Ranking
2nd
in the QS World Rankings
Course overview
Dive into the theory behind manipulative and musculoskeletal physiotherapy and we will empower you to sharpen your clinical reasoning and elevate your skills to the next level in advanced practice. Our Advanced Manipulative Physiotherapy MSc course makes you eligible to join two professional groups: the Musculoskeletal Association of Chartered Physiotherapists (MACP) and the International Federation of Orthopaedic Manipulative Physical Therapists (IFOMPT).
This course harnesses the power of clinical reasoning to blend diverse approaches to musculoskeletal practice. You'll dive deep into assessing and managing conditions, while evaluating evidence and your own experiences, all to elevate your expertise in this specialised field.
"I can't stress enough the incredible support I've received at every stage of my experience in the Advanced Manipulative Physiotherapy programme. Whether facing personal or academic challenges, the support provided has been exceptional".
Course structure
This course will run over 13 months in a full-time mode. Study a range of compulsory and optional modules completed with an applied-themed research dissertation. While the exact content may change, here’s what you can expect to study each semester.
Autumn Term : 29 September 2025 – 12 December 2025
The term one includes three modules. 'Advanced Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy - 1' focuses on assessing and managing lower quadrant conditions, developing clinical reasoning, decision-making, and evidence-based practice with a hands-on approach.'Innovation in Professional Development' highlights reflective practice, CPD, and interdisciplinary collaboration and you will also complete 'Research Methodlogy in Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation'.
Course highlights
Our Advanced Manipulative Physiotherapy MSc stands out by offering MACP and IFOMPT membership, personalised mentorship, and flexible learning. You will study at a world-class research facility and develop advanced practices in musculoskeletal physiotherapy. Tailor your education to your life, and emerge with the skills to critically evaluate, effectively manage, and innovatively research within your clinical specialty.
- Flexible study which can be organised around your other commitments.
- Support of a personal tutor and dissertation supervisor• Delivered by industry specialists.
- Opportunities to be involved at MoveWell through experiential education placements and in unpaid volunteer positions.
- 6th
In the latest Research Excellence Framework (REF)
- 6th
In the world (QS World University Rankings 2024)
- 2nd
in the UK (QS World University Rankings 2024)
Course delivery
This course is delivered via a number of methods, including distance learning, two/three day blocks of teaching etc. If you decide to only take one module per semester, you will only need to be at the University for the duration of that module and any scheduled tutorials (organised by each module leader depending on the module). You will participate in a range of teaching styles such as lectures, small group tutorials, presentations, peer group learning, self-study etc.
- Lectures - delivered by a mixture of academic experts and professional individuals who are active within physiotherapy related organisations.
- Seminars and tutorials - led by both tutors and students to facilitate peer-to-peer learning.
- Assessments - a combination of coursework assessments, research papers, reports, reflective commentaries and oral examinations.
Module information
All modules on this course must be passed with students requiring 120 credits for PgD and 180 credits for the MSc award.
The modules listed for this programme are regularly reviewed to ensure they are up-to-date and informed by the latest research and teaching methods.
The optional module information listed for this programme is intended to be indicative, and the availability of optional modules may vary from year to year. Where a module is no longer available we will let you know as soon as we can and help you to make other choices.
2025/26 Session
The following must be taken:
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| LM Dissertation | 60 | Full Term |
| LM Research Methodology in Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation | 20 | Semester 1 |
| Continuing Professional Development and Mentored Practice | 20 | Full Term |
| LM Advanced Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy 1: Lower Quadrant | 20 | Semester 1 |
| LM Advanced Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy 2: Upper Quadrant | 20 | Semester 2 |
| LM Innovation in Professional Development | 20 | Semester 1 |
Students must take a total of 20 credits from other modules on offer within the School or from modules on offer from other Schools. Profile of modules available varies depending on availability and viability. Examples of modules on offer in the School include:
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| LM Chronic Disease Management | 20 | Semester 1 |
| LM Sports Medicine Assessment | 20 | Semester 1 |
| LM Sports Medicine Rehabilitation | 20 | Semester 2 |
| LM Sports Medicine Rehabilitation | 20 | Semester 2 |
| LM Theory and Practice of Leadership | 20 | Semester 1 |
| Neuromuscular adaptation to training | 20 | Semester 2 |
Entry requirements
To gain a place at Birmingham you will need to meet our general entry requirements, as well as those specific to your course. Your application will be reviewed by the course’s Admissions Tutor, who will decide whether your application should receive an offer.
- 2:1 honours degree
You must provide detail in your application your experiences of using manipulative/musculoskeletal physiotherapy skills within a practice base setting to evidence fulfilment of 1500 hours (hours accrued as part of your pre-registration/qualifying education or internship do not count).
Supporting evidence of appropriate continuing professional development during this experience will also be required. Additional criteria for clinical mentored clinical practice in the UK. Please note that if these criteria are not met within three months of starting the programme, you may be required to transfer to a non-clinical programme or to undertake your placement in your home country.
Admission to the programme is on the basis that you will have:
- Current registration with the Health & Care Professions Council and the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (includes professional indemnity).
- A BSc/BA Honours degree or equivalent. (Evidence of equivalence of your qualification(s) to the UK educational system of awards can be found at NARIC). The degree should normally be a first or upper-second-class Honours degree.
- Evidence of satisfactory current Disclosure and Barring Service check.
- Evidence of satisfactory health declaration and immunisation record.
You will also need to submit the following documentation in support of your application:
- Two academic/employer references in support of your application and professional and practical capabilities;
- Transcripts of your degrees so far (certified and translated in to English if appropriate).
Your personal statement to detail.
- Evidence of a minimum of 1500 hours experience post qualification of using manipulative/musculoskeletal physiotherapy within a musculoskeletal context.- supporting evidence of appropriate continuing professional development during this experience in musculoskeletal physiotherapy will also be required
- Evidence of HCPC and CSP registrationIt is reccomened you apply for HCPC registration as soon as you submit an application with us due to the length of time it takes for applications to be accepted.
English language requirements
If you are an international student, you will need to demonstrate you have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification.
For this course we require IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band, which is equivalent to:
- TOEFL: 88 overall with no less than 21 in Reading, 20 Listening, 22 Speaking and 21 in Writing
- Pearson Test of English (PTE): Academic 67 with no less than 64 in all four skills
- Cambridge English: C1 Advanced - minimum overall score of 176, with no less than 169 in any component
- LanguageCert ESOL SELT (UKVI): B2 'Communicator' with no less than 33 in each skill
English Presessional Programmes
Improve your knowledge of spoken and written English in preparation for studying at Birmingham with our pre-sessional English courses. If you have a conditional offer, you can take one of these courses as an alternative to retaking IELTS or other similar qualifications.
Fees and scholarships
- £14,250
Full-time
We charge an annual tuition fee. Fees for 2025 entry are above.
The fees quoted are for one year only; for those studying courses over two or more years, tuition fees will also be payable in subsequent years of your programme.
Paying your tuition fees
Tuition fees can either be paid in full or by instalments. You can check whether you are eligible for UK or international fees with our admissions team.
Learn more about postgraduate tuition fees and funding.
Postgraduate Masters Loan
To help with the cost of studies, this loan is available to all UK students. You can use this loan towards fees, maintenance or other costs at your own discretion. It’s available for all full-time, part-time and distance learning Masters programmes, as long as you don’t already have a Masters qualification (or equivalent).If you’re a student from Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland, you can apply for Masters loans from your country’s government.
Scholarships
To help you afford your studies, we’ve put more than £33 million into student support and scholarships. We also offer a range of advice on searching for funding and managing your finances.
Birmingham Masters Scholarships
We want to welcome the brightest talent to our postgraduate community. That’s why our Birmingham Masters Scholarships award £3,000 to more than 300 students each year.
Application process
To apply for a postgraduate programme, you will need to submit your application and supporting documents online.
Select whether you are a UK student or an international student for relevant application deadlines.
- 31 August 2025
Application deadline for UK and non-tier 4 applicants. We will close applications as soon as the programme is full. Early applications are encouraged.
We have put together some helpful information on the taught programme application process and supporting documents. Please read this information carefully before completing your application.
Career opportunities
Physiotherapy graduates have entered careers both in the NHS and private sector. They work in hospitals, in the community as well as sports clubs and the military. An increasing number of Physiotherapy graduates are working on a freelance basis alongside their work in the NHS. Some choose to pursue further studies in education, research or undertake further training. With our dedicated Careers Network, you’re supported every step of the way, ensuring you’re well-equipped to excel in the dynamic field of physiotherapy.
My experience on the course was excellent and it has been invaluable in my development as a critical thinking practitioner. The course was delivered by leading academics and external lecturers who are leading experts in their fields making it exciting to be part of. The University staff are supportive and passionate about their work. The content was well balanced with lectures, practicals, written work, presentations and clinical assessment. All elements are valuable and in addition, peer support is amazing and you meet so interesting people in your fellow students. My group supported each other (and still do) on our journeys and share in each other’s success. This was a bonus!
Careers Network
Get ready for tomorrow, with advice, guidance and opportunities at every step of your studies. From developing new skills to preparing for a PhD, our Careers Network can help you gain an advantage in the job market or advance in your field.
Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network offers a range of events and support services including networking opportunities, career coaching, one-to-one guidance, careers fairs and links with leading graduate recruiters. We also offer subject-specific careers consultants and a dedicated careers website for international students.
Student experience
At Birmingham, your university experience isn’t just about studying. You will have the opportunity to discover new experiences, develop different skills and make friends for life.
Our bustling campus with its beautiful grounds, friendly community and excellent facilities will quickly make you feel at home. We offer you a huge variety of accommodation options in the UK’s second city, exciting activities to get involved in outside your studies, as well as all the support and advice you need.
Accommodation
Coming to Birmingham to study might be your first time living away from home. Our student accommodation will allow you to enjoy your independence in safe, welcoming and sociable surroundings.
Living in Birmingham
As one of the original pioneering cities, Birmingham has developed into a melting pot for shopping, food and drink, nightlife, sport, culture, and industry. It’s no wonder our students fall in love with the city.
Campus life
Our green and spacious campus is the place where our diverse community comes together to learn, relax and socialise. Like a town of its own, just minutes from the hustle and bustle of the UK’s second city.
Student support
Whoever you are and wherever you come from, we are committed to providing the best possible support to all of our students, both before you start and throughout your time on campus, so that you can get the most out of your university experience.
Take a virtual tour
Explore our beautiful campus from wherever you are. Get a feel for the wide range of historic and modern spaces and state-of-the-art facilities.