Master of Physiotherapy(Sports Physiotherapy)

The Master of Physiotherapy (Sports Physiotherapy) course at the University of Melbourne enables qualified and experienced clinicians to broaden and deepen their theoretical and clinical skill in the area of sports physiotherapy. 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 sports physiotherapy. To achieve these outcomes, teaching and learning focuses on problem-based learning with exchange of knowledge by its participants. The student's clinical expertise becomes the starting point from which clinical reasoning and manual skills are enhanced.

• three core subjects
• a clinical anatomy subject
• four stream subjects

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

Sports Stream Subjects

The stream subjects allow the theoretical concepts and practical skills to be applied in sports medicine settings with both clinical and team placements. Students undertake their clinical education with supervisors who have professional titles in sports and/or musculoskeletal physiotherapy or who have extensive experience in clinical education and recognise the importance of maintaining high clinical standards. The clinical anatomy subject is an advanced study of the structure and function of the neuro-musculo-skeletal system in the body in healthy subjects.

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 the 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.