Specialisation by research

Overview

NOTE: Applications for Fellowship by Original Contribution are currently not being accepted as a review of the Research Pathway is being undertaken.

Fellowship by Original Contribution is open to any APA member who is undertaking original research or publish a scholarly book in Physiotherapy and is awarded by the Australian College of Physiotherapists.

Original Contribution pathway involves the submission of original scientific and academic/professional work for assessment via two streams: 

  1. Original Research (thesis/monograph): A collection of original peer-reviewed research papers, which the candidate must be the sole or first author of at least two publications. The collection of papers must include an introduction chapter, discussion/conclusion chapter and other chapters as necessary to elaborate how the work meets the criteria. 
  2. Published Book: the candidate is the sole or main author and the book demonstrates evidenced-based, academic/professional leadership in a field of physiotherapy practice. The book must have been published within three years of the application date. 

Original Contribution submissions are assessed on whether they: 

  • are original work, 
  • show academic rigor, and 
  • make a significant contribution to the advancement of an area of knowledge relevant to the physiotherapy profession.

Physiotherapists awarded Fellowship by Original Contribution are acknowledged as leaders in research and academia in physiotherapy.

Further information is outlined in the Original Contribution Handbook and Application form.

Eligibility

Application for entry into Original Contribution is open to any current APA member who is undertaking original research, academic or professional studies or publishing a scholarly book in physiotherapy, and meets entry requirements including current Ahpra registration without restrictions. 

The research studies submitted for assessment for the award of Original Contribution cannot be submitted for any other award, including a PhD or Master’s Research thesis.

Application and fees

How to apply

NOTE: Applications for Fellowship by Original Contribution are currently not being accepted as a review of the Research Pathway is being undertaken.

ComponentFee (inc GST)
Application fee (from 2024)$300 
Submission Assessment fee$2200 
Reassessment fee (if required)$2200

 

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