Bachelor of Science (Honours) - Veterinary Physiotherapy (D31A)

Physiotherapy following veterinary referral can help animals recover from a variety of conditions such as back pain, sprains, strains, fractures and sporting injuries. It can also be used following orthopaedic, neurological or general surgery, as well as improve biomechanics and athletic ability.

As such its use within the veterinary field is increasing. Animals can undergo a wide range of treatments including manual techniques, electrotherapies and exercise therapy.

Students will be participating in a fulfilling journey, during which they will grow and develop the necessary skills to be an integral part of the veterinary profession. This rewarding career will allow students to work within the wider veterinary profession, working autonomously under veterinary referral and in a variety of business settings from freelance to referral hospitals. Students will play a vital role in improving the lives of animals whilst forging strong bonds with animals and their owners.

As they progress students will develop and then bolster the necessary skills to succeed in this emerging field of practice. The University's supportive team and carefully structured course will help students consolidate their learning. Periods of in-house and external clinical rotation enable students to meet the requirements and clinical hours necessary for professional registration, whilst boosting their confidence and allowing them to succeed. Demand for highly skilled, clinically experienced veterinary physiotherapists is ever-increasing and this integrated programme allows students to explore lots of opportunities within and beyond the course. 

Whilst academically challenging, the course has a huge practical component, with specialist teaching and authentic assessment throughout. Students will be taken on a learning journey from first principles through to full evidenced-based practice. Students will discover the importance of clinical reasoning and will be supported in the development of skills to research and apply new knowledge as they continually improve their competences. As students progress towards their final goal they will achieve stepping-stone qualifications in massage therapy and hydrotherapy.  

Clinical teaching is delivered in small groups by a team of qualified veterinary physiotherapists and veterinary surgeons, in first-class facilities, with dedicated clinical areas. As students progress, they will become increasingly involved in running, shaping, and driving the University's on-site small animal clinic and ambulatory equine service, complemented by integrated placement weeks throughout this course. This will open future career prospects and provide students with the tools needed to enter the real world confidently and competently. 

This undergraduate programme is subject to accreditation by the Register of Animal Musculoskeletal Practitioners for membership. It will provide the knowledge and skills for students to become a veterinary services professional and work closely with veterinary surgeons.