School of Health Professions

BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy with Integrated Foundation Year

UCAS tariff 32 - 48 Contextual offers
A contextual offer is an offer to study at university that takes personal circumstances that may affect grades into account.
UCAS course code B169
Institution code P60
Duration

4 years

(with placements)
Course type

Full-time
Study location Plymouth
Register for open day
Apply at UCAS.com

This course is designed to enable students to adapt to the learning environment of higher education by developing an independent, reflective and managed approach to learning and professional development. Students will be provided with a foundation of knowledge and understanding of human anatomy and physiology from gene to whole body systems, including the structure and function of the human body in health and disease.

What is a foundation year?

A Foundation year provides an additional entry-level year for you to gain further knowledge of a subject before starting a full degree course.
On completing the Foundation year successfully, you progress automatically onto the full degree course, which is usually three years. You don’t need to apply for a place on the full degree course.

A course with a foundation year is for you if…

  • You would like to build your confidence to study at university level.
  • You want to gain the knowledge and skills needed to complete a full degree.
  • Your qualifications don't meet entry requirements for a three-year degree.
  • You want to study a new subject that your previous qualifications or experience haven’t prepared you for.
  • You may have thought university wasn’t an available option for you.
  • You want to join a university course that is needed for the career you’d like.

Careers with this subject
Physiotherapists manage mobility problems caused by injury, ageing or disability to restore physical, psychological and social wellbeing. Creating bespoke treatment programmes for people of all ages, they utilise movement science and evidence-based practice to improve their patient’s quality of life.
Within the physiotherapy profession there are a multitude of job opportunities. You could work in the NHS, within the public or private sector. For example:
  • Public Health in NHS hospitals
  • in imaging departments
  • communities
  • sports teams
  • at a school
  • private practice
  • Armed Forces
  • GP surgeries
  • nursing homes
  • education and academia
  • research
  • leadership roles
  • voluntary roles.

Key features

Innovative curriculum with real clinical scenarios

Engage in an innovative curriculum that utilises real clinical scenarios across diverse practice settings, from neurological rehabilitation to acute respiratory care and sports, enhancing your clinical reasoning and practical skills.

World-class, cutting-edge facilities

Train and practice your professional healthcare skills in an inspiring purpose-built environment, InterCity Place, designed to provide students with the skills to meet the needs of 21st-century careers.

Gain real-world experience through diverse placements

Gain real-world experience through diverse placements in NHS trusts, private clinics, and community healthcare settings across the South West, helping you develop practical skills in a variety of environments.

Register with the Health and Care Professions Council

On successful completion of the course, you will be eligible to apply for registration with the Health and Care Professions Council. As a successful graduate, you’ll be able to progress from student to full membership of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy.
Please note: in order to successfully complete your course and be eligible to apply for a professional registration you must complete a specified number of practice placement hours along with your theoretical study. This is a requirement of the HCPC. You will only be able to take personal holidays during the specified leave periods for your course. This includes induction week where it is vital you attend ALL sessions.

Course details

  • Year 0

  • A particular feature of this course will be interdisciplinary and interprofessional learning, whereby students will work alongside other Foundation programme students in shared modules, highlighting the various roles of healthcare practitioners within the multi-disciplinary team. Taught by University lecturers on campus, you’ll be part of the University from day one. Students completing the BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy with Integrated Foundation Year course will normally progress to year 1 of BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy .

    Core modules

    BHCS001
    Infection, Immunity and Therapeutics 20 credits

    This module will provide an introduction to microbiology and the human immune system. Students will learn the fundamental biology relating to bacteria, helminths, viruses and fungi. And also develop an understanding of how our immune system has evolved to combat infection. The module will also explore methods to control microbial contamination and therapeutic strategies to prevent disease.

    50% Coursework

    50% Examinations

    BHCS002
    Current Developments in Human Biology and Biomedical Sciences 20 credits

    This module examines the role of science in addressing key contemporary issues in Human Biology and Biomedical Sciences. The module aims to take an integrative approach, aiming to develop in students both a critical appreciation of the ways in which issues in Human Biology can be approached and resolved, and to develop an understanding of the skills and attributes needed for effective study of such issues at undergraduate level.

    100% Practicals

    FMD001
    Molecules to Cells 20 credits

    This module introduces key concepts involved in cell regulation including genetic inheritance, metabolism and protein expression. The important role of enzymes in the control of biochemical pathways will be introduced, as will an introduction to cell signalling. Cellular organisation within different tissues will also be outlined, enabling students to recognise links between structure and function. Students should develop sufficient theoretical and practical understanding to enable progression to relevant honours degree programmes.

    50% Coursework

    50% Examinations

    FMD002
    Introduction to Human Physiology 20 credits

    This module will provide a foundation of knowledge and understanding of human anatomy and physiology. Using example systems, it will emphasise relationships between structure and function and examine homeostatic regulation in these systems. Students should develop sufficient theoretical and practical understanding to enable progression to relevant honours degree programmes.

    50% Practicals

    50% Examinations

    FMD004
    Interdisciplinary Learning and Team Based Learning (Enquiry learning) 20 credits

    This module is designed to enable learners to develop key skills required for working in multidisciplinary teams. Students will be encouraged to work with their colleagues to manage tasks and tailor learning according to their own particular discipline

    100% Coursework

    SOHP001
    Learning Skills for Health and Social Care Professions 20 credits

    This module is designed to enable learners to adapt to the learning environment of higher education by developing an independent, reflective and managed approach to learning and professional development.

    100% Coursework

  • Year 2

  • Core modules

    HIPL400
    Interprofessional Learning 1

    PHY401
    Anatomy and Physiology for Health and Well-being 20 credits

    This module is designed to introduce students to the fundamentals of human anatomy and physiology relevant for health and wellbeing to the professional practice of Physiotherapists.

    100% Examinations

    PHY402
    Applied Movement Science 20 credits

    Students are introduced to understanding and assessing the biomechanics of human movement andon to the anatomy and physiology for health and well-being module. Using a mixture of learning and teaching methods, further areas of movement science and functional anatomy are explored, including kinematics, kinetics, posture, proprioception, neuromuscular control and gait in relation to common functional and postural deficits.

    100% Examinations

    PHY403
    Principles of Physiotherapy Practice 30 credits

    This module introduces the students to physiotherapy in the areas of cardiorespiratory, musculoskeletal and neurological practice. Simulated case scenarios will facilitate the students’ learning related to specific patient problems encountered in these areas of physiotherapy practice.

    100% Examinations

    PHY404
    Evidence-Based Physiotherapy Practice 20 credits

    This module introduces students to principles of evidence-based physiotherapy practice. This includes the identification, understanding and application of evidence in practice, following a patient-based approach through the use of clinical based scenarios for conditions commonly seen by physiotherapists.

    100% Coursework

    PHY407
    Practice Placement Year 1 10 credits

    This is the students first practice placement during which the student will be placed within a setting relevant to Physiotherapy Practice under the supervision and guidance of a placement educator. This module includes pre-placement preparatory workshops.

    100% Practicals

    SOHP401
    Preparation for Practice 20 credits

    This inter-professional module will introduce students to professional practice and the inherent standards expected of them. The characteristics and identity of allied health professionals, as evidence based practitioners, will underpin learning.

    100% Coursework

The modules shown for this course are those currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new modules. Please note that programme structures and individual modules are subject to amendment from time to time as part of the University’s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University’s policies and requirements.

Entry requirements

UCAS tariff

32 - 48

Contextual offers: Typically, the contextual offer for this course is 8 points below the advertised tariff. A contextual offer is an offer to study at university that takes into account individual circumstances that are beyond your control, and that can potentially impact your learning and your exam results, or your confidence in applying to university.

Check your eligibility for a contextual offer

Within the foundation, we aim to build a picture of the circumstances that may have adversely affected an applicant’s education and academic potential. When assessing an application, we will consider a range of educational, social, family, and individual characteristics and experiences. Applications for this course will therefore only be considered if contextual entry requirements are met alongside the required academic criteria. The contextual factors will be noted from your submitted UCAS application, so it is key that these areas are completed on your application. Applicants for this course must not meet the A level and GCSE grade requirements for the three year BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy (B162) course.
GCSE
Applicants need to achieve 5 GCSE passes (grade C/grade 4 or higher) which must include the following subjects:
  • English
  • Mathematics (Consideration may be given to Functional Skills Level 2 in Mathematics)
  • Science
Students not achieving mathematics GCSE at grade C/4 on application may be offered a free online mathematics support package and an examination equivalent to C grade GCSE to enable the achievement of appropriate entry requirements prior to commencing the programme. This examination is offered during the recruitment cycle to all eligible candidates.
Plus suitable Level 3 qualifications or experience as outlined below:
A level
Typical offer 32-48 points from a minimum of 2 A levels including grade E in a Science subject. Excluding General Studies.
Applications from students with non-standard qualifications, including those without science qualifications at level 3, are welcomed and are assessed on an individual basis. This course is also suitable for those returning to study who can offer work or other related experience in place of formal qualifications and who have the equivalent of basic mathematical, English and science skills (i.e. the equivalent of a grade C/4 at GCSE level).
International Baccalaureate
24 overall to include 3 at Higher Level science subject. English and mathematics must be included.
BTEC
PPP in a science related subject.
T level
Accepted, a minimum of a Pass (D or E in the Core) = 72 points – preference pathways would be Health or Science. Typical offer will be confirmed once an application is received.
Access
Pass an Access to HE Diploma (e.g science/combined studies/natural sciences/nursing).
Other qualifications and professional experience may be considered. Interview may be required, please refer to institution for individual consideration
English language
We are aware of the various education systems throughout the world and make offers based on equivalent qualifications to those listed in our entry requirements. You should be able to possess the ability to study in the English language and be familiar with this in a scientific context. To that end, we ask for a minimum IELTS score of at least 7.0, with a minimum score of 6.5 in each section.
We welcome applicants with international qualifications. To view other accepted qualifications please refer to our tariff glossary.
Extended entry requirements
Further information

Fees, costs and funding
2024-2025 2025-2026 *
Home £9,250 £9,535
International £18,100 £18,650
Part time (Home) £770 £795
Full time fees shown are per annum. Part time fees shown are per 10 credits. Please note that fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them shown in the prospectus are correct at the time of going to print. Fees shown on the web are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and funding.

*UK Government announcement on tuition fees

Following an announcement in November, the government has confirmed its intention to increase undergraduate tuition fees for the 2025/26 academic year.

Subject to final Parliamentary approval (expected in early March 2025), the tuition fee for UK students is increasing to a maximum of £9,535 from 1 August 2025. This change applies to current and new students at the University of Plymouth. The Student Loans Company (SLC) has confirmed loans for tuition fees will be increased accordingly.

NHS bursaries are available from stage 1 of BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy, for more information please see the BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy course page.

Additional costs

Placements
All students within the School of Health Professions will spend time in placements away from university. The South West is a largely rural region, which often requires students to travel longer and further distances than may be expected when universities are in largely urban areas. In many cases, students will stay away from home for the duration of that placement. Some students on these courses are eligible for reimbursement of additional travel and accommodation costs over normal daily travel costs. This support is part of the Learning Support Fund administered through the NHS Business Services Authority. However, this should be investigated by the student to make sure this applies to their chosen course of study.
It is difficult to give a precise estimate of placement costs for each individual programme, due to the geographical spread of placements, and duration. However it is recommended you attend an Open Day to find out more about what placement costs can be anticipated or discuss placement with a member of our admissions teams.
Despite these costs, placements offer an excellent opportunity to learn from experienced practitioners and are recognised as an essential part of students' development towards becoming a registered practitioner.
Further information
More details of any additional costs associated with the faculty's courses are included in Faculty of Health additional costs .

How to apply
All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service). UCAS will ask for the information contained in the box at the top of this course page including the UCAS course code and the institution code.
Apply for this course on the UCAS website.
For more information about submitting an application including application deadline dates, please visit the UCAS website.
The deadline for the receipt of international applications is 30 May 2025 for entry in September 2025.
All NHS funded professional courses are required to select and interview their applicants using a ‘values based’ approach. As part of this process, your UCAS personal statement requires this additional information, which will demonstrate insight into your understanding of the importance of NHS values in your chosen professional discipline.

Bring real clinical scenarios to life

Engage in an innovative curriculum that utilises real clinical scenarios across diverse practice settings, from neurological rehabilitation to acute respiratory care and sports, enhancing your clinical reasoning and practical skills.

State-of-the-art facilities

Train and practice your professional healthcare skills in an inspiring purpose-built environment, InterCity Place, designed to provide students with the skills to meet the needs of 21st-century careers.

Hands-on, real-world experience

Gain real-world experience through diverse placements in NHS trusts, private clinics, and community healthcare settings across the South West, helping you develop practical skills in a variety of environments.

Physiotherapy is for you if...

  • You're passionate about helping individuals improve their physical health and mobility.
  • You enjoy hands-on, patient-centered healthcare practice.
  • You're eager to engage in diverse clinical experiences across various healthcare settings.
  • You aspire to become a qualified physiotherapist equipped with the latest clinical skills and knowledge.
  • You value interprofessional learning alongside a broad spectrum of health disciplines.
Physiotherapy students examining a spine
 

First-class facilities to prepare you for your career in physiotherapy

Undergraduate and postgraduate students from a variety of disciplines learn together under one roof at our new facility InterCity Place. Complementing existing clinical facilities, our new innovative suites, simulations and practice labs will help us to train and develop the next generation of nurses, paramedics and allied health professionals.
Prepare for practice with our fully-equipped clinical skills suites. We have an array of equipment used in all aspects of the working life of a physiotherapist, including plinths, couches, and a range of anatomical models.
Intercity Place physiotherapy facilities
Intercity Place Physiotherapy Lab
Intercity Place physiotherapy labs
 

Hands-on learning

Placements are an integral part of the course, providing you with the opportunity to develop and apply the theoretical knowledge and skills you have learnt to a range of clinical settings and graduate with a broad range of clinical placement experience.
You will complete a minimum of 1000 hours of practice placements spread across all three years, where you will work with patients under the close supervision of experienced physiotherapists.
Our placement areas range from large NHS teaching hospitals to rehabilitation units and community teams, plus some non-NHS areas including with the Armed Forces and professional sports clubs. Placements are located across the South West region, including Devon, Cornwall and Somerset.

Placements are where you learn the most. My most recent placement was in Exmouth as part of a Community Physiotherapy team, and I thoroughly enjoyed my time there. I was able to do something I love while applying all the skills I’ve been learning over the past two years.

Emilia, physiotherapy student
Physiotherapy students
Physiotherapy students
Physiotherapy students
 

Enhancing your experience

We encourage and support a range of voluntary, additional opportunities to enhance your employability and professional development. These include providing physiotherapy services at events such as the Plymouth Half Marathon, Plymouth 10K and assisting court side with Plymouth Raiders Basketball Team, plus supporting students in their own charitable and community engagement.
Opportunities exist throughout the programme for personal development for example: leadership opportunities by becoming a PALS (Peer-Assisted Learning Scheme) lead or enhancing your confidence and communication as a student ambassador.
Your Personal Tutor will guide you throughout the programme; providing face-to-face academic and pastoral support.
Physiotherapy students
David Mbinga, BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy alumni
 

Learn from experienced physiotherapists

We pride ourselves on our research informed curriculum which ensures that you are equipped with the latest evidence, as well as the research skills to support patients’ recovery.