Physiotherapy

Interested in studying physiotherapy? Australian universities offer some of the best physio degrees in the world. Study there—practice here. Find out how.

Studying Physiotherapy in Australia

Australia is world-renowned for its leading-edge physiotherapy research and practice. At Australian universities, physiotherapy is a strong academic and clinical discipline, and Australian research in physiotherapy drives teaching and learning. This provides Australia’s physiotherapy students with opportunities to be educated in contemporary, evidence-based clinical practice.

Australian graduate-entry physiotherapy degrees are highly sought after by Canadian university graduates with academic backgrounds in kinesiology, health sciences and human kinetics. Canadians enjoy learning from Australian academics who are world leaders in the physiotherapy field. In Australia, physiotherapy programs are offered at both the undergraduate and graduate-entry levels. This means that Australian universities offer programs such as

Bachelor of Physiotherapy
Master of Physiotherapy
Doctor of Physiotherapy

Both the Master of Physiotherapy (MPT) and the Doctor of Physiotherapy (DPT) are master’s-level programs designed to produce qualified, highly skilled physiotherapists.

Here’s what you’ll find on this page:

Australian Physiotherapy School Admissions Requirements

Graduate-entry Physiotherapy Degrees

 

University Minimum GPA Prerequisites
Bond University approx. 65% – 70% anatomy (2); physiology (2); biomechanics (1); research methods/statistics (1); exercise physiology (1)
Flinders University approx. 70% anatomy (2); physiology (2); psychology/sociology (1); research methods (1)
La Trobe University approx. 70% anatomy (2), physiology (1)
Macquarie University approx. 65% – 70% anatomy (2), physiology (1), research methods/statistics (1), psychology (1)
Monash University approx. 70% anatomy (1); physiology (1); biostatistics (1)
University of Melbourne approx. 70% anatomy (1); physiology (1)
University of Queensland approx. 65% – 70% anatomy (1); physiology (1)
University of Sydney approx. 70% Background knowledge of human anatomy and physiology is required

 

Important: Minimum GPAs for eligibility shown. Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee entry.

Interested to learn more about what it takes to get in? Please visit our Competitive Physiotherapy Application Statistics chart for details. If you have any questions, just let us know!

Student Advice About Studying Anatomy

Read what former OzTREKK students say about knowing your anatomy before you begin your studies: What I wish I knew before studying physiotherapy.

How to Apply to Australian Physiotherapy Schools

The process of applying to an Australian physiotherapy school can feel both simple and confusing at the same time. That’s why we’re here. Our goal is to have the best prepared students ready for a first-class educational experience in Australia and New Zealand—and we take that to heart.

When you’re considering physio school in Australia, you may have questions about

  • your eligibility;
  • the application;
  • how (and where) to submit your documents; and
  • what we do with your application.

We’ve got you covered. Head on over to our how to apply to physiotherapy school in Australia page where you’ll find info about what to expect!

Practicing Physiotherapy in Canada

Graduate qualifications in physiotherapy from Australian universities are recognized internationally. The Australian Physiotherapy Council is the accreditation authority responsible for accrediting education providers and programs of study for the physiotherapy profession.

Canadian students who wish to practice as a physiotherapist upon their return to Canada should visit the Canadian Alliance of Physiotherapy Regulators’ website for certification and licensing information.

It is very important to understand the steps involved in the certification process when you are accepting an offer to an Australian physiotherapy program. You should be prepared for the expense of the written and clinical exams, accreditation assessment and additional coursework component.

The process takes time because you have to complete the process step by step with the Canadian Alliance of Physiotherapy Regulators. For more information about this process, please visit our Practicing Physiotherapy in Canada page.

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“Facilities are top notch”

Campus is very large and beautiful, but can be difficult to maneuver for new students and takes a while to walk from one side of campus to another. Facilities are top notch, but feedback from and interaction with professors and tutors is limited and not many opportunity for getting to know other people in program. Program cohort is very large. Material is very broad and overarching of all things related to my program.

university of sydney black and white logo Jeffrey S
Master of Physiotherapy
The University of Sydney, 2023

“…courses are in a new building”

Experience is great, campus is beautiful, courses are in a new building and are good. The communication between myself and the school was slow. The course material is interesting. The tutorials are great because you're having hands-on learning. Instructors are good. Class sizes are up to 60 people in a class but there is a good student-to-instructor ratio.

university of sydney black and white logo Chantelle G
Master of Physiotherapy
The University of Sydney, 2023

“The instructors are great”

The campus is beautiful and im very happy with my decision. Its a bit outside of the city so the rent isnt too bad here either. The instructors are great and seem like they really want us to succeed

Macquarie University Gurasees B
Doctor of Physiotherapy
Macquarie University, 2023

“Great professors that know you by name and are looking out for you”

Great professors that know you by name and are looking out for you, great facilities, new friends, accelerates program that is fast pace. I like the instructors, overall material learned thus far and the way it is taught. Not a fan of certain subjects within the program but they are mandatory no matter where u take the degree but the professors make it fun.

Bond University Cody D
Doctor of Physiotherapy
Bond University, 2023

“New facilities, close to the city, lots going on!”

New facilities, close to the city, lots going on! My university's program is changing from a 2 year to a 3 year - I like the 2 year a lot, great professors, lots of material covered, feeling excited for practicals. Downside is a lack of communication around timelines/exams schedules/important information. Get medical documents in order - specifically vaccine history including dates/doses (batch number if possible). Check the university's website and set a reminder to submit you... Read More

university of sydney black and white logo Kelsi P
Master of Physiotherapy
The University of Sydney, 2023

“…you develop strong relationships within your cohort”

The beautiful facilities, my Aussie mates and the welcoming atmosphere at Macquarie uni. The classes are broken into cohorts you follow through the semester with, this is great because you develop strong relationships within your cohort. A prominent online component is followed up with highly practical physiotherapy classes.

Macquarie University Ayden H
Doctor of Physiotherapy
Macquarie University, 2023

“Profs genuinely want you to do well”

Small class sizes, lots of facilities and services for students. Program is more expensive than others though. Profs genuinely want you to do well and want to get to know you.

Bond University Sarah M
Doctor of Physiotherapy
Bond University, 2023

“Very practical based”

Everything is good. Very practical based, which I love.

Macquarie University Rones G
Doctor of Physiotherapy
Macquarie University, 2022

“I find the instructors/profs very knowledgeable”

It is a good [university]! I like the campus and the facilities. I find the instructors/profs very knowledgeable. I don't like the pacing of the courses, I find some need much more time and others could be shortened.

Bond University Samir Z
Doctor of Physiotherapy
Bond University, 2022

“…courses are engaging and interesting”

Easy to access services, small class sizes, friendly and enjoyable campus personnel and activities ...the staff is amazing and courses are engaging and interesting.

Bond University Zachary W
Doctor of Physiotherapy
Bond University, 2022

“…we have lots of opportunity for hands on learning”

I like that everything we are learning is practical and we get to start hands on learning right away. Sometimes the scheduling is not very organized, and the marking for exams are not clearly shown. I like that we have lots of opportunity for hands on learning, would like to have more clear guidelines on how assessments are evaluated.

Macquarie University Justine L
Doctor of Physiotherapy
Macquarie University, 2022

“I like all of the practical sessions”

I like the city, the accessibility of the school, lots of study spaces, the different lecturers we get to work with each week. I like the variety of lectures we have, I like all of the practical sessions. I wish there were more study resources and organization in some courses.

Sophie K
Doctor of Physiotherapy
The University of Melbourne, 2022

“I like the class size ”

Great program but the school is relatively far from everything else in melbourne. I like the class size

Monash University Kevin L
Doctor of Physiotherapy
Monash University, 2022

“I like that we get hands-on experience right at the start of the program”

The campus is gorgeous and everyone is so nice and helpful when you need guidance. The teachers are also very professional and want you to learn. I live in Bondi and although the campus is a bit far from Sydney CBD, I enjoy the trek to the university as the landscape is gorgeous and public transportation is good here. I like that we get hands-on experience right at the start of the program. I can only say I wish I learned anatomy more before attending this program because professors here assume you know a lot about it.

Macquarie University Valarie V
Doctor of Physiotherapy
Macquarie University, 2022

“Flinders University is a great university”

Flinders University is a great university. The university provides adequate tools and resources for their students to achieve. The campus is beautiful. I am enjoying my program. I enjoy my program because of the amount of placement and clinical experience we have.

Francis T
Master of Physiotherapy
Flinders University, 2019

“…there is a lot of hands-on learning”

I like the university.... I enjoy the program because there is a lot of hands on learning through tutorials and the material is interesting.

university of sydney black and white logo Spencer D
Master of Physiotherapy
The University of Sydney, 2019

“The program is very professional”

Love it,  UQ is beautiful and a top university.  The program is very professional and my professors are super helpful. Content is also very interesting. Review your anatomy.  

Haeley K
Master of Physiotherapy Studies
The University of Queensland, 2019

“I’m learning a ton and well on my way to becoming a Physio”

Great program I'm learning lots and great campus with lots to do all the time. it's difficult but I feel I'm learning a ton and well on my way to becoming a Physio. I would suggest doing some [anatomy] review before starting because it with help with every class down here.

James D
Master of Physiotherapy Studies
The University of Queensland, 2019

“I get lots of hands on practical classes”

I like my university as it has a great atmosphere to study and the campus is also great. I am enjoying my program because I get lots of hands on practical classes which helps deepens my knowledge.

Konnie C
Master of Physiotherapy Studies
The University of Queensland, 2019

“I love my program, so much hands on activity already in our first year.”

I love the university! Great atmosphere, beautiful campus, and well developed programs. I love my program, so much hands on activity already in our first year. It's a bit more difficult than I had imagined but I'm loving the challenge. Get ready to work hard but also enjoy yourself along the way! Make time to meet people and build relationships so you have a good foundation to put the hard work in.

Bronte B
Bachelor of Physiotherapy (Honours)
The University of Queensland, 2019

“It is a beautiful campus with great staff and facilities.”

It is a beautiful campus with great staff and facilities. The work life balance is great. Only being in class 3x a week gives you lots of time to study and leisure or work as well. However I may have preferred to do a more condensed two year program.

Macquarie University Daphne N
Doctor of Physiotherapy
Macquarie University, 2019

“Top notch education”

Yes I do like Bond University. Top notch education and the teacher to student ratio makes it a great learning environment. The program is difficult but I love the profession ...I am enjoying the program.  Be sure to refresh your anatomy and do a bit of prep work in the coming months of your departure. It will make a world of difference.

Bond University Simon M
Doctor of Physiotherapy
Bond University, 2019

“I liked how the classes are smaller and every course also has a practical class”

I wanted the opportunity to study abroad and UQ has a really good reputation it also helps that the campus is gorgeous! The GEMS physio program is two intense years, but through those two years you make some really good friends... I liked how the classes are smaller and every course also has a practical class, meaning you get to take what you learned in the lecture and try them out yourself.  When they recommend you brush up on your anatomy, it really does help! Also you really... Read More

Julia P
Master of Physiotherapy Studies
The University of Queensland, 2019

“I love the small class sizes”

I love the small class sizes and all the close interactions with professor as it helps to facilitate better learning.

Bond University Catherine P
Doctor of Physiotherapy
Bond University, 2019

“…I like how there are several options in scheduling our weekly tutorials…”

I like how organized the system they use to give us material to learn on our own and I like how there are several options in scheduling our weekly tutorials I dislike the campus that we are at, the cumberland campus does not compare to the main campus in camperdown. the facilities are kept a lot cleaner, the libraries are open later and there are many food options on the camperdown campus. Aside from the cafeteria on cumberland campus there are no other food options and the the cafeteria closes around 3:30pm

university of sydney black and white logo Brendan Y.
Master of Physiotherapy
The University of Sydney, 2018

“UQ is rated one of the highest in Australia and I’m hoping to take a lot back home especially manual handling skills which is years ahead of Canada.”

I like that our class is of 38 which means we have greater exposure with professors and they teach us handling techniques themselves. UQ is rated one of the highest in Australia and I'm hoping to take a lot back home especially manual handling skills which is years ahead of Canada.

Tony K
Master of Physiotherapy Studies
The University of Queensland, 2018

“In the 8 months I’ve studied here I feel like I have learned so much.”

I love UQ and this program. It’s intense but so fulfilling. In the 8 months I’ve studied here I feel like I have learned so much. The professors are awesome and you really feel as if you are getting the best most up to date evidence presented to you every day.

Joel T.
Master of Physiotherapy Studies
The University of Queensland, 2018

“Anatomy cadaver lab is pretty cool and the only uni in Victoria that has one!”

I love my professors and how supportive and understanding they are. Anatomy cadaver lab is pretty cool and the only uni in Victoria that has one! :)

Ansley L.
Doctor of Physiotherapy
The University of Melbourne, 2018

“They [the instructors] are enthusiastic and passionate about the content and deliver it in an interesting way.”

I like the small cohort; I feel like you get to know your classmates a lot more closely. I also like the enthusiasm of the instructors. They are enthusiastic and passionate about the content and deliver it in an interesting way.

Macquarie University William B.
Doctor of Physiotherapy
Macquarie University, 2018

“…everyone really cares about the students here which is really comforting.”

Program is great but difficult (fast pace). Very nice teaching staff for the most part. The university itself is situated a little far from the city which is sometimes inconvenient however everyone really cares about the students here which is really comforting. Also, MD and DPT students have many lectures together and clinical hours together which is really interesting and fun !

Macquarie University Eric A.
Doctor of Physiotherapy
Macquarie University, 2018

“…all of the professors know you by name”

I love the small community feel to the university, all of the professors know you by name and are there to help you succeed.

Bond University Alexander L
Doctor of Physiotherapy
Bond University, 2018

“…the teacher to student ratio is so good!”

Bond is great! The facilitators and teachers are very personable and the teacher to student ratio is so good! It's a fast paced course so sometimes I feel so far behind and unable to stay caught up.

Bond University Tricia S
Doctor of Physiotherapy
Bond University, 2018

“The staff do care about your physiotherapy process here”

Both campuses are great. The main campus is absolutely beautiful if most of your classes are there. The staff do care about your physiotherapy process here, which is hard to find.

Bond University Kai-Jing L
Bond University, 2018

“The professors are awesome and offer lots of help.”

I chose the University of Sydney because of their amazing program. They are so world renowned and have an amazing group of professors who want you to succeed! I am loving the program! Although it’s a two-year program, it is going by so fast! I knew that it would require a lot of hard work and dedication, but it is such a rewarding feeling being part of an amazing faculty. The professors are awesome and offer lots of help. The program does a great job of really opening the idea of different pathways in the area of physiotherapy.

university of sydney black and white logo Alexis C
Master of Physiotherapy
The University of Sydney, 2016