Central Queensland University

What you'll study

The program combines foundational biomedical and movement sciences with progressive clinical subjects and practicum experiences. Early units establish anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, exercise science and professional communication, while middle years build applied skills in musculoskeletal, neurological and cardiorespiratory physiotherapy. Later units emphasise advanced clinical reasoning, complex case management, population health, paediatrics and geriatrics, and rehabilitation across the lifespan.

• Foundations: human anatomy and physiology, biomechanics, neuroscience basics, exercise prescription.
• Core clinical subjects: musculoskeletal assessment and management, neurological rehabilitation, cardiorespiratory physiotherapy, pain science, manual therapy and therapeutic exercise.
• Professional practice: clinical reasoning, ethics and professional behaviour, communication, health promotion and interprofessional practice.
• Research and honours work: research methods, evidence-based practice and an honours research project or thesis to develop academic and investigative skills.
• Clinical placements: repeated, supervised placements in hospitals, outpatient clinics, community and regional settings; simulation-based learning and skills labs support preparation for on-site placements.

Entry requirements

Entry typically requires completion of a recognised secondary qualification (or equivalent) and meeting CQU’s general admission criteria for undergraduate study. Applicants are usually expected to have studied science subjects such as biology or human biology; proficiency in English is also required for those whose prior study was not in English.

• Academic entry: completion of secondary school (or equivalent) with satisfactory results; alternative pathways include recognised tertiary study or bridging programs.
• Subject prerequisites: background in biology, human biology or a related science is highly recommended and may be required.
• Selection process: offers may be based on academic results and can include rankings, statements of interest or other selection tools used by the university.
• Additional requirements: before clinical placements students must satisfy health checks, immunisation requirements, Working with Children/Police checks and maintain first aid/CPR certification as specified by placement partners.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for registration as physiotherapists and for work across a wide range of clinical and non-clinical settings. Emphasis on rural and regional clinical experience opens pathways into public and private hospitals, community health services, private practice, aged care, sports and elite performance environments, occupational health, and rehabilitation services.

• Clinical physiotherapist in public hospitals and community health services.
• Private practice or specialist clinics (musculoskeletal, sports, paediatrics, womens’ health).
• Roles in aged care, disability services and home-based rehabilitation.
• Opportunities in workplace health, insurance and occupational rehabilitation.
• Research, teaching and further study (for example clinical specialisation, postgraduate coursework or doctoral research following honours).

Why study at Central Queensland University

Central Queensland University offers a physiotherapy program with a clear emphasis on applied learning and strong links with regional and metropolitan health services. The course combines simulation-based skill development with multiple supervised clinical placements, preparing graduates for the realities of practice across diverse communities.

• Practical focus with well-equipped physiotherapy and simulation facilities to build hands-on skills.
• Extensive placement network including regional, rural and metropolitan health services to broaden clinical experience.
• Smaller cohort sizes and supportive teaching geared to professional competency and employability.
• Honours research component to prepare students for evidence-based practice and further academic study.