Course description
Postgraduate Diploma Veterinary Physiotherapy
Veterinary Physiotherapists are part of a multi-disciplinary team supporting animals (primarily horses and dogs) through injury, disease, fitness acquisition or post-operative recovery; they are also actively involved in the maintenance of wellbeing and welfare. It is a growing discipline, with more veterinary surgeons recognising the benefit of working alongside veterinary physiotherapists for the benefit of the individual animal. Understanding the mechanisms of injury and disease, the processes of operative interventions and the requirements of the animal for rehabilitation and repair are what make this highly technical career so exciting and fulfilling.
Postgraduate Diploma Veterinary Physiotherapy is recognised by the Register of Animal Musculoskeletal Practitioners (RAMP), accredited by the Animal Health Professions’ Register (AHPR) and supported by the National Association of Veterinary Physiotherapists (NAVP). Students will develop the skills needed to support veterinary surgeons in the rehabilitation of a variety of species, with a particular focus on equine and canine patients. It also focuses on supporting equine and canine athletes both during competition and for recovery.
Upcoming start dates
Suitability - Who should attend?
Applicants will normally hold a 2.1 or 1st class Honours degree in Animal Science or a related subject (Equine Science, Zoology, Bioveterinary Science, Veterinary Nursing) or a therapy degree (such as, Equine Sports Therapy, Animal Therapy or Human Sports Therapy)
Applications
Applications will take into consideration academic profile, practical experience (evidenced via reference letters), equine handling skills and a formal interview.
On admission, we would like to see evidence of a minimum of practical experience comprising:
- 150 hours for equine
- 100 hours for canine
Practical experience hours need to be completed under the supervision of professional providers able to vouch for skills. Owning a dog or a horse does not constitute evidence of practical handling.
An interview with the academic team will form part of the admissions criteria for entry onto the course. The interviewer will first assess handling skills during a practical test. Then, the interviewer will discuss practical experience. Finally, more formal questions will be asked as part of the interview procedure.
It is recommended that applicants hold a recognised qualification in either canine or equine massage.
Applications from mature students from a relevant academic background will also be considered on an individual basis.
Training Course Content
Stage One
Semester 1
- Biomechanics and Gait Evaluation
- Advanced Functional Anatomy
- Pathophysiology of Injury and Disease
- Academic and Professional Skills
Semester 2
- Biomechanics and Gait Evaluation
- Advanced Functional Anatomy
- Pathophysiology of Injury and Disease
- Academic and Professional Skills
Stage Two
Semester 3
- Physiotherapeutic Techniques and Clinical Skills
- Rehabilitation and Remedial Exercise
- Clinical Practice for Veterinary Physiotherapists
Semester 4
- Physiotherapeutic Techniques and Clinical Skills
- Rehabilitation and Remedial Exercise
- Clinical Practice for Veterinary Physiotherapists
Why choose Writtle University College
Ranked Top University-Sector Institution in East Anglia for overall student satisfaction!
*Based on NSS 2022 Based on Taught Data
Beautiful rural campus situated close to the city of Chelmsford, 40 minutes from London and the coast.
Expenses
Postgraduate Diploma (2 years)
Part-time
- £4,900 (Year 1)
- £4,900 (Year 2)
- Total:£9,800
Continuing Studies
Employment opportunities
There are a range of jobs within the equine and canine industries and associated ancillary industries that would suit a graduate from this course .
Primarily however, this award is aimed at those either wishing to establish a career as a veterinary physiotherapist as a self-employed practititoner, or working for a veterinary practice.
The course is designed to develop the skills of the student to support veterinary surgeons in the rehabilitation of a variety of species and will in particular focus on equine and canine patients. It will also focus on supporting equine and canine athletes both during competition and for recovery.
Alternative roles may include those based in the business sector, such as within insurance, sales jobs for companies (providing products such as equipment), feed companies, and breeding companies.
Educational progression
Students also have the option to continue with postgraduate studies by completing a postgraduate dissertation to be awarded an MSc.
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