Health Sciences/Physiotherapy
This course information is for local students only
Year
2012
Award
Bachelor of Health Sciences and Master of Physiotherapy Practice
Length
4 years full-time
Campuses
Melbourne, Bendigo, Albury-Wodonga, Mildura, Shepparton
Course description
This course aims to prepare students to assess and treat patients with temporary or long-term physical injuries, movement disorders or disability, aiming to achieve the highest possible degree of recovery, activity, participation and quality of life. Graduates may work independently or as members of healthcare teams.
Please download the Frequently Asked Questions document for additional information about the program.
Course structure
In first year, students undertake core subjects with students from other health sciences courses, focusing on basic human biosciences and factors influencing health and the roles of health professionals in the health and welfare sectors. In second year, they develop physiotherapy skills and further explore the human biosciences of anatomy and physiology.
In third and fourth years, students apply their knowledge and practical skills to the physiotherapy management of disorders across the lifespan, through case-based learning techniques and clinical experiences.
The course fosters small-group teaching to master the practical aspects of physiotherapy skills. Students have the opportunity to treat patients in hospitals and other clinical settings under clinician supervision . Please note clinical placements may be undertaken outside semesters. An Honours program commencing in third year is available to selected high-achieving students.
Contact hours
Variable across the four years, up to 32 hours per week.
Subject details
Major areas of study
Physiotherapy, physiology and anatomy, determinants of health and wellbeing.
Overseas study opportunities
Overseas study opportunities are available.
Please see
www.latrobe.edu.au/international/exchange
for more information
Application
VTAC.
Fee type
Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
Scholarships
Applicants who are Australian citizens or who hold permanent humanitarian visas are eligible for a range of University-wide scholarships, including Commonwealth Scholarships. For details please see http://www.latrobe.edu.au/scholarships/future-undergraduatesAdditional costs (AUD)
Students are required to complete a National Police Check (A$15.50) annually and a Working with Children Check (no cost) at the commencement of the degree. Students are required to register each year with the Physiotherapy Registration Board of Australia, at no cost. Students are encouraged to complete a First Aid Level II course, which is not conducted by La Trobe University, variable cost approximately A$160 (is recommended students complete a Level II/Senior First Aid Certificate but it is not a course requirement). Other approximate costs include: A$100 per year for practical books, A$10 for student name badge (purchased from official LaTrobe supplier), A$42 for clinical shirt (purchased from official La Trobe supplier), A$100 for stethoscope, A$45 for cardiorespiratory medial equipment, A$20 for goniometer. Text books and cardiorespiratory medical equipment are optional. Books and equipment (other than the name badge and uniform) may be purchased from any supplier; all items remain students' personal property. Accommodation and travel costs for clinical placement may also be incurred and vary according to the venue.
Middle Band
Consideration is given to Special Entry Access Scheme (SEAS) criteria; and a regional bonus may apply.
Selection
(Note: ATARs current for 2011)
Melbourne: ATAR 96.40
Bendigo: ATAR 96.40
Albury-Wodonga: ATAR 92.45
Mildura: ATAR n/a
Shepparton: ATAR n/a
Non-Year 12 selection may involve: ENTER/ATAR, Pi form, GPA, STAT Multiple Choice.
Extra requirements
Non-Year 12 applicants with six months full-time (or equivalent) paid employment experience as a health professional or health professional assistant must download and complete an extra Supplementary Information Form and return it to the Physiotherapy Selection Officer by 11 November 2011. The Supplementary Information Form can be downloaded via: www.latrobe.edu.au/health.
All applicants must complete and submit a VTAC Pi form if they wish other information to be considered during the selection process. This may include information such as work or community experience or reasons for applying. Applicants may wish to provide other documentation in support of their application.
Prerequisites
VCE Units 3 & 4: study score of at least 25 in English (any) or 30 in English (ESL), and at least 25 in two of Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics (any), Physical Education or Physics.
Semester starts
Semester 1 (March)
Additional information
NOTE: students at Albury-Wodonga, Mildura and Shepparton campuses must transfer to Bendigo after first year (regional students cannot transfer to the Melbourne campus).
Students must obtain a police check and Working With Children (WWC) check before undertaking clinical placements, and register with the Physiotherapy Registration Board of Australia. For important information about clinical placements, visit www.latrobe.edu.au/health/studyplacements
Career opportunities
Physiotherapists are employed in a wide variety of settings, including private practice, general hospitals, rehabilitation centres, community health centres, industrial clinics and specialist centres. Graduates may also find opportunities in physiotherapy education and research.
Professional recognition
Graduates are eligible for registration with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). Registration is an essential legal prerequisite for practice as a physiotherapist in Australia.