Studying Physiotherapy

Academic requirements

Physiotherapists require an extensive understanding of physical, structural and physiological aspects of human form and movement. 

To register as a physiotherapist in Australia, you must study physiotherapy at university. Prerequisite subjects, or assumed knowledge, in either English, biological science, chemistry, physics, and health and physical education are normally required for course entry. Alternatively, you could complete a relevant bachelor degree followed by a postgraduate qualification in physiotherapy. The various universities that offer physiotherapy courses can have different prerequisites and entry requirements, so it's best to contact the university you are interested in for more information. 

Areas of employment

Physiotherapy graduates can work in many organisations; including hospitals, community health centres, rehabilitation centres, school programs and private practice. 

Specialisations

Further into their career, physiotherapists can choose to practice in specific areas such as musculoskeletal conditions, women's health, aged care, respiratory conditions, occupational health and safety, sports injuries, babies and young children, problems of the nervous system and spinal injuries, and even animal physiotherapy. 

There are also opportunities for researchers, advisors or consultants in educational, industrial or government institutions.