Our Physiotherapy programme is a modern, thought-provoking programme that enables students to develop the skills and experience to flourish as a physiotherapist in the modern healthcare environment.
A broad range of learning opportunities ensures that learning is accessible to students expressing different learning styles and preferences. Alongside academic and professional skills you will gain an excellent range of practical experience in a wide range of settings. The programme at Liverpool will encourage you to become independent, resourceful and able to meet the exciting challenges of healthcare today.
Introduction
This programme is designed to reflect current physiotherapy practice with research evidence underpinning all aspects of our teaching.
Alongside academic and professional skills you will gain an excellent range of practical experience in a wide range of settings. The programme at Liverpool will encourage you to become independent, resourceful and able to meet the exciting challenges of healthcare today.
The programme adopts a modular approach to the delivery of content. It incorporates both university taught and practice-based components which have been designed together as an integrated whole.
Key transferable skills are embedded into the curriculum at every level so that individuals are equipped to effectively manage their personal and professional development following graduation.
What you'll learn
Critical thinking
Science acumen
Research gathering
Data collection and analysis
Teamwork
Observational skills
Teaching Excellence Framework 2023
We’re proud to announce we’ve been awarded a
Gold rating for educational excellence.
Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.
Year one
First year studies provide a foundation to profession specific practical skills and core knowledge, primarily focussing on the structure and function of tissues found within the human body.
During first year, we enable students to develop their independent learning strategies as well as their teamwork, communication and interpersonal skills.
Key themes include:
Principle mechanisms underlying healing and repair
Physiology of the musculoskeletal, cardiorespiratory and neurological systems
Movement analysis skills
Evidence-based practice
Scientific principles of research.
Compulsory modules
Foundations of Anatomy and Clinical Practice (PHTY140)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
This 15 credit module (level 4) is designed to introduce some of the core knowledge and practical skills that underpin physiotherapy practice. Knowledge of the normal structure and function of bodily tissues, together with an understanding of the mechanisms of tissue healing and repair, are central to the assessment and treatment of all patients. Similarly, basic handling skills are fundamental to all fields of physiotherapy practice. The learning and teaching strategy for this module uses a combination of eLectures, tutorials and practical classes. Theoretical content will be delivered by eLectures but tutorials will support this material and assist the student with their understanding. Achievement of the learning outcomes will be assessed by an unseen written examination to assess the theoretical components and continuous assessment during practical sessions will be used to assess competency.
The Human Musculoskeletal System 1 (PHTY141)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
This 15 credit module is the first of two, level 4 modules that focus on musculoskeletal anatomy. The module is designed to equip students with detailed knowledge of the musculoskeletal system. The content of the module includes the normal structure and function of anatomy with a focus on the lower limb, lumbar spine and pelvis. The module uses a blended learning approach, utilising digital media and e-lectures prior to attending practical classes. Students will also have access to bones and digital resources during practical sessions to illustrate key anatomical features and consolidate learning. Essential physiotherapy practical skills will be developed including the skills of palpation and physical assessment. Achievement of learning outcomes will be assessed by an unseen practical examination which tests practical skills and theoretical knowledge
The Human Cardiorespiratory System (PHTY142)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
This 15 credit (level 4) module provides an introduction to the anatomy and physiology of the human cardiovascular and respiratory systems. In this module you will learn about the normal structure and function of the heart, lungs and blood vessels, including the mechanism of breathing and the control of respiration and blood pressure. Students will work in tutorial groups to discuss aspects of cardiorespiratory structure and function and relate this to a patient scenario. There will also be a practical opportunity to learn core cardiorespiratory assessment skills relevant to physiotherapy practice. Achievement of learning outcomes will be assessed by an unseen written examination consisting of multiple choice and short answer questions.
Shaping the Professional 1 (PHTY143)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: whole session
Shaping the Professional1 is the first of four personal professional development modules that you will complete within the programme which are part of Shaping the Professional Theme. Designed specifically for level 4, this 15-credit module spans both semesters within the first year of study.
Semester 1 will focus on supporting the effective transition to university. The skills required for successful, self-directed, adult learning will be addressed. Through a series of interactive workshops, students will be guided to access and navigate the online resources and academic support available. Strategies for managing stress and for building resilience will be explored within interprofessional tutorial groups. This shared learning experience also provides an opportunity to develop an understanding of the roles of other healthcare professionals and introduce the importance of diversity and inclusion within practice.
In semester 2 the concept of ‘professionalism’ will be explored with reference to professional standards and registration. A specific focus on professional communication incorporates practical opportunities to develop communication strategies through interactions with peers, actors and service users. A one-week “orientation to clinical practice” placement draws the themes of the module together, enabling students to engage in, observe and reflect on professional interactions within practice settings.
As part of this module students receive pastoral support from an academic advisor, in line with the School of Health Sciences Academic Advisor system. Working in partnership, the tutor and student will periodically evaluate academic progress and devise personal development action plans. Using an E-Portfolio toolkit you will be shown how to:
plan and prepare for learning,
record and reflect on their learning experiences,
collect and curate evidence of their development.
Research and Development 1 (PHTY144)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: whole session
This is the first module in the Research and Development Theme. The 15 credit module will introduce the concepts underpinning evidence based practice and research methodologies and their practical application in physiotherapy practice. Students will be encouraged to discuss experimental and non experimental designs and the associated ethical considerations. This module is delivered by key note lectures introducing key concepts, e-lectures which will inform small group discussions. This module will be assessed by a group presentation at the end of semester one and a written assignment at the end of semester two. Formative opportunities will be available both semesters. On completion of the module, students will have the required knowledge to inform the Level 5 Research module.
The Human Musculoskeletal System 2 (PHTY145)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
This 15 credit module is the second of two, level 4 modules that focus on musculoskeletal anatomy. The module is designed to equip students with detailed knowledge of the musculoskeletal system. The content of the module includes the normal structure and function of anatomy with a focus on the upper limb, cervical and thoracic spine. The module uses a blended learning approach, utilising digital media and e-lectures prior to attending practical classes. Students will also have access to bones and digital resources during practical sessions to illustrate key anatomical features and consolidate learning. Essential physiotherapy practical skills will be developed including the skills of palpation and physical assessment. Achievement of learning outcomes will be assessed by an unseen practical examination which tests practical skills and theoretical knowledge
The Human Central Nervous System (PHTY146)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
This 15 credit (level 4) module provides an introduction to the functional neuroanatomy and physiology of the human nervous system. Working in facilitated tutorial groups students will learn about the normal structure and function of the brain, spinal cord and peripheral nervous system, focusing specifically on sensory-motor control of human movement. Students will agree weekly learning objectives to direct further enquiry. In addition, there will be a practical opportunity to learn basic neurological assessment skills relevant to practice. Achievement of learning outcomes will be assessed by an unseen written examination consisting of multiple choice and short answer questions.
Exercise for Health 1 (PHTY147)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
Exercise for health is the first of three exercise focused modules within the physiotherapy programme. This 15 credit module is designed for year 1 and occurs during semester 2.
The module aims to provide students with knowledge and understanding of human responses to exercise and activity. This will include an introduction to the fundamental principles underlying exercise physiology and identify the key physiological responses to exercise. A range of different types of exercise and activity will be discussed including exercising in water. The students will have the opportunity to consider the theoretical concepts of strengthening and conditioning as well as practical techniques by experiencing the applied theory to situation involving exercise and activity. This will link with the university sport centre and the gym equipment available. This module will provide an overview to understand how physical activity relates to health and well-being; and non-communicable diseases, the role in disease prevention and how the body responses to the physical demands placed upon it via exercise. An introduction and awareness of public health agenda and the role of activity and exercise will be included to provide the wider context of activity related to health across the lifespan and in various patient groups.
The students will be able to understand and describing pain and the relationship of pain to activity. This will ensure that they understand one of the key barriers to activity and exercise. The neuroanatomy of pain and role of pain modulation will be introduced. Therefore providing the link between this key area of physiotherapy management and the core patient clinical areas.
This module will use scenario-based teaching and delivered through a combination of face-to-face activities and online learning:
Case based learning
E-lectures/lectures
Small group tutorials
Practical classes
The assessment will focus on both the theoretical understand as well as the practical application of exercise prescription via an OSPE using patient-focused scenario’s.
Any optional modules listed above are illustrative only and may vary from year to year. Modules may be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved and staff availability. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed.
Year two
In year two, you will continue to grow your skills and knowledge through academic study and practical experience with a particular emphasis placed on pathology.
Key themes include:
Patient assessments
Patient treatment and management
The development of an independent approach to clinical reasoning, problem solving and reflective practice in the modern healthcare setting.
Any optional modules listed above are illustrative only and may vary from year to year. Modules may be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved and staff availability. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed.
Year three
Your final year will be dedicated to the development of advanced skills and techniques, and the ability needed to apply them in practice.
In third year, we will:
Promote greater responsibility of self-management, clinical reasoning and decision making in relation to patient management
Promote a critical awareness of evidence-based practice in physiotherapy
Enhance your awareness of the scope and limits of physiotherapy practice
Provide opportunities for in-depth, independent study of a specific area of practice.
Any optional modules listed above are illustrative only and may vary from year to year. Modules may be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved and staff availability. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed.
How you'll learn
Our curriculum has been designed to reflect current practice with research evidence underpinning all aspects of our teaching.
Learning is promoted through a wide variety of activities that enable students to become autonomous and continuous learners, using a broad range of learning opportunities to allow students to expressing different learning styles and preferences.
Interactive lectures, practical and clinical skills group work, simulation, directed study, role play, problem based learning, small group work, student-led seminars, collaborative project work and interactive tutorials will all prove to be key components of your learning experience.
Practical work using our imaging suite digital equipment, 3D virtual reality radiotherapy facility, Clinical Skills Resource Room and the Human Anatomy Resource Centre complement teaching activities. Face-to-face interactions between all students will occur at shared lectures, tutorials and group work and online interaction will be encouraged and facilitated.
We also encourage inter-professional learning opportunities which mirror the modern, collaborative environments of the modern healthcare industry.
How you're assessed
Using a mixture of coursework and examinations, a range of assessment methods are used across this programme. These include seen and unseen written examinations, essay assignments with specific word lengths, multiple choice questions, case study presentations, video analysis and interactive practical examinations.
Assessment of the work-based learning element of all programmes is an important aspect. You will be required to communicate your views orally and in written form; analyse, implement and evaluate your practice; and to extend the research and evidence base of your chosen profession.
The various methods of assessments have been chosen to provide a balance that will permit the undergraduates to properly demonstrate their intellectual abilities in all areas.
Liverpool Hallmarks
We have a distinctive approach to education, the Liverpool Curriculum Framework, which focuses on research-connected teaching, active learning, and authentic assessment to ensure our students graduate as digitally fluent and confident global citizens.
Course options
Studying with us means you can tailor your degree to suit you. Here's what is available on this course.
Physiotherapy students benefit from the School of Allied Health Professions and Nursing‘s experience in delivering over 100 years of dynamic, research-led teaching. Our student satisfaction rates, which range from 93-100%, are testament to our School being a great place to start to your career.
Support for students with differing needs from the Disability advice and guidance team. They can identify and recommend appropriate support provisions for you.
A Physiotherapy degree from the University of Liverpool can set you up for a rewarding and challenging career in a diverse range of professional environments. Physiotherapy graduates are eligible to apply for membership of the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy.
Many graduates find employment in the NHS, in industry, private practice, sport, research or teaching.
You will have gained a qualification that meets the Government’s criteria for ‘fitness for purpose’ and ‘fitness for practice’.
There are many employment opportunities for physiotherapists to work in a wide range of clinical settings, from paediatrics to older persons’ care. Your UK qualification also provides an opportunity to work abroad in many countries.
You’ll be taught a curriculum that is developed and assessed by leading healthcare providers, such as:
The Christie NHS Foundation Trust
Rosemere Cancer Centre
Royal Liverpool University Hospital
Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital
Whiston Hospital
Aintree and Walton Centre for Neurology
Arrowe Park Hospital, Royal Preston Hospital
Clatterbridge Cancer Centre NHS Foundation Trust.
Many such partners across the North West provide you with exciting placement opportunities.
99% of School of Allied Health Professions and Nursing’s students find their main activity after graduation meaningful.
Graduate Outcomes, 2018-19.
Fees and funding
Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.
Tuition fees
UK fees (applies to Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland)
Full-time place, per year
£9,535
Year abroad fee
£1,385
International fees
Full-time place, per year
£29,100
Year abroad fee
£14,550
The UK full-time tuition fee, international course fee and fee for the year abroad for international students shown are correct for 2025/26 entry. We are currently awaiting confirmation of whether the year abroad fee for UK students will change, so the fee shown is for 2024/25. Please note that the year abroad fee also applies to the year in China.
Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support. Learn more about fees and funding.
Additional costs
We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This may include a laptop, books, or stationery. Additional costs for this course could include equipment, professional association fees and travel to placements.
The qualifications and exam results you'll need to apply for this course.
NHS Values will be assessed in all areas of an application including UCAS Personal Statement and at interview. For more details, please download our explanation of Value Based Recruitment.
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AAB including Biology or PE or Sport Science and the Active Leisure Industry.
Applicants with the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) are eligible for a reduction in grade requirements.
For this course, the offer is ABB with
A
in the EPQ.
You may automatically qualify for reduced entry requirements through our contextual offers scheme.
If you don't meet the entry requirements, you may be able to complete a foundation year which would allow you to progress to this course.
6 GCSE subjects grade A*-B/Level 6 including English Language, Mathematics and two Sciences from the following: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, PE, Core Science, Additional Science and Dual Science. Standalone English Literature is not accepted in lieu of English or English Language at grade B (GSCE). Applied GCSEs will not be considered.
Subject requirements
- For applicants from England: Where a science has been taken at A level (Chemistry, Biology or Physics), a pass in the Science practical of each subject will be required.
BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma
BTEC Nationals are considered in addition to 6 GCSEs grades A* – B or level 6, which must include English Language, Maths and two Science subjects from the following: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, PE, Core Science, Additional Science and Dual Science Award. Please note that Applied GCSEs will not be considered.
BTEC National Extended Certificate
We will accept one subject at a minimum of Distinction. This must be accompanied by two A2 subjects at grade A and B. The A2 subjects must include Biology, PE or Sport Science and the Active Leisure Industry. In total between the two qualifications, 3 separate subjects must be taken.
BTEC National Diploma
We will only accept in Sport and Exercise Science at grade DD plus one accompanying A2 subject at grade A. Applicants presenting with a BTEC National Diploma in Health and Social Care will be considered at grade DD and must also have an A level in Biology, PE or Sports Science and the active leisure industry at grade A. Across the two qualifications, two separate subjects must be taken.
BTEC National Extended Diploma
Will be accepted in Health and Social Care or Sport and Exercise Science at grade DDD.
International Baccalaureate
32 points including 3 Higher Level subjects at a minimum of grades 6,6,5. Biology or ‘Sport, Exercise and Health Science’ must be offered at Higher Level grade 6.
Irish Leaving Certificate
Leaving Certificate: 6 Higher Level subjects to be gained at a single sitting including English and Maths. 2 subjects at H1 grade to include either Biology or PE. Plus 3 subjects at H2 grade and one subject at H3 grade.
Scottish Higher/Advanced Higher
Advanced Highers: ABB to include Biology or PE.
OR
Highers: AAABB to include Biology or PE at Grade A.
OR
Mixed: Advanced Highers at AB, plus Highers at AB. A mixed presentation must include Biology or PE at either Higher Level (Grade A required) or Advanced Higher Level (Grade B required).
Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced
Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate: Grades AA at A level including Biology or PE plus an A in the Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate.
Cambridge Pre-U Diploma
Will be considered at Grades D3, D3, M1. Must include Biology or PE.
AQA Baccalaureate
Will be considered
Graduate application
We welcome applications from students holding a 2:1 Honours degree in a Biological, Biomedical, or Health Science subject. Students with a 2:1 Honours degree in a non-science based or un-related subject will be asked for Biology or PE A level at grade B (or the OU SK299 at Pass Grade 2). Applicants must have five GCSEs at a minimum of Grade C (Level 5) to include Maths, English language and Science.
Access
Access to HE Diploma (QAA regulated): 60 credits overall including 45 graded Level 3 credits. 15 credits must relate to Biology/Human Physiology. Applicants will be required to achieve at least 39 Distinctions and 6 Merits with all 15 of the Biology/Human Physiology modules passed at Distinction. Applicants must also have 5 GCSEs at a minimum of Grade C (Level 5) including English language, Mathematics and Science (in either Biology, Chemistry or Physics).
Academic Reference
An academic reference must be included within the UCAS application. If the applicant is a graduate and has been working since graduating (within three years), an employer reference is acceptable.
Profession-specific knowledge and skills required
Candidates must show evidence, in their UCAS Personal Statement, of a good understanding of the scope of physiotherapy practice, preferably indicated by observation experience of Chartered Physiotherapists working in a variety of clinical areas.
It is recommended that prospective applicants contact the Physiotherapy Departments at their local hospitals, clinics, day centres and special schools, etc. in order to arrange a visit.
Experience in a paid or voluntary capacity working with the general public, children, elderly or people with special needs will also help to strengthen an application.
Applicants will be expected to demonstrate some knowledge and understanding of the NHS Core Values as outlined in the NHS constitution.
Declaration of criminal background
You will understand that as an allied health professions and nursing student, and when you qualify, you will be asked to treat children and other vulnerable people. We therefore need information about any criminal offences of which you may have been convicted, or with which you have been charged. The information you provide may later be checked with the police.
If selected for interview you will be provided with the appropriate form to complete.
Health screening
The University and the School of Allied Health Professions and Nursing has an obligation to undertake health screening on all prospective healthcare students. Any offer of a place to study is conditional on completion of a health questionnaire and a satisfactory assessment of fitness to train from the University’s Occupational Health Service. This will include some obligatory immunisations and blood tests.
Disability information
If you have, or think you have dyslexia or a long term health condition or impairment that may have the potential to impact upon your studies and/or your Fitness to Practice duty, you are encouraged to disclose this information on your UCAS application.
International qualifications
The IELTS requirement is an overall score of 7.0 with no component less than 6.5.
Please note – whilst we do accept IELTS qualifications, we do not accept IELTS qualifications that have been sat and gained online. We only accept qualifications that have been sat and gained in person.
International applicants who do not meet the minimum required standard of English language can complete one of our Pre-Sessional English courses to achieve the required level.
English language qualification
Requirements
IELTS
7.0 overall, with no component below 6.5
International Baccalaureate English A: Literature or Language & Literature
Grade 6 at Standard Level or grade 6 at Higher Level
International Baccalaureate English B
Grade 7 at Higher Level
Alternative entry requirements
If your qualification isn't listed here, or you're taking a combination of qualifications, contact us for advice
