitment Awards 2021. Find out more on the Global Professional Award webpage.

    *full-time, undergraduate first degrees with a minimum duration of three years. This does not include postgraduate, foundation, top-up, accelerated or apprenticeship degrees.

    Placements

    We believe nothing can replace the exhilaration, pace and decision making of actually doing the job. That is why we consider clinical placements an invaluable part of learning and a compulsory element of the course, in order to offer you a range of experience and expertise.

    You will undertake a minimum of 1000 hours of clinical placements across the three years of study. These may be undertaken at sites across West Yorkshire in National Health Service Trusts providing primary and secondary care. In addition, experience can be gained in school settings, private hospitals, charities and sports clubs.

    Musculoskeletal anatomy practical session
    Lecturer demonstrating hip joint assessment skills
    Motion testing for the hip joint in our Plinth Lab
    Students relating skeletal structure to function
    Goniometry assessment skills

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    Important information

    We will always try to deliver your course as described on this web page. However, sometimes we may have to make changes as set out below.

    Changes to a course you have applied for

    If we propose to make a major change to a course that you are holding an offer for, then we will tell you as soon as possible so that you can decide whether to withdraw your application prior to enrolment.

    Cancellation of a course you have applied for

    Although we always try and run all of the course we offer, we may occasionally have to withdraw a course you have applied for or combine your programme with another programme if we consider this reasonably necessary to ensure a good student experience, for example if there are not enough applicants to ensure you have a good learning experience. Where this is the case we will notify you as soon as reasonably possible and we will contact you to discuss other suitable courses with us we can transfer your application to. If we notify you that the course you have applied to has been withdrawn or combined, and you do not wish to transfer to another course with us, you may cancel your application and we will refund you any deposits or fees you have paid to us.

    Changes to your course after you enrol as a student

    We will always try to deliver your course and other services as described. However, sometimes we may have to make changes as set out below:

    Changes to option modules

    Where your course allows you to choose modules from a range of options, we will review these each year and change them to reflect the expertise of our staff, current trends in research and as a result of student feedback or demand for certain modules. We will always ensure that you have a range of options to choose from and we will let you know in good time the options available for you to choose for the following year.

    Major changes

    We will only make major changes to the core curriculum of a course or to our services if it is necessary for us to do so and provided such changes are reasonable. A major change in this context is a change that materially changes the services available to you; or the outcomes, or a significant part, of your course, such as the nature of the award or a substantial change to module content, teaching days (part time provision), classes, type of delivery or assessment of the core curriculum.

    For example, it may be necessary to make a major change to reflect changes in the law or the requirements of the University’s regulators; to meet the latest requirements of a commissioning or accrediting body; to improve the quality of educational provision; in response to student, examiners’ or other course evaluators’ feedback; and/or to reflect academic or professional changes within subject areas. Major changes may also be necessary because of circumstances outside our reasonable control, such as a key member of staff leaving the University or being unable to teach, where they have a particular specialism that can’t be adequately covered by other members of staff; or due to damage or interruption to buildings, facilities or equipment.

    Major changes would usually be made with effect from the next academic year, but this may not always be the case. We will notify you as soon as possible should we need to make a major change and will carry out suitable consultation with affected students. If you reasonably believe that the proposed change will cause you detriment or hardship we will, if appropriate, work with you to try to reduce the adverse effect on you or find an appropriate solution. Where an appropriate solution cannot be found and you contact us in writing before the change takes effect you can cancel your registration and withdraw from the University without liability to the University for future tuition fees. We will provide reasonable support to assist you with transferring to another university if you wish to do so.

    Termination of course

    In exceptional circumstances, we may, for reasons outside of our control, be forced to discontinue or suspend your course. Where this is the case, a formal exit strategy will be followed and we will notify you as soon as possible about what your options are, which may include transferring to a suitable replacement course for which you are qualified, being provided with individual teaching to complete the award for which you were registered, or claiming an interim award and exiting the University. If you do not wish to take up any of the options that are made available to you, then you can cancel your registration and withdraw from the course without liability to the University for future tuition fees and you will be entitled to a refund of all course fees paid to date. We will provide reasonable support to assist you with transferring to another university if you wish to do so.

    When you enrol as a student of the University, your study and time with us will be governed by a framework of regulations, policies and procedures, which form the basis of your agreement with us. These include regulations regarding the assessment of your course, academic integrity, your conduct (including attendance) and disciplinary procedure, fees and finance and compliance with visa requirements (where relevant). It is important that you familiarise yourself with these as you will be asked to agree to abide by them when you join us as a student. You will find a guide to the key terms here, along with the Student Protection Plan, where you will also find links to the full text of each of the regulations, policies and procedures referred to. You should read these carefully before you enrol. Please note that this information is subject to change and you are advised to check our website regularly for any changes before you enrol at the University. A person who is not party to this agreement shall not have any rights under or in connection with it. Only you and the University shall have any right to enforce or rely on the agreement.

    Equal opportunities

    The University of Huddersfield is an equal opportunities institution. We aim to create conditions where staff and students are treated solely on the basis of their merits, abilities and potential, regardless of gender, age, race, caste, class, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origins, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, family responsibility, trade union activity, political or religious belief, or age. Please visit our website to see our Equal Opportunities and Diversity Policy

    Data protection

    The University holds personal data on all enquirers, applicants and enrolled students. All such data is kept and processed in accordance with the provisions of the Data Protection Legislation. The University’s Data Protection Policy and Privacy Notices are available on the University website.

    Students’ Union membership

    Under the 1994 Education Act, students at all UK universities have the right to join, or not to join, the Students’ Union. There is no membership fee. If you choose not to join you have the right not to be disadvantaged; however, you are not entitled to vote, take part in elections, or hold any office. The following arrangements apply in order that non-Union members are not disadvantaged: Non-members are welcome to take part in the activities of Affiliated Clubs and Societies on payment of the appropriate subscription. However, they may not vote or hold office in the society or club. Union members may be offered a discounted subscription. Non-members are free to use Union facilities on the same basis as members. Welfare, catering and shops are available to non-members as well as members. Union members may be offered a discounted price.

    The Office for Students (OfS) is the principal regulator for the University.

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