For most qualified physiotherapists, advancing their clinical practice requires pursuing a master's degree. So, if you’re looking at postgraduate study options, what should you take into consideration?

Why choose a master's in advancing physiotherapy practice?

Whether it is to enhance your existing skills, hone into specialist practice or apply your knowledge to clinical research, a post-registration postgraduate physiotherapy degree could take your career to the next level. In the dynamic field of physiotherapy, managing complex caseloads and assuming leadership roles requires advanced skills and critical thinking. While undergraduate programmes lay a strong foundation, it is often at the postgraduate level that students can fully develop these competencies. As a result, many physiotherapists pursue postgraduate degrees to distinguish themselves as practitioners, with some even considering this path before even qualifying

So, if like many other physiotherapists you decide that postgraduate study is for you, what will make you stand out? How do you know which course is right for you? 

Whether you're a prospective international student drawn to the rich academic and cultural experience of studying abroad, or a UK-based practitioner looking to enhance your expertise right here at home, the Advancing Physiotherapy Practice course at Queen Margaret University in Edinburgh offers the benefits of a UK-based education, along with the university’s focus on the ‘four pillars’ of advancing clinical practice, and student-focused campus with easy access to the centre of Scotland’s capital city.


Why study advancing physiotherapy therapy in the UK?

The Scottish National Gallery

One exciting possibility of studying in the UK is that international students here benefit from a number of opportunities upon completion of their course. International graduates may choose to explore the Graduate Route visa option and apply for the two-year post-study work visa. They  may also be eligible for the Health and Care Worker Visa.  If students obtain their HCPC registration, there may be opportunities to work as a physiotherapist in the NHS, or the private healthcare sector.

Alternatively, they may choose to return to their home country with desirable and competitive skill sets that will make them stand out from their peers. Returning graduates can apply the advanced knowledge and experience gained in the UK to contribute to the development of physiotherapy practices in their home countries. 


Why Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh?

The MSc Advancing Physiotherapy Practice course at QMU focuses on the ‘four pillars’ of advancing practice: enhancing your clinical experience, deepening your research understanding, expanding your teaching and learning expertise, and strengthening your leadership skills. These pillars are designed to prepare you to adapt and influence the changing landscape of physiotherapy.   

QMU also offers a unique learning experience within a close-knit community of students. The course is designed to transform you into a globally mobile practitioner, ready to make impactful contributions to the physiotherapy profession in whatever country you are based. 

Open to those with a BSc in Physiotherapy, this full-time, in-person course is held at our beautiful, purpose-built campus near Edinburgh. Our classes are integrated across our various physiotherapy degrees, which means that you will engage with students at various stages of their training, enriching your learning experience.


Our location

A thatched roof with a plastic dome in the centre sits atop a wooden structure.

Our beautiful campus is an inspiring place in which to live and study. As a QMU student, you'll enjoy quick access to Scotland's vibrant capital and the beautiful surrounding countryside. Located just six minutes by train from our campus, Edinburgh city centre is easily accessible from anywhere in the UK and beyond. The city was recently voted second in the UK for students after London, and 13th globally!

Don't miss the opportunity to advance your physiotherapy career with a master's in the UK. 

 Find out more about our Advancing Practice in Health courses 

Dr Joanna Long

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