How to become a physiotherapist
Help patients with physical difficulties resulting from ageing, disability, illness, or injury.
Pathways to this career
- Study a physiotherapy degree. Similar pathways include a Bachelor of Exercise Science or a Bachelor of Applied Science majoring in Physiotherapy.
- Already studied an undergraduate degree? Complete a Master of Physiotherapy to meet the registration criteria to practice.
- Upon finishing your degree, register with the Physiotherapy Board of Australia and the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency to practice as a qualified physiotherapist.
- As a registered physiotherapist, you are required to commit to at least 20 hours of continued professional development every year.
What does a physiotherapist do?
Duties and tasks
- A degree in physiotherapy is required, as is licensing (often including an exam) masters and doctoral programs are available in the field of rehabilitation science.
- Analytical and problem solving skills and excellent communication skills.
- Create and review treatment programmes comprised of movement, manual therapy, exercise, and the utilisation of technological equipment such as an ultrasound machine.
- Document patient reports and case notes.
- Provide advice to people about how to avoid injuries before they happen.
Industry bodies
- Australian Physiotherapy Council
- Physiotherapy Board of Australia
- The Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA)
Related jobs
Discover related courses
Undergraduate USA-BHS-DEG
Undergraduate UND-ESS-DIP
Postgraduate ACU-SEP-MAS
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