Bachelor of Physiotherapy

Description

The four year undergraduate Bachelor of Physiotherapy focuses on the physiotherapist-client relationship and is highly practical in its orientation. Physiotherapy students undertake a comprehensive university program, including specialist physiotherapy studies, behavioural and health sciences, professional development and the compulsory Core Curriculum units. The fully accredited course offers a curriculum that contains all of the elements required for accreditation by the Australian Physiotherapy Council, placing emphasis on the clinical education experience. Graduates are eligible for registration as a physiotherapist with the Physiotherapy Board of Australia and eligible for Full Membership of the Australian Physiotherapy Association.

The undergraduate course is developed around the concept of Physiotherapy as an applied science. The foundation sciences are introduced to the student in parallel with their Physiotherapy studies. Throughout the program, emphasis is placed on the importance of evidence-based clinical practice and the use of ongoing research in physiotherapy. The program is designed to develop and build student research skills for use in professional practice.

Increasing exposure to clinical experiences is another integrating factor of the undergraduate course. From first year, students are exposed to clinical practice through a Pre-Clinical Experience program. This program is integrated into the course structure of the early years and becomes more sophisticated as the course proceeds. The formal clinical education program commences with a 5 week placement in Year 2, continues in Year 3 and culminates in almost full-time clinical practice during Year 4 of the course. Students develop clinical assessment and treatment skills in laboratories and through exposure to patients in physiotherapy practices, hospital or community health settings in urban and rural centers.

Requirements

Notre Dame’s admissions policy is a reflection of the University’s ethos. We don’t believe that a single score or ranking can truly tell us whether you are going to make a good physiotherapist. The process of being selected to study at Notre Dame is a highly sophisticated one that takes into account your academic ability and your personal qualities. We welcome applications from people of all ages and background experiences.

For admission to the Physiotherapy program, students are recommended to be studying Stage 3 courses of study in
English, Mathematics (or Mathematics: Specialist) and at least one course of study in the sciences (eg. Physics, Chemistry or Human Biological Science), but may also find Stage 3 courses in Physical Education Studies, Psychology and/or Health Studies also appropriate. For non-school leavers, previous university studies are required. The STAT is not applicable for entry to the Physiotherapy program.

Please enquire at the Prospective Students Office for further information on the application process.

Notes

This degree is available as a double degree with the Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science.

The opportunities for a career in Physiotherapy include the public health system, private practice or non-government organisations in urban, regional or rural settings in Western Australia or interstate. Registration to practice physiotherapy in WA provides reciprocal registration throughout Australia and New Zealand. The standard of Australian physiotherapy education is also highly regarded internationally. Job pathways include:

• Clinical Specialties – musculoskeletal, sport, paediatric, cardiorespiratory, neurology, aged care, women’s and men’s health.
• Industrial Rehabilitation.
• Health Management.
• Academia/Lecturing.
• Research.