University of Auckland

What you'll study

The MPhysioPrac combines advanced coursework, extended clinical placements and a substantial applied or research-based project. Core topics typically include advanced clinical assessment and reasoning, musculoskeletal, neurological and cardiorespiratory management, complex case formulation, and long-term condition management. You will also study evidence-based practice and research methods to support critical appraisal and implementation of research into clinical care.

• Advanced clinical reasoning and assessment — decision-making with complex and multi-morbid patients.
• Specialist management streams — advanced musculoskeletal, neurorehabilitation and cardiorespiratory practice, often with elective options to focus on areas such as paediatrics, geriatrics or sports physiotherapy.
• Evidence-based practice and research methods — quantitative and qualitative approaches, critical appraisal, and translating evidence to practice.
• Clinical placements — extended supervised placements in hospitals, community services or specialist clinics to consolidate advanced skills.
• Capstone project or dissertation — an applied clinical project or research thesis that addresses a practice-relevant question.
• Professional practice and leadership — service development, interprofessional teamwork, quality improvement and clinical governance.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised undergraduate qualification in physiotherapy and be eligible for or currently hold registration with the relevant national physiotherapy regulator (for example the Physiotherapy Board of New Zealand). Admission typically requires a record of clinical practice experience and the ability to demonstrate readiness for postgraduate level study.

Additional requirements commonly include:

• Evidence of recent clinical practice (employers references or clinical supervisor reports may be requested).
• A bachelor's degree in physiotherapy (or equivalent) from a recognised institution.
• Proof of proficiency in English where the first language is not English, in line with university policy.
• Compliance with any health, immunisation and background check requirements for clinical placements.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for advanced clinical roles across public and private health sectors. Typical career destinations include advanced practitioner positions in district health boards and hospitals, senior roles in primary and community healthcare, leadership and clinical educator posts, and specialist positions in sports, orthopaedics, neurology or cardiopulmonary services. The programme also provides a pathway into academic or research careers and further postgraduate study including doctoral research.

Why study at University of Auckland

The University of Auckland offers strong connections with regional health providers and an established network of clinical placement partners across tertiary hospitals and community services, providing broad clinical exposure. Teaching and supervision are provided by experienced clinicians and researchers, and students benefit from modern clinical teaching facilities, interprofessional learning opportunities and access to research centres focused on rehabilitation and population health.

The university emphasises culturally responsive practice, including engagement with Māori health perspectives and obligations under Te Tiriti, which is integrated into clinical education and patient-centred care. The programme is designed to equip practising physiotherapists with the advanced skills, leadership capabilities and research literacy required to improve outcomes for diverse patient populations.