Abbreviated BSc (Physiotherapy) Course
Overview
Completion of the abbreviated version of the Bachelor of Science (Physiotherapy) course provides internationally trained physiotherapists with the opportunity to further develop clinical skills and theoretical knowledge in a degree that enables registration in Australia and New Zealand. The course enables graduates to function effectively in the Australian education system.
Entrance Requirements
Applicants must meet the entry requirements for undergraduate study at Curtin University of Technology, including the English requirement. Applicants must also have previously completed tertiary level studies leading to a physiotherapy qualification equivalent in duration to no less than three academic years. This qualification must:
- have included theoretical and clinical components of cardiorespiratory, musculoskeletal and neurological physiotherapy and electrotherapy, similar in content and duration to Australian physiotherapy education programs; AND
- have qualified the candidate to be registered/licensed as a physiotherapist in the country in which the course was undertaken
Course Structure
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) will be granted to suitably qualified applicants and enable admission into either Study Period 1 (January) or Semester 4 (July) of the Bachelor of Science (Physiotherapy) course, and follow the standard course in Semesters 5 and 6.
Candidates who perform well, may be considered for a one semester accelerated clinical program following Semester 6, to complete the course.
Candidates not accepted to the accelerated clinical program will be required to complete Semester 7 and 8 of the Bachelor of Science (Physiotherapy) program.
Bachelor of Science (Physiotherapy)
How to Apply
Applicants are required to complete the relevant "Application for Admission" form, and ensure that the following documentation is included with your application:
Essential documentation to be included with your Application
- Original or certified copies of qualifications including academic transcripts (grades)
- Provided full course curricula detail (syllabus/unit outlines) for physiotherapy program completed, including detail of all theoretical and clinical components. This is essential for evaluation to allow for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) to be granted
- Evidence of eligibility for current registration as a physiotherapist in the country in which the course was undertaken
- Evidence of meeting the English requirement for undergraduate entry
- Detail of current and previous employment
- Names and contact details for two academic referees
International Applicants
International applicants are required to apply through Curtin's International Office.
Australian Citizens, Permanent Residents and New Zealand Citizens
Domestic applicants need to complete the Application for Admission to an Undergraduate Award form (scroll to bottom) and submit this, along with supporting documentation, to the Health Sciences Faculty Student Services Office.
Applications will be assessed as they are received and unless otherwise requested, will be assessed for the next possible and suitable intake ie: February or July. Applications close on 15th November.
Essential Course Requirements
Before commencing in the program, students are required to provide evidence of having a current Senior First Aid Certificate, or equivalent, Federal Police Clearance, as well as a swimming qualification in either Bronze Medal, Teachers Rescue Award, Royal Lifesaving Society's Accompanied Rescue Award (Lifesaving Three), Aquatic Rescue or the equivalent to one of these qualifications.
It is a requirement of the physiotherapy program that all enrolled students participate fully in all laboratories and clinical activities. Students, as part of their enrolled course requirements, practise techniques on each other, which requires that all students be suitably disrobed (ie in appropriate swimwear or undergarments) throughout many of the laboratory sessions for the duration of the course.
Professional Recognition
The Physiotherapists Act of the State of Western Australia requires that all practising physiotherapists must be registered with the Physiotherapists Registration Board of Western Australia. This course is accredited by the Australian Council of Physiotherapy Regulating Authorities and is recognised by the Physiotherapists Registration Board of Western Australia and the Australian Physiotherapy Association. Under the terms of mutual recognition, registration in all Australian States is available and in New Zealand under the terms of Trans Tasman Recognition. Graduates applying for licensure in the USA, UK or Canada will be required to provide details of their program of studies to the relevant bodies and sit a licensing examination.
Tuition Fees
Tuition fees are calculated on a per credit basis. The total course fee will therefore depend on applicants' point of entry into the program (which is dependent on the amount of RPL awarded). Each semester, students are required to be enrolled into specified units equalling 100 credits. The fee is indexed and is likely to increase annually. For further fee information please visit the Fees web site.
Special Notes
- Nanyang Polytechnic (Singapore)
- Different enrolment options are available to applicants who hold a Diploma in Physiotherapy qualification from Nanyang Polytechnic in Singapore.
