Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

The programme integrates foundational biomedical sciences with clinical physiotherapy practice. Early years emphasise anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, kinesiology and evidence-based practice. Core physiotherapy subjects introduce assessment and treatment principles for musculoskeletal, neurological and cardiorespiratory conditions.

• Human structure and function – detailed anatomy and physiology relevant to movement and rehabilitation.
• Movement science and biomechanics – analysis of gait, posture and functional movement.
• Clinical physiotherapy practice – assessment, manual therapy, therapeutic exercise, electrotherapy and clinical reasoning across major practice areas.
• Specialist modules – paediatrics, geriatrics, sports and orthopaedics, neurological and cardiorespiratory physiotherapy.
• Research and evidence-based practice – research methods, statistics and a final-year honours research project or capstone that develops critical appraisal and inquiry skills.
• Professional practice – ethics, communication, interprofessional practice and preparation for registration, supported by progressive, supervised clinical placements in a range of settings.

Entry requirements

Entry is competitive and typically requires successful completion of senior secondary studies. Applicants are usually expected to have completed English and at least one relevant science subject (for example biology, chemistry or physics) at senior level. Selection may be based on academic results (such as an ATAR or equivalent), a personal statement or selection tasks, and in some cases interview or portfolio.

Mature-age applicants and those with tertiary study or relevant health-work experience are considered through alternative entry pathways. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency in line with ACU's standard requirements and meet equivalent academic qualifications from their country.

Career prospects

Graduates qualify to seek registration as physiotherapists and work across public and private health sectors. Typical employers and roles include:

• Public hospitals and outpatient clinics
• Private physiotherapy practices and multidisciplinary clinics
• Community health services and rehabilitation centres
• Sports organisations, performance and conditioning roles
• Residential aged care and home health services
• Specialist areas such as paediatrics, neurology, cardiorespiratory physiotherapy and occupational health

Graduates also move into research, education, health management or progress to postgraduate specialisation (for example master’s level specialisation, advanced clinical practice or research degrees).

Why study at Australian Catholic University

ACU emphasises a person-centred, ethical approach to health care and provides a curriculum built around clinical competence and reflective practice. The university offers extensive clinical placement networks across metropolitan and regional health services, enabling students to gain diverse, supervised hands-on experience.

Facilities supporting the programme typically include dedicated anatomy and movement laboratories, clinical simulation suites and access to allied health clinics where students can consolidate skills under professional supervision. ACU also promotes small-group learning, interprofessional collaboration and opportunities to undertake research projects with academic supervisors.

Overall, the programme is suited to students seeking a rigorous clinical education with clear pathways to professional practice and further study within physiotherapy and allied health.