Bachelor of Science (Honours) - Physiotherapy

Students at the University of Derby develop the expertise, knowledge, and skills necessary to practice as physiotherapists. The university’s expert team prepares students to be part of a multidisciplinary health and social care team, equipping them with clinical, leadership, digital, and research skills for the future. The program is practice-based, providing a stimulating learning environment with a focus on efficacy and the holistic well-being of the patient. The course is accredited by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP), ensuring that graduates are eligible to apply for HCPC registration as physiotherapists and for CSP membership. Students learn in a health and social care-focused environment alongside allied health, nursing, mental health, and social care practitioners. The staff bring expertise from a broad range of fields, enabling students to learn what constitutes good physiotherapeutic practice while exploring the theories and subjects that influence it, applying their knowledge through work-based training opportunities. At the University of Derby, almost half of the physiotherapy course is dedicated to real-world practice, offering students exciting opportunities to enhance their skills in diverse settings. The program includes five periods of practice-based learning, typically undertaken full-time for a set number of weeks each year. These placements take place primarily in the East Midlands and span the NHS, private, and voluntary sectors. Students will gain experience working with physiotherapists who treat individuals of various age groups and with a range of physical and mental health concerns. This broad exposure helps students develop a comprehensive set of skills and make informed decisions about their future career direction. All placements are arranged by the university, ensuring that students are supported by qualified physiotherapists who are trained to assess and develop their practical skills. Placement hours may vary depending on the specific placement setting. Students benefit from superb training facilities, including an NHS-standard six-bed hospital ward, an on-site house, and a rehabilitation kitchen. The university has also invested in the latest technology, offering virtual and immersive environments to enrich the learning experience. The course is delivered by a dedicated and skilled teaching team, all of whom are registered and experienced physiotherapists. They provide valuable insights into the profession and support students throughout their studies, with personal tutors available for additional guidance. The team is also research-active and keeps students informed about the latest trends in the field. The university’s involvement in national special interest groups and expertise in areas such as first-contact physiotherapy, ITU, and long-term condition management further enhances the learning experience. The program is closely aligned with the needs of employers to ensure that students’ learning is relevant and meaningful. The university responds to national healthcare changes, including government policies, ensuring that the course remains up to date. As healthcare increasingly involves multi-professional teams, inter-professional learning opportunities are provided at each stage of the course, allowing students to collaborate with peers from other disciplines. This fosters an understanding of how physiotherapists work alongside other healthcare professionals to achieve the best outcomes for patients. The course combines theoretical learning with practical elements, preparing students for professional practice upon graduation. It includes experiential learning, group activities, lectures, online learning, seminars, tutorials, and workshops, integrating theory and practice. While students may participate in large group activities like lectures, smaller groups are used for workshops and practical sessions to ensure focused, hands-on learning.