Studying physiotherapy abroad

What is physiotherapy?

Studying a physiotherapy degree, sometimes also called physical therapy, will allow you to focus on the science and practice of physical rehabilitation, injury prevention, and health promotion.

Your degree will integrate knowledge from anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and neuroscience to understand how the human body moves and functions.

You will be trained to assess, diagnose and treat physical impairments, disabilities, or conditions that affect mobility and quality of life.

Physiotherapy degrees emphasise evidence-based practice, clinical reasoning, and research skills to develop treatments such as therapeutic exercises, manual therapy, and the use of assistive technologies.

During your studies, You will often have the opportunity to take part in a clinical placement, allowing you to apply your knowledge in real-world healthcare settings.

As well as the physical and physiological side of treatment, modern physiotherapy also considers the psychological and social factors that can influence recovery, meaning that you will learn about how to take a holistic approach to patient care.

Why study physiotherapy abroad?

Studying physiotherapy abroad offers you access to world-class education, cutting-edge research, and diverse clinical experiences. You will be exposed to different healthcare systems, cultural approaches to rehabilitation, and global practices, enhancing your adaptability and professional expertise.

You will have the chance to learn in state-of-the-art facilities, and be able to network with professionals and peers from a range of backgrounds and cultures. Your placements will take place in diverse settings, preparing you for global career opportunities.

On top of the academic reasons to study abroad, choosing to study abroad also fosters personal growth, cultural awareness, and language skills, making you a well-rounded student and professional, who is ready for the workplace.

What you will study

In most countries, a physiotherapy bachelor’s degree takes 3-4 years to complete if studied full-time. Masters degrees are usually 1-2 years full-time.

A physiotherapy degree equips you with the knowledge and skills to improve physical health and mobility for patients with a range of injuries and conditions.

Your program will blend theoretical learning, practical training, and clinical placements to prepare you for diverse roles in healthcare. Common modules and subject areas include:

• Anatomy and Physiology: Understanding the structure and function of the human body to assess and treat musculoskeletal, neurological, and cardiovascular conditions.
• Biomechanics: Studying movement and mechanical principles to analyse and improve functional performance.
• Pathology: Exploring diseases and injuries affecting bodily systems, essential for developing effective rehabilitation plans.
• Therapeutic Exercises: Learning exercises and techniques to restore strength, flexibility, and mobility in patients.
• Manual Therapy: Training in hands-on techniques to relieve pain and improve joint and muscle function.
• Neurological Rehabilitation: Focusing on managing conditions like stroke, spinal injuries, or Parkinson’s disease to restore independence.
• Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy: Addressing issues like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or post-surgery recovery to improve breathing and endurance.
• Research Methods: Developing skills to critically evaluate and contribute to physiotherapy research and evidence-based practice.
• Professional Practice and Ethics: Learning communication, teamwork, and ethical principles critical for patient-centred care.

Through lectures, lab work, and placements, you will gain hands-on experience in healthcare settings, ensuring that you have a holistic understanding of physiotherapy and its applications across diverse populations.

If you are interested in disciplines related to physiotherapy as part of your research process, consider these subject areas:

• Occupational Therapy
• Sports and Exercise Science
• Rehabilitation Science
• Kinesiology
• Biology

Accreditation and award types

As a graduate of a physiotherapy degree you will typically receive a Bachelor of Science (BSc) or Master of Science (MSc) in Physiotherapy (or Physical Therapy in some countries).

Many degrees qualify you for professional accreditation, which is a mandatory requirement to practise as a licensed physiotherapist. Accreditation requirements vary globally, but here are a few examples:

• In the UK, graduates must register with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
• In Australia, accreditation is overseen by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).
• In Canada, physiotherapists must pass the Canadian Alliance of Physiotherapy Regulators (CAPR) competency exam.
• In the USA, licensure involves passing the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE).

Some countries might require you to take part in a work placement, or achieve additional language proficiency. Ensuring that your program is accredited by the appropriate body means that your degree meets the highest standards, and allows you to deliver safe, effective and ethical care, wherever you choose to work.

Careers

Once you have graduated from your physiotherapy degree, you will have a wide range of career options in healthcare and beyond.

You can work as a licensed physical therapist or physiotherapist in hospitals, private clinics, rehabilitation centres, or sports organisations, treating patients with a range of conditions. You might choose to specialise during your studies, aiming to work in paediatrics, geriatrics, or orthopaedics.

Outside of healthcare settings, job opportunities exist in research, education, or health policy roles, where you can contribute to important advancements in rehabilitation science.

If you graduate from a masters degree in physiotherapy, you can choose to pursue advanced clinical positions or roles in academia leadership. As well as this, some physiotherapists work as consultants for workplace ergonomics, wellness programs, or assistive technology companies.