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QMU physiotherapy student treating a patient

Why study at QMU?

A major provider in postgraduate education in the field

Our Division of Dietetics, Nutrition, Biological Sciences, Physiotherapy, Podiatry and Radiography (DNBSPPR) has extensive knowledge and skills in allied health professional education as well as in public health, community and voluntary sectors.

Our proximity to Edinburgh city centre positions us close to many of the leading players in both national and local government, as well as many large hospitals, companies, research laboratories and government offices. The links to our hospital, private practice and third sector partners across Scotland are essential to ensure that our students have access to the high-quality placement experiences that are at the core of their training with us. Many of our courses reflect the fact that QMU is a major player in postgraduate education and staff have very close links with the professions across Scotland, for example, opportunities to work in Scotland’s cancer centres, or to work with students from another Scottish university or one elsewhere in the UK.

Convert to a career in physiotherapy: our postgraduate pre-registration master’s course 

Our MSc Physiotherapy (Pre-Registration) is a full-time two year course for graduates who wish to continue their education to master’s level to become qualified practitioners in physiotherapy. Completing our pre-registration courses means that students are eligible to apply for registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) that allows them to work in the United Kingdom. These courses include placements in the health fields.

Read more about other pre-registration master's courses and what QMU offers

Upskill with our postgraduate post-registration master’s courses in physiotherapy

Post-registration study is for those who are already qualified practitioners and who want to extend and develop their knowledge and skills in more depth. Studying at this level not only contributes to continuing professional development (CPD) but also enhances personal development.

Within our Advancing Practice in Health Framework we offer an MSc/PgDip Advancing Practice in Physiotherapy. Other routes or single modules within the Framework may also appeal to physiotherapists looking to expand their knowledge and skills. We also offer a new MSc Advanced Physiotherapy Practice which is aimed primarily at international students.

Read more about post-registration masters' courses and what QMU offers.

Student-centred teaching

Students are at the core of our priorities and we aim to enrich the learning, teaching and the overall academic experience for them. We appreciate that postgraduate students come to us with a whole host of skills, experiences and knowledge that they have acquired from a previous undergraduate degree or work experience. We anticipate students will draw on this to enhance both their own learning and that of fellow students. The student is placed at the centre of the learning process and with guidance and the use of learning contracts is expected to take overall responsibility for their learning. These strategies will emphasise the development of critical, innovative and creative ways of thinking.

We attract students from across the globe, which facilitates wide-ranging discussion of health-related issues. Our courses are reviewed regularly and staff ensure that they take cognisance of developments in practice, and UK and wider healthcare policies to ensure that courses are fit for purpose.

All students have the opportunity to undertake an independent piece of research, with staff supervision, as the culmination of their studies. Preregistration students typically select a practise-based study that often fits the research programme of a member of staff. Post-registration students typically develop a study pertinent to their own clinical practice and work setting. A number of our students have gone on to present their dissertation work at national and international conferences.

Expert staff

The majority of QMU staff are registered with the HCPC while other colleagues are registered with professional and scientific bodies, and all the staff in the Division have extensive experience and expertise in their discipline and in health. Additionally, many staff members are active in research. A number of staff are active in professional and policy matters at both a local and national level and some staff are also practising clinicians. 

Find out more information on how to apply for a course at 17³Ô¹ÏÍø.