Physiotherapy
UCAS code B160
- Study mode
- Full-time
- Duration
- 3 years
- Start date and application deadlines
-
- Start date
- September 2026 September 2027
- Apply by:
- Starts on:
About this course
Our Physiotherapy programme is a modern, thought-provoking programme that enables students to develop the skills and experience to flourish as a physiotherapist in the modern healthcare environment.
Introduction
This programme is designed to reflect current physiotherapy practice with research evidence underpinning all aspects of our teaching.
Alongside academic and professional skills you will gain an excellent range of practical experience in a wide range of settings. The programme at Liverpool will encourage you to become independent, resourceful and able to meet the exciting challenges of healthcare today.
The programme adopts a modular approach to the delivery of content. It incorporates both university taught and practice-based components which have been designed together as an integrated whole.
Key transferable skills are embedded into the curriculum at every level so that individuals are equipped to effectively manage their personal and professional development following graduation.
What you'll learn
- Critical thinking
- Science acumen
- Research gathering
- Data collection and analysis
- Teamwork
- Observational skills
Course content
Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.
Year one
First year studies provide a foundation to profession specific practical skills and core knowledge, primarily focussing on the structure and function of tissues found within the human body.
During first year, we enable students to develop their independent learning strategies as well as their teamwork, communication and interpersonal skills.
Key themes include:
- Principle mechanisms underlying healing and repair
- Physiology of the musculoskeletal, cardiorespiratory and neurological systems
- Movement analysis skills
- Evidence-based practice
- Scientific principles of research.
Modules
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change. The course content currently shown on this page reflects the programme as it is running in September 2026. The University is currently reviewing all of its programmes for 2027 entry. View the 2027 version of this course for more information.
Year two
In year two, you will continue to grow your skills and knowledge through academic study and practical experience with a particular emphasis placed on pathology.
Key themes include:
- Patient assessments
- Patient treatment and management
- The development of an independent approach to clinical reasoning, problem solving and reflective practice in the modern healthcare setting.
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change. The course content currently shown on this page reflects the programme as it is running in September 2026. The University is currently reviewing all of its programmes for 2027 entry. View the 2027 version of this course for more information.
Year three
Your final year will be dedicated to the development of advanced skills and techniques, and the ability needed to apply them in practice.
In third year, we will:
- Promote greater responsibility of self-management, clinical reasoning and decision making in relation to patient management
- Promote a critical awareness of evidence-based practice in physiotherapy
- Enhance your awareness of the scope and limits of physiotherapy practice
- Provide opportunities for in-depth, independent study of a specific area of practice.
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change. The course content currently shown on this page reflects the programme as it is running in September 2026. The University is currently reviewing all of its programmes for 2027 entry. View the 2027 version of this course for more information.
Teaching and assessment
How you'll learn
Our curriculum has been designed to reflect current practice with research evidence underpinning all aspects of our teaching.
Learning is promoted through a wide variety of activities that enable students to become autonomous and continuous learners, using a broad range of learning opportunities to allow students to expressing different learning styles and preferences.
Interactive lectures, practical and clinical skills group work, simulation, directed study, role play, problem based learning, small group work, student-led seminars, collaborative project work and interactive tutorials will all prove to be key components of your learning experience.
Practical work using our imaging suite digital equipment, 3D virtual reality radiotherapy facility, Clinical Skills Resource Room and the Human Anatomy Resource Centre complement teaching activities. Face-to-face interactions between all students will occur at shared lectures, tutorials and group work and online interaction will be encouraged and facilitated.
We also encourage inter-professional learning opportunities which mirror the modern, collaborative environments of the modern healthcare industry.
How you're assessed
Using a mixture of coursework and examinations, a range of assessment methods are used across this programme. These include seen and unseen written examinations, essay assignments with specific word lengths, multiple choice questions, case study presentations, video analysis and interactive practical examinations.
Assessment of the work-based learning element of all programmes is an important aspect. You will be required to communicate your views orally and in written form; analyse, implement and evaluate your practice; and to extend the research and evidence base of your chosen profession.
The various methods of assessments have been chosen to provide a balance that will permit the undergraduates to properly demonstrate their intellectual abilities in all areas.
Liverpool Learning Framework
At Liverpool, we take a distinctive approach to education through the Liverpool Learning Framework. This means teaching that is engaging, inclusive and designed to help you succeed during your studies and beyond.
You’ll develop specialist subject knowledge alongside the skills employers value most, including:
- Digital fluency
- Confidence
- Global citizenship
Our curriculum is characterised by the three Liverpool Hallmarks:
- Research-connected teaching - learning informed by the latest ideas and discoveries
- Active learning - taking part, applying knowledge and learning by doing
- Authentic assessment - assessments designed around real-world tasks and challenges
We also embed key priorities across our curriculum, including AI literacy, employability, and sustainability, helping you prepare for the future and make a positive impact in the world.
We’re committed to creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment where every student can thrive.
Course options
Studying with us means you can tailor your degree to suit you. Here's what is available on this course.
Global opportunities
University of Liverpool students can choose from an exciting range of study placements at partner universities worldwide.
Summer abroad
Spend a summer abroad on a study placement or research project at one of our worldwide partner institutions.
- Spend a summer abroad in addition to your degree programme
- Study abroad without adding an extra year
- Choose any summer between your first and final year of study
- Get the chance to study subjects outside your discipline
Where can I spend a summer abroad on this course?
- Hong Kong
- Japan
- South Korea
Language study
Every student at The University of Liverpool can study a language as part of, or alongside their degree. You can choose:
- A dedicated languages degree
- A language as a joint or major/minor degree
- Language modules (selected degrees)
- Language classes alongside your studies
Your experience
Physiotherapy students benefit from the School of Allied Health Professions and Nursing‘s experience in delivering over 100 years of dynamic, research-led teaching. Our student satisfaction rates, which range from 93-100%, are testament to our School being a great place to start to your career.
Explore where you'll study
A day in the life of Allied Health Professions and Nursing student Charmain Yip
Virtual tour
Supporting your learning
From arrival to alumni, we’re with you all the way:
- Careers and employability support, including help with career planning, understanding the job market and strengthening your networking skills
- A dedicated student services team can help you get assistance with your studies, help with health and wellbeing, and access to financial advice
- Confidential counselling and support to help students with personal problems affecting their studies and general wellbeing
- Support for students with differing needs from the Disability advice and guidance team. They can identify and recommend appropriate support provisions for you.
An exciting place to study
- Major centre for education and research in health sciences
- State-of-the-art facilities
- Opportunities for in-depth study and development of advanced clinical skills
- Flexible programmes for postgraduate study
- Active research environment
- Provides specialist training with taught and clinical placement components.
Chat with our students
Want to find out more about student life?
Chat with our student ambassadors and ask any questions you have.
Careers and employability
A Physiotherapy degree from the University of Liverpool can set you up for a rewarding and challenging career in a diverse range of professional environments. Physiotherapy graduates are eligible to apply for membership of the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy.
Many graduates find employment in the NHS, in industry, private practice, sport, research or teaching.
You will have gained a qualification that meets the Government’s criteria for ‘fitness for purpose’ and ‘fitness for practice’.
There are many employment opportunities for physiotherapists to work in a wide range of clinical settings, from paediatrics to older persons’ care. Your UK qualification also provides an opportunity to work abroad in many countries.
You’ll be taught a curriculum that is developed and assessed by leading healthcare providers, such as:
- The Christie NHS Foundation Trust
- Rosemere Cancer Centre
- Royal Liverpool University Hospital
- Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital
- Whiston Hospital
- Aintree and Walton Centre for Neurology
- Arrowe Park Hospital, Royal Preston Hospital
- Clatterbridge Cancer Centre NHS Foundation Trust.
Many such partners across the North West provide you with exciting placement opportunities.