Skip to main content
  • Home
  • Courses
  • Physiotherapy (Degree Apprenticeship) BSc(Hons)

Physiotherapy (Degree Apprenticeship) BSc(Hons)

    • How to apply

    Note: Prospective apprentices must consult with their employers to initiate the application.

    Undergraduate Open Days
    Undergraduate Open Days
    {{menu.previous.name}}
    {{menu.center.name}}
    {{menu.next.name}}

    Overview

    This apprenticeship course has been designed to provide the opportunity to study Physiotherapy (Degree Apprenticeship) BSc(Hons) whilst being employed in the allied-health related sector. During this apprenticeship you’ll explore all aspects of practice from musculoskeletal physiotherapy and health management to neurological conditions and working with vulnerable client groups, providing you with the opportunity to build a wide knowledge base.

    In line with the apprenticeship model, the course is designed to support a training in practice approach. Whilst undertaking the course you’ll remain employed by your host organisation and will spend 80% of your time in your current workplace. The exception to this is when on clinical practice. The remaining 20% will be spent at the University undertaking theory work and developing practical skills. This equates to one day a week for the duration of the course. The course is designed to be progressively demanding and once qualified you’ll be eligible to apply for registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) (subject to approval) and Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP).

    If you’re thinking of studying an apprenticeship course or are an employer looking for an apprenticeship for your employees, you’ll also find useful information on our Degree Apprenticeship webpages.

    Why study Physiotherapy (Degree Apprenticeship)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 study modules that are bespoke and have been designed specifically to meet the needs of apprenticeship learners. You’ll also learn in small groups throughout the course, so you can take advantage of the high levels of support on offer.

    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.

    The University of Huddersfield has the highest Apprenticeship Qualification Achievement Rate (QAR) among Higher Education Institutions in England.*

    Our 2023/24 QAR was 87.6% and coupled with our Ofsted ‘Outstanding’ rating displays the excellent learning experience for apprentices and their employers at the University of Huddersfield.

    *Excludes providers with fewer than 100 apprentices.

    Entry requirements

    BBC at A Level

    112 UCAS tariff points from a combination of Level 3 qualifications. If you are studying a Science A Level, the endorsement for practical work is essential and a requirement for entry to our degree course. Please note that the UCAS points are used as a frame of reference and that applications will not be submitted through UCAS.

    Merit in T Level in Health or Healthcare Science.

    DMM in BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma.

    • Access to Higher Education Diploma with 45 Level 3 credits 15 at Distinction, 30 at Merit.
    • NCFE CACHE Technical Level 3 Extended Diploma/Level 3 Extended Diploma at Grade B.

    In addition you will:

    • Be at least 16 years old.
    • Have lived in the EEA for the past 3 years and currently reside in the United Kingdom.
    • Be employed in a role relevant to your apprenticeship for more than 30 hours per week in England (or have at least 50% of their working hours in England).
    • Be paid more than the Apprenticeship National Minimal Wage.
    • Have an understanding of the Physiotherapy profession.
    • Have GCSE English Literature and Mathematics at grade 4 or above, or grade C or above if awarded under the previous GCSE grading scheme, or Level 2 Functional Skills in Maths and English. This is a standard apprenticeship requirement.

    If you have alternative qualifications, along with relevant working experience, these will be considered on an individual basis. Any alternative qualifications must meet the University's minimum entry requirements.

    You’ll need to complete a Rehabilitation of Offenders form and have a satisfactory enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) and occupational health clearances. 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.

    You will also be required to complete an Initial Needs Assessment.

    Offers will be subject to an interview and 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 of IELTS 6.0 overall with no element lower than 5.5, or equivalent. Read more about the University’s entry requirements for students outside of the UK on our International Entry Requirements page.

    For further information please see the University's minimum entry requirements.

    Course Detail

    Core modules:

    Clinical Anatomy

    This module introduces you to the theory and skills fundamental to current physiotherapy practice by relating the anatomy and mechanical principles associated with human movement. This foundation module focuses on the theoretical and practical approach to the provision of appropriate physiotherapeutic interventions.

    Human Physiology

    In this module you’ll have the opportunity to gain knowledge and understanding of clinical and exercise physiology as it relates to physiotherapy through a combination of theory and practical sessions. You’ll also have the chance to develop basic clinical skills fundamental to the practice of physiotherapy.

    Professional Skills Development

    This module provides the opportunity for you to develop the fundamental academic skills to understand and report current relevant research, as well as those required to underpin lifelong learning and personal development planning. You’ll be introduced to the concept of reflective practice and be encouraged to utilise experience to develop this throughout the module.

    The Profession of Physiotherapy

    This module will introduce you to the concepts of professionalism, leadership and appropriate behaviours of a physiotherapist, including the impact of culture, equality and diversity on practice. In addition, you’ll explore the influence a physiotherapist’s role can have in patient management and the impact this can have on public health and patient lifestyle.

    Core modules:

    Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy Management

    This module addresses one of the core skill areas of physiotherapy. You’ll have the opportunity to build on the knowledge you developed in human physiology and explore the fundamental basis of respiratory physiotherapy. This will help you to develop an integrated approach to physiotherapy assessment and treatment of patients with respiratory and cardio- vascular conditions.

    Clinical Practice 3

    During this module you’ll undertake 170 hours of clinical practice where you’ll have the opportunity to develop knowledge and non-clinical skills in managing patients within the practice environment. You’ll assess and reflect upon a physiotherapist’s role in contributing to a holistic approach to patient care.

    Clinical Practice 4

    During this module you’ll undertake 170 hours of clinical practice, where you’ll have the opportunity to develop knowledge and non-clinical skills in managing patients within the practice environment. You’ll assess and reflect upon a physiotherapist’s role in contributing to a holistic approach to patient care.

    Clinical Treatment Skills

    Through practical sessions you’ll examine current physiotherapeutic treatment, rehabilitation and electrophysical modalities. You’ll also study how to deliver treatments safely and effectively.

    Musculoskeletal Injury and Management

    This module provides the opportunity for you to develop your knowledge and skills in order to study the musculoskeletal structures of the body in relation to the requirements of a clinical practitioner. In addition, you’ll learn how to undertake a subjective and objective assessment using evidence-based practice and understand the pathology and general management of a range of common musculoskeletal injuries.

    Neurological Physiotherapy Management

    You’ll have the opportunity to integrate your foundation knowledge of anatomy and physiology of the nervous system developed in Year 1, with conditions affecting the nervous system. You’ll also consider the physiotherapy treatment of people with neurological dysfunction, as well as examine the assessment and management of service users who have a range of neurological symptoms. You’ll relate the clinical features to the underlying pathophysiology of the neurological condition and explore in detail the care of such patients by a team of health professionals in a specific neurological case study.

    Core modules:

    Applied Evidence and Research

    This module is designed to equip learners with the skills and knowledge necessary to critically engage with research methodologies and evidence-based practices within their clinically relevant fields. Learners will explore a variety of research methods, research design, along with considerations for data collection, analysis and research ethics. By the end of this module learners will be able to critically assess research literature, identify gaps in current knowledge and complete an independent research proposal for a project that would contribute to research findings in their field.

    Clinical Practice 6

    During this module you will undertake 170 hours of clinical practice, where you’ll have the opportunity to develop knowledge and non-clinical skills in managing patients within the practice environment. You’ll assess and reflect upon a physiotherapist’s role in contributing to a holistic approach to patient care.

    Clinical Practice 7

    During this module you’ll undertake 170 hours of clinical practice, where you’ll have the opportunity to develop knowledge and non-clinical skills in managing patients within the practice environment. You’ll assess and reflect upon a physiotherapist’s role in contributing to a holistic approach to patient care.

    Physiotherapy Management of Distinctive Client Groups

    This module will help you to develop an awareness and appreciation of physiotherapy and the roles of other health professionals in relation to a number of specific target groups. These may include paediatrics, older people, asylum seekers, homeless people and those with a learning disability or mental health problem. You'll explore policies and national drivers that inform the management and care of specific groups of people.

    Preparation for Employment

    This module aims to help with your transition from student physiotherapist to chartered physiotherapist. You’ll focus on critical reflective practice and exploration of different avenues of career development upon graduation. This includes current models of leadership within the NHS and discussion of the expanding scope of physiotherapy. You’ll also have the opportunity to develop your professional portfolio and CV in preparation for employment opportunities, as well as undertake a mock job interview, where you can reflect on your interview technique.

    The course will be delivered through a blended learning approach comprising of a mixture of both synchronous and asynchronous resources. This provides you with flexibility and ensures clinical competencies can be monitored throughout the course. Your studies will also be supported by the University's virtual learning environment and other technology including Anatomy TV® and WileyPLUS®, as well as patient simulators where you can learn and practice your skills in a safe and controlled 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, multiple choice assessments, practical skills and peer evaluation. Your module specification/course handbook will provide full details of the assessment criteria applying to your course.

    Feedback (usually written and audio) 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.

    At the end of the course there is an End Point Assessment (EPA), which is integrated into the course and verified at the course assessment board. The purpose of the EPA is to test the values, skills, knowledge and behaviours of the apprentice as set out in the apprenticeship standard to confirm that the apprentice is occupationally competent.

    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

    You'll undertake seven clinical practices across the programme of study. There are six clinical practices across Years 2 and 3 each consisting of 170 hours and an introductory clinical practice in Year 1 lasting 112 hours. Completion of these will exceed the threshold of 1000 clinical hours required to register with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP). Your clinical practices provide you the opportunity to apply and develop clinical skills under the guidance and supervision of an experienced practitioner. A critical examination of the relationship between theory and practice is central to the component of the clinical practices. All clinical practices are compulsory and must be completed prior to the End Point Assessment.

    “I have undertaken placements with an acute trauma and orthopaedics team and a cardio respiratory team. These have provided the opportunity to enhance my skills and gain experience working with patients with a variety of needs, as well as use different treatment methods and equipment.“

    0

    Olivia Wootton, Currently studying Physiotherapy (Degree Apprenticeship) BSc(Hons)

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

    Discover more about the course

    Your Career

    Discover the job roles our graduates are working in now.

    Professional links and accreditation

    Recognised connections to give you an extra edge when you graduate.

    Careers advice

    Check out the personalised guidance we offer you.

    Student Support

    Discover all the support available so you can thrive.

    Further Study

    Learn about pursuing a Master’s or PhD at Huddersfield.

    Research Excellence

    See how our innovative research shapes what you'll learn.

    Important information

    When you enrol as an apprentice learner 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 our disciplinary procedure. It is important that you familiarise yourself with these as you'll be asked to agree to them when you join us as an apprentice. You'll find a guide to the key terms here, along with the Student Protection Plan, where you'll also find links to the full text of each of the regulations, policies and procedures referred to.

    Although we always try and ensure we deliver our courses as described, sometimes we may have to make changes for the following reasons:

    Changes to a course you have applied for but not yet started

    If we propose to make a major change to an apprenticeship course that you have applied for, then we will tell you and your employer as soon as possible so that you can decide whether to withdraw your application prior to enrolment.

    Although we always try and run all the courses we offer, we may occasionally have to withdraw a course you have applied for or delay your course start date if we consider this reasonably necessary, 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 and your employer as soon as reasonably possible. In such instances, we will work with you and your employer to agree a deferred start date, or cancel your application and, if appropriate, provide information regarding other local apprenticeship providers.

    Changes to your course after you enrol as an apprentice

    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 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, 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 requirements of an updated version of the apprenticeship standard relevant to your course; 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 damage or interruption to buildings, facilities or equipment.

    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 and your employer as soon as possible about what your options are, which may include being provided with individual teaching to complete the award for which you were registered or claiming an interim award and exiting the University.

    If a major change affects your course, we will notify you and your employer as soon as possible and will carry out suitable consultation with affected apprentices. If you and your employer reasonably believe that the proposed change will cause you detriment we will work with both of you to try to find an appropriate solution. Where one cannot be found we will provide reasonable support to assist you with transferring your remaining apprenticeship learning to another training provider if you and your employer wish to do so.

    Termination of employment

    As your employer is funding your apprenticeship course, you must remain in relevant employment for the duration of the course until you have completed your end point assessment. Under the apprenticeship rules, if you are made redundant and you have completed 75% of the practical period or have less than 6 months left, then you may complete the course. Otherwise, unless you find alternative relevant employment within 12 weeks of the date you are made redundant, then you'll be withdrawn from the course.

    The Office for Students (OfS) is the principal regulator for the University. The ESFA is the principal regulator for your apprenticeship course.

    You may also be interested in...

    Physiotherapy BSc(Hons)

    Full-time

    Undergraduate

    Study with us on this career-focused Physiotherapy degree with small teaching groups, practical rooms and great links with healthcare providers.

    Find out more How to apply
    View more courses