Curtin University

What you'll study

This honours-level degree combines foundational biomedical science with progressive clinical skills and a research component. Early years focus on human anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, exercise science, and professional communication. Core subjects develop assessment and treatment skills across musculoskeletal, neurological and cardiorespiratory practice, together with modules in paediatrics, geriatrics and chronic disease management.

• Human anatomy and physiology, including cadaver- or prosection-based learning where available
• Exercise prescription, biomechanics and therapeutic modalities
• Clinical assessment and diagnostic reasoning for musculoskeletal, neurological and cardiorespiratory conditions
• Evidence-based practice, research methods and an honours research project or substantial research capstone
• Professional practice topics: ethics, interprofessional teamwork, communication and health promotion
• Multiple supervised clinical placements across hospital, community and private practice settings to build applied competency

The honours component typically includes a sustained research project or thesis supervised by academic staff, preparing graduates for research-informed clinical practice or further study.

Entry requirements

Entry is competitive and applicants are expected to have strong academic results in secondary school or equivalent tertiary study. Typical prerequisites include Year 12 or equivalent units in English and a life or physical science such as Biology, Human Biology or Chemistry. Mature-age applicants with relevant tertiary study, work experience in health or community care are considered through alternative entry pathways.

• Minimum academic achievement at secondary or tertiary level as specified by Curtin; selection may consider overall academic score
• Subject prerequisites in English and a science (biology, human biology or chemistry) where applicable
• Meeting any required English language proficiency standards for international students (e.g. IELTS/TOEFL or equivalent)
• Pre-enrolment checks and requirements such as immunisation status, criminal history check, and up-to-date first aid/CPR certification may be required prior to clinical placements
• Some cohorts use interview, personal statement or situational judgement testing as part of selection

Career prospects

Graduates are qualified to register and practise as physiotherapists and work in a wide range of health settings. Common career pathways include hospital acute care and rehabilitation, private practice, community health, aged care, indigenous health services, and sports or occupational physiotherapy. Graduates are also well placed to work in allied health leadership, clinical education and health promotion roles.

The honours research training also opens pathways into clinical research, higher degree-by-research study (master’s by research or PhD) and academic careers. Many graduates pursue postgraduate clinical specialisation or credentialing in areas such as musculoskeletal, neurological, paediatric or cardiorespiratory physiotherapy, or take roles with sporting organisations and multidisciplinary clinics.

Why study at Curtin University

Curtin provides a practice-focused physiotherapy programme with strong clinical links across public, private and community health providers, giving students access to diverse placement experiences. Teaching is delivered by academics and clinicians active in research and clinical practice, ensuring current evidence underpins learning and assessment.

• Extensive placement networks and simulated clinical learning facilities to develop real-world clinical competence
• Research-active staff and opportunities to engage in clinical research during the honours year
• Interprofessional learning with allied health disciplines and industry partnerships that support graduate employability
• Support services for students, including academic skills, wellbeing and career development tailored to health professions

These features combine to prepare graduates for entry into professional practice as competent, evidence-informed physiotherapists and for ongoing career development in clinical or research pathways.