University of Sydney’s Bachelor of Applied Science (Physiotherapy) will teach you how to assess, diagnose and treat people with movement problems caused by a wide variety of joint, muscle and nerve disorders. You will also learn how to help people avoid injuries and maintain a fit and healthy body.  You will learn through state-of-the-art simulations and practical experiences on how to employ a range of drug-free techniques to treat and prevent injuries. In addition to the high-profile sports side of physiotherapy, graduates also practice in roles that contribute significantly to the wider community, such as the management of neurological conditions, movement disorders, rehabilitation and recovery.  This course incorporates significant clinical and professional fieldwork opportunities, providing hands-on experience with real clients in a supervised environment.

In 2021, Sydney’s Physiotherapy program will move to the purpose-built Health Precinct at Camperdown campus, which will for the first time bring multiple health disciplines together in a facility that translates research into education and clinical services.

What You’ll Study

You will follow a prescribed course of study with a total of 192 credit points to qualify for the award of the Bachelor of Applied Science (Physiotherapy) degree. The profession of physiotherapy is physically demanding and requires the development of a range of precise physical skills for its practice. You will be expected to carry out and have carried out upon yourself as simulated patients, examination and treatment procedures used by physiotherapists. You should be aware that such practical sessions may involve partial disrobing and that participation in these classes is a requirement of the course.

In addition, to undertake physiotherapy units of study, you will study units in exercise and sport science, behavioural and community health sciences and biomedical sciences, particularly in first and second years.

Clinical Work Experience

You will complete five practicum placements during the third and fourth year of the course. Students will undertake clinical placements in NSW Health facilities in the Sydney metropolitan area, rural areas and or outer Sydney as well as private practices and community facilities. All candidates undertake at least one rural and/or regional placement. You will complete five practicum placements in three of the four five-week block placements in Semester 2 of third year, and two of the four five-week blocks in Semester 1 of fourth year.

In addition, eligible candidates have the opportunity to take part in the FHS Abroad program which involves academic study and a four to six week placement with non-government organizations and other development agencies in one of a small number of countries in South and South East Asia. This 6 credit point elective unit of study is available to candidates in their senior years and offers a hands-on understanding of global health challenges in an overseas community through work with two well established Australian volunteer agencies.

Entry Requirements

Students will need a completed High School Diploma with a minimum GPA of 89% (Ontario), 96% (Nova Scotia) or 3.9 (BC).  Due to the competitive nature of this program, GPA may run higher.

Assumed Knowledge in Physics and Chemistry, recommended studies: mathematics. Bridging courses are available.

Professional Recognition

University of Sydney’s Bachelor of Applied Science (Physiotherapy) program is accredited by the Australian Council of Physiotherapy.  Graduates are eligible for physiotherapy registration in any State or Territory of Australia through the Physiotherapy Board of Australia.  Graduates applying to licensing in Canada will be required to provide details of their program of studies to the relevant bodies and sit a licensing examination.

Students wishing to license as a physiotherapist in Canada should contact the Canadian Alliance of Physiotherapy for procedures and accreditation procedures. The CAP is the national federation of provincial/territorial regulators in Canada.

KOM Consultants understands the process and requirements needed to enter the Physiotherapy profession in Canada.  Contact KOM Consultants for more information.  All students applying directly through KOM Consultants will be supported with the latest information on the accreditation process.