Physiotherapy Studies Cardiorespiratory

This postgraduate programme integrates the clinical, academic and research components of cardiorespiratory physiotherapy practice. The emphasis is on the management of patients with cardiorespiratory 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, learning about new and emerging treatment options and enjoying the mentorship of recognised experts in cardiorespiratory physiotherapy.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of four core modules (60 credits), four optional modules (60 credits), and the research dissertation (60 credits).

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

A Postgraduate Certificate (60 credits, part-time nine months) is offered.

Core modules

• Physiotherapy Research and Dissemination
• Research Methods and Statistics
• Respiration Through Life, Health and Disease
• Cardiorepsiratory Physiotherapy Skills

Optional modules

• Cardiorespiratory Theory for Physiotherapists
• Clinical Knowledge and Decision-Making
• Health Management and Clinical Exercise for Pulmonary Disease
• The Heart Through Life, Health and Disease
• Information Law and Governance in Clinical Practice
• Leadership and Professional Development
• Muscle and Exercise Physiology in Health and Disease
• Paediatric Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy
• Patient Safety and Clinical Risk
• Physical Activity and Clinical Exercise for Cardiovascular Disease

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. Assessment is through written assignments, oral presentations, multiple choice texts, 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.