School of Health and Rehabilitation
Explore this Section
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Home
- About Us
- Staff
- Undergraduate Courses
- BSC (Hons) Physiotherapy
- Postgraduate Courses
- International Undergraduate
- International Postgraduate
- CPD
- Student Welcome Web 2013-14
- Student Stories
- News & Events
- Clinical Educators Courses
- Research
- Groups & Societies
- Keele University Physiotherapy Practice
- School Report
- Useful Links
- Graduation Photos
- Faculty of Health >
- School of Health and Rehabilitation >
- Undergraduate Courses >
- BSC (Hons) Physiotherapy
BSC (Hons) Physiotherapy
What is Physiotherapy?
Physiotherapy emphasises the use of physical approaches in the promotion, maintenance and restoration of an individual’s physical, psychological and social well being.
Our Physiotherapy Programme
The BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy is a three-year Single Honours programme that supports full integration of the science of physiotherapy with clinical practice in a health/ social care setting. The programme aims to develop high levels of academic and professional competence and to promote an awareness of present and future demands in health and social care.
BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy programmes in the UK must meet the HPC Standards of Education and Training. A modernised physiotherapy curriculum will be available in the School from September 2010. Any curriculum delivered within the School will meet the HPC Standards of Education and Training.
Programme Content
Year 1
The first year consists of the themes identified previously, which encompass scientific and therapeutic principles for the health and social care professional. In the first year (as in years two and three) you will study in both university and practice settings. In the practice environment you will work alongside and be supported not only by physiotherapy practitioners/ students, but also by a range of colleagues from other health and social care disciplines. Within the university, you will study the science of normal body systems to promote an understanding of their structure, function and inter-relationships. Altered and abnormal function and the role of assessment and rehabilitation are then introduced. Issues of personal and professional development, health and well-being are also explored in order to further prepare you for learning in the practice environment.
Years 2 and 3
The second year develops the themes, relating these to the scientific and therapeutic bases of physiotherapy in 19 weeks of University based activity and 12 weeks of clinical practice. Opportunities for consolidation of learning and application of theory to practice will be an integral part of the course. Within both practice and university settings a learning environment will be promoted which will enable you to safely and effectively determine and implement comprehensive and integrated programmes of care for patients. You will be able to justify the selection of interventions, accurately assess patient outcomes and be able to progress /end treatment or refer back for re-assessment by the qualified practitioner.
The third year further develops the themes by enhancing your ability to function as a practitioner, partner and leader in 15 weeks of University based activity and 16 weeks of clinical practice. The learning environment will enable you to build upon the learning undertaken in year two and once again you will have the opportunity to work with a range of professional colleagues. Interprofessional learning will continue across the strands in both university and practice settings. Within both university and practice settings you will progress to be able to safely and effectively carry out a diagnostic assessment and manage patients with more complex needs. You will develop the capacity to lead and manage a physiotherapy/multidisciplinary team and exhibit awareness of the context of practice by exploring and identifying improvements to the service which will improve patient satisfaction and outcomes and promote equality of care.
Assessments
A variety of assessment methods are used throughout the programme, these include: essays, presentations and written and practical examinations.
Funding
The Physiotherapy programme is funded under the NHS Student Bursary Scheme. Currently there are a total of sixty-one places at Keele University funded under this scheme. This scheme meets the total cost of tuition (meaning there are no tuition fees for you to pay) and provides a means tested living allowance. Most students resident in the United Kingdom are eligible for funding while most students from other European Union countries are eligible for a "fees-only" bursary. More information, including information on eligibility for a bursary, can be gained by vising the NHS Student Grants website.
Application Process
Applications for the Physiotherapy programme are to be made via UCAS. We endeavor to process applications as quickly as possible but as the programme is extremely popular please do be patient while we assess your application. Every application that is made to Keele is considered and we are happy to provide feedback on your application. Please refer to the list of entry criteria for information on our academic requirements.

