Master of Health Science (Physiotherapy), Manipulative Physiotherapy major

The Master of Health Science (Physiotherapy) is under review and there will be no intake in 2010.

This Masters course aims to produce a body of graduates with advanced academic and clinical skills in the specialist area of manipulative physiotherapy that promote a scientific approach to evaluation and practice, and who will foster and develop the specialist role of manipulative physiotherapy in health care.

The course focuses on the development of clinical knowledge and skills in musculoskeletal physiotherapy at advanced levels. The educational approach will be that of providing advanced knowledge in physiology, anatomy and biomechanics applicable to musculoskeletal physiotherapy, as well as enhancing the participant's skills in critical evaluation and practical techniques. The clinical component of the course will provide the opportunity for exposure to a range of complex cases enabling application of advanced skills in musculoskeletal physiotherapy. In addition, participants will learn advanced manipulation skills under expert supervision.

This course will also enable physiotherapists to gain credit towards the Australian Physiotherapy Association title of "Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist" and towards the clinical specialisation process of the Australian College of Physiotherapists.

Duration of Course

Full-time - 1 year
Part-time - 2 years

Admission Requirements

To enter this major, the applicant shall have at least two years of relevant clinical experience in musculoskeletal physiotherapy and demonstrate ongoing participation in high quality continuing education within the field of manual therapy.

To qualify for admission to this course, applicants shall possess:

• an award of Bachelor of Applied Science (Physiotherapy) from the Cumberland College of Health Sciences or from The University of Sydney; or
• an award of Master of Physiotherapy from The University of Sydney; or
• an award of Bachelor of Science with a major in Anatomy from the University of New South Wales, or its equivalent, and a Graduate Diploma in Physiotherapy from Cumberland College of Health Sciences; or
• such qualifications as are deemed to be equivalent to the above awards; or
• other evidence of academic, general and/or professional qualifications as will satisfy the Faculty that the applicant possesses the educational preparation and capacity to pursue graduate studies.

Structure of Course

This course will require the completion of 48 credit points.

The award will consist of 8 units of study each valued at 6 credit points. Five units of study will be common to other Master of Health Science (Physiotherapy) majors and 3 units of study will be specific to this major. The 5 core units of study are: Advanced Musculoskeletal Anatomy, Evidence-Based Decision Making, Theoretical Basis of Clinical Practice, Clinical Practice A and Clinical Practice B. The delivery and assessment of Clinical Practice A and B will have a manipulative physiotherapy focus. There will be 3 specialist academic units of study. Participants may be permitted to seek enrolment in relevant units of study offered by other institutions via inter-institutional agreements.

Unit of study descriptions can be found in Chapter 32 Postgraduate Units of Study, Faculty of Health Sciences Handbook (.PDF document).

Course Outline

Units of Study (Example of a Part-time Study Plan)

Further Enquiries and Applications

For further inquiries contact

Program Administrator

View Application information

Co-ordinator of the Manipulative Physiotherapy major

Dr Robert Boland
Phone: +612 9351 9156
Email: