Master of Physiotherapy (Paediatric Physiotherapy)

The Master of Physiotherapy (Paediatric Physiotherapy) enables qualified and experienced clinicians to broaden and deepen their theoretical knowledge and clinical skills in paediatrics. The course recognises the need to adopt principles of adult learning and emphasises the importance of facilitating graduates to develop independent, self-directed and critical philosophies in the field of paediatric physiotherapy.

This course promotes development of skills, knowledge and attributes of a reflective, evidence-based practitioner who might seek to specialise in paediatric physiotherapy.

Eight subjects (100 points) comprising

• three core subjects
• four stream subjects
• one elective subject

Subjects vary in their format - some involve regular weekly classes while others are taught in a block with assessment and assignments due throughout the semester. Some subjects include clinical practice ranging from observational clinics to supervised participatory clinical placements.

Core Subjects

Paediatric Stream Subjects

Four stream subjects provide students with the opportunity to advance their knowledge and skills specific to paediatric practice. The two theoretical subjects present advanced knowledge and understanding of paediatric biosciences, current issues in paediatrics, and their application to clinical practice. The two clinical subjects provide students with opportunities to acquire cutting edge information and skills related to treatment and management in paediatric neurological, cardiothoracic, and musculoskeletal physiotherapy. The final clinical placement allows students to broaden or deepen their clinical practice experience and expertise.

Approved Electives

The list of approved electives includes subjects from across the program and other departments. Other electives may be negotiated with the course coordinator. Pre-requisites may apply. Enrolment in the elective requires approval by the course coordinator and any other department involved. Please note that not all subjects run each year and additional subjects may be added. Students should check with Physiotherapy staff or Physiotherapy website for the most current listing of elective subjects.

Applicants must be qualified to practise as physiotherapists and should normally have at least two years clinical experience (including, for Specialist Streams, one year in the area of specialisation). Both academic achievement and clinical experience will be considered by the Selection Committee.

For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Student Support and Engagement Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Overview, Learning Outcomes, Assessment and Generic Skills sections of this entry.

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. Students who feel their disability may impact on meeting the requirements of this subject are encouraged to discuss this matter with a Faculty Student Adviser and Student Equity and Disability Support: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/disability

On completion of this course, graduates will be expected to be able to demonstrate the following specific skills:

• An advanced knowledge of anatomy and physiology applied to physiotherapy.
• An advanced understanding of the recent knowledge base in areas of physiotherapy.
• Advanced clinical skills and techniques applicable to relevant physiotherapy areas, including assessment techniques, clinical reasoning and decision-making skills in developing treatment plans and comprehensive patient management.
• A capacity to undertake detailed searching, analysis and interpretation of computerised medical literature databases.
• An ability to promote evidence-based practice in physiotherapy.

On completion of this course, graduates will be expected to be able to demonstrate the following generic skills:

• A capacity for self-directed learning and the motivation for life-long independent learning.
• Well-developed problem -solving abilities, with flexibility of approach.
• An advanced level of oral and written communication.
• An appreciation of the design, conduct and reporting of original research.
• An ability to critically evaluate and synthesise research literature.
• A capacity to manage competing demands on time.
• An appreciation of the team approach to learning in complex areas.
• An advanced understanding of professional responsibility and ethical principles in relation to individuals and community, both locally and internationally.

Subjects with practical components: All students are required to participate in practical experience, including participation in mixed gender classes. Practical classes provide the opportunity to experience the roles of therapist, patient and observer. Participation will require students to remove appropriate clothing to permit inspection and exposure of the body part for treatment. This allows visual assessment, palpation of the part for diagnosis and accuracy of apparatus positioning. In the patient role, students experience the sensations and effects of the various forms of assessment and treatment in preparation for the giving of explanations and advice to patients. In order that no student is disadvantaged, the only exceptions from participation are when a student has specific medical contraindications. It is expected that students behave in a professional manner at all times when working with fellow students.