DEGREE IN PHYSIOTHERAPY – PENDING ACCREDITATION

The Degree Programme in Physiotherapy – currently undergoing accreditation – is an advanced programme designed to train professionals capable of carrying out prevention, treatment and rehabilitation interventions in the areas of motor function, higher cortical functions and visceral functions affected by pathological conditions. In the current context, there is a growing need to improve the quality of life of people with disabilities and chronic conditions, driven by the ageing population, age-related health issues, the reduced quality of life caused by painful conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system, the need for independence among people with motor impairments resulting from disabling diseases, and patients’ increasing demand for an active lifestyle.

Admission to the degree programme is limited and nationally regulated and requires candidates to take an admission test for the purpose of establishing the ranking list. The degree programme, which has a three-year duration, is taught in Italian and is divided into semesters; students must acquire 180 university educational credits (CFU) to obtain the degree.

The first year of the programme is mainly devoted to basic education, the second year to clinical sciences, and the third year to physiotherapy techniques. A key role in the integration of the different components of the programme is played by the clinical internship, which provides both an opportunity to apply acquired skills in practice and a means of developing the logical connections underlying clinical reasoning. At the end of each year of the programme, students undergo a certified assessment of their clinical internship, aimed at evaluating the level of competence achieved.

Attendance at all theoretical and practical activities is mandatory. The final examination qualifies graduates to practise as Physiotherapists and allows them – subject to registration with the relevant Professional Association – to work in healthcare facilities and home care services, either as employees or self-employed professionals, both in Italy and in European Union countries. Physiotherapy graduates may also continue their studies by enrolling in a Master’s degree programme (subject to passing an admission examination) and/or attending first-level university Master’s programmes and advanced training courses.