Pathways to Specialisation by Research
The Specialist Research Physiotherapist Pathways provide two options for physiotherapists seeking recognition for research contribution:
- Portfolio Pathway
- Distinguished Pathway
Both pathways lead to the Specialist Research Physiotherapist credential and recognise excellence in research. Please choose a pathway below to learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply:
Overview
The Specialist Research Physiotherapist (SRP) Portfolio Pathway is a new credentialling offering which provides a structured and rigorous assessment process for the award of the Specialist Research Physiotherapist credential. Successful candidates are awarded the Specialist Research Physiotherapist credential and may use the Fellow of the Australian College of Physiotherapists (FACP) post-nominal.
The pathway is intended for research and academic physiotherapists who have moved into roles such as Clinical Leads, Senior Research Fellows or University Professors. The Specialist Research Physiotherapist credential provides:
- specialisation parity to their clinical counterparts
- strategic influence among peers and the broader physiotherapy profession; and
- a standardised, peer-reviewed validation of expert status, which may support career mobility and progression.
The assessment aligns with the Expert (Milestone 4) level of the Physiotherapy Competence Framework and is based on a structured portfolio submission and peer review process.
Eligibility
Applicants for the Specialist Research Physiotherapist portfolio pathway must hold:
- an APA Titled Research Physiotherapist credential
- a Research Higher Degree - Masters by Research (MPhil) or PhD
- current Aphra registration (without restrictions)
- current membership of the Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA).
Requirements
Evidence Portfolio submission
Once the online application has been approved, candidates have up to six (6) weeks to submit their portfolio demonstrating their experience across four (4) research roles:
- scholarship
- leadership
- practice
- education.
For detailed portfolio submission requirements, please refer to the Specialist Research Physiotherapist Portfolio Pathway handbook.
Two Specialist Research Physiotherapists will assess the portfolio through a peer review process, which may take up to six (6) weeks. Successful applicants will be contacted and invited them to progress to the next requirement: the Research Presentation.
Research Presentation
Candidates must present their body of research to a peer audience, such as at a College Knowledge Exchange or a scientific conference. Whilst the presentation isn’t formally assessed, candidates must complete this requirement to be awarded the credential.
How to apply
- Read the Specialist Research Physiotherapist Portfolio Pathway Handbook before applying
- Complete the online application form.
Online applications are reviewed and successful applicants are notified via email (up to four (4) weeks following application submission).
Fees
| Fee type | Cost (incl. GST) |
| Application assessment fee | $330 |
| Portfolio assessment fee | $1,530 |
| Portfolio re assessment fee (if required) | $545 |
Contact us
For further assistance, please email the ACP team on acp@australian.physio.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is this pathway designed for?
This pathway is for physiotherapists whose primary professional impact is through research, including:
- clinical research leads
- senior or principal research fellows
- associate professors or professors
- research active clinicians with national or international impact.
Applicants should already be operating at an expert level in research and leadership.
Do I need to sit exams?
No. Assessment is based on Recognition of Prior Learning through a structured evidence portfolio and peer review.
How do I submit my portfolio?
Portfolios are submitted online via PebblePad. Candidates receive access and step by step guidance following application approval.
Can this credential support career advancement?
Yes. The SRP credential provides peer reviewed recognition of expert level research contribution and may support:
- academic promotion
- senior health service appointments
- leadership roles influencing policy, practice and education.
Overview
The Distinguished Pathway is designed to recognise physiotherapists of national standing who have demonstrably advanced physiotherapy through sustained, high-impact research leadership.
This pathway awards the Specialist Research Physiotherapist credential through the ACP. Successful applicants will also receive Fellowship of the College and the right to use the FACP post-nominal, marking you as a leader in physiotherapy.
Eligibility
Applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
- Current Ahpra registration
- Current APA membership
- Awarded at least one of:
- Fellowship of the Australian Academy of Health and Medical Sciences (FAAHMS)
- NHMRC Investigator Grant (Leadership Levels 1–3)
- NHMRC Centre of Research Excellence as Chief Investigator-A
How to apply
- Complete the online application form and upload supporting evidence, including a two (2) page academic CV.
- Applications are reviewed by the Research Pathway Advisory Panel and ratified by the ACP College Council.
- Successful applicants will be notified by email and invited to attend the ACP Graduation Ceremony, held at the bi-annual APA Scientific Conference (APASC27).
Fees
There are no fees associated with this application.
More information
Please read the SRP Distinguished Pathway Reference Guide (PDF document).
Contact us
For further assistance, please email the ACP team on acp@australian.physio.