University: Curtin University

Degree: Bachelor of Science (Physiotherapy) (Honours)

School Subjects: Mathematics Methods, English, Human Biology, Music, Japanese

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Growing up and throughout high school, I really enjoyed playing sports; this always made me curious about Physiotherapy. When selecting a course to study at uni, I always knew I wanted to go into a stream of healthcare, so I decided to pick physio, which I thought would allow me to connect both of my interests together. I attended some university open days and always asked lots of questions at the health science booths to see if the course would fit me as a learner and as a person. I’ve always found it easier to learn through hands-on experience, so this course’s practical nature has helped me grasp and apply skills more effectively.

Physiotherapy

At Curtin, Physiotherapy is a 4 year course where the last year consists mainly of placements. The cohort usually stays the same for the whole duration, so you will roughly be with the same peers from first to final year. In first year, you’ll learn the majority of the fundamentals, including anatomy. I found that having some previous knowledge of Human Biology in Year 11 and Year 12 really helped me consolidate my learning and refresh my knowledge. Most classes and units are hands-on, so throughout the course, learning how to become a healthcare professional and handle patients is important. It’s no surprise that the majority of assessments and exams will be practical in nature—it is all about learning, and you’ll have many opportunities to practise and improve throughout the course.

A common misconception is that physiotherapists work mainly in clinics, helping athletes and everyday people. However, throughout the course, it truly opened my eyes to the diverse pathways of being a physiotherapist. This includes working in hospitals, physical education, rehabilitation, and aged care, to name a few. Within the course, you are also taught how to build rapport with patients and how to communicate effectively.