Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy MSc (PGCert PGDip)

The Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy MSc is for qualified physiotherapists wanting to build on their skills and knowledge to advance their professional practice.

There are two pathways on the Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy MSc; in collaboration with the course leader you will decide on the best pathway and course of study depending on your clinical experience and professional registration status.

The Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy pathway enables you to choose from a number of university-based modules with a musculoskeletal focus.
Alternatively you may be eligible to follow the Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy (MACP) pathway; this pathway has been developed with the International Federation of Orthopaedic Manipulative Physical Therapists (IFOMPT).

You will develop your advanced evaluative and problem-solving skills for the examination, assessment and treatment of patients with musculoskeletal dysfunction. Choosing option module(s) means you can create a study programme to suit your professional or personal interests and aspirations.

The course is designed to fit around your existing physiotherapy practice hours. Week-long intensive study blocks allow attendance for students based in the UK and EU. We are known for our flexible approaches to practice-based learning, with clinical module intensities that can be adapted to your individual needs and outside commitments.

Our high quality teaching and research are renowned, and have an applied focus. We have established strong links with specialist practice educators to ensure the provision of support and guidance both within the university and in practice.

Course structure

There are two pathways and both can be completed part- or full-time.

The Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy (MSK) pathway enables you to choose from a number of university-based modules with a musculoskeletal focus.

Alternatively, you may be eligible to follow the Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy (MACP) pathway, which is approved by the Musculoskeletal Associations of Chartered Physiotherapists (MACP), the UK member organisation of the International Federation Manipulative of Physical Therapists (IFOMPT).

This second pathway includes two clinical placements and to follow it you will normally be registered with the Health and Care Professional Council (HCPC) which gives you a licence to practice in the UK. Please see the syllabus, modules in focus and study plans for further information.

School of Health Sciences postgraduate education
This course is part of our School of Health Sciences postgraduate education programme. The programme allows you to sign up for one module at a time and build your qualification as you go. It also gives you access to interdisciplinary modules across a broad selection of health and social science subjects.

Both pathways have a flexible modular framework which enables you to tailor your degree course to suit your professional and personal interests and aspirations.

To discuss your options, contact the course leader Dr Clair Hebron by email at who will help you decide on the best pathway and course of study based on your clinical experience and professional registration status.

Careers

Masters-level education is an important component of advanced and specialist practice. It allows you greater autonomy and to accelerate personal and professional development or promotion in your practice.

The course enhances professional and academic development, enabling graduates to pursue careers in research, lecturing in higher education, or expanding and developing their own clinical practice.

Students can exit with PGDip & PGCert.

This course is for qualified physiotherapists. Applicants should normally hold an honours degree in physiotherapy but those with suitable alternative qualifications, such as a diploma in physiotherapy, will be considered. We would normally ask for a minimum of one year's post-registration experience in a musculoskeletal physiotherapy setting.