Master of Physiotherapy

The Master of Physiotherapy (General) course at the University of Melbourne recognises the needs that some physiotherapists have to gain further knowledge and experience in a number of different areas of practice. This may be especially so for physiotherapists in rural or remote areas. This course will enable students to adopt principles of adult learning and it emphasises the importance of facilitating graduates to develop independent, self-directed and critical philosophies to further their knowledge in the field of physiotherapy. To achieve these outcomes, teaching and learning focuses on problem-based learning with exchange of knowledge by its participants.

This course promotes the development of skills, knowledge and attributes of a reflective, evidence-based practitioner.

Eight subjects (100 points) comprising:

• two core subjects
• six elective 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

The core subjects support the physiological basis of physiotherapy practice, provide skills in evaluating evidence for physiotherapy, and develop an understanding of professional and ethical issues in physiotherapy and the healthcare system.

General Stream Subjects

Six stream subjects must be chosen which will allow students to broaden their knowledge base in physiotherapy. The stream subjects available range across the specialty areas of physiotherapy and should be chosen in consultation with the program coordinator to ensure the subjects satisfy the background and needs of the student. Students also have the option of selecting elective subjects outside the Department of Physiotherapy in consultation with the program coordinator.

Applicants must be qualified to practise as physiotherapists and should normally have at least two years clinical experience. 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 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 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: Students who elect to enrol in subjects with practical components 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.