Oxford Brookes University

What you'll study

This intensive master's programme combines core scientific foundations with applied clinical practice. You will study anatomy and physiology relevant to movement, musculoskeletal assessment and treatment, neurological rehabilitation, cardiorespiratory physiotherapy, paediatrics and older adult care, alongside modules on professional practice, ethics and service delivery. Teaching methods include lectures, practical laboratory sessions in the clinical skills centre, simulated patient activities and interprofessional learning.

A substantial element of the course is practice-based learning: scheduled clinical placements across a range of settings — hospital wards, outpatient musculoskeletal clinics, community teams and specialist services — give progressive exposure to real patients under supervision. You will also complete a research methods module and a dissertation or evidence-based practice project that develops appraisal skills and the ability to apply research to clinical decision-making.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a good undergraduate degree, typically in a health, biomedical or related discipline; the programme is intended for graduates seeking pre-registration qualification in physiotherapy. Relevant healthcare work or voluntary experience is desirable and can support an application. Successful applicants must meet professional and statutory requirements for practice, which include satisfactory occupational health screening, an enhanced disclosure and barring service (DBS) check, and fitness to practise declarations.

International applicants must demonstrate English language competence to the university's required standard. Selection also involves consideration of academic references and, where used, performance at interview or on an admissions assessment day.

Career prospects

On successful completion you will be eligible to apply for professional registration and are prepared to work as a qualified physiotherapist across the NHS, private practice, community services, sport and performance settings, and charitable organisations. Graduates commonly enter roles in musculoskeletal clinics, neurological rehabilitation teams, acute hospital wards, respiratory and critical care, paediatric services and community physiotherapy. With experience, graduates may progress to advanced clinical practice, specialist roles, research, education or management.

Why study at Oxford Brookes University

Oxford Brookes offers a well-established pre-registration physiotherapy pathway with close links to local NHS trusts and a wide placement network that provides varied clinical experience. The university provides dedicated clinical skills facilities and simulation resources that support practical learning and safe transition to practice. Teaching emphasises evidence-based care and interprofessional working, and academic staff include clinicians active in practice and research, helping to bridge classroom learning and contemporary clinical realities.

The programme's focus on applied learning, supported placements and a research-informed curriculum is designed to develop the clinical, communication and professional skills required for a successful career as a practising physiotherapist.