MSc - Physiotherapy (Pre-registration)

How you will learn

The programme’s philosophy is based on the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy’s (CSP) Accreditation of Qualifying Programmes in Physiotherapy: Quality Assurance processes document (2022). The programme is also based on the values the University of Cumbria prides itself on (Towards 2030 Strategic Plan), alongside NHS principles and values: https://www.nhs.uk/NHSEngland/thenhs/about/Pages/nhscoreprinciples.aspx Completion of this programme will equip you with all the skills you need to practice whether you choose to work in the NHS or the independent sector.

We adopt a blended learning approach, which uses a combination of taught sessions, seminars, online activities and peer group discussions which offers flexibility and enhances your student experience. The programme is based on three contexts of learning: Campus-based learning, intensive programme attendance and placement and professional learning. Studying at Masters level requires a critical approach and you will be encouraged to develop your skills of analysis and evaluation even though you are at a novice stage in your development as a physiotherapist.
We provide active learning and social learning opportunities, enabling you to become part of the Physiotherapy community of practice. Physiotherapy is a practical, hands-on profession and so many of the learning opportunities involve working together with other students to explore, discuss and practice theoretical approaches and practical applications. As on all Masters level programmes, you will be expected to engage with a large amount of self-study you will be directed towards the most appropriate literature and resources but this should not limit you. Self-directed study is also a key feature of the programme, but again this can be carried out with other students. The programme includes 5 practice placements, totalling 30 weeks, which provide social learning opportunities for all students.

How you will be assessed

Modules use formative and summative assessment so you progress through a module in a structured and constructive way and build knowledge for practice coherently and logically. Formative assessments are designed so that feedback on your performance is provided before the submission of the final, summative assessment – though this does not contribute to the final module mark or the credit awarded.

Summative assessment encourages progressive development through feedback and reflection, which is of relevance to either further academic progression or your future employment needs. Intellectual, subject specific and key transferable skills are central to learning opportunities and assessment. You will be encouraged to critically reflect on your skills development throughout your learning, and where relevant, within the employment context so that you can progress your ability to make sound professional judgments.

We aim to provide a varied approach to assessment and include practical skills assessments, presentations, posters, academic writing, critical reflection, portfolio and practice placement assessments. The academic modules are assessed at master’s level and will therefore all require critical analysis, synthesis and evaluation. Practice placements are assessed using continuous assessment.

A key feature of your academic journey will include formative assessment. That is work that helps to inform or become part of your final ‘summative’ assessment, and the nature of it varies across the modules. Formative work may include in‐class or online activities such as presenting draft assignments and work in progress.

Tuition Fees

2025 - 2026

• £9,535 - UK
• £16,900 - International

The figures above don't include accommodation and living costs.

Tuition fees are set annually and are subject to review each year. The University may therefore raise tuition fees in the second or subsequent years of a course, in line with inflation and/or the maximum permitted by law or Government policy. Students will be notified of any changes as soon as possible.

International Finance

At the University of Cumbria, we offer affordable tuition fees for international and EU students looking to study at one of our main four campuses. No matter your choice of course or career path, our International Team is here to support you.

Funding

You may also be eligible for additional funding through the NHS Learning Support Fund.

If you're eligible, you can get access to:

• A Training Grant of £5,000 per academic year
• Parental Support of £2,000, if you have at least one dependent child under 15 years, or under 17 years if registered with special educational needs
• Travel and Dual Accommodation Expenses
• Exceptional Support Fund (Students experiencing financial hardship)

For more information on the Learning Support Fund please visit the Learning Support Fund Page.

For further funding information, please visit our .

Additional Costs

There will be some additional costs. For example all students will need to purchase stationery and may wish to purchase some text books. Extra costs may also be applicable to cover field trips, membership fees etc. although such features are usually options within the course.

Books are reviewed annually and are therefore subject to change, course welcome information will provide you with an indicative list for the year.

Books and Journals

Students need to spend approximately £100-£200 a year on textbooks and scripts although this cost can be reduced considerably by sourcing second hand copies of books. Here is a selection of some of the key textbooks are used throughout the 2 years of your programme both at University and on placement. Books are available in hard copy and electronically via the library but you may wish to purchase your own copies. Soames R and Palastanga N (2018) Anatomy and Human Movement, 7th Edition. Elsevier Porter, S. (2008). Anatomy colouring and workbook. (2nd ed). Elsevier Churchill Livingstone Braun, C.A. & Anderson, C.M. (2017) Applied Pathophysiology : a conceptual Approach to the Mechanisms of Disease, (3rd Ed), Lippincott, Williams and Wilkins Fruth, S (2018) Fundamentals of the Physical Therapy Examination. Jones & Bartlett Petty, N. (2011). Neuromusculoskeletal examination and assessment: A handbook for therapists (4th Ed., Physiotherapy essentials). Churchill Livingstone, Elsevier

Stationery

Students should budget for stationery and consumables for your own personal use. This should include notebooks, pens and pencils for taking notes in class and/or in the field. Students should also budget for the purchase of USB pen drives, as well as occasional printing and photocopying costs incurred in the preparation or submission of coursework. Whilst you will choose how much you need, expect to pay around £30 - £40 per year for these items.

Clothing and Equipment

The following equipment should be purchased: Adult Stephoscope: Tytan Professional Series Deluxe Stethoscope 9, 8” Plastic Goniometer and a tape measure. Over the two years of the programme, you will complete six assessed practice placements. You will need to budget for the additional costs of placement which may include travel and/or accommodation costs. Costs of several hundred pounds can be expected, and in exception over £1000 per year. You may claim placement travel expenses, and costs towards any additional accommodation that may be required to access placements. Students will be required to practice clinical skills using each other as models, and so will need clothing that is suitable for practical sessions whilst in university. This includes a pair of shorts, a tracksuit /jogging bottoms, a plain polo shirt or vest top and trainers or shoes with non-slip soles.

Field Trips

You may wish to attend a conference (optional not part of the course) again the costs vary and depend on whether you go to a one day or several day event, the costs will vary depending on where the venues are and the cost of accommodation you choose. With conference fees, travel and accommodation you will need to budget from anywhere between £250 and £750.

Other

At the start of your course, you will complete an enhanced criminal record check through the Disclosure and Barring Services. This is paid for by you (the applicant/student.) and is not covered by the University. Please note, you will also have to pay the cost of any additional checks for example, if you lose your certificate. If you suspend your studies for a year or more you will also have to pay for a new criminal records check. Occasionally placement providers request an additional check if the certificate is more than one year old. If this is the case, you will need to pay for the additional check.