This course has an international reputation and is a dynamic course which is based on contemporary best practice. It creates the opportunity for physiotherapists currently working in the musculoskeletal area to be challenged both academically and clinically. A high level of expert tuition is provided for all units and clinical placements. This course focuses on the integration between evidence-based practice and current clinical practice. Clinical reasoning is fundamental to all assessment, treatment, management and rehabilitation for both spinal and peripheral disorders. It is designed to enhance knowledge, skill and clinical competencies in clinical practice, research and issues related to musculoskeletal problems. Physiology of pain, chronic pain management and functional activity analysis including rehabilitation of musculoskeletal system are integrated into clinical practice. Throughout the course students review the literature critically and apply this information in the evaluation and management of musculoskeletal disorders. Research projects are completed in musculoskeletal physiotherapy and manuscripts are submitted to a peer-reviewed journal.
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 continuing education is also required. 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 Physiotherapist Registration Boardof Western Australia is a prerequisite for acceptance into the course.
Applicants for this course should refer to the Communicable Diseases and Criminal Record Screening and Clearance section of this publication. Recent evidence of proficiency in cardiopulmonary resuscitation is a prerequisite for Musculoskeletal Clinical Practice 750 and Clinical Practice 752. Essential learning strategies demand that all students disrobe appropriately to act as subjects for their peer group.
Successful applicants may apply for recognition of prior learning of up to one semester based on postgraduate experience including advanced level of practice, research activities and postgraduate studies.
The course is of one year (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.
A student who has completed the requirements of an approved intermediate award may apply for graduation in that award subject to approval from the Head of School/Department. Fees apply. Intermediate awards approved for this course are:
Postgraduate Diploma Clinical Physiotherapy.
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.
Graduates who are registered with the Physiotherapists Registration Board of Western Australia can apply to have this qualification listed. The award of Master of Manipulative Therapy qualifies graduates for membership of the Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist Association of Australia, which is a special interest group of the Australian Physiotherapy Association. The Musculoskeletal Physiotherapists' Association of Australia is a member of the International Federation of Orthopaedic Manual Therapists.
Musculoskeletal Manipulative Physiotherapists are in demand and graduates are recognised throughout Australia and internationally. As there is a shortage of highly qualified Musculoskeletal Manipulative Physiotherapists, employment opportunities are prolific. This qualification is recognised and commands increasing employment remuneration.
Students may be expected to purchase a number of textbooks, readers and other vital study materials such as guides and manuals, clinical uniform, lab coat. Maximum charges (per course) $AUD $150.
Course Structure |
Hrs/Wk |
Credit |
|||
Year 1 Semester 1 |
|||||
307456 | v.1 | Evidence Based Practice 750 | 4.0 | 25.0 | |
308271 | v.1 | Research Physiotherapy Project 751 | 2.0 | 12.5 | |
308274 | v.1 | Clinical Anatomy, Pathology and Diagnosis 751 | 4.0 | 25.0 | |
308275 | v.1 | Musculoskeletal Clinical Practice 750 | 5.0 | 12.5 | |
308276 | v.1 | Musculoskeletal Practice 751 | 7.0 | 25.0 | |
100.0 | |||||
Year 1 Semester 2 |
|||||
13066 | v.2 | Physiology of Pain 652 | 2.0 | 12.5 | |
307458 | v.1 | Clinical Practice 752 | 16.0 | 37.5 | |
307466 | v.1 | Functional Rehabilitation 752 | 3.0 | 12.5 | |
308272 | v.1 | Clinical Anatomy, Pathology and Diagnosis 752 | 4.0 | 25.0 | |
308278 | v.1 | Research Physiotherapy Project 752 | 2.0 | 12.5 | |
100.0 | |||||
Year 2 Semester 1 |
|||||
13060 | v.3 | Professional Project 650 | 10.0 | 50.0 | |
13061 | v.2 | Professional Practice 651 | 4.0 | 25.0 | |
13062 | v.2 | Professional Practice 652 | 2.0 | 12.5 | |
13063 | v.2 | Professional Practice 653 | 2.0 | 12.5 | |
100.0 | |||||
Year | Location | All* | Internal | Partially Online Internal^ | External | Fully Online# | |
2007 | Bentley Campus | Semester 1 | Y | ||||
2007 | Bentley Campus | Semester 2 | Y | ||||
2008 | Bentley Campus | Semester 1 | Y |
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.
^Course and associated units are offered in this mode permitting International Onshore student enrolment.
#Course and associated units are offered in this online only mode and DO NOT permit International Onshore student enrolment.