Physiotherapy is a profession which involves the interaction between therapists, patients, families and caregivers, in a process of assessing movement potential and in establishing agreed-upon goals and objectives using knowledge and skills unique to physiotherapists. (WCPT, 2004).

Physiotherapy is a range of concepts, themes and practices which are related to each other but which cannot be reduced to a single entity. During the last twenty years, it has changed from a collection of treatments prescribed by medical practitioners into a method of clinical practice by which physiotherapists examine and assess patients referred for treatment and select appropriate intervention. The newly acquired diagnostic role and the traditional ameliorative and restorative roles demand a high level of theoretical and factual knowledge and practical ability. Physiotherapy requires understanding of diseases processes and technical competence, both of which are formed on sound knowledge of Anatomy, Biomedical Sciences and Physical Science.

The first three years of the course are mainly academic, while the final year is dedicated solely to supervised clinical practice. During the first semester of the final year, students are encouraged to obtain clinical practice overseas utilising one of the several Erasmus agreements that the Physiotherapy Division has with major universities throughout Europe. On completion of the course the graduate will have the skills necessary to prevent, diagnose and treat any condition that influences the physical function and performance of the body.

Applicants must satisfy the General Entry Requirements for admission, namely, the Matriculation Certificate and Secondary Education Certificate passes at Grade 5 or better in Maltese, English Language and Mathematics.

Applicants must also satisfy the following Special Course Requirements:

A pass at Advanced Level at Grade C or better in Biology and a pass at Intermediate Level in Physics.

The number of students shall be limited to fifteen students, provided that if the number of applicants falling in the last category of applicants eligible to be admitted exceeds fifteen, consideration shall first be given to:

(a) the overall grade obtained in the Matriculation Certificate by the applicants in that category and

(b) if this is not sufficient, the remaining applicants in that category shall be interviewed by an ad hoc Admissions Board appointed by Senate in order to fill the remaining place/s.

Only applicants whose qualifications will be obtained by the 31st August 2010 will be taken into consideration.

The admission requirements are applicable for courses commencing in October 2010. For more detailed information please refer to the bye-laws for the course available here.