M6032 Doctor of Physiotherapy

In this course, you will develop the relevant knowledge, practical and analytical skills required for physiotherapy practice, as well as extend your undergraduate skills of communication, ethical and reflective practice, collaboration, research and leadership. This graduate entry course consists of thirteen units delivered over three years. Foundational knowledge and skills are introduced in year one, with the focus on integration of prior science knowledge and principles into the context of physiotherapy in addition to the development of clinical skills. An integrated and case-based learning approach facilitates active learning and development, which include exposure to early workplace and interprofessional learning opportunities. Clinical placements occur in year two and three, with practice in a simulated setting as well as acute, subacute and community contexts. A learner-centred philosophy allows preferences to be pursued in the final year selective placement and an independent research project in the final year.

The integrated curriculum is delivered over three years and develops across four key themes: personal and professional development; population, society and health; applied practice; and research. These themes are interwoven horizontally and vertically throughout the course at the unit level.

Theme 1. Personal and professional development

Through these studies you will develop the personal attributes and skills to make the transition to physiotherapist. These include verbal and written communication skills, reflective practice, ethical and legal knowledge and leadership skills required to practice as a physiotherapist and within an interprofessional team.

Theme 2. Population and society

These studies address the broader society and population context and issues that impact upon physiotherapy practice practice. Dedicated studies in leadership, business, education and advocacy support this theme.

Theme 3. Applied practice

This theme addresses clinical competencies for physiotherapy practice. It focuses on the incorporation of the best available research evidence with the clinical reasoning skills of assessment, management, evaluation and health care across the lifespan and across a spectrum of patient environments and contexts.

Theme 4. Research

This theme will develop your knowledge and skills to locate, interpret and critically evaluate research relevant to physiotherapy practice. You will complete an independent research project relevant to the physiotherapy profession.

Course progression map

The course progression map provides guidance on unit enrolment for each semester of study.

The course comprises 144 credit points.

All units are 12 credit points unless otherwise stated.

You must complete:

Year 1:
PTY5106 Foundations of physiotherapy
PTY5107 Musculoskeletal physiotherapy
PTY5108 Neurological physiotherapy
PTY5109 Cardiorespiratory physiotherapy

Year 2:
PTY5201 Integrated practice
PTY5202 Clinical practice 1
PTY5203 Clinical practice 2
PTY5204 Disability and chronic disease

Year 3:
PTY5301 Clinical practice 3
PTY5302 Applied research in physiotherapy
PTY5303 Business and management in health systems (6 points)  
PTY5304 Clinical practice 4
PTY5305 Leadership, education and advocacy (6 points)