Advanced Physiotherapy Paediatrics

This postgraduate programme integrates the advanced clinical, theoretical, academic and research components of paediatric physiotherapy practice. The emphasis is on the management of paediatric patients with cardiorespiratory, neurological and musculoskeletal disorders. Flexibility in selection of modules allows for physiotherapists with particular interests to be accommodated.

This MSc offers physiotherapy students the opportunity to extend their understanding of key areas in this field, including challenging the foundations of established but poorly justified treatments, developing and undertaking clinical research and practice, learning about new and emerging treatment options, and enjoying the mentorship of recognised experts in paediatric physiotherapy.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of six core modules (90 credits) two optional modules from twelve choices (30 credits) and the research dissertation (60 credits).

A Postgraduate Diploma (120 credits, full-time 12 months, flexible 2-5 years) is offered.

A Postgraduate Certificate (60 credits, part-time 12 months) is offered. Students take 60 credits of core modules.

Core modules

• Physiotherapy Research & Dissemination
• Paediatric Neuro Physiotherapy
• Paediatric Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy
• Paediatric Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy
• Clinical Education in Advanced Physiotherapy Part I
• Research Methods and Statistics
• Paediatric and Adolescent Sports and Performance Injury Prevention and Management

Optional modules

• Clinical Education in Advanced Physiotherapy Part II
• Children in Difficult Circumstances
• Disability & Development
• Child Development: Inclusive Approaches in Global Contexts
• Leadership & Professional Development
• Clinical Knowledge & Decision Making
• Information Law & Governance in Clinical Practice
• Patient Safety & Clinical Risk
• Muscle and Exercise Physiology in Health and Disease
• Respiration through Life, Health and Disease
• Paediatric and Adolescent Sports and Performance, Injury Prevention and Management
• Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy Skills

Dissertation/report

All students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a substantial report and an oral examination.

Teaching and learning

The programme is delivered through a combination of teaching and self-directed learning, and includes up to six weeks of clinical placements. Assessment is through clinical assessments, written assignments, oral presentations, multiple choice tests, submission of the literature review and research proposal, assessed coursework, unseen and prior disclosure written examinations, and the dissertation with an oral presentation.

Normally a minimum of an upper second-class UK Bachelor's degree or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard in physiotherapy; or an approved diploma in physiotherapy together with evidence of appropriate clinical and/or teaching experience and a commitment to continuing professional development. We expect students to have had at least 2 years post-qualification clinical experience and UK state-registration is preferred.