Physiotherapy (Professional Qualification)

Entry requirements

• Applicants should hold a bachelor’s degree (NFQ Level 8)) with at least a second-class honours, grade 2 (2:2) in any discipline.

• If you meet this requirement, the GAMSAT (Graduate Medical School Admission Test) will be used as the only way to select students for this programme.

• Students in their final undergraduate year can apply but must show they meet all entry requirements by the end of June in the year the programme starts.

• Successful applicants must have Garda clearance, health screening, CPR certification and vaccinations before placement (any costs will be covered by the student). More information on Student Vetting

Months of entry

September

Course content

Those in the final year of a Level 8 Degree can apply before graduation and may be offered a conditional place (depending on GAMSAT scores) subject to providing evidence of 2h2 or higher in their undergraduate degree.

In addition to academic modules at UL, students on the MSc Physiotherapy (Prof Qual) will complete 1000 hours of clinical placement. Clinical Placement modules will take place in Limerick, Portlaoise, Kilkenny, Ballinasloe and Co Galway in a range of settings (tertiary and secondary hospitals, rehabilitation units, primary care, schools etc. and with patients of all ages.

The programme aims to develop graduates who are able to:

• Synthesise theoretical and conceptual knowledge of the cardiorespiratory, neurological and musculoskeletal systems to the practice of physiotherapy.
• Be competent in the delivery of physiotherapy interventions for the effective rehabilitation and management of people with a range of conditions.
• Competently prescribe, and monitor physiotherapy interventions responsibly, based on a clinically-reasoned approach following an appropriate assessment and diagnosis.
• Apply specialist knowledge and understanding of movement and movement dysfunction to clinical practice.
• Use an innovative and creative approach to meet evolving service developments and healthcare needs.
• Perform effectively and professionally within a health care team.
• Adopt and facilitate a collaborative, holistic, proactive and professional approach to healthcare practice.
• Articulate and integrate the advanced critical thinking and reflective skills required to be autonomous lifelong learners.
• Use an evidence-based approach in practice which integrates research findings into patient assessment and management.
• Integrate the ethical, social and cultural dimensions of healthcare within clinical judgement.
• Articulate ideas clearly, effectively, collaboratively and professionally to patients, carers, the multidisciplinary team and other relevant stakeholders.

Information for international students

International students:

• North American applicants should apply through Atlantic Bridge, submitting a cover letter and CV via their application portal.

• International applicants, outside of EU and North America, should apply directly. The university will shortlist and invite you to an interview. 

• If English is not your first language and you have not studied in an English-speaking country, you must have an acceptable English Language qualification. An IELTS score of 7.5 with no less than 7.0 in any component is required.

• For details on country-specific qualifications visit postgraduate entry requirements for international students.