Overview
1st in London for Physiotherapy - National Student Survey 2025
Are you looking for a rewarding career in physiotherapy? Do you have a science-based degree? This course allows you to progress from your undergraduate degree to becoming a fully-qualified physiotherapist.
The course is designed to be hands-on and practical. Our Mary Seacole Building is purpose-built for physiotherapy and occupational therapy. The rooms reflect the type of clinical environments that you'll work in as a physiotherapist and you’ll learn your practical skills here as you’ll have the opportunity to practice on patients visiting the university and on your fellow students. This means that you’ll be confident and experienced in time for your first placement.
On this course, you’ll learn how to evaluate data and to apply research knowledge and skills to clinical practice. You’ll be taught to design your own research and how to use this research to advance clinical practice.
At Brunel we understand the value of making the most of your 1,000 hours of clinical experience. Your placements begin at the end of the first year. All our academic staff have worked or still work clinically within the London area so you will benefit from their excellent links with prestigious London hospitals.
There’s also a strong focus on professional development throughout the course. Study areas include managing and improving health services, self-management and team working so you’ll be fully equipped with a strong scientific foundation and the practical and professional skills to progress your career. This is reflected in our employment figures with 100 per cent of MSc pre-registration graduates employed as physiotherapists within six months of completing the programme.
The NHS Values are shaped by patients, public and staff have helped develop this expression of values that inspire passion in the NHS and that should underpin everything it does. Individual organisations will develop and build upon these values, tailoring them to their local needs. The NHS values provide common ground for co-operation to achieve shared aspirations, at all levels of the NHS.
Financial Support
Studying at University can be financially challenging so here at Brunel, we want to draw your attention to the UK Government support scheme – NHS Learning Support Fund (LSF) aimed to reduce this cost burden.
This scheme is aimed primarily at British Nationals and British residents. There are some eligibility criteria to be met but basically UK students are eligible for a non-means tested grant of £5,000 for each academic year of study. More info can be found here.
This grant does not need to be paid back. Neither are you committed to working in the NHS on graduating and registering.
Please note that the application process and awarding of this grant is totally independent of the University. We are unable to advise or intervene on your behalf. Further information including a short video can be found here.
It’s likely that all students going on clinical placements will incur some travel expenses in excess of their normal travel to and from the University. Very occasionally students may have a travel journey in excess of 2 hours each way to and from placement in which case they would be eligible to stay local to their placement during the working week which would naturally incur extra expenditure for accommodation too.
So, it’s great that UK students are eligible for reimbursement of excess travel or accommodation costs incurred due to undertaking practical training on a clinical placement. This money does not need to be paid back. Further information can be found here.
In addition to the basic Training Grant - UK students who have parental responsibility for a child may be eligible for an additional grant of £2000 for each academic year. This grant does not need to be paid back. Further information can be found here.
UK students may apply for an additional exceptional support grant of up to £3000 for each academic year. This grant does not need to be paid back. Further information can be found here.
To register for an NHS Training Grant you will need to set up a Learning Support Fund Account – which takes around 5 minutes. Click here to start the process.
And remember too that you can still apply for a re-payable student loan in addition to the NHS Training Grant.
Dean’s International Scholarship: This course is eligible for a £2,000 fee waiver, per academic year, subject to availability. This Scholarship is for full-time international students only. Find out more.
Got a question about this course? Check out our FAQ's page.
You can explore our campus and facilities for yourself by taking our virtual tour.
Course content
The programme is delivered 46 weeks per year and incorporates 1,000 hours of clinical practice, ensuring you’re ready to step into a career in physiotherapy as soon as you graduate.
Compulsory
- PH5670 - Anatomy 1: Lower Quadrant
This module will introduce the student to the normal structure and function of the human body. The student will be introduced to the structural and functional anatomy of the lumbar spine, pelvis and lower limb. Foundation knowledge gained in this module aims to underpin the students understanding for all other modules, in particular the musculoskeletal modules. Parallel and subsequent modules will incorporate and build on the core subjects introduced.
- PH5673 - Anatomy 2: Upper Quadrant
This module will introduce the student to the normal structure and function of the human body. The student will be introduced to the structural and functional anatomy of the cervical spine, thorax and upper limb. Foundation knowledge gained in this module aims to underpin the students understanding for all other modules, in particular the musculoskeletal modules. Parallel and subsequent modules will incorporate and build on the core subjects introduced.
- PH5677 - Mandatory Training
This is a core module for all students undertaking the programme. This module is designed to equip you with all the essential skills you will need when you go out on your first placement.
- PH5675 - Musculoskeletal I Lower Quadrant
This module is the first of two modules related to musculoskeletal examination and treatment. It will allow students to apply knowledge of the basic pathological processes that affect the musculoskeletal system and develop knowledge and understanding of lumbar spine, pelvis, and lower limb (the lower quadrant) musculoskeletal pathologies and conditions.
- PH5674 - Person-Centred Healthcare and Leadership 1
This module aims to introduce an understanding of professional standards of conduct, performance and ethics i.e. HCPC standards of conduct. Also, the four pillars of physiotherapy practice: clinical, leadership, education and research and provide overview of the National Health System and compare and contrast to international healthcare systems and private providers.
- PH5678 - Practice Placement 1
This modular block aims to provide the student with the opportunity to develop and apply their basic skills of examination, assessment and treatment to a variety of health disorders relevant to the placement speciality. The modular block will also encourage the student, with appropriate guidance, to identify patients' problems and make informed decisions relating to the selection of appropriate physiotherapy interventions. The student will be encouraged to discuss the appropriateness and effectiveness of intervention and to understand the limits of their knowledge. The student will also be given the opportunity to develop their professional skills such as communication, clinical leadership and clinical management.
- PH5679 - Practice Placement 2
This modular block aims to provide the student with the opportunity to develop and apply their basic skills of examination, assessment and treatment to a variety of health disorders relevant to the placement speciality. It will also encourage the student, with appropriate guidance, to identify patients' problems and make informed decisions relating to the selection of appropriate physiotherapy interventions. The student will be encouraged to discuss the appropriateness and effectiveness of intervention, and to understand the limits of their knowledge. The student will also be given the opportunity to develop their professional skills such as communication, clinical leadership and clinical management.
- PH5671 - Principles of Rehabilitation
This module will allow students to develop knowledge of the theoretical basis of human movement, function, exercise prescription, motor learning and skill (re)acquisition. This knowledge will be used to develop skills in selecting, delivering and evaluating exercise programmes for a wide range of clinical situations.
- PH5640 - Research Methods for Health Sciences
This module aims to develop students’ knowledge and critical awareness of a variety of research methods and approaches. Critically explore, reflect upon and develop quantitative and qualitative research skills and knowledge in health and develop the skills to critically appraise a range of published health research to inform evidence-based practice.
- PH5676 - Respiratory
This module will allow students to develop theoretical knowledge of normal respiratory physiology and the pathophysiology underpinning common respiratory disease. In addition, students will develop analytical assessment skills, plus theoretical knowledge and physiotherapeutic skills to treat patients presenting with a wide variety of symptoms associated with acute and chronic respiratory disease.
- PH5672 - System Physiology and Pathophysiology
This module will allow students to develop knowledge of basic system physiology and pathological processes that affect the musculoskeletal system either through trauma or disease. This knowledge will be used to underpin students understanding within subsequent modules.
Compulsory
- PH5682 - Cardiovascular Health
This module will provide students with knowledge of cardiovascular physiology and common pathologies of the heart and peripheral circulation (including atherosclerosis and diabetes). They will develop the therapeutic skills necessary to manage and rehabilitate cardiac patients including those who have undergone cardiac surgery and those who have undergone lower limb amputation. This module will also focus on health promotion with specific reference to cardiovascular health.
- PH5601 - Critical Care
This module will allow students to develop theoretical knowledge of the pathophysiology underpinning the critically ill patient. In addition, students will develop analytical assessment skills, plus theoretical knowledge and physiotherapeutic skills to treat problems associated with critical illness. The module aims to develop students critical awareness of clinical evidence related to the physiotherapy management of the critically ill patient.
- PH5683 - Health Across the Lifespan
This module, which will include some opportunities for interprofessional learning, will provide the students with an understanding of the physical, psychological and sociological developments across the human lifespan. The students will learn about neonates, children and young people’s physical and psychological health and development, pelvic health including pregnancy, menopause and andropause, middle- and older-age physical and psychological health and disease. Multimorbidity, long-term conditions and palliative care will be evaluated in the context of these different life stage.
- PH5685 - Musculoskeletal 2 Upper Quadrant
This module is the second of two practically oriented modules related to musculoskeletal examination and treatment. It will allow students to apply knowledge of the basic pathological processes that affect the musculoskeletal system. It aims to enable students to relate the theory of musculoskeletal dysfunction to clinical practice and to integrate information from previous modules (Musculoskeletal I, anatomy, physiology/pathophysiology and rehabilitation).
- PH5681 - Neurorehabilitation
This module aims to provide students with the opportunity to develop neurological physiotherapy assessment and treatment skills, and clinical reasoning and evaluation skills to support effective practice. Students will develop knowledge and understanding of the theoretical underpinning of practice as well as key concepts in neurophysiology, neuroanatomy, and the pathological processes underlying a range of neurological conditions. The module aims to introduce the scope of neurological physiotherapy practice and to develop a critical understanding of the role of the physiotherapist with reference to the physical, psychological and social implications of neurological dysfunction and the role of the physiotherapist in the multidisciplinary team.
- PH5684 - Person-centred Healthcare and Leadership 2
This module builds on the skills and knowledge acquired from the ‘Person-centred Healthcare and Leadership 1’ module. Core themes of this module will be further development of communication skills (e.g. sensitive questioning techniques, breaking bad news and dealing with people with complex communication needs), education of service users and the multi professional team (MPT), social determinants of care, healthcare leadership and reflective practice. Central to these themes will be the person-centred care approach. This will ensure our graduates offer holistic, person-centred care with sensitivity, empathy and understanding.
- PH5686 - Practice Placement 3
On this module, students will further develop their clinical skills. Students will develop an increasing level of autonomy along with an understanding of their professional limitations, accountability and professional role within a healthcare team. Inter-professional communication, clinical leadership and effective transferable skills will be developed as the student acquires the skills necessary to work across a range of healthcare settings. Through exposure to an increasing range of clinical specialties, students will be able to assess and manage patients of increasing complexity and individual needs.
- PH5687 - Practice Placement 4
This modular block aims to provide students with the opportunity to further develop their clinical skills. Students will be developing an increasing level of autonomy along with an understanding of their professional limitations, accountability and professional role within a healthcare team. Inter-professional communication, clinical leadership and effective transferable skills should be developed as the student acquires the skills necessary to work across a range of health care settings. Through exposure to an increasing range of clinical specialties, students will be able to assess and manage patients of increasing complexity and individual needs.
- PH5688 - Practice Placement 5
This modular block aims to provide students with the opportunity to further develop their clinical skills. Students will be developing an increasing level of autonomy along with an understanding of their professional limitations, accountability and professional role within a healthcare team. Inter-professional communication, clinical leadership and effective transferable skills should be developed as the student acquires the skills necessary to work across a range of health care settings. Through exposure to an increasing range of clinical specialties, students will be able to assess and manage patients of increasing complexity and individual needs.
- PH5680 - Dissertation
The overall aim for the module is for students to develop a critical understanding of academic research, by conducting an independent research project under the supervision of an academic supervisor on a topic relevant to Physiotherapy, and which generally falls within the current areas of research and expertise of the supervisor
This course can be studied undefined undefined, starting in undefined.
This course has a placement option. Find out more about work placements available.
Please note that all modules are subject to change.
Read more about the structure of postgraduate degrees at Brunel
Careers and your future
Career Prospects for Physiotherapy Graduates
With increasing demand across healthcare sectors worldwide, our graduates enjoy near 100% employability and opportunities for career advancement. From government hospitals to private practice, sports organisations, and major corporations, our programmes prepare you for success. Designed to meet international regulators' standards, our graduates have excellent prospects in the UK and for global mobility, making them sought-after professionals in their preferred countries.
Professional Registration
Successful completion of the programme provides eligibility to apply for statutory registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and full membership of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy.
Successful completion of the programme also provides eligibility to apply for professional registration with regulatory bodies in other countries, for example: Canada, New Zealand, Australia, Hong Kong, USA, Ireland and India and many others. For current information on the specific requirements and registration process for each country we recommend that you consult the webpages of the relevant regulatory body.
Rights to Work in the UK for International Students
International students graduating from this programme may be eligible to apply for a Health and Care Worker Visa that provides the right to work within the UK healthcare sector. This visa also provides the right for dependants to come to the UK and exemptions from UK health insurance surcharges. Further information about the current benefits of the Health and Care Worker Visa and rules for applying can be found at the UKVI website.
Information on further visa options is available on our Post Study Work Options webpage.
UK entry requirements
2026/7 entry
A UK 2.1 Honours degree (or international equivalent), in Biomedical Science, Psychology, Sports Science or other Science subjects.
Please note this programme is not suitable for qualified physiotherapists. Please contact the HCPC for further information if you wish to acquire UK state registration rights.
Interview:
Successful applicants will be invited to attend an online interview with an academic member of the Physiotherapy team.
International entry requirements
If you require a Tier 4 visa to study in the UK, you must prove knowledge of the English language so that we can issue you a Certificate of Acceptance for Study (CAS). To do this, you will need an IELTS for UKVI or Trinity SELT test pass gained from a test centre approved by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) and on the Secure English Language Testing (SELT) list. This must have been taken and passed within two years from the date the CAS is made.
English language requirements
- IELTS: 7 (min 6.5 in all areas)
- Pearson: 64 (59 in all subscores)
- BrunELT: 7 (min 6.5 in all areas)
- TOEFL: 5 (min 5 in all areas)
You can find out more about the qualifications we accept on our English Language Requirements page.
Should you wish to take a pre-sessional English course to improve your English prior to starting your degree course, you must sit the test at an approved SELT provider for the same reason. We offer our own BrunELT English test and have pre-sessional English language courses for students who do not meet requirements or who wish to improve their English. You can find out more information on English courses and test options through our Brunel Language Centre.
Please check our Admissions pages for more information on other factors we use to assess applicants. This information is for guidance only and each application is assessed on a case-by-case basis. Entry requirements are subject to review, and may change.
Fees and funding
2026/27 entry
UK
£9,535 full-time
International
£24,795 full-time
More information on any additional course-related costs.
Fees quoted are per year and are subject to an annual increase.
See our fees and funding page for full details of postgraduate scholarships available to Brunel applicants.
Scholarships and bursaries
Teaching and learning
Assessment and feedback
You will be assessed in a variety of different ways including written exams, practical vivas, practical exams, written assignments and your clinical placements.
Read our guide on how to avoid plagiarism in your assessments at Brunel.
