University of Sydney, Faculty of Health Sciences
School of Physiotherapy
COURSE REVIEW
AND
DETAILED COURSE PROPOSAL
MASTER OF HEALTH SCIENCE
(Sports and Manipulative Physiotherapy)
Table of Contents
PAGE
INTRODUCTION...1
1. COURSE OVERVIEW ...2
2. CONTENT AND PURPOSE ...2
3. RATIONALE FOR THE COURSE...3
4. ADMISSION ...4
5. STUDENT LOAD...5
6. COURSE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ...7
7. DESIGN AND STRUCTURE OF THE COURSE ...8
PROPOSED OUTLINE OF THE REVISED COURSE...9
DESCRIPTIONS OF UNITS OF STUDY...12
8. INTERNAL COURSE LOAD DETAILS...19
9. DIRECTION AND ADMINISTRATION OF THE COURSE ...19
10. FACILITIES (EXISTING AND REQUIRED) ...19
11. FEES ...20
12. COURSE DEVELOPMENT AND CONSULTATION...20
13. EVALUATION ...20
APPENDICES APPENDIX I: Proposed Senate Resolutions ...21 APPENDIX II: Library Impact Statement... APPENDIX III: Minutes from CDAM...
INTRODUCTION
This document presents a proposal for the introduction of a new combined masters course, entitled the Master of Health Science (Sports and Manipulative Physiotherapy). The proposed course will provide the opportunity for students to transfer from the current Master of Health Science (Sports Physiotherapy) or Master of Health Science (Manipulative Physiotherapy) to obtain a dual qualification. Both the Master of Health Science (Sports Physiotherapy) and Master of Health Science (Manipulative Physiotherapy) commenced in 2001 in the School of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences. The previous programs were offered at postgraduate diploma level, with the option of converting to a Master of Applied Science§ after completion of further coursework. This course was extensively revised in the development of the current masters programs.
The intention in offering this master degree in sports and manipulative physiotherapy is to meet a substantial need within the physiotherapy community. The nature of the professional caseload of physiotherapists working in musculoskeletal physiotherapy dictates that they require the knowledge and skills entailed in both qualifications. Therefore, a degree combining the two fields of speciality is already offered at another physiotherapy school (University of South Australia). Several other Schools of Physiotherapy (in Western Australia, Victoria and Queensland) have indicated an intention to introduce similar combined programs. In the recent review of both the Graduate Diploma of Applied Science (Sports Physiotherapy) and Graduate Diploma of Applied Science (Manipulative Physiotherapy) programs at the Faculty of Health Sciences, the curriculum was designed to facilitate the process of making the dual qualification possible. Common units of study were developed, to provide integration between the specialties.
As the largest School of Physiotherapy in Australia, together with University of South Australia we are leading the move towards the combination of the two fields of specialty. In addition, the combined master degree will meet the needs of the professional association, be responding to the needs of physiotherapists in the field, and will remain competitive with the other School of Physiotherapy where the combined degree is currently offered. The professional association (Australian Physiotherapy Association) requires the completion of a masters’ degree in the field of specialty to be recognised as a titled expert in the field.
§ Prior to 2000, the nomenclature of coursework degrees in the School of Physiotherapy was either Graduate
1. Course Overview
1.1 Name of Course
Master of Health Science (Sports and Manipulative Physiotherapy)
1.2 Nomenclature of the Award
Master of Health Science (Sports and Manipulative Physiotherapy) Abbreviation: MHlthSc(Sports & ManipPhty)
1.3 Length of the Course and Modes of Offering
One and a half years full-time, or equivalent.
Part-time modes normally will be twice the length of the full-time mode.
Students may be permitted to extend part-time enrolment up to a maximum of 5 years duration, with permission from the Head of School. As with other courses, students who meet course entry requirements will be able to enrol in units of study as non-award students, subject to the availability of places and resources. (See section 5.3).
Although Graduate Diploma and Graduate Certificate awards will not be offered as enrolment options, these awards will be available, with approval from the Head of School, as early exit awards for students who do not complete the required 48 credit points. A Graduate Diploma of Health Science (Physiotherapy) will be awarded for the completion of at least 36 credit points, while a Graduate Certificate of Health Science (Physiotherapy) will be awarded for the completion of at least 24 credit points. Students wishing to enrol in the Master of Health Science (Sports and Manipulative Physiotherapy) degree, who cannot meet the entry criteria, will be required to undertake a qualifying program.
1.4 Master of Health Science (Sports and Manipulative Physiotherapy) Honours
MHlthSc(Sports&ManipPhty)Hon
As with other Master degree programs within the School and Faculty, students can transfer to a Master of Health Science (Sports and Manipulative Physiotherapy) Honours, provided they have successfully completed the Master of Health Science (Sports and Manipulative Physiotherapy) pass degree at a level deemed to be of sufficient merit by the School.
2. Content and Purpose
2.1 Content
The content and structure of the program will enable students to study specialised as well as general areas. Each individual program, i.e. Master of Health Science (Sports Physiotherapy) or (Manipulative Physiotherapy) will consist of 8 units of study each valued at 6-credit points. The 8 units of study will comprise 3 units that will be common to all School of Physiotherapy coursework programs, and 5
and 2 clinical units. For the combined degree, students must complete a further 30 credit points in the alternate specialty, consisting of clinical and academic units of study (Tables 4 - 6). For the outline of the course see page 9, and for descriptions of units of study see page 12.
2.2 Purpose of the Program
The purpose of the program is to meet the needs of physiotherapists working in musculoskeletal clinical practice where advanced clinical reasoning and advanced therapeutic treatment skills are required for the comprehensive management of the complex cases that present or are referred to these experts.
2.3 Similar Programs Within the University or Elsewhere
A combined sports and manipulative physiotherapy master degree by coursework is currently offered by one other School of Physiotherapy in Australia. The University of South Australia offers the Master of Physiotherapy (Sports and Advanced Manipulative Physiotherapy). However, Curtin University and the Universities of Queensland and Melbourne are currently planning a combined course. The University of Sydney is seen as a leader in the field of musculoskeletal physiotherapy, and has been consulted in the development of the other courses.
3. Rationale for the Program
3.1 Rationale for Introducing the Program
The combined degree is being offered to meet the needs expressed by musculoskeletal physiotherapists during the review of both the Sports and Manipulative Physiotherapy programs. The degree was designed to encourage discussion and exchange of ideas between the two groups of students. An additional benefit is that the combined degree allows for more efficient use of human and institutional resources.
3.2 Need and Student Demand for the Program
A need for the program has been expressed by both Australian and overseas physiotherapists. Several local graduates of the individual programs have returned to complete the alternate program indicating that there is a demand in the Australian physiotherapy community for specialisation in both fields. The combined degree will also be attractive to overseas students, because it can be obtained after 18 months full-time study, thus minimising administrative and personal inconvenience.
4. Admission
4.1 Admission Requirements
To qualify for admission to this program conducted by the School of Physiotherapy, applicants will:
a) Possess an award of Bachelor of Applied Science (Physiotherapy) from the Cumberland College of Health Sciences or from The University of Sydney; or
b) Possess an award of Bachelor of Science with a major in Anatomy from the University of New South Wales, or its equivalent, and a Graduate Diploma in Physiotherapy from Cumberland College of Health Sciences; or
c) Possess such qualifications as are deemed to be equivalent to (a) and/or (b); or
d) Other evidence of academic, general and/or professional qualifications as will satisfy the School of Physiotherapy that the applicant possesses the educational preparation and capacity to pursue graduate studies.
The successful applicant will have at least two years clinical experience in musculoskeletal physiotherapy and demonstrate continuing education within the field of sports or manipulative physiotherapy.
4.2 Selection Criteria and Selection Process
The selection process will involve a review of the applicant’s ability to meet the admission requirements and consideration of the available places in the program.
4.3 Credit Transfer
For new enrolments, credit transfer will follow the existing Faculty policy as outlined in the Faculty of Health Sciences Handbook. Students must complete the prescribed 48-credit point program in Sports Physiotherapy or Manipulative Physiotherapy before transferring to the combined degree program. The combined degree will require the completion of additional credit points that complement the previous degree (Tables 2-4). In other words, those who have completed the requirements of the Master of Health Science (Manipulative Physiotherapy) will complete units of study to expand their Sports Physiotherapy knowledge and skills, and vice versa.
Students who have had the degree of Master of Health Science (Sports Physiotherapy) or (Manipulative Physiotherapy) conferred but elect to return to enrol in the alternate degree, will not be awarded the combined degree. They will, instead, have two masters degrees, ie, Master of Health Science (Sports Physiotherapy) and Master of Health Science (Manipulative Physiotherapy).
Credit transfer is outlined below for potential applicants, including:
• Enrolled students of Master of Health Science (Manipulative Physiotherapy) or (Sports Physiotherapy)
• Graduates of Master of Health Science (Manipulative Physiotherapy) or (Sports Physiotherapy)
• Graduates of Master of Applied Science (Manipulative Physiotherapy) or (Sports Physiotherapy) within 5 years, and
• Graduates of Graduate Diploma of Applied Science (Manipulative Physiotherapy) or (Sports Physiotherapy) within 5 years
Enrolled students of Master of Health Science (Manipulative Physiotherapy) or (Sports Physiotherapy)
Students enrolled in the Master of Health Science (Manipulative Physiotherapy) or (Sports Physiotherapy) from 2001 who wish to transfer to the 72 credit points combined degree can do so by completing 24 credit points units of study in addition to the 48 credit points of the original degree.
Graduates of Master of Health Science (Manipulative Physiotherapy) or (Sports
Physiotherapy)
The combined course is not available to these applicants. These applicants can take out the award of the alternate master degree by successfully completing 30 credit points.
Graduates of Master of Applied Science§ (Manipulative Physiotherapy) or (Sports
Physiotherapy) within 5 years
The combined course is not available to these applicants. These applicants can take out the award of the alternate master degree by successfully completing 30 credit points.
Graduates of Graduate Diploma of Applied Science§ (Manipulative Physiotherapy)
or (Sports Physiotherapy) within 5 years
These applicants can convert to a Master of Health Science (Manipulative Physiotherapy) or (Sports Physiotherapy), by a path that already exists for this conversion. They can then complete the alternate master degree by completing 30 credit points.
5. Student Load
5.1 Proposed Year of Program Commencement
Semester 1, 2002. Intakes thereafter will be in the first semester each year.
§ Prior to 2000, the nomenclature of coursework degrees was either Graduate Diploma or Master of Applied
5.2 Projected Enrolments for the First Three Years
Table 1. Projected enrolments for 2002-2004
2002 2003 2004
M M M
Local FT 2 2 2
Local PT 6 8 10
TOTAL 8 10 12
M - course-work masters, FT - full-time, PT - part-time
5.3 Length of Candidature
Full-time mode: Total length of candidature for the combined degree will be 3 semesters full-time. That is, 2 semesters for the single degree and an additional 1 semester to complete the combined degree.
Part-time mode: Total length of candidature for the combined degree will be 6 semesters part-time. That is, 4 semesters for the single degree and an additional 2 semesters to complete the combined degree. Candidates will be encouraged to complete the additional units of study in one semester; if they choose to undertake only one unit of study at a time, they may be required to return the following year for Semester I to complete the second unit of study. (See section 1.3).
Early exit options:
• Students who enrol in the combined degree, but elect to exit having successfully completed the requirements of the single degree will be awarded the single degree.
• Students who return to complete the combined degree after taking out the award of a single degree, must complete the units of study in the alternate degree and an additional 6 credit point unit of study (Topics in Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy PHTY XXXX). This extra requirement is necessary to ensure that two degrees are not awarded for the same workload as required for the combined degree.
• Although Graduate Diploma and Graduate Certificate awards will not be offered as enrolment options, these awards will be available, with approval from the Head of School, as early exit awards for students who do not complete the required 48 credit points. A Graduate Diploma of Health Science (Physiotherapy) will be awarded for the completion of at least 36 credit points, while a Graduate Certificate of Health Science (Physiotherapy) will be awarded for the completion of at least 24 credit points. Students wishing to enrol in the Master of Health Science (Sports&ManipPhty) degree, who cannot meet the entry criteria, will be required to undertake a qualifying program
6. Program Aims and Objectives
6.1 Aims:
The principal aims of the program are to:
• Produce a body of graduates with academic and clinical skills to foster and develop the role of physiotherapy in the specialist area of sports and manipulative physiotherapy, and
• Encourage the development of a high standard of academic and clinical skills and promote a scientific approach to the evaluation of current therapeutic interventions.
This program will also enable physiotherapists to gain credit towards the Australian Physiotherapy Association title of Sports Physiotherapist, Manipulative Physiotherapist and towards the clinical specialisation process of the Australian College of Physiotherapists.
6.1 Objectives:
All of the objectives below will be applied specifically, though not exclusively, to the area of sports and manipulative physiotherapy and will be at a graduate level. By the end of this program the graduate will be able to:
• plan, implement and evaluate therapeutic interventions based on current information
• measure outcomes of interventions
• evaluate scientific and theoretical literature
• demonstrate advanced competence in deriving clinical implications from scientific and theoretical literature
• provide leadership in the field of musculoskeletal and sports physiotherapy
• design clinical research
• demonstrate and promote curiosity and clinical scholarship
• anticipate and prevent secondary dysfunction
• explain clearly and logically the scientific reasoning underlying intervention strategies.
6.1 Conceptual Framework
Competent advanced physiotherapy practice is underpinned by knowledge from the behavioural and biological sciences, in addition to clinical reasoning and physiotherapeutic clinical skills. The advanced practice of musculoskeletal physiotherapy is based on research and is cognisant of evidence-based practice issues in a contemporaneous medico-legal environment. The proposed program is informed by all the sciences and disciplines relevant to competent musculoskeletal physiotherapy practice.
7. Design and Structure of the Program
7.1 Design of the Program
Based on feedback from graduates of past programs, the proposed course is offered mainly in daytime mode, with all units of study except clinical education offered on campus and on two days each week. This design also addresses the reality that many students need to work while studying.
The clinical subjects are offered at sites off campus, eg NSW public hospitals in reasonable proximity to the campus, sporting events and private clinics.
7.2 Structure and Content of the Program
The program will require the completion of a 48 credit point Master of Health Science (Sports Physiotherapy) or (Manipulative Physiotherapy) followed by completion of 30 credit points in the other discipline (see Tables 2-4). The program can be undertaken in full-time or part-time mode.
Normally, students enrolled in the combined program will not take out the first award, but will transfer to the combined award. Content will include biomedical and behavioural sciences, research methods and clinical practice (Table 4-6; and subject descriptions page 12)
7.3 Teaching Strategies and Learning Experiences
A variety of teaching strategies will be employed to give the student a varied and comprehensive series of learning experiences including lectures, tutorial sessions, practical sessions, self-directed learning modules and clinical education. The type of teaching strategy employed will depend on the content and goals of the units of study.
7.4 Assessment Policy
A variety of types of assessment will be used to evaluate the student’s
performance. Assessment procedures outlined in the Faculty Assessment Manual will be followed. This manual incorporates assessment policy and procedures of The Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Sydney.
Proposed Outline of the Revised Course
Table 2: Master of Health Science (Sports Physiotherapy) Course code Mode of offer
1673 Full-time: 1 year 1674 Part-time: 2 years Credit points: 48
Unit code Unit name Sem 1 Sem 2
Full-time mode
PHTY5100 Evaluation and Research in Physiotherapy Practice 6
PHTY5101 Advanced Functional Anatomy and Biomechanics 6
PHTY5103 Musculoskeletal Sports Injuries A 6
PHTY5104 Clinical Sports Physiotherapy A 6
PHTY5105 Physiological and Cognitive Bases of Clinical Practice 6
PHTY5106 Musculoskeletal Sports Injuries B 6
PHTY5107 Advanced Complex Case Studies in Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy 6
PHTY5108 Clinical Sports Physiotherapy B 6
24 24 Part-time mode
Year 1
PHTY5100 Evaluation and Research in Physiotherapy Practice 6
PHTY5101 Advanced Functional Anatomy and Biomechanics 6
PHTY5105 Physiological and Cognitive Bases of Clinical Practice 6
PHTY5106 Musculoskeletal Sports Injuries B 6
12 12
Year 2
PHTY5103 Musculoskeletal Sports Injuries A 6
PHTY5104 Clinical Sports Physiotherapy A 6
PHTY5107 Advanced Complex Case Studies in Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy 6
PHTY5108 Clinical Sports Physiotherapy B 6
12 12 Table 3: Master of Health Science (Manipulative Physiotherapy)
Course code Mode of offer 1657 Full-time: 1 year 1658 Part-time: 2 years Credit points: 48
Unit code Unit name Sem 1 Sem 2
Full-time mode
PHTY5100 Evaluation and Research in Physiotherapy Practice 6
PHTY5101 Advanced Functional Anatomy and Biomechanics 6
PHTY5124 Advanced Musculoskeletal Disorders A 6
PHTY5125 Clinical Manipulative Physiotherapy A 6
PHTY5105 Physiological and Cognitive Bases of Clinical Practice 6
PHTY5126 Advanced Musculoskeletal Disorders B 6
PHTY5127 Advanced Complex Case Studies in Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy 6
PHTY5128 Clinical Manipulative Physiotherapy B 6
24 24
Year 1
PHTY5100 Evaluation and Research in Physiotherapy Practice 6
PHTY5101 Advanced Functional Anatomy and Biomechanics 6
PHTY5105 Physiological and Cognitive Bases of Clinical Practice 6
PHTY5126 Advanced Musculoskeletal Disorders B 6
12 12
Year 2
PHTY5124 Advanced Musculoskeletal Disorders A 6
PHTY5125 Clinical Manipulative Physiotherapy A 6
PHTY5127 Advanced Complex Case Studies in Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy 6
PHTY5128 Clinical Manipulative Physiotherapy B 6
12 12
Table 4: Master of Health Science (Sports and Manipulative Physiotherapy)
The Master of Health Science (Sports and Manipulative Physiotherapy) degree involves the addition of 24 credit points
Course code Mode of offer
XXXX Full-time: 1 Semester
XXXX Part-time: 2 Semesters (each in Semester 1 over 18 months) Total credit points: 72
Yr 1: 48 credit points (see Tables 2 and 3) Credit points: 24
Unit code Unit name Sem 1 Sem 2
Full-time mode PHTYXXXX PHTYXXXX
Clinical Manipulative Physiotherapy C AND Clinical Manipulative Physiotherapy D
12 12
Stage total (24 credit points) 24 OR
PHTYXXXX PHTYXXXX
Clinical Sports Physiotherapy C AND Clinical Sports Physiotherapy D
12 12
Stage total (24 credit points) 24
Part-time mode PHTYXXXX PHTYXXXX
Clinical Manipulative Physiotherapy C AND Clinical Manipulative Physiotherapy D
12
12
Stage total (24 credit points) 12 12 OR
PHTYXXXX PHTYXXXX
Clinical Sports Physiotherapy C AND Clinical Sports Physiotherapy D
12
12
Table 5: Master of Health Science (Sports and Manipulative Physiotherapy) Honours
The Master of Health Science Honours degree involves the addition of a 12-credit point dissertation
Students of sufficient merit can apply to enter the Master of Health Science Honours degree. Course code Mode of offer
XXXX Full-time: 3 months
XXXX Part-time: Minimum 1 semester, maximum 2 semesters Credit points: 12
Unit code Unit name Sem 1 Sem 2
Full-time mode
PHTY 5109 Dissertation 12
Part-time mode
Descriptions of Units of Study
PHTY 5100 Evaluation and Research in Physiotherapy Practice Semester 1 - 6 credit points
The unit will provide the opportunity for students to learn the skills needed for the critical evaluation of literature pertinent to physiotherapy practice, the principles underlying evidence-based practice and epidemiology. This unit will also develop the students’ skills in searching electronic databases as well as acquiring scientific writing skills by developing a grant submission of a research question. In addition, the use and validity of statistical tests will be covered. The unit will be presented on-campus with regularly scheduled classes held in the late afternoon and evening. Assessment will be by written submission of annotated bibliography, grant submission, and seminar presentation.
Unit coordinator: Dr Louise Ada (ph 9351-9544)
PHTY 5101 Advanced Functional Anatomy and Biomechanics Semester 1 - 6 credit points
This unit will consist of two modules. The first will involve an in-depth exploration of functional anatomy and will comprise one half of the unit. An understanding of the relation between structure and function of muscle will lead into the second module that focuses on biomechanics. Most of this module will focus on the kinetics, power and energy of human movement as well as the mechanical properties of different body tissues. . The unit will be presented on-campus with regularly scheduled classes. Assessment will be by written examination.
Unit coordinator: Prof Jack Crosbie , School of Physiotherapy (ph 9351-9262)/ Michael Lee, School of Exercise and Sport Science / Karen Ginn, School of Biomedical Sciences.
PHTY 5105 Physiological and Cognitive Bases of Clinical Practice Semester 2 - 6 credit points
The majority of this unit will involve the study of pathophysiological adaptations of muscle and nerve to training and disuse from both the physical and behavioural perspectives. It will also cover aspects of the nutritional basis of activity, the pharmacological effects of various medications, and the effects of altered sleep patterns on function. The unit will be presented on-campus with regularly scheduled classes held in the late afternoon and evening. Assessment will be by written examinations, case studies and seminar presentations.
Unit coordinator: Dr Rob Herbert (ph 9351-9380)
PHTY 5124 Advanced Musculoskeletal Disorders A Semester 1- 6 credit points
Pre/co-requisite: Advanced Functional Anatomy and Biomechanics
This unit will focus on the assessment, clinical diagnosis and management of musculoskeletal problems in the cervical spine and upper limbs. Specific emphasis is placed on manipulative physiotherapy, but in the context of total patient management. Current clinical evidence for the role of therapeutic exercise is a focus in all areas. The unit will be held on- campus with regularly scheduled classes during the day. Assessment will include a written report, seminar presentation and practical examinations.
This unit will focus on the assessment, clinical diagnosis and management of musculoskeletal problems in the cervical spine and upper limbs. Specific emphasis is placed on sports therapy, particularly throwing and overhead injury management, but in the context of total patient management. Current clinical evidence for the role of therapeutic exercise is a focus in all areas. The unit will be held on-campus with regularly scheduled classes during the day. Assessment will include a written report, seminar presentation and practical examinations. Unit coordinator: Dr Kathryn Refshauge ph 9351 9180
PHTY 5126 Advanced Musculoskeletal Disorders B Semester 2 - 6 credit points
Pre/co-requisite: Advanced Functional Anatomy and Biomechanics
This unit will focus on the assessment, clinical diagnosis and management of musculoskeletal problems in the lumber, thoracic spine and lower limbs. Specific emphasis is placed on manipulative physiotherapy, but in the context of total patient management. The unit aims to integrate relevant knowledge from related sciences into manipulative physiotherapy practice. The unit will be held on- campus with regularly scheduled classes during the day. Assessment will include a written report, seminar presentation and practical examinations.
Unit coordinator: Debra Shirley (ph 9351-9177)
PHTY 5106 Musculoskeletal Sports Injuries B Semester 2 - 6 credit points
Pre-requisite: Advanced Functional Anatomy and Biomechanics
This unit will focus on the assessment, clinical diagnosis and management of musculoskeletal problems in the lumber, thoracic spine and lower limbs. Specific emphasis is placed on sports therapy, particularly running and jumping injury management, but in the context of total patient management.. The unit aims to integrate relevant knowledge from related sciences into manipulative physiotherapy practice. The unit will be held on-campus with regularly scheduled classes during the day. Assessment will include a written report, seminar presentation and practical examinations.
Unit coordinator: Dr Kathryn Refshauge ph 9351 9180
PHTY 5127 Advanced Complex Cases in Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy Semester 2 - 6 credit points
Pre/co-requisites: Advanced Functional Anatomy and Biomechanics, Advanced Musculoskeletal Disorders A, Advanced Musculoskeletal Disorders B OR Musculoskeletal Sports Injuries A, Musculoskeletal Sports Injuries B
This unit will adopt a problem based learning approach to the assessment and management of complex case studies of the musculoskeletal systems. The unit will be held on campus, with regularly scheduled classes during the day. Assessment will include case study analyses, group participation and seminar presentations.
Unit coordinator: Dr Kathryn Refshauge (Ph 9351 9180)
PHTY 5125 Clinical Manipulative Physiotherapy A Semester 1 - 6 credit points
Pre/co-requisites: Advanced Functional Anatomy and Biomechanics, Advanced Musculoskeletal Disorders A
This unit will provide the opportunity for students to integrate their knowledge gained in other units of this course, and their previous clinical knowledge and skills, with new approaches to the management of a person with a musculoskeletal disorder. This unit will be conducted in the outpatient departments of selected NSW public hospitals three half days per week. Assessment will be by practical examinations
Unit coordinator: Dr Rob Boland (ph 9351-9156)
PHTY 5104 Clinical Sports Physiotherapy A Semester 1 - 6 credit points
Pre/Co-requisite: Musculoskeletal Sports Injuries A, Advanced Functional Anatomy and Biomechanics
This unit will provide the opportunity for students to integrate their knowledge gained in other units in this course, and their previous clinical knowledge and skills, with new approaches to the management of the person with a sports injury. Clinical learning opportunities will be provided in a variety of spheres of sports physiotherapy practice, including different age groups and different types of sport, and ranging from acute on-field management to procedures designed to prevent injury or effectively deal with chronic or recurring injuries. This unit will have on-campus hours and will require off campus commitment. Assessment will include seminar presentations and written reports.
Unit coordinator: Leslie Nicholson (ph 93519369)
PHTY 5128 Clinical Manipulative Physiotherapy B Semester 1 - 6 credit points
Pre/co-requisites: Advanced Functional Anatomy and Biomechanics, Advanced Musculoskeletal Disorders A, Musculoskeletal Disorders B
This unit will provide the opportunity for students to integrate their knowledge gained in other units of this course, and their previous clinical knowledge and skills, with new
approaches to the management of a person with a musculoskeletal disorder. This unit will be conducted in the outpatient departments of selected NSW public hospitals three half days per week. Assessment will be by practical examinations
Unit coordinator: Dr Rob Boland (ph 9351-9156)
PHTY 5108 Clinical Sports Physiotherapy B Semester 2- 6 credit points
Pre/Co-requisite: Musculoskeletal Sports Injuries A, Advanced Functional Anatomy and Biomechanics, Musculoskeletal Sports Injuries B
This unit will provide the opportunity for students to integrate their knowledge gained in other units in this course, and their previous clinical knowledge and skills, with new approaches to the management of the person with a sports injury. Clinical learning opportunities will be provided in a variety of spheres of sports physiotherapy practice, including different age groups and different types of sport, and ranging from acute on-field management to procedures designed to prevent injury or effectively deal with chronic or recurring injuries. This unit will have some on-campus hours but will mostly be undertaken off campus. Assessment will include peer review, practical examinations and written reports. Unit coordinator: Leslie Nicholson (ph 9351-9369)
PHTY XXXX Clinical Sports Physiotherapy C Semester 1 - 12 credit points
Pre/Co-requisite: Musculoskeletal Sports Injuries A, Advanced Functional Anatomy and Biomechanics
on musculoskeletal disorders of the upper body sustained in sports contexts. Clinical learning opportunities will be provided in a variety of spheres of sports physiotherapy practice, including different age groups and different types of sport, and ranging from acute on-field management to procedures designed to prevent injury or effectively deal with chronic or recurring injuries. Students will be required to complete clinical hours equivalent to three half days per week. In addition there will be an academic component, which will involve on-campus attendance at classes.
Aims and objectives:
At the end of this subject, students should be able to effectively:
• Take an appropriate history from a patient with a sports injury in the upper body and evaluate the findings
• Perform an appropriate physical examination of a patient with a sports injury in the upper body and evaluate the findings
• Plan an appropriate management program for a patient with a musculoskeletal disorder of the upper body, based on the findings from the history and physical examination
• Implement this management program and determine its effects
• Provide a valid explanation for the selected examination and management procedures
• Demonstrate good interpersonal skills as an integral component of the management process.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the issues facing different populations when participating in sport and exercise.
Assessment will include clinical exams, seminar presentations and written reports.
Unit coordinator: Leslie Nicholson (ph 9351-9369)
PHTY XXXX Clinical Manipulative Physiotherapy C Semester 1 - 12 credit points
Pre/co-requisites: Advanced Functional Anatomy and Biomechanics, Advanced Musculoskeletal Disorders A, Advanced, Musculoskeletal Disorders B
Aims and objectives:
This unit will provide the opportunity for students to integrate their knowledge gained in other units of this course, and their previous clinical knowledge and skills, with new approaches to the management of a person with a musculoskeletal disorder. This unit will be conducted in the outpatient departments of selected NSW public hospitals three half days per week. In addition there will be an academic component, which will involve on-campus attendance at classes.
The aim of this subject is to advance course participants’ clinical skills by providing the opportunity to conduct clinical practice in a supervised and supportive environment, wherein experienced clinicians provide expert feedback to participants. Over the course of the semester, the focus of teaching will evolve so that each component of the assessment and treatment interaction between therapist and patient will receive attention. Within the constraints of the patient demographic for each hospital unit, participants will have the opportunity to receive feedback and be evaluated while managing individual caseloads of acute to chronic and spinal or peripheral problems, and younger versus older patients. Skills and knowledge gained within the other subjects will also be applied during clinical education.
Students will also complete a module on manipulation of the cervical and cervicothoracic spines. This will include the theoretical bases as well as the practical skills required.
Objectives
By the end of the semester, participants will be able to:
• Take a history, perform a physical examination and implement a management program during initial and follow-up assessments and treatments at an advanced level on a patient with a musculoskeletal disorder of the upper body.
• Discuss their assessment and treatment findings with appropriate reference to current literature and the basic sciences.
• Evaluate and amend the clinical management plan as indicated by the patient’s response to management.
• Demonstrate appropriate consideration of patients’ behavioural/affective cues.
• Demonstrate advanced interpersonal skills with patients and the health care team.
• Demonstrate awareness of the role of musculoskeletal physiotherapy in the management of the patient while maintaining the highest professional, legal and ethical and documentation standards.
• Safely and effectively perform cervical and cervico-thoracic manipulation as appropriate, demonstrating a clear understanding of contra-indications and precautions to manipulation, Australian Physiotherapy Association clinical guidelines and medico-legal requirements.
Assessment will be by clinical and practical examinations and written assignment or seminar presentation.
Unit coordinator: Dr Rob Boland (ph 9351-9156)
PHTYXXXX Clinical Sports Physiotherapy D Semester 1 - 12 credit points
Pre/Co-requisite: Musculoskeletal Sports Injuries A, Advanced Functional Anatomy and Biomechanics
This unit will provide the opportunity for students to integrate their knowledge gained in other units in this course, and their previous clinical knowledge and skills, with new approaches to the management of the person with a sports injury in the lower body. Clinical learning opportunities will be provided in a variety of spheres of sports physiotherapy practice, including different age groups and different types of sport, and ranging from acute on-field management to procedures designed to prevent injury or effectively deal with chronic or recurring injuries. This unit will have on-campus hours and will require off campus commitment. Students will also complete a module which will require further investigation of selected clinical presentations.
Aims and objectives:
At the end of this subject, students should be able to effectively:
• Take an appropriate history from a patient with a sports injury in the lower body and evaluate the findings
examination
• Implement this management program and determine its effects
• Provide a valid explanation for the selected examination and management procedures
• Demonstrate good interpersonal skills as an integral component of the management process.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the issues facing different populations when participating in sport and exercise.
• Investigate clinical cases in further depth, and evaluate and apply the relevant literature to management of the patient.
Assessment will include clinical exams, seminar presentations and written reports.
Unit coordinator: Leslie Nicholson (ph 9351-9369)
PHTYXXXX Clinical Manipulative Physiotherapy D Semester 1 - 12 credit points
Pre/co-requisites: Advanced Functional Anatomy and Biomechanics, Advanced Musculoskeletal Disorders A, Advanced Musculoskeletal Disorders B
This unit will provide the opportunity for students to integrate their knowledge gained in other units of this course, and their previous clinical knowledge and skills, with new approaches to the management of a person with a musculoskeletal disorder. This unit will be conducted in the outpatient departments of selected NSW public hospitals three half days per week.
This unit will provide the opportunity for students to integrate their knowledge gained in other units of this course, and their previous clinical knowledge and skills, with new approaches to the management of a person with a musculoskeletal disorder. This unit will be conducted in the outpatient departments of selected NSW public hospitals three half days per week and will be supervised by an experienced manipulative physiotherapist . In addition there will be an academic component, which will involve on-campus attendance at classes.
The aim of this subject is to advance course participants’ clinical skills in managing musculoskeletal conditions of the lower body. Over the course of the semester, the focus of teaching will evolve so that each component of the assessment and treatment interaction between therapist and patient will receive attention. Participants will have the opportunity to receive feedback and be evaluated while managing individual caseloads of acute to chronic and spinal or peripheral problems. Skills and knowledge gained within the other subjects will also be applied during clinical education. Students will also complete a module which will require further investigation of selected clinical presentations.
Objectives
By the end of the semester, participants will be able to:
• Take a history, perform a physical examination and implement a management program during initial and follow-up assessments and treatments at an advanced level on a patient with a musculoskeletal disorder of the lower body.
• Discuss their assessment and treatment findings with appropriate reference to current literature and the basic sciences.
• Evaluate and amend the clinical management plan as indicated by the patient’s response to management.
• Demonstrate advanced interpersonal skills with patients and the health care team.
• Demonstrate awareness of the role of musculoskeletal physiotherapy in the management of the patient while maintaining the highest professional, legal and ethical and documentation standards.
• Investigate clinical cases in further depth and evaluate and apply the relevant literature to management of the patient.
Assessment will be by clinical and practical examinations and written assignment or seminar presentation.
Unit coordinator: Dr Rob Boland (ph 9351-9156)
PHTY XXXX Topics in Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy Semester 1 or 2 – 6 credit points
This unit is designed to allow the student choice in studying an area pertinent to musculoskeletal physiotherapy. With the approval of the course academic adviser, students may choose from units offered within the faculty or by other universities – offered either by on-campus or distance modes.
Unit co-ordinator: Dr Kathryn Refshauge
PHTY 5109 Dissertation
Semester 1 and/or 2 - 12 credit points
The dissertation comprises a major written work that involves the preparation of a non-research dissertation on a specific area of interest, under supervision. This document is a substantial scholarly work (of approximately 5,000 - 7,000 words) that is an exposition of a range of knowledge in a specific area of physiotherapy (clinical) practice and is expected to include original argument substantiated by reference to acknowledged authorities. It does not involve data collection but may take the form of analysis of existing data, developing a clinical tool or developing and evaluating patient education materials. The nature and complexity of the topic is negotiated with a designated supervisor. The aim of this work is for students to integrate background material and provide cohesive, structured suggestions for physiotherapy development or practice. A designated number of hours are set aside for workshops for classes in scientific writing but the majority of the hours will be spent in consultation with the supervisor or in independent study. The dissertation document will be assessed by 2 examiners and comprises 100% of the assessment in this unit.
8. Internal Program Load Details
8.1 Academic Program Load Compared with Similar Program Loads in the
Faculty/University
Like all other graduate programs offered by the School of Physiotherapy, this program has an internal program load of between 8-20 hours per week for part-time study and 20-30 hours per week for full-part-time study during regular semester time. This load is consistent with other graduate programs within the Faculty of Health Sciences.
9. Direction and Administration of the Program
The program will be managed by senior staff within the School of Physiotherapy under the direction of the Head of School.
10. Facilities (Existing and Required) 10.1 Teaching Staff
No additional employment of staff within the School of Physiotherapy will be required. The development, implementation and delivery of common units of study (and other units where appropriate) will involve academic staff from the Schools of Behavioural and Community Health Sciences, Biomedical Sciences and Exercise and Sports Science in conjunction with staff from the School of Physiotherapy.
10.2 Buildings, Offices, Classrooms and Laboratories
No additional resources will be required compared to the current situation for the anticipated number of enrolments.
10.3 Support Personnel
There will be no additional requirements to the current situation for the anticipated number of enrolments.
10.4 Library Resources
There will be no additional requirements to the current situation for the anticipated number of enrolments.
10.5 Computer Facilities
There will be no additional requirements to the current situation for the anticipated number of enrolments.
10.6 Clinical Facilities
The intake for these programs will be limited. Therefore, there will be a limited number of students involved in clinical placements.
10.7 Major Equipment
There will be no additional requirements to the current situation for the anticipated number of enrolments.
11. Fees
The Faculty and the University, in consultation with the School of Physiotherapy and in line with other programs of similar offering, will set the fee structure for this program. This limited fee structure will apply to Australian applicants. International fees will be set according to standard international rates set by the Faculty.
12. Program Development and Consultation 12.1 Working Party
Members of the working party included:
Members of the working party included:
Elizabeth Henley - Chair, Sports Physiotherapy Graduate Coordinator
Kathryn Refshauge, Chair, Sports Physiotherapy Graduate Coordinator from 2001 Dale Larsen, Manipulative Physiotherapy Graduate Coordinator
Leslie Nicholson, Lecturer, Manipulative and Sports Physiotherapy Jan Naughton, Lecturer, Sports Physiotherapy
Debra Shirley, Lecturer, Manipulative Physiotherapy
12.2 Faculty Standing Committee Meeting (FSC) - Preliminary Program Submission
This document is now presented to the Faculty Standing Committee.
12.3 Committee of Faculty - Graduate Studies Committee
The Detailed Program Proposal will be presented to the Faculty GSC at the June 2001 meeting.
12.4 Consultation with relevant groups
An EAC for the combined program has been organised for early June, 2001. The EAC has already approved the current master programs in Sports and Manipulative Physiotherapy.
Current graduating therapists have been interviewed through in-depth and focus group interviews during the development of the document.
13. Evaluation
Ongoing evaluation of the units of study and the program will be undertaken and will be used to provide feedback to teachers and coordinators.
APPENDIX I: Changes to Senate Resolutions
The following changes will need to be made to current Senate Resolutions, as outlined in the 2002 Faculty Handbook:
Page 186 Master’s Degrees
3. Add Master of Heath Science (Sports and Manipulative Physiotherapy) in alphabetical order and alter numbers accordingly.