Physiotherapy Studies Neurophysiotherapy

This new programme integrates the clinical, academic and research components of neurophysiotherapy practice, with an emphasis on the management of patients with neurological disorders. The programme fosters an understanding of evidence-based practice and students are encouraged to develop as advanced practitioners. Flexibility in selection of modules allows for physiotherapists with particular interests to be accommodated.

This programme offers students the opportunity to extend their knowledge of the key practical and theoretical aspects of neurophysiotherapy, challenge the foundations of established but poorly justified treatments, develop and undertake clinical research and learn about new and emerging treatment options, enjoying the mentorship of recognised experts in neurophysiotherapy.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of four core modules (60 credits), four optional modules (60 credits) and a dissertation/report (60 credits).

A Postgraduate Diploma (120 credits, full-time 12 months, flexible 2–5 years is offered). Students take four core modules (60 credits), and four optional modules (60 credits).

A Postgraduate Certificate (60 credits, full-time one year, flexible study up to two years) is offered. The programme consists of three core modules (45 credits) and one optional module (15 credits).

Core modules

• Evidence-informed Neurophysiotherapy Practice*
• Motor Control and Pathophysiology of Neurological Disorders*
• Physiotherapy Research and Dissemination*
• Research Methods & Statistics
• (*PG Cert students take the three core modules indicated above.)

Optional modules

• Skeletal Muscle and Associated Disease
• Peripheral Nerves and Associated Diseases
• Motor neurons, neuromuscular junctions and associated diseases
• Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms of Disease
• Neurohabilitation
• Peripheral Nerve, Muscle and Special Senses
• Motor Systems and Disease
• Higher Functions of the Brain
• Epilepsy, Pain, Tumours and Infections of the Central Nervous System
• Paediatric Neurophysiotherapy
• Paediatric Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy
• Paediatric Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy
• Muscle and Exercise Physiology in Health and Disease
• Physical Activity and Clinical Exercise for Pulmonary Disease
• Health Management and Clinical Exercise for Pulmonary Disease
• Respiration Through Life, Health and Disease
• Cardiorespiratory Theory for Physiotherapists
• Leadership and Professional Development
• Disability and Development
• Patient Safety and Clinical Risk

Dissertation/report

All MSc students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a dissertation of 10,000 words.

Teaching and learning

The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, tutorials online learning and self-directed learning. Assessment is through written assignments, online assignments, oral presentations, multiple choice texts, 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.