Veterinary Physiotherapy (Postgraduate Diploma / MSc) part-time

The University of Liverpool’s Postgraduate Diploma/MSc in Veterinary Physiotherapy is a specialist programme aimed at Chartered Physiotherapists who wish to translate their knowledge and skills developed on humans into practice on animals.

The programme is recognised by the Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Animal Therapy (ACPAT) as an upgrading route for ‘Category A’ membership.

This part-time programme is delivered primarily online, with the exception of practical training on placements. A full-time version of the programme is also available which requires students to study on campus in the UK.

Programme structure

In order to be awarded the Postgraduate Diploma in Veterinary Physiotherapy, students must successfully complete the following six modules over two-years part time.

Principles of Veterinary Physiotherapy & Approach to the Animal Patient

Anatomy & Biomechanics for the Veterinary Physiotherapist

Orthopaedics of the Common Domestic Species for the Veterinary Physiotherapist

Neuromotor System in Performance & Disease

Veterinary Physiotherapy Practice 1

Advanced Veterinary Physiotherapy Practice

In order to be awarded the MSc in Veterinary Physiotherapy, students must successfully complete the above six modules in two years. Part-time students will then complete a research project module in an additional year of part-time study.

Methods of teaching 

Consists of 6 taught modules which provide materials on our Virtual Learning Environment supported by practical periods in the form of core and clinical placements. During trimesters, students are encouraged to work with their cohort with assessed and informal meeting opportunities. There are regular asynchronous learning opportunities with fellow students and academics online via discussion boards and scheduled synchronous evening journal clubs and meetings as well as opportunities during the face to face practical sessions. The virtual learning environment also includes access to the University of Liverpool's online library.

Students attend a total of 4 weeks (20 days) practical training, 20 practical days with a clinical educator and an additional 10 days in veterinary practices over the programme. The 50 days of practical training provide students with the opportunity to apply the knowledge and skills learned on the programme. Practical training may be completed abroad for part time students studying from non-UK countries, where there is access to University of Liverpool approved clinical educators. Alternatively, you can attend the Leahurst Veterinary Hospital .

Depending on the country of study and access to an appropriate local ethical review committee, there may be some limitations to the range of options available for the research project.

Residents in Australia and New Zealand or nearby countries

Part-time students who are resident in Australia and New Zealand, or nearby countries, have the option of attending some of their practical training in Queensland.

There is an additional supplement of £1,120 per student per week (of practical training) for those students who take up the option of attending the practical training in Australia. This will mean an additional £3,360 (£1,120 in year 1 and £2,240 in year 2).

All students who are resident in Australia and New Zealand are also welcome to attend the practical training in the UK at no additional cost.

Assessment 

Assessment is ongoing throughout each module and feedback is provided by module tutors. 

Fees 2025/26

  • Part time PGDip
    • £10,620 UK students (over 2 years)
    • £12,744 OSI students (over 2 years)
  • Part time MSc
    • £13,320 UK students
    • £15,177 OSI students.

Accommodation and travel costs for practical training and clinical placements are not included in the fees.

The University requires payment of tuition fees at registration for the whole of the coming academic session or for the duration of a programme that is to be completed in less than a year. However, arrangements can be made for self-supporting students to pay their tuition fees in instalments. All instalments must be arranged with the VPU Office. 

Applicant pre-requisites

Students will be working closely with both horses and dogs during the course. Prior experience with these animals is necessary to ensure safety and to fully benefit from the core practical workshops.

For those who do not yet have experience, we strongly recommend gaining hands-on exposure before applying. This will help you feel more confident and prepared.

  1. Eligibility for registration with the Health Professions Council (or equivalent Physiotherapists Registration Board for international delegates)
  2. One year’s recent experience working as a physiotherapist
  3. References from a veterinarian and a physiotherapist (human or animal) in support of the applicants suitability for the programme
  4. If the applicant is from a country where English is not the first Language they will be required to show evident of attainment of English at a minimum IELTS score of 7 or equivalent
  5. Recognition of Prior Learning Policy arrangements will be applicable, as long as the prior learning represents equivalent modules and learning outcomes. APL or APEL from non-veterinary or animal physiotherapy or non Master's-level programmes (eg sports science, science, equine science) will not be considered.

How to apply

Please email vpuoffice@liverpool.ac.uk to request an application form.