Physiotherapist
Also called Sports physiotherapist.
Physiotherapists assess and treat mobility problems in patients caused by illness, injury, ageing or disability.
- Potential salary
- £32,000 starter to £48,000 experienced per year
- Typical hours
- 35 to 40. Working pattern: 9am to 5pm on a rota.
- Career area
- Health and care
- Where they might work
- You could work in an NHS or private hospital, at a client's home, at an adult care home, at a GP practice or at a fitness centre.
- A typical task
- assess patients' joint and movement problems
- Subjects that may help
- 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including biology for a degree
- Typical route
- You can do a physiotherapy degree course approved by the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy.
- Interest area used here
- Helping and teaching
What you might do
- assess patients' joint and movement problems
- plan treatments, using exercises, massage and ultrasound
- advise patients on how to minimise the risk of injuries
- keep accurate records of treatment and progress
- work closely with other health professionals
Could this suit me?
Consider which of these skills and ways of working appeal to you.
- to enjoy working with other people
- knowledge of medicine and how the body works
- sensitivity and understanding
- customer service skills
- analytical thinking skills
- knowledge of psychology
More skills
- to be flexible and open to change
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
Routes into this career
University route
- You can do a physiotherapy degree course approved by the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy.
- You can also do a postgraduate master's course if you already have a first degree in a related subject, like: biological science; health science; sports and exercise science.
- Once you are qualified and have clinical experience you could specialise in an area like sports injuries and rehabilitation.
University courses that could lead to this career
These are course families, not published offers. A link does not mean the degree is sufficient on its own.
- Physiotherapy
Direct qualifying route. An approved physiotherapy degree is the registration route.
- Sport and exercise science
Related, but not enough on its own. This degree does not register you. It can be a background for a postgraduate physiotherapy course where a university accepts it.
- Sports Therapy
Related, but not enough on its own. Sports therapy does not replace an HCPC-approved physiotherapy degree.
Apprenticeship or vocational route
- You can apply to do a Physiotherapist Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship.
- It usually takes 4 years to complete and includes a mix of learning on the job while studying at university.
- You may be able to start as a physiotherapy assistant, for example in the NHS, and study part time for a degree or degree apprenticeship to qualify as a physiotherapist.
- a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study
Other routes
- Volunteering in the NHS is a good way to get work experience in healthcare. This can be helpful when you apply for training or jobs.
- You can also get advice on work experience from the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy.
Career progression
- With experience, you could: become a senior physiotherapist or service manager in the NHS; specialise in a specific area, like stroke care, sports physiotherapy or working with children; move into research or training; work for a professional sports club; become self employed and set-up your own practice.
- There are also opportunities for physiotherapists in the armed forces, including the army and the Royal Air Force.
Registration and requirements
you'll need to register with the Health and Care Professions Council
pass enhanced background checks as you may work with children and vulnerable adults
Subjects that may help
Subject guidance
- 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including biology for a degree
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, preferably including biology, for a degree apprenticeship