Physiotherapy

Duration

Three years, full-time

Application Deadline

14 January 2026 (2026 entry)

Location

City St George's Tooting campus

Accreditation

Health and Care Professions Council and Chartered Society of Physiotherapy

UCAS Code

B160, institution code S49

Start dates

September 2026

Apply via UCAS

This course has places available through Early Clearing. Learn more and apply now.

Many people think they know what physiotherapists do – they treat sports injuries, provide exercises and make rehabilitation possible. While this is part of their role, they also care for people with conditions across the full spectrum of neurological, musculoskeletal, cardiovascular and respiratory speciality.

Perhaps you’ve been inspired by personal experience, or maybe you’re fascinated by the workings of the human body. Studying with us, you’ll learn to help people with a range of illnesses including chronic heart disease, multiple sclerosis, cystic fibrosis and arthritis.

Work with patients on placement

During your placements you'll be able to build therapeutic relationships with patients and work collaboratively with them to identify the most appropriate intervention based on each person's needs and circumstances. This could include prescribing walking aids, exercise prescription or using hoists or a hydrotherapy pool.

At the only UK university based on a hospital site, you’ll study in a clinical setting and work alongside different healthcare students and professionals. We’ve run this course for twenty years, so we know exactly what it takes to prepare students for this rewarding role.

When you complete the course, you’ll be eligible to apply to register with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP). While City St George’s programmes are recognised by many different countries, applicants are advised to check with their national authorities if they wish to practise in their chosen country.

Physiotherapy MSc (pre-registration)

Recently graduated from an undergraduate course? You might be interested in our Physiotherapy MSc (pre-registration) instead, which will allow you to complete the course in an accelerated 2 years.

Why City George's

Accredited by HCPC and CSP – you’ll be eligible to register for professional practice when you complete the course.
30 weeks on placement – treat patients under supervision both in hospital and community settings to apply your skills and prepare for your career as a physiotherapist.
Overseas experience – we offer the opportunity to complete one of your placements in a different country. Alternatively, you can source your own placement in a specific area of interest like sports physiotherapy.

Learn more about studying at City St George's

If you're looking to start your studies in 2025 or beyond, sign up for our free intro email series by clicking the button below.

Course info

On our HCPC and CSP accredited degree, learning is hands-on. Our teaching takes place in simulated environments, including our Physio Lab. Here you’ll find hospital beds, stairs and other equipment used in practice. You’ll also explore how the human body works through practical sessions in our Anatomy Suite.

To prepare you for placement, you’ll use equipment on other students and manikins. You’ll practise measuring range of movement and applying active cycle of breathing techniques as well as more advanced techniques, such as suctioning, use of non-invasive ventilation and joint mobilisation.

Boost your knowledge and confidence

You’ll develop expertise in anatomy, physiology and movement, as well as therapeutic exercise, manual techniques and health promotion. Carrying out your own research is part of your studies too. Past students have looked at everything from the reliability of worn technology to the effect of saddle height on cycling injury.

To help you go further in your career, we’ll also help you develop your professional skills such as communication. For example, you might be asked to prepare a presentation on a typical scenario such as the management of a child with cystic fibrosis.

“Learning in one of the biggest teaching hospitals puts you at a huge advantage. You’re able to get an immediate feel for what working in a hospital environment is like. The lecturers are all experienced physiotherapists, working in different areas, so you receive a very high level of teaching in all aspects of physiotherapy. Tapping into their experience is a great way to learn.”

- Naomi

Physiotherapy BSc

Fees and funding

View all Close all

Home (UK) tuition fees

Academic year	UK (per academic year)	Total fee
2025/26	£9,535	£28,605

Tuition fees for Home (UK) students are determined by UK government policy. Tuition fees are charged for each year of your course. Fees for second and subsequent years are likely to increase annually in line with UK inflation as measured by the Retail Price Index (RPI-X) and subject to maximum regulated fee rates set by the government.

For more information, see our fees and funding pages.

International (including EU) tuition fees

Academic year	International (per academic year)	Total fee
2025/26	£ 20,100	£60,300

Tuition fees for international students are set by City St George’s, University of London. Tuition fees are charged for each year of your course. Fees for second and subsequent years are likely to increase annually in line with UK inflation as measured by the Retail Price Index (RPI-X) and will not normally increase by more than 5 per cent each year, except when the rate of inflation is significantly more than that projected in the preceding year.

For more information about fees, check our fees and funding pages, and read the UK government information about fees and funding.

Additional costs

The table below highlights the additional course-specific costs related to this degree. Visit the additional course-related costs for more information on general costs to consider alongside your studies.

Additional cost	Description
Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check	DBS - £40 Post office verification - £6 Administration fee - £9
Equipment	A stethoscope is optional but useful for clinical skill sessions in university and in practice settings - £100+ Lockers are provided free, but you will need to purchase a padlock - £3
Clothing	Students will require a lab coat for use in wet labs, these can be purchased from the SU - £30. Uniforms are provided by the University (2 x tops, 2 x trousers), replacement uniforms cost £25. Name badges are provided by the University, replacements cost £8.
Memberships	Student Membership with the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy is optional but highly encouraged - £46 approx.
Travel to placements and accommodation	You should expect to spend approximately £800 - £2,000 on travel to placements for the duration of your course. If you qualify for the UK government Learning and Support fund you maybe able to claim travel and accommodation costs (if the cost of travelling to placement is more than the cost of travelling to university) and accommodation (only if it has been agreed that it would be impractical to travel to placement daily). If you qualify for the UK government Learning and Support fund you may be eligible to receive a training grant of £5,000 per academic year to help with maintenance and associated study costs and an additional £1,000 for studying a specialist subject. Visit the NHS BSA website for more information.

Please note: Students are not required to buy their own books (but can do so if they choose) and can loan them from our Library as needed. The hiring of skeletons is also free.

Clubs, Societies and Community Projects at St George's

Visit the Students' Union website

Students' Union

As a student at St George's you're also automatically a member of our Students' Union, which offers over 120 clubs, societies and community projects.

Find out more

Aviation & Space Medicine Society

We provide specialist clinical knowledge of aviation and space medicine, through lectures, forums and tutorials.

Find out more

Cheer & Gym Society

The Firebirds are an all-inclusive level 1 cheer team who stunt, tumble, jump and dance both competitively and recreationally.

Find out more

Afro-Caribbean Society

The Afro Caribbean Society (ACS) aims to empower people from a variety of backgrounds by bringing people together to appreciate the culture and heritage of different African and Caribbean countries.

Find out more

Marrow

Marrow is a voluntary student organisation that works with Anthony Nolan to recruit potential donors onto the stem cell register. We organise donor recruitment clinics here at St George's and also raise charitable funds to run the events and support the charity.

Find out more

Henry Gray Anatomy Society

If you are interested in Anatomy, Surgery, or just want to further your anatomical education, then this is the perfect society for you!

Find out more

Athena SWAN Student Network

Our Athena SWAN (Scientific Women’s Academic Network) chapter is a student society that fundamentally promotes racial diversity and the equality of all genders within STEMM career advancement.

Find out more

Yoga Society

Namaste! The Yoga Society is one of the most active societies at St George's, with students and staff taking part in the three weekly yoga sessions.

Find out more

Craft Society

This is the home of all different crafts at George's. We meet every Monday in the Dragon Bar from 5pm to craft. We welcome everyone, experienced or not and are always happy to teach!

Find out more

Vegan and Vegetarian Society

We hope to create a community for vegans, vegetarians & anyone interested in moving towards a more cruelty free lifestyle and to provide support in adopting a plant based lifestyle.

Find out more

Catholic Society

We're a family of Catholic (and non-Catholic) students from St George's who gather occasionally to pray the rosary, share stories, food and encouragement.

Find out more

Christian Union

We are a group of Christians from multiple denominations - united around the gospel of Jesus Christ. Our mission and aim is to build each other up in our faith and to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ to the St Georges community.

Islamic Society

Our aim is to help students develop academically, socially and most importantly spiritually as they progress through university.

Find out more

St George's Jewish Society

The Jewish Society aims to be a family away from home for all of the Jewish students on campus! We are warm, welcoming and inclusive, and invite anyone from any background to join us.

Find out more

Entry Criteria: 2025 Entry

To be eligible for the Physiotherapy BSc programme, you must meet the requirements outlined under Entry Qualifications, Other Academic Requirements, and Non-academic Requirements below.

Entry Qualifications

With the exception of GCSEs, all qualifications must have been completed within the previous five years, including the year of application.

View all Close all

A Levels

If you are applying on the basis of A Levels, you must meet both the A Level and GCSE requirements below.

Grades	ABB
Subjects	Science or social science subjects may be helpful but are not essential. General Studies is not accepted.
Additional information
Resits may be considered.

GCSEs

Grades	Five subjects graded 4 (C) or above
Subjects	Five subjects which must include English Language, Maths and Science (Double or Triple Award).
Additional information
We accept resits of GCSEs. We do not accept Adult Literacy and Numeracy or Functional Skills instead of GCSEs.

International Baccalaureate

If you are applying on the basis of International Baccalaureate, you need to meet both our Higher Level and Standard Level requirements, as outlined below.

Award

Full Award Diploma

Scores

Overall score of 34

Subjects

16 points at Higher Level. Science or social science subjects may be helpful but are not essential.

If at least a 4 (C) has not previously been attained in GCSE/IGCSE Maths and English, you will need the following:

Maths Standard Level minimum grade 4
- For Maths, we accept both Mathematics: analysis & approaches and Mathematics: applications & interpretations
English Standard Level:
- English Language A SL (English Language & Literature; or English Literature), minimum grade 4
- English Language B SL, minimum grade 6

Resits may be considered.

Access Diploma

If you are applying on the basis of an Access Diploma, you must meet both the Access Diploma and GCSE requirements below.

Award	Full award diploma (in a science or healthcare subject)
Scores	60 credits at level 3 (45 graded and 15 ungraded)
Subjects	30 credits at Distinction and 15 credits at Merit.
Additional information	Any additional level 3 credits outside of the 60 credit diploma will not be accepted. The course should be QAA recognised.

GCSEs

Grades	Two subjects graded 4 (C) or above
Subjects	English Language and Maths
Additional information
We accept resits of GCSEs. We do not accept Adult Literacy and Numeracy or Functional Skills instead of GCSEs.

Other UK Qualifications

Pearson BTEC Level 3 Extended National Diploma	If you are applying on the basis of a Pearson BTEC Level 3 Extended National Diploma, you must meet both the Diploma and GCSE requirements below. DDD Must be in a science or healthcare subject. 5 GCSEs at grade 4 (C) or above. Subjects must include English Language, Maths and Science (Double or Triple Award).
Pearson BTEC Diploma	If you are applying on the basis of a Pearson BTEC Diploma, you must meet both the Diploma and GCSE requirements below. DD with an A Level at grade B Must be in a science or healthcare subject. 5 GCSEs at grade 4 (C) or above. Subjects must include English Language, Maths and Science (Double or Triple Award).
Cambridge Pre-U Diploma	If you are applying on the basis of a Cambridge Pre-U Diploma, you must meet both the Diploma and GCSE requirements below. D3, M1, M1 Three principal subjects. Science or social science subjects may be helpful but are not essential. 5 GCSEs at grade 4 (C) or above. Subjects must include English Language, Maths and Science (Double or Triple Award).
Scottish Highers	If you are applying on the basis of Scottish Highers, you must meet the Highers, Advanced Highers and National 5 requirements below. Highers: ABB Advanced Highers: BB Science or social science subjects may be helpful but are not essential. English Language and Maths National 5 at grade C or higher is required.
UK Undergraduate Degree (science or health related)	If you are applying on the basis of a degree, you do not need to meet our GCSE or Level 3 (A Level) requirements. 2:2 Honours
UK Undergraduate Degree (not science or health related)	If you are applying on the basis of a degree, you do not need to meet our GCSE or Level 3 (A Level) requirements. 2:1 Honours
Other	We accept other qualifications on a case-by-case basis. If you are applying with qualifications not listed above, or a combination of level 3 qualifications, your application will be considered. If you would like further information, please contact us.

International Qualifications

We welcome applications from applicants around the world. For information on the requirements for your country, please visit our International Qualifications page.

Contextual Admissions

At City St George’s, we want to attract students who share our mission to improve the health of society, regardless of their background. That’s why our Contextual Admissions schemes take into consideration additional information from your application, like the school you attended or the area you live in or if you have been in care, to make the admissions process fairer. Further details on Contextual Admissions are available here.

Other academic Requirements

View all Close all

English Language

If you are applying from outside of the UK, you will need to meet the English language requirements outlined here. This is a group 1 course.

Non-academic Requirements

View all Close all

Personal Statement

In addition to meeting the academic criteria for admission, you should be able to demonstrate a keen interest in and commitment to working with people, be able to identify relevant transferable skills that would make you a good physiotherapist, and demonstrate a broad awareness of the scope of physiotherapy. All of this should be evident from your personal statement. Applicants who do not demonstrate this are unlikely to be invited for an interview.

Work Experience and Insight

We understand the challenges for our prospective applicants for medicine and allied health courses trying to gain work experience at this time, particularly in clinical settings.

In response to the continued impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, we have chosen to relax our work experience requirements for prospective applicants for our courses which would normally require these.

Despite the relaxed requirements, we still require our applicants to have an understanding of the realities of working as a healthcare professional and to show they have the necessary skills and attributes for their chosen career. Online resources can give you valuable insight into working in the healthcare sector and outline the wide range of careers and courses available. You can find a number of suggested resources for each of our courses here.

Interview (MMI)

If you meet the entry requirements above, you will be invited to attend a Multiple Mini Interview (MMI). This will usually be in-person, however we can also offer remote MMIs for international applicants.

You can find further information about this process on our MMI Guidance page, however please note that some of this information may change for those applying during the 2024 application cycle.

Occupational Health Check

Should you receive an offer to study at City St George’s, you will be required to complete a health check and be declared fit to study and practise by the Occupational Health (OH) department before you begin your studies.

The following vaccinations are mandatory for all healthcare students before you begin your studies:

MMR (measles, mumps and rubella)
Meningococcal meningitis
Diphtheria
Pertussis (whooping cough)
Poliomyelitis
Tetanus

As part of the process, you will also be screened by the OH team for Chickenpox, Tuberculosis, HIV and Hepatitis B and C.

We do not currently require you to have been vaccinated against Covid-19, but we strongly recommend that you get double vaccinated before the start of your studies, unless medically exempt.

When admitting candidates to study and practise as a health practitioner, we have an obligation to both patients and to the individual student. Candidates who are concerned about a health issue are advised to contact us.

Disclosure and Barring Service Check and Additional Declarations

This course will include work with children and vulnerable adults, so you will be required to submit a series of declarations.

If you are invited to an interview, we will request some additional information from you, regarding your criminal record, educational history and employment history. You will also have the opportunity to make any other declarations that you’d like us to be aware of. We may not able to consider applicants who were suspended from previous study/work due to fitness to practise issues or failure in assessments/examinations.

If you are made an offer, you will be required to complete an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. More information about this is sent to applicants as part of the admissions process.

Recent Engagement in Education

Due to the demanding nature of the programme, it is important that applicants can demonstrate recent engagement in education. If the qualifications that you are applying on the basis of (e.g. Level 3 or degree level qualifications) were awarded more than five years ago (e.g. before summer 2020), it may still be possible for us to consider your application. In this case, we would look at supplementary level 3 qualifications, or relevant work experience, that you have undertaken within the last five years.

These applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis, following submission of a UCAS application.

Entry Criteria: 2026 Entry

To be eligible for the Physiotherapy BSc programme, you must meet the requirements outlined under Entry Qualifications, Other Academic Requirements, and Non-academic Requirements below.

Entry Qualifications

With the exception of GCSEs, all qualifications must have been completed within the previous five years, including the year of application.

View all Close all

A Levels

If you are applying on the basis of A Levels, you must meet both the A Level and GCSE requirements below.

Grades	ABB
Subjects	Science or social science subjects may be helpful but are not essential.
Additional information
Resits may be considered. The following subjects are not considered: General Studies, Critical Thinking, Citizenship Studies.

GCSEs

Grades	Five subjects graded 4 (C) or above
Subjects	Five subjects which must include English Language, Maths and Science (Double or Triple Award).
Additional information
We accept resits of GCSEs. We do not accept Adult Literacy and Numeracy or Functional Skills instead of GCSEs.

International Baccalaureate

If you are applying on the basis of International Baccalaureate, you need to meet both our Higher Level and Standard Level requirements, as outlined below.

Award

Full Award Diploma

Scores

Overall score of 34

Subjects

16 points at Higher Level. Science or social science subjects may be helpful but are not essential.

If at least a 4 (C) has not previously been attained in GCSE/IGCSE Maths and English, you will need the following:

Maths Standard Level minimum grade 4
- For Maths, we accept both Mathematics: analysis & approaches and Mathematics: applications & interpretations
English Standard Level:
- English Language A SL (English Language & Literature; or English Literature), minimum grade 4
- English Language B SL, minimum grade 6

Resits may be considered.

Access Diploma

If you are applying on the basis of an Access Diploma, you must meet both the Access Diploma and GCSE requirements below.

Award	Full award diploma (in a science or healthcare subject)
Scores	60 credits at level 3 (45 graded and 15 ungraded)
Subjects	30 credits at Distinction and 15 credits at Merit.
Additional information	Any additional level 3 credits outside of the 60 credit diploma will not be accepted. The course should be QAA recognised.

GCSEs

Grades	Two subjects graded 4 (C) or above
Subjects	English Language and Maths
Additional information
We accept resits of GCSEs. We do not accept Adult Literacy and Numeracy or Functional Skills instead of GCSEs.

Other UK Qualifications

Pearson BTEC Level 3 Extended National Diploma	If you are applying on the basis of a Pearson BTEC Level 3 Extended National Diploma, you must meet both the Diploma and GCSE requirements below. DDD Must be in a science or healthcare subject. 5 GCSEs at grade 4 (C) or above. Subjects must include English Language, Maths and Science (Double or Triple Award).
Pearson BTEC Diploma	If you are applying on the basis of a Pearson BTEC Diploma, you must meet both the Diploma and GCSE requirements below. DD with an A Level at grade B Must be in a science or healthcare subject. 5 GCSEs at grade 4 (C) or above. Subjects must include English Language, Maths and Science (Double or Triple Award).
Cambridge Pre-U Diploma	If you are applying on the basis of a Cambridge Pre-U Diploma, you must meet both the Diploma and GCSE requirements below. D3, M1, M1 Three principal subjects. Science or social science subjects may be helpful but are not essential. 5 GCSEs at grade 4 (C) or above. Subjects must include English Language, Maths and Science (Double or Triple Award).
Scottish Highers	If you are applying on the basis of Scottish Highers, you must meet the Highers, Advanced Highers and National 5 requirements below. Highers: ABB Advanced Highers: BB Science or social science subjects may be helpful but are not essential. English Language and Maths National 5 at grade C or higher is required.
UK Undergraduate Degree (science or health related)	If you are applying on the basis of a degree, you do not need to meet our GCSE or Level 3 (A Level) requirements. 2:2 Honours
UK Undergraduate Degree (not science or health related)	If you are applying on the basis of a degree, you do not need to meet our GCSE or Level 3 (A Level) requirements. 2:1 Honours
Other	We accept other qualifications on a case-by-case basis. If you are applying with qualifications not listed above, or a combination of level 3 qualifications, your application will be considered. If you would like further information, please contact us.

International Qualifications

We welcome applications from applicants around the world. For information on the requirements for your country, please visit our International Qualifications page.

Contextual Admissions

Other academic Requirements

View all Close all

English Language

If you are applying from outside of the UK, you will need to meet the English language requirements outlined here. This is a group 1 course.

Non-academic Requirements

View all Close all

Personal Statement

Work Experience and Insight

We understand the challenges for our prospective applicants for medicine and allied health courses trying to gain work experience at this time, particularly in clinical settings.

In response to the continued impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, we have chosen to relax our work experience requirements for prospective applicants for our courses which would normally require these.

Interview (MMI)

You can find further information about this process on our MMI Guidance page, however please note that some of this information may change for those applying during the 2026 application cycle.

Occupational Health Check

The following vaccinations are mandatory for all healthcare students before you begin your studies:

MMR (measles, mumps and rubella)
Meningococcal meningitis
Diphtheria
Pertussis (whooping cough)
Poliomyelitis
Tetanus

As part of the process, you will also be screened by the OH team for Chickenpox, Tuberculosis, HIV and Hepatitis B and C.

We do not currently require you to have been vaccinated against Covid-19, but we strongly recommend that you get double vaccinated before the start of your studies, unless medically exempt.

Disclosure and Barring Service Check and Additional Declarations

This course will include work with children and vulnerable adults, so you will be required to submit a series of declarations.

If you are made an offer, you will be required to complete an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. More information about this is sent to applicants as part of the admissions process.

Recent Engagement in Education

Due to the demanding nature of the programme, it is important that applicants can demonstrate recent engagement in education. If the qualifications that you are applying on the basis of (e.g. Level 3 or degree level qualifications) were awarded more than five years ago (e.g. before summer 2021), it may still be possible for us to consider your application. In this case, we would look at supplementary level 3 qualifications, or relevant work experience, that you have undertaken within the last five years.

These applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis, following submission of a UCAS application.

Year 1

In year 1, your study will primarily be university-based, building a foundation of knowledge of anatomy and physiology, as well as learning the foundation skills necessary to undertake the assessment of a person, considering their function, activity and participation level. In simulated activities including, for example, assessment of functional movement, strength or lung function, you’ll start to develop a range of essential interpersonal and professional skills. These include maintaining dignity and confidentiality, developing effective observational and communication skills, learning to appreciate cultural and ethical issues, as well as health and safety, such as infection control procedures.

Our Essentials for Allied Health Professionals programme brings together students on other health courses to work together, so you can begin to appreciate the concept of multidisciplinary healthcare teams and the role of each of the professionals you will engage with – nurses, doctors, clinical physiologists, diagnostic and therapeutic radiographers, for example.

View all Close all

Year 1 modules

Modules
Taught	Essentials for Allied Health Professionals
Taught	Principles of Physiotherapy Assessment
Taught	Factors Influencing Professional Practice
Taught	Pathology, Health Promotion and Rehabilitation

Assessing your progress

Assessment methods include a combination of written and practical examinations, academic coursework (including reports and presentations), and assessment of clinical skills whilst on placement. In your final year, we ask you to produce a problem-based report on an aspect of interdisciplinary practice, a group research project, and a poster related to holistic patient management and physiotherapy practice.

Physiotherapy MSc (pre-registration)

If you are interested in this course but have already recently graduated with a first degree, you might be interested in our Physiotherapy MSc (pre-registration) instead, which will allow you to complete the course in an accelerated two years.

Year 2

In Year 2, you will advance your knowledge, practical and research skills through your studies and on clinical placement, encouraging a holistic patient assessment that identifies risk factors, such as age, smoking status, obesity, and considers the influence of psychological, social and health behaviour. You look at more complex health issues, such as breathing pattern disorder, spinal cord injury and muscular dystrophy, and management of patients across different care pathways and settings, for example, rehabilitation, long-term management, acute and end-of-life care. You’ll appreciate the importance of considering the person at the centre of patient assessment, adopting a problem solving and evidence-based approach. You will also learn how to manage the assessment and management of patients with the help of our specialist clinicians.

View all Close all

Year 2 modules

Modules/placements
Taught	Cardio-Respiratory Physiotherapy
Taught	Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy
Taught	Neurological Physiotherapy
Taught	Evaluation and Research
Clinical	Practice Placements 1 & 2 - Becoming a Reflective Physiotherapist

Year 3

In the final year, the focus is on integrating your knowledge, analytical and practice skills to select, justify and implement appropriate health promotion and management, exercise and rehabilitation strategies for a variety of service users. You will complete your final practice placement, working with greater autonomy and competency. You will also undertake a comprehensive research project. Students are able to choose their topic of research; examples of past research include experiences of students on placement, accuracy and reliability of worn technology, effect of saddle height on cycling injury, experiences of applicants to physiotherapy degree programmes and many more! Many, such as one group of students who worked with Crisis at Christmas to interview the homeless about their experiences of physiotherapy, get the opportunity to publish their work in international journals and present at major conferences, including Physio UK and the World Confederation for Physiotherapy.

View all Close all

Year 3 modules

Modules/placements
Taught	Personalised Professional Development
Taught	Research Project
Taught	Quality and Innovation in Health & Social Care
Taught	Complex Management
Clinical	Critical Practice - Placements 3, 4 & 5

Placement

The variety and volume of placement opportunities we offer is what students tell us they like most about our course – practice placements are undertaken in a variety of health and social care environments, including acute NHS hospital trusts, community-based services, charitable organisations, elite sport and private practice.

The supervised, hands-on experience you get with service users on placement is the best way to consolidate your learning. You will gain experience of working as part of a team, demonstrating professional behaviour and 'putting learnt knowledge and skills into practice.

On placement, you are supervised by experienced clinicians and practice educators. You receive support from your visiting academic tutor who will visit you regularly.

Below is a list of hospitals that offer clinical placements:*

Central London Community Healthcare NHS Trust
Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust
King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
Kingston Hospital NHS Trust
St George’s University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
University College Hospitals NHS Trust

*This list is subject to change and should be used as a guide of where students may be able to go.

Teaching

We share our site with one of the UK’s largest teaching hospitals giving you the chance to learn in a busy healthcare environment. Most of our teaching staff hold clinical roles or have previously worked as a healthcare professional, so you will learn from academics with real on-the-job experience.

Studying at our Tooting site, we’ll get to know you and help you reach your potential. You’ll be part of interactive group sessions, and our academics are always on hand if you need extra support.

How our experts teach depends on the course content, but we recognise that our students have different learning styles. On this course, you can expect a diverse range of:

Clinical placements
Clinical skills sessions
Computer-based sessions
Guest lectures
Group work
Lab-based sessions
Lectures
Online learning
Patient interaction
Practical workshops
Seminars
Simulation
Tutorials

Assessment

The way we assess your learning will change depending on the module but we use a variety of assessment methods so every student has a chance to show their knowledge and strengths. You can expect a mixture of:

A clinical portfolio
Case reviews
Clinical practice assessments
Essays
Exams
Oral presentations
Poster presentations
Reports
Research projects

To prepare you for the practical challenges you’ll face, we design assessments that reflect real-world scenarios, such as case reviews and research projects.

Your assessments will be formative and summative. This means some won’t count towards your final grade and you’ll have the chance to improve based on our feedback.

Find out more on our programme specifications

Expertise

The majority of our team are highly experienced chartered physiotherapists and physio educators. We’ll also introduce you to staff with experience working as midwives, health visitors, speech therapists and occupational therapists. Surrounded by experts, you’ll hear the most up-to-date thinking in the field and learn from others’ experiences working in healthcare.

When we can, we also invite patients to share their stories with you directly. For example, you might hear from someone living with lung disease about their day-to-day experiences, both during periods of illness and in their everyday lives.

Placements

In your second and third year, you’ll spend 30 weeks on placement in and around London. This will give you experience working with a range of different people presenting with a variety of problems.

As well as acute hospitals and major trauma centres, such as St George’s Hospital, you might be placed within sports clubs, schools, charitable organisations, community health providers and general hospitals.

With an ageing population and more people living with long-term conditions and multiple health issues, physiotherapists are in demand. As a result, career prospects are excellent, with opportunities to progress within the NHS, private practice, charities and other organisations.

Physiotherapists work in a variety of settings, including patients’ own homes. You might care for people who suffer physical impairment as they recover in hospital. Or perhaps you’ll work within the community, helping patients with mental health needs, learning disabilities or serious medical conditions.

When you complete this degree, you’ll be eligible to apply for professional registration with the HCPC and become a member of the CSP. Employers in a range of areas are looking for physiotherapists including:

Acute health and social care
Armed forces
Community clinics
GP surgeries
Health clubs
Hospices
Hospitals
Housing departments
International services
Mental health services
Older people’s services
Private practice
Specialist clinics

There are many exciting opportunities for career advancement, further study or research, including further postgraduate study at City St George’s, for example, on our MSc Advanced Clinical Practice programme.

View all Close all

Careers

Acute health and social care
Armed forces
Community clinics
GP surgeries
Health clubs
Hospices
Hospitals
Housing departments
International services
Mental health services
Older people’s services
Private practice
Specialist clinics
Sports clubs
Voluntary organisations.

News

Class of 2022 Physiotherapy alumna presents research on the experiences of deaf healthcare workers

Alumna and Physiotherapist, Oluchi Zelic, has recently presented her findings on the experiences of deaf healthcare workers during the Covid 19 pandemic at a conference at the University of Rochester.

22 September 2022

Facilities

City St George’s, University of London Tooting campus is co- located with one of the largest teaching hospitals in the UK. This is also where Channel 4 television series 24 hours in A&E is filmed). We offer a unique opportunity to study and work alongside the full range of clinical professionals and their patients. Based in the thriving multi-cultural hub of Tooting in South West London, our location has the added advantage of being just a short tube ride from Central London and all that the city lifestyle has to offer.

We enjoy close links with the Physiotherapy Department: staff contribute to the teaching and learning on our programme and also employ some of our graduates.

We also have a range of specialist health and academic facilities to support your learning, listed below.

Physiotherapy skills laboratory

The physio lab represents a realistic clinical environment featuring hospital beds, simulated stairs, mannequins, treatment plinths, walking aids and a treadmill. It provides a safe environment in which you can familiarise yourself with different techniques including assessment of lung function, gait and strength. The lab is staffed by dedicated lab technicians with a huge amount of knowledge and expertise.

Anatomy suite

The anatomy suite is where present and future healthcare professionals and scientists in the hospital and University learn or expand on their anatomy knowledge directly from the human body, through access to high quality anatomy resources. These include plastinated (preserved) specimens, osteological materials, anatomical models and digital/imaging resources such as Anatomage tables and Complete Anatomy.

Pathology museum

Our on-site museum houses a collection of over 2,000 pathological specimens, including a number of original specimens donated by Sir Benjamin Collins Brodie in 1843. This space is used for small group tutorials by students across all of our courses as an educational tool to help you understand the mechanisms of disease.

Library and learning technology

Our modern health sciences library offers a wide range of books, e-books, academic journals and other resources to support you. You will also have access to online resources, such as the Canvas virtual learning environment

and our Hunter discovery service to help you find the information you need. The library is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and comprises silent, quiet and group learning areas, as well as four group discussion rooms.

IT facilities

We have five computer suites housing 260 workstations. Three of these suites are accessible 24 hours a day. It’s easy to find a free space with our handy real-time computer locator. We also have 75 self-service laptops available. Free Wi-Fi covers the whole campus, including all accommodation. You can use these resources to access your course materials, discussion boards and feedback through Canvas.

Student support

Whether you are heading off to university straight from school or college, or returning to education after a break, we want to ensure your experience is positive from the outset. At City St George’s, you’ll be welcomed by a multicultural student and staff body of different ages, ethnicities, nationalities and backgrounds, all with one thing in common – an interest in healthcare, science and medicine.

Students frequently tell us they greatly appreciate the diversity of our student and staff body, as well as the patients who access healthcare services in the borough of Tooting. The University attracts a substantial number – over two-thirds – of ‘mature’ students, aged 21 or over when they start; many of whom have family and caring responsibilities.

We offer a full range of academic support and student services across all institutes, departments and faculties, some of which are listed below. We take pride in offering a transformative educational experience underpinned by cooperation and collaboration between staff and students. Our innovative Student-Staff Partnership Grants (SSPGs) provide funding for small projects led jointly by students and staff, such as a project to train our students in British Sign Language.

Personal tutor

Once you arrive, you will be allocated a personal tutor – someone with whom you can have regular contact, who you ask questions and discuss problems with, both academic and personal. The main purpose of a personal tutor is to monitor your progress, pick up and help you resolve any problems, whether academic or welfare related. Even if they don’t have the answer they will point you in the right direction towards the best people to deal with specific problems.

Induction programme

Within your first week at City St George’s, you’ll take part in an induction programme to help with your orientation and introduce you to various study skills, including interprofessional learning and use of the Anatomy Suite. Additional sessions provide advice and guidance about the Registry, Students’ Union, personal tutor system, safety, occupational health and sexual health awareness.

Academic staff support

You’ll have access to your lecturers, usually by arrangement via email.

Academic link tutor

The Academic Link Tutor provides you with support on placement, acting as your link with the University and monitoring your achievement and assessment.

Placement support

Placement in practice is formalised through a placement management agreement. You will receive preparation sessions before your placement and be supported by our practice educators during your placement. These individuals are HCPC registered clinicians who supervise you to ensure you receive the learning opportunities necessary to meet the required placement outcomes. They will also assess your competence throughout the placement, providing regular feedback to you about your progress and supporting you to obtain any additional development required. A halfway feedback session between the student and the Practice Educator is required for all placements, supported by the Academic Link Tutor.

Student Life Centre

Our Student Centre team can help you with every aspect of student life: finances, accommodation, exams and assessment, academic procedures, admissions, international queries, disability and wellbeing, even finding your way around – whatever it takes to make you feel at home. Each course has a designated contact within the student centre to link to and your personal tutor can signpost you to relevant support, including a confidential counselling service.

Careers service

Our careers service works to support current students and recent graduates to find and maintain the career of their dreams. We work with careers tutors from each course area to ensure that careers activities specific to your programmes and future profession come to you.

Apply for this course through UCAS (the University and College Admissions Service) by the 14 January 2026 (2026 entry).

View all Close all

Application checklist

You must provide:

full details of your Level 2 (GCSE or equivalent) qualifications with grades
full details of your Level 3 (A Level or equivalent) qualifications with achieved/predicted grades
a personal statement (more information about this document is available on the UCAS website)
an academic reference from your current or most recent institutions with predicted grades

Deferred entry

We will consider applications from applicants who wish to defer entry by a year, provided you plan to use the time constructively. If you are offered a place on the course and subsequently decide to defer, you must inform us by 1 June of the year of application.

After application

Acknowledgement emails are sent out as soon as we receive your application. Please make sure that your email account is able to accept communications from City St George’s as we will mainly communicate with you via email.

Make your application stand out

Read our guidance for highlighting your skills and building a strong application.

Duration

Three years, full-time

Application Deadline

14 January 2026 (2026 entry)

UCAS Code

B160, institution code S49

Apply via UCAS

Physiotherapy

This course has places available through Early Clearing. Learn more and apply now.

Work with patients on placement

Physiotherapy MSc (pre-registration)

Why City George's

Learn more about studying at City St George's

Course info

Boost your knowledge and confidence

Fees and funding

Clubs, Societies and Community Projects at St George's

Students' Union

Aviation & Space Medicine Society

Cheer & Gym Society

Afro-Caribbean Society

Marrow

Henry Gray Anatomy Society

Athena SWAN Student Network

Yoga Society

Craft Society

Vegan and Vegetarian Society

Catholic Society

Christian Union

Islamic Society

St George's Jewish Society

Entry Criteria: 2025 Entry

Entry Qualifications

Other academic Requirements

Non-academic Requirements

Entry Criteria: 2026 Entry

Entry Qualifications

Other academic Requirements

Non-academic Requirements

Year 1

Physiotherapy MSc (pre-registration)

Year 2

Year 3

Placement

Teaching

Assessment

Expertise

Placements

Class of 2022 Physiotherapy alumna presents research on the experiences of deaf healthcare workers

Facilities

Physiotherapy skills laboratory

Anatomy suite

Pathology museum

Library and learning technology

IT facilities

Student support

Personal tutor

Induction programme

Academic staff support

Academic link tutor

Placement support

Student Life Centre

Careers service

Make your application stand out

Apply now

Duration

Application Deadline

UCAS Code

Related Courses

Physiotherapy (pre-registration)