Program Overview

Master of Physiotherapy Practice

The Master of Physiotherapy Practice is a graduate-entry master's programme that covers real-life problems, clinical case scenarios, role plays, and simulations that incorporate e-learning and collaborative learning opportunities. Clinical placements will be embedded throughout the programme, giving students the chance to apply the theory they've learnt in practice.

Programme Details

• Programme code: AK3840
• Level: 9
• Points: 240
• Duration: 2 years full-time
• Campus: North Campus
• Start date: 25 January 2027

Fees

• Domestic: $11,851.60 (for 120 points), comprising $10,630 tuition fees and $1,221.60 student services levy
• International: $46,521.60 (for 120 points), comprising $45,300 tuition fees and $1,221.60 student services levy
  • Fees are based on a full-time workload for the points indicated and are subject to change year to year.
  • International students' tuition fees reflect the full cost of tuition, while domestic students' tuition fees are less due to funding by the New Zealand Government.

Entry Requirements

Minimum Entry Requirements

• Completion of a relevant bachelor's degree with a B+ grade average (GPA 6) or higher in courses at level 7, or equivalent.
• Capability to meet the Health Practitioners Competence Assurance Act (HPCA Act) requirements and Children's Act 2014, including police clearance.
• Current immunisations as per the School of Clinical Sciences requirements schedule.
• Ability to travel to clinical placements.
• Ranking of applicants will occur, with preference given to those with the highest level of academic achievement and/or evidence of accomplishments in the relevant field.
• Applicants may be required to attend a selection interview.
• Admission is subject to the approval of the programme leader.

International Student Entry Requirements

• English language requirements: IELTS (Academic) 7.0 overall with all bands 6.5 or higher.
• Applicants with English as a second or other language who have not completed at least three years of secondary schooling in New Zealand will be required to meet IELTS requirements.

Programme Structure

The Master of Physiotherapy Practice is a full-time course of study that follows an extended academic calendar. Students are expected to be available 8am-5pm Monday to Friday and should expect to study for an average of 40 hours per week. Timetabled classes are approximately 12-15 hours per week. Clinical experiences and placements will progress from one day a week to 5 days a week.

Year 1

• Semester 1 courses:
  • HEAL863 Concepts of Altered Health (15 points)
  • HEAL864 Contexts of Health Practice (15 points)
  • PHTY802 Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy I* (15 points)
  • PHTY803 Neurological Physiotherapy I* (15 points)
• Semester 2 courses:
  • PHTY804 Cardiovascular and Respiratory Physiotherapy I* (15 points)
  • HEAL865 Health Research Design and Planning (15 points)
  • PHTY805 Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy II* (15 points)
  • PHTY806 Neurological Physiotherapy II* (15 points)

Year 2

• Full-year course:
  • PHTY995 Physio Research Project (30 points)
• Semester 1 courses:
  • PHTY807 Cardiovascular and Respiratory Physiotherapy II* (15 points)
  • PHTY808 Physiotherapy in Primary Care* (15 points)
  • An elective at level 8 (15 points)
• Semester 2 courses:
  • PHTY901 Contemporary Physiotherapy Practice (15 points)
  • PHTY815 Physiotherapy Across the Care Continuum (30 points)

Career Opportunities

As a physiotherapist, graduates will work with a wide range of people, helping them overcome physical problems due to ageing, injury, diseases, disorders, conditions, or environmental factors. Physiotherapists can work privately or in various healthcare settings, focusing on areas such as:

• Acupuncture
• Cardiothoracic and respiratory health
• Hand therapy
• Health promotion and primary healthcare
• Leadership and management
• Musculoskeletal and manual therapy
• Mental health
• Neurological rehabilitation
• Occupational health
• Older adult health and wellness
• Paediatrics
• Pain management
• Pelvic health
• Sports

Related Programmes

• Master of Health Practice
• Master of Health Science
• Master of Philosophy
• Master of Public Health
• Doctor of Health Science
• Doctor of Philosophy