149204 v.3 Master of Sports Physiotherapy

Introduction

The Master of Sports Physiotherapy has an international reputation and is a dynamic course which is based on contemporary best practice. This course creates the opportunity for physiotherapists currently working in sports physiotherapy to be challenged both academically and clinically. A high level of expert tuition is delivered for all units and clinical placements. This course focuses on the integration between evidence-based practice and current clinical practice. Clinical reasoning is fundamental toall assessment, treatment and rehabilitation interventions for both spinal and peripheral sports injuries. It is designed to enhance knowledge, skill and clinical competencies in clinical practice, research and issues related to sports medicine. Throughout the course students review the literature critically and apply this information in the evaluation and management of sports injury problems. Research projects are completed in sports physiotherapy and manuscripts are submitted to a peer-reviewed journal. Locally and internationally, graduates are in demand and they have a prosperous future in Sports Physiotherapy.

Course Entry Requirements/Prerequisites

A bachelor degree, or equivalent, in physiotherapy from a recognised tertiary institution and a strong academic record together with a minimum of two years of relevant clinical experience at a postgraduate level. Demonstration of commitment to continuingeducation is also required. Numbers are restricted and selection will be made on the basis of academic record, postgraduate clinical experience including continuing education and referees' reports. Eligibility for temporary registration with the Physiotherapists Registration Board of Western Australia is a prerequisite for acceptance into the course.

Specific Requirements

Recent evidence of proficiency in cardiopulmonary resuscitation and a Senior First Aid certificate or its equivalent is a prerequisite for Sports Clinical Practice 750 and Sports Clinic 752. Essential learning strategies demand that all students disrobe appropriately to act as subjects for their peer group.

Recognition of Prior Learning

Successful applicants may apply for recognition of prior learning of up to one semester based on postgraduate experience including advanced level practice, research activities and postgraduate studies.

Duration and Availability

The course is of three semesters full-time or equivalent part-time study. Applicants are advised that the program requires full participation in laboratory classes where practical skills and topics are presented.

Intermediate Awards

A student who has successfully completed all requirements for the Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Physiotherapy may apply under exceptional circumstance provisions for graduation in that award subject to approval of the Head of School/Department.

Course Organisation

The course is taught within the standard semester time except that students are required to work on their research projects, Research Physiotherapy Project 751 and Research Physiotherapy Project 752, during the non-contact weeks and during the inter-semester break.

Professional Recognition

Graduates who are registered with the Physiotherapists Registration Board of Western Australia can apply to have this qualification listed.

Career Opportunities

Sports Physiotherapists are in demand and graduates are recognised throughout Australia and internationally. Employment opportunities are prolific. Many graduates work with elite sporting teams and travel the world to prestigious events such as world championships and the Olympic Games. There is a shortage of highly qualified Sports Physiotherapists both locally and internationally.

Additional Course Expenses

A full list of fees is available upon request or at enrolment. In addition, students may be expected to purchase a number of textbooks, readers and other vital study materials and may, if required, also need to contribute some of the cost of consumables (which varies depending on area of study). For a full list of and explanation of consumable fees please refer to the Fees, Expenses and Allowances heading under the General Information section in the Curtin Courses Handbook at http://www.curtin.edu.au/curtin/handbook/ Guides and Manuals, Clinical Uniform, Lab Coat Maximum ConsumableFees/Charges (per course) $AUD $150

Availability

The information displayed above refers to study periods and locations where the course is available for first time entry. Students are normally only offered or admitted to a course once.

*The course itself may not be available either solely internally or externally but individual units may be offered in either or both of those modes. Prospective students should contact the Course Coordinator for further information.