Physiotherapy BSc (Hons)

This 15 credit module (level 4) is designed to introduce some of the core knowledge and practical skills that underpin physiotherapy practice. Knowledge of the normal structure and function of bodily tissues, together with an understanding of the mechanisms of tissue healing and repair, are central to the assessment and treatment of all patients. Similarly, basic handling skills are fundamental to all fields of physiotherapy practice. The learning and teaching strategy for this module uses a combination of eLectures, tutorials and practical classes. Theoretical content will be delivered by eLectures but tutorials will support this material and assist the student with their understanding. Achievement of the learning outcomes will be assessed by an unseen written examination to assess the theoretical components and continuous assessment during practical sessions will be used to assess competency.

This 15 credit module is the first of two, level 4 modules that focus on musculoskeletal anatomy. The module is designed to equip students with detailed knowledge of the musculoskeletal system. The content of the module includes the normal structure and function of anatomy with a focus on the lower limb, lumbar spine and pelvis. The module uses a blended learning approach, utilising digital media and e-lectures prior to attending practical classes. Students will also have access to bones and digital resources during practical sessions to illustrate key anatomical features and consolidate learning. Essential physiotherapy practical skills will be developed including the skills of palpation and physical assessment. Achievement of learning outcomes will be assessed by an unseen practical examination which tests practical skills and theoretical knowledge

This 15 credit (level 4) module provides an introduction to the anatomy and physiology of the human cardiovascular and respiratory systems. In this module you will learn about the normal structure and function of the heart, lungs and blood vessels, including the mechanism of breathing and the control of respiration and blood pressure. Students will work in tutorial groups to discuss aspects of cardiorespiratory structure and function and relate this to a patient scenario. There will also be a practical opportunity to learn core cardiorespiratory assessment skills relevant to physiotherapy practice. Achievement of learning outcomes will be assessed by an unseen written examination consisting of multiple choice and short answer questions.

Shaping the Professional1 is the first of four personal professional development modules that you will complete within the programme which are part of Shaping the Professional Theme. Designed specifically for level 4, this 15-credit module spans both semesters within the first year of study.

Semester 1 will focus on supporting the effective transition to university. The skills required for successful, self-directed, adult learning will be addressed. Through a series of interactive workshops, students will be guided to access and navigate the online resources and academic support available. Strategies for managing stress and for building resilience will be explored within interprofessional tutorial groups. This shared learning experience also provides an opportunity to develop an understanding of the roles of other healthcare professionals and introduce the importance of diversity and inclusion within practice.

In semester 2 the concept of ‘professionalism’ will be explored with reference to professional standards and registration. A specific focus on professional communication incorporates practical opportunities to develop communication strategies through interactions with peers, actors and service users. A one-week “orientation to clinical practice” placement draws the themes of the module together, enabling students to engage in, observe and reflect on professional interactions within practice settings.

As part of this module students receive pastoral support from an academic advisor, in line with the School of Health Sciences Academic Advisor system. Working in partnership, the tutor and student will periodically evaluate academic progress and devise personal development action plans. Using an E-Portfolio toolkit you will be shown how to:

plan and prepare for learning,

record and reflect on their learning experiences,

collect and curate evidence of their development.

This is the first module in the Research and Development Theme. The 15 credit module will introduce the concepts underpinning evidence based practice and research methodologies and their practical application in physiotherapy practice. Students will be encouraged to discuss experimental and non experimental designs and the associated ethical considerations. This module is delivered by key note lectures introducing key concepts, e-lectures which will inform small group discussions. This module will be assessed by a group presentation at the end of semester one and a written assignment at the end of semester two. Formative opportunities will be available both semesters. On completion of the module, students will have the required knowledge to inform the Level 5 Research module.

This 15 credit module is the second of two, level 4 modules that focus on musculoskeletal anatomy. The module is designed to equip students with detailed knowledge of the musculoskeletal system. The content of the module includes the normal structure and function of anatomy with a focus on the upper limb, cervical and thoracic spine. The module uses a blended learning approach, utilising digital media and e-lectures prior to attending practical classes. Students will also have access to bones and digital resources during practical sessions to illustrate key anatomical features and consolidate learning. Essential physiotherapy practical skills will be developed including the skills of palpation and physical assessment. Achievement of learning outcomes will be assessed by an unseen practical examination which tests practical skills and theoretical knowledge

This 15 credit (level 4) module provides an introduction to the functional neuroanatomy and physiology of the human nervous system. Working in facilitated tutorial groups students will learn about the normal structure and function of the brain, spinal cord and peripheral nervous system, focusing specifically on sensory-motor control of human movement. Students will agree weekly learning objectives to direct further enquiry. In addition, there will be a practical opportunity to learn basic neurological assessment skills relevant to practice. Achievement of learning outcomes will be assessed by an unseen written examination consisting of multiple choice and short answer questions.

Exercise for health is the first of three exercise focused modules within the physiotherapy programme. This 15 credit module is designed for year 1 and occurs during semester 2.

The module aims to provide students with knowledge and understanding of human responses to exercise and activity. This will include an introduction to the fundamental principles underlying exercise physiology and identify the key physiological responses to exercise. A range of different types of exercise and activity will be discussed including exercising in water. The students will have the opportunity to consider the theoretical concepts of strengthening and conditioning as well as practical techniques by experiencing the applied theory to situation involving exercise and activity. This will link with the university sport centre and the gym equipment available. This module will provide an overview to understand how physical activity relates to health and well-being; and non-communicable diseases, the role in disease prevention and how the body responses to the physical demands placed upon it via exercise. An introduction and awareness of public health agenda and the role of activity and exercise will be included to provide the wider context of activity related to health across the lifespan and in various patient groups.

The students will be able to understand and describing pain and the relationship of pain to activity. This will ensure that they understand one of the key barriers to activity and exercise. The neuroanatomy of pain and role of pain modulation will be introduced. Therefore providing the link between this key area of physiotherapy management and the core patient clinical areas.

This module will use scenario-based teaching and delivered through a combination of face-to-face activities and online learning:
Case based learning
E-lectures/lectures
Small group tutorials
Practical classes

The assessment will focus on both the theoretical understand as well as the practical application of exercise prescription via an OSPE using patient-focused scenario’s.