About the course

The structure of the core modules meets the needs of individuals to review and evaluate the cardio-respiratory field of physiotherapy and to integrate this into their clinical practice where appropriate. The optional modules allow students to devise a programme to suit their own specific requirements in terms of professional and personal development. The Research Methods in Health module and postgraduate dissertation, together with core/optional modules such as Evidence-based Practice and Assessment and Measurement, develop the student’s research capabilities and critical evaluation skills.

The School of Allied Health Professions is based on Keele campus and has a well-established undergraduate physiotherapy programme. It has strong connections both with local clinical units and with other Schools within the University such as the Schools of Nursing and Midwifery, Medicine, and Pharmacy and Bioengineering.

The part-time MSc programme can be completed in up to three years on a part time route, but students may take up to five years if they wish (modular route). The structure of the course therefore allows flexible learning in accordance with individual student interests and needs

Course structure

The MSc programme comprises taught modules to the value of 120 Level 7 credits and a dissertation of 60 M Level 7 credits, giving a total of 180 credits. Students may choose to finish their studies after completing 60 taught credits (Postgraduate Certificate) or 120 taught credits (Postgraduate Diploma), or they may study any module on a stand-alone basis and obtain the relevant credits. The part-time MSc programme can be completed in two years, but students may take up to five years if they wish. The structure of the course therefore allows flexible learning in accordance with individual student interests and needs.

Visit the School website to view module block sessional dates, and details of all modules. 

The core modules meet the needs of individuals to review and evaluate the scientific background of the cardio-respiratory specialism and to integrate this into their clinical practice. The option modules allow students to devise a programme to suit their own specific requirements in terms of professional and personal development. The Research Methods in Health module and Evidence-based Practice module together with the dissertation develop the student’s research capabilities and critical evaluation skills.

Taught Modules

Core modules (each 15 credits totalling 60 credits plus the dissertation):

Research Methods in Health

Acute Respiratory Deterioration and Critical Care

Behaviour Change for Health and Well-being

Advanced Management of the Respiratory Complications of Neuromuscular Disorders

Assessment and Measurement OR Evidence Based Practice - this is delivered electronically entirely via distance learning

Dissertation

Optional modules (60 credits):

Applied Clinical Anatomy 1

Applied Clinical Anatomy 2

Dynamic Ultrasound Imaging

Psychosocial Aspects of Pain

Physiology and Pharmacology of Pain

Physiology of Neuromusculoskeletal Tissue

Concepts of Neurological Rehabilitation

Assistive Technologies in Neuromuscular Rehabilitation

OR another from the Faculty Module listing

How the course is taught

Lecture sessions are led by a variety of experienced authorities in their field. Therefore, the student receives a wide knowledge base from academics and practising experts.

How you'll be assessed

The programme is assessed by a variety of techniques chosen to reflect the aims and objectives and teaching methods of individual modules, for example: essay, oral examination, critical evaluation, paper review, seminar presentations, examination, the use of the Virtual Learning Environment, and dissertation. The pass mark for all modules is 50%.

Entry Requirements

The course is open to appropriately qualified physiotherapists who are interested in acquiring new knowledge and/or deepening existing knowledge in the field of cardio-respiratory physiotherapy. Applicants should normally have a first or second- class honours degree (2.1 or 2.2) (or overseas equivalent) in Physiotherapy. There is an expectation that applicants will possess level 6 (bachelors degree level) knowledge and skills in the area of cardiovascular-respiratory physiotherapy.

For students whose first language is not English, evidence will normally* be required of successful completion of an English Language qualification such as IELTS (minimum 6.5 with at least 6 in each sub-test).

All applications are assessed on an individual basis. Applicants should ensure that their personal statements identify why they wish to study this course.

* In exceptional circumstances, if the school believes a student to be academically strong but has a borderline IELTS (or equivalent) score (e.g. a student with an UK equivalent high first class degree qualification and misses one component of the IELTS by 0.5 in a speaking or listening section), the applicant may be interviewed by the academic from both the School and the Language Centre. If the student is successful in the interview they maybe considered for entry.

Fees and scholarships

Fees (2021/22 academic year)

UK students £4,500 per year

Apart from additional costs for text books, inter-library loans and potential overdue library fines, we do not anticipate any additional costs for this postgraduate course. 

Living costs

Keele University is located on a beautiful campus and has all the facilities of a small town. Student accommodation, shops, restaurants and cafes are all within walking distance of the teaching buildings. This is a very cost effective way to live and to reduce your living costs.

Scholarships and Funding

The University is committed to rewarding excellence and potential. Each year we offer a range of prestigious scholarships;

UK/EU students - more information on scholarships and funding

Careers

We provide an environment where you will be supported and motivated to develop academically, professionally and personally. We promote reflective thinking, reflective practice, and self-evaluation. You will develop the process of critical and evaluative thinking, writing, and communication, and transfer scientific knowledge from theory into practice. You will develop research skills with a sound academic core to apply to your clinical practice in physiotherapy, and develop a scientific approach to the evaluation of current practice in cardio-respiratory physiotherapy.