normally hold an approved Bachelor degree in Physiotherapy or equivalent qualification from a recognised higher education institution; AND
submit the additional information form together with the supplementary information requested in that form. Click here for the form.
Selection for offers of admission will be based on both the academic results of the Physiotherapy degree and the additional information.
Note: while clinical experience is not required, competition for places in the Master of Musculoskeletal and Sports Physiotherapy program is strong and evidence of clinical experience and further musculoskeletal and sports physiotherapy continuing education since graduation is desired.
English language entry requirements
In addition, an internationally qualified applicant or an applicant who did not complete their secondary education in English must demonstrate that they have the necessary language skills for registration purposes with the Physiotherapy Board of Australia by achieving the required minimum score in each component of the IELTS academic module or OET (or specified alternative - see Registration Board's website) as outlined below. Possession of one or more of these qualifications, in addition to the academic entry requirements, does not, in itself, guarantee a place at the University of South Australia. Applications are considered on an individual basis and selection is competitive. Where previous study/work experience was conducted in English, the application must be accompanied by certified documentation from the educational institution/employer certifying that the language of instruction/employment was English.
Results of IELTS or OET (or other Registration Board approved) examinations are valid for two years, and must be obtained in one sitting.
English language test
IELTS total [7]
IELTS reading [7]
IELTS writing [7]
IELTS speaking [7]
IELTS listening [7]
Please access the following link for a comprehensive list of English language tests accepted by UniSA and other important information in relation to meeting the University’s language requirements:
English Language Equivalence Table (PDF)
The program provides physiotherapists with specialised education in musculoskeletal and sports physiotherapy and enables them to develop an advanced level of evidence based practice.
Content & Structure
The program, requiring completion of 45 units of study, is conducted over one calendar year rather than an academic year. It provides opportunities for students to study both musculoskeletal and sports physiotherapy. The program commences with a research, evidence-based theory and practice course. Theoretical knowledge of biomedical, pain, physiotherapy, and psychosocial sciences underpins supervised clinical practice.
1. All students in the Division of Health Sciences who, as part of their program, undertake activities where interaction with patients / the public is required, such as in field or clinical placements / visits and in University clinics and gyms, must demonstrate that they have a Department for Communities and Social Inclusion National Criminal History Record Check, which will be current for the duration of that activity. Interstate student placements require a National Police Certificate.
2. Before commencing any clinical courses, students are required to be registered to practice physiotherapy in Australia. International students are required to obtain a `Limited Registration' from the Australia Health Practitioner Regulation Agency.
3. Students enrolled in clinical courses must hold a current Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Certificate.
4. Students must hold a recognised Australian accredited Advanced First Aid Certificate before they will be permitted to undetake this course. In addition, students are required to hold current Sports Medicine Australia Level 2 Sports Trainer Accreditation.
5. Students will be required to undertake a Certificate of Mandatory Notification before commencing their clinical placement.
6. Students with a completed (nested) Graduate Certificate in Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy from the University of South Australia will be eligible for 18 units credit.
7. Students will be required to satisfy the standard of dress and behaviour prescribed by institutions in which clinical placements are undertaken.
8. This program requires a high level of physical fitness.
Notes
1. The program is offered on a full-time or part-time basis.
2. The course Anatomy and Pain Science requires student participation in examination of prosected anatomical specimens.
3. The program requires participation in laboratory classes where manual skills and topics such as surface anatomy are presented. Essential learning strategies require all students to disrobe appropriately to act as models for their peer group in laboratory classes.