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ROBERT GORDON UNIVERSITY

MSc Physiotherapy (Pre-Registration)

 

Overview

Robert Gordon University (RGU), located in Aberdeen, Scotland, offers an intensive two-year Master of Science in Physiotherapy (Pre-registration). This accelerated program is tailored for students with a background in health or life sciences and is designed to help graduates qualify as licensed physiotherapists. RGU has a long-standing history of welcoming a large number of Canadian students into its MSc Physiotherapy program each year. Many of these graduates successfully return to Canada, where they complete the credentialing process and begin working as licensed physiotherapists across the country.

With its strong academic foundation, hands-on clinical training, supportive learning environment, and established track record of Canadian graduate success, RGU is an excellent option for Canadians looking to complete their physiotherapy education abroad.

Upon successfully completing this accelerated degree, you will be eligible to apply for membership with the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP) and the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). This qualification will allow you to practice physiotherapy in the UK, should you decide to remain and work in the UK.

Highlights

  • Ranked #1 overall in the UK in 2025 for Physiotherapy by The Guardian.
  • Consistently has large cohort of Canadian students in the physiotherapy program.
  • Gain practical experience across a wide range of settings including hospitals, rehab centres, and community clinics throughout Scotland—with an optional final placement abroad (e.g., in Canada). We assist our Physio Abroad applicants in sourcing clinical placements in Canada through our large network of practicing physiotherapists.
  • Practical classes are capped at around 14 students, ensuring more hands-on opportunities and personalized support from experienced faculty.
  • Develop critical thinking and clinical reasoning skills through case-based learning, applied research, and a final dissertation.
  • Aberdeen consistently ranks as one of the safest and most affordable cities in the UK for students. With a large student population, great public transport, and plenty of cafes, shops, and green spaces, it’s an ideal home away from home for international students.

Program Information

Admission Requirements
  • Bachelor’s degree in a relevant subject (e.g., Kinesiology, Health Sciences, Biomedical studies).
  • Coursework in human anatomy and physiology
  • Minimum overall GPA of 3.0 on a 4 point scale, or equivalent
  • Canadian High-School Grade 12 Math and English.
  • Personal Statement response to 4 questions provided to you by your Physio Abroad advisor.
  • Applicants must demonstrate experience in research or an understanding of the research process (e.g., through a research methods course) or experience with the research process)
  • Volunteering or work experience in healthcare or physiotherapy settings is highly recommended.
  • Academic reference.
  • Applicants who satisfy the initial eligibility criteria will be shortlisted for a group interview as part of the admissions process.
  • Students who are given offers must complete a police record check (Canadian equivalent to Disclosure and Barring Services background clearing check) and provide satisfactory immunization records (Canadian equivalent of the Fitness to practise and health requirements).
Admission Timeline

Applications are processed and evaluated as they are received, rather than waiting until a specific deadline to review all applications. As acceptances are granted, spaces in the program will fill up. It is advised to apply as soon as possible in the admission cycle in order to have the best opportunity to potentially secure a spot in the program.

Interviews for January 2026 Entry:

  • February 24, 2025
  • February 25, 2025
  • April 7, 2025
  • May 26, 2025
  • June 23, 2025
Program Structure

RGU’s MSc Physiotherapy (Pre-registration) is delivered over two years of full-time study and integrates academic coursework with clinical placements from the very beginning. The curriculum is designed to develop clinical reasoning, practical physiotherapy skills, and the ability to evaluate and apply evidence-based practice.

Year 1

The first year focuses on building foundational knowledge across core areas of physiotherapy—musculoskeletal, neurological, and cardiorespiratory practice. You’ll also begin developing key skills in exercise prescription, health promotion, and patient-centered care. Learning is hands-on and highly interactive, with a strong emphasis on real-world application through:

  • Practical workshops and simulated learning using volunteer patients

  • Case-based discussions to develop clinical reasoning

  • Tutorials and seminars in small groups (practical classes typically capped at 14 students)

Academic modules are interwoven with your first three clinical placements, allowing you to immediately apply your classroom learning in supervised healthcare environments.

Year 2

In the second year, you’ll deepen your knowledge and prepare for autonomous practice. You’ll also complete a research project (dissertation) on a topic relevant to physiotherapy practice, which sharpens your critical thinking and analytical skills. Additional clinical placements throughout the year ensure continued development of practical expertise across different patient populations and healthcare settings.

Learning & Teaching Methods

RGU uses active learning techniques to keep students engaged and prepare them for the realities of clinical practice. Rather than relying on traditional lectures, most classes involve:

  • Interactive group sessions

  • Problem-solving based on clinical case scenarios

  • Skills labs and simulated treatment environments

  • Supervised practice sessions in small groups

You’ll also benefit from mentorship and feedback throughout the course, both in academic modules and during placements.

 

Assessment Methods

You’ll be assessed using a combination of:

Year 1

  • Written assignments

  • Group oral presentations

  • Practical skills exams

Year 2

  • Individual written assignment

  • Dissertation

  • Oral presentation

You’ll also receive structured feedback throughout the course to help you improve and track your progress.

 

Clinical Placements

You’ll complete six placements in total:

  • Placements 1–3: Each 6 weeks in length

  • Placements 4–6: Each 5 weeks in length

  • Final placement: An elective placement that can be arranged in Canada or another country (conditions apply)

All placements are designed to meet professional regulatory requirements and expose you to a variety of physiotherapy settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, and community care.

Fees & Funding

Fees

2025-2026 International Tuition Fees: £21,730 

Please note: Tuition fees are determined on an annual basis and are subject to annual revisions. Consequently, the University may increase tuition fees in the second year or subsequent years of a program, aligning with inflation and/or adhering to the maximum limits allowed by legal or governmental regulations. Any modifications will be promptly communicated to students.


Funding

Canadian students may be eligible for student loans provided by the federal government through the Canada Student Loans Program (CSLP). Students may also be eligible for additional loans from their provincial or territorial student loan programs.

Canadian financial institutions offer student lines of credit for Canadians pursuing education abroad. Typically, a co-signer is necessary, so students should anticipate seeking a family member to serve as a guarantor.

International students with a student visa in the physiotherapy program are eligible to work up to 20 hours per week during the academic term. Exceeding the permitted work hours on a student visa constitutes a violation of your student visa and can result in serious repercussions.

Accommodations

There are several on-campus accommodation options available at Robert Gordon University, offering a range of room types to suit different budgets and preferences. Prices for university-managed residences start at approximately £99 per week, with options that include en-suite rooms, shared flats, and studio apartments. You can learn more about RGU’s student residences here.

Students may also choose to live off-campus in privately rented housing throughout Aberdeen. The city offers a wide variety of student-friendly rentals within easy reach of campus. For help finding private accommodation, students can visit the RGU Accommodation Private Sector page.

Physio Abroad will be hosting a pre-departure webinar featuring current Canadian students in RGU’s physiotherapy program. This session will offer insights and first-hand advice on securing housing and adjusting to life in Aberdeen. The webinar is exclusive to students who apply through Physio Abroad’s free application support services.

Key Information

Program Location Aberdeen, Scotland
Program Duration 2 years
Program Start February
International Tuition £21,730
Apply Now
Key Information
Program Location Aberdeen, Scotland
Program Duration 2 years
Program Start February
International Tuition £21,730
APPLY NOW

Overview

Robert Gordon University (RGU), located in Aberdeen, Scotland, offers an intensive two-year Master of Science in Physiotherapy (Pre-registration). This accelerated program is tailored for students with a background in health or life sciences and is designed to help graduates qualify as licensed physiotherapists. RGU has a long-standing history of welcoming a large number of Canadian students into its MSc Physiotherapy program each year. Many of these graduates successfully return to Canada, where they complete the credentialing process and begin working as licensed physiotherapists across the country.

With its strong academic foundation, hands-on clinical training, supportive learning environment, and established track record of Canadian graduate success, RGU is an excellent option for Canadians looking to complete their physiotherapy education abroad.

Upon successfully completing this accelerated degree, you will be eligible to apply for membership with the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP) and the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). This qualification will allow you to practice physiotherapy in the UK, should you decide to remain and work in the UK.

Highlights

  • Ranked #1 overall in the UK in 2025 for Physiotherapy by The Guardian.
  • Consistently has large cohort of Canadian students in the physiotherapy program.
  • Gain practical experience across a wide range of settings including hospitals, rehab centres, and community clinics throughout Scotland—with an optional final placement abroad (e.g., in Canada). We assist our Physio Abroad applicants in sourcing clinical placements in Canada through our large network of practicing physiotherapists.
  • Practical classes are capped at around 14 students, ensuring more hands-on opportunities and personalized support from experienced faculty.
  • Develop critical thinking and clinical reasoning skills through case-based learning, applied research, and a final dissertation.
  • Aberdeen consistently ranks as one of the safest and most affordable cities in the UK for students. With a large student population, great public transport, and plenty of cafes, shops, and green spaces, it’s an ideal home away from home for international students.

Program Information

Admission Requirements
  • Bachelor’s degree in a relevant subject (e.g., Kinesiology, Health Sciences, Biomedical studies).
  • Coursework in human anatomy and physiology
  • Minimum overall GPA of 3.0 on a 4 point scale, or equivalent
  • Canadian High-School Grade 12 Math and English.
  • Personal Statement response to 4 questions provided to you by your Physio Abroad advisor.
  • Applicants must demonstrate experience in research or an understanding of the research process (e.g., through a research methods course) or experience with the research process)
  • Volunteering or work experience in healthcare or physiotherapy settings is highly recommended.
  • Academic reference.
  • Applicants who satisfy the initial eligibility criteria will be shortlisted for a group interview as part of the admissions process.
  • Students who are given offers must complete a police record check (Canadian equivalent to Disclosure and Barring Services background clearing check) and provide satisfactory immunization records (Canadian equivalent of the Fitness to practise and health requirements).
Admission Timeline

Applications are processed and evaluated as they are received, rather than waiting until a specific deadline to review all applications. As acceptances are granted, spaces in the program will fill up. It is advised to apply as soon as possible in the admission cycle in order to have the best opportunity to potentially secure a spot in the program.

Interviews for January 2026 Entry:

  • February 24, 2025
  • February 25, 2025
  • April 7, 2025
  • May 26, 2025
  • June 23, 2025
Program Structure

RGU’s MSc Physiotherapy (Pre-registration) is delivered over two years of full-time study and integrates academic coursework with clinical placements from the very beginning. The curriculum is designed to develop clinical reasoning, practical physiotherapy skills, and the ability to evaluate and apply evidence-based practice.

Year 1

The first year focuses on building foundational knowledge across core areas of physiotherapy—musculoskeletal, neurological, and cardiorespiratory practice. You’ll also begin developing key skills in exercise prescription, health promotion, and patient-centered care. Learning is hands-on and highly interactive, with a strong emphasis on real-world application through:

  • Practical workshops and simulated learning using volunteer patients

  • Case-based discussions to develop clinical reasoning

  • Tutorials and seminars in small groups (practical classes typically capped at 14 students)

Academic modules are interwoven with your first three clinical placements, allowing you to immediately apply your classroom learning in supervised healthcare environments.

Year 2

In the second year, you’ll deepen your knowledge and prepare for autonomous practice. You’ll also complete a research project (dissertation) on a topic relevant to physiotherapy practice, which sharpens your critical thinking and analytical skills. Additional clinical placements throughout the year ensure continued development of practical expertise across different patient populations and healthcare settings.

Learning & Teaching Methods

RGU uses active learning techniques to keep students engaged and prepare them for the realities of clinical practice. Rather than relying on traditional lectures, most classes involve:

  • Interactive group sessions

  • Problem-solving based on clinical case scenarios

  • Skills labs and simulated treatment environments

  • Supervised practice sessions in small groups

You’ll also benefit from mentorship and feedback throughout the course, both in academic modules and during placements.

 

Assessment Methods

You’ll be assessed using a combination of:

Year 1

  • Written assignments

  • Group oral presentations

  • Practical skills exams

Year 2

  • Individual written assignment

  • Dissertation

  • Oral presentation

You’ll also receive structured feedback throughout the course to help you improve and track your progress.

 

Clinical Placements

You’ll complete six placements in total:

  • Placements 1–3: Each 6 weeks in length

  • Placements 4–6: Each 5 weeks in length

  • Final placement: An elective placement that can be arranged in Canada or another country (conditions apply)

All placements are designed to meet professional regulatory requirements and expose you to a variety of physiotherapy settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, and community care.

Fees & Funding

Fees

2025-2026 International Tuition Fees: £21,730 

Please note: Tuition fees are determined on an annual basis and are subject to annual revisions. Consequently, the University may increase tuition fees in the second year or subsequent years of a program, aligning with inflation and/or adhering to the maximum limits allowed by legal or governmental regulations. Any modifications will be promptly communicated to students.


Funding

Canadian students may be eligible for student loans provided by the federal government through the Canada Student Loans Program (CSLP). Students may also be eligible for additional loans from their provincial or territorial student loan programs.

Canadian financial institutions offer student lines of credit for Canadians pursuing education abroad. Typically, a co-signer is necessary, so students should anticipate seeking a family member to serve as a guarantor.

International students with a student visa in the physiotherapy program are eligible to work up to 20 hours per week during the academic term. Exceeding the permitted work hours on a student visa constitutes a violation of your student visa and can result in serious repercussions.

Accommodations

There are several on-campus accommodation options available at Robert Gordon University, offering a range of room types to suit different budgets and preferences. Prices for university-managed residences start at approximately £99 per week, with options that include en-suite rooms, shared flats, and studio apartments. You can learn more about RGU’s student residences here.

Students may also choose to live off-campus in privately rented housing throughout Aberdeen. The city offers a wide variety of student-friendly rentals within easy reach of campus. For help finding private accommodation, students can visit the RGU Accommodation Private Sector page.

Physio Abroad will be hosting a pre-departure webinar featuring current Canadian students in RGU’s physiotherapy program. This session will offer insights and first-hand advice on securing housing and adjusting to life in Aberdeen. The webinar is exclusive to students who apply through Physio Abroad’s free application support services.

Schedule a Free Consultation Today

 

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