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What is the difference between Physical Therapy and Physiotherapy?

There are a number of significant differences between the
two professions. Firstly, physiotherapy and physical therapy
have been organised within Ireland as discrete professions
for two decades. Physiotherapy is a four-year, Level 8
university degree course designed in the main for school
leavers, whereas physical therapy is a three-year Level 7
degree course from a private college, designed for mature
students and adult learners. Physiotherapy training focuses
primarily on hospital work whereas physical therapy is
designed for conditions seen mostly in private practice.

Physical therapy training concentrates on the use of manual
(or hands-on) techniques exclusively, whereas physiotherapy
incorporates electrical modalities where available,
such as interferential, ultrasound, tens, laser and other
non-manual treatments. Physical therapists are trained with
a view to a longer client consultation, allowing a more
holistic approach and a treatment, which by virtue of its
hands-on nature, may be more client-centred.

How do job opportunities differ between physiotherapy and physical therapy?

Physiotherapists require a "hospital type apprenticeship" on graduation whereas physical therapy education prepares for work in private practise. Health cutbacks or a ban on recruitment within hospitals can therefore adversely affect new physiotherapy graduates. Physical therapists, on the other hand, can easily commence in private practise but face a different challenge in establishing their business and becoming self-employed.

Is it possible to keep my full-time job and study at the same time?

Yes. Most students are in full-time paid employment during the first year of our course and may even stay working through the three years of study. However, being certified as a Massage Therapist at the end of first year allows successful students to start in practice any time during their second or third year if they so wish. This means that our course facilitates a gradual changeover from the ‘old job’ to full-time work as a healthcare professional. This causes a minimum of financial stress. Some like to begin the changeover while still studying, others choose to wait until fully qualified. The choice is yours. 

How many hours study are needed?

Class weekends are well-focused and quite intense. Most students find it helpful to begin their revision as soon as possible after a weekend and then meet outside of class in small groups to practice techniques. While each student differs, we generally recommend that twenty or so hours be set aside for home study each week.

The workload looks daunting. What can I do?

While the workload is similar to that of most other third level
institutions, we offer a number of options. In first year you
can opt for a reduced workload carrying only the Health
Science subjects from the outset. Alternatively, you can
undertake all subjects and if you find the workload more
than is manageable, you can opt to complete part of the
course in the following year, thereby extending the course
length. Remember three years is the minimum to achieve the
Level 7 B.Sc. degree.

Frequent exams and lots of feedback from our small classes keep you well in touch with your progress and this will help you decide how best to proceed.

How much does the course cost?

Tuition fees for 2010/11 are €5,400. (Years Two and Three also currently cost €5,400 each). Please note that fees are subject to increase in line with inflation each year.

Is it possible to pay by installments?

Yes. Tuition fees are payable in two installments; the first €2,700 is due in late August and the balance of €2,700 is due in the first week of January. We accept payment in cash or by cheque, bank draft or charge/credit card.

Is physical therapy the same as sports massage?

Physical therapy is a more in-depth study, giving you enhanced exposure to clinical practice whilst in training, better assessment skills and more techniques as a practitioner. Our course provides a very sound scientific knowledge for further studies. Almost all of those who complete our course achieve their dream of setting up their own successful business. These days, our course carries formal recognition which will help you advance your studies with other colleges in Ireland or across the world.

Is your course internationally recognised?

Standards vary between countries. In North America for example, the standard in massage varies between individual states. Moreover, the role filled by physical therapists in the US, is filled in Ireland by physiotherapists and there is no mutual recognition.

Our B.Sc. course, validated by HETAC is an internationally recognised academic qualification. You should always check local requirements with regard to professional recognition and recognise where language is used differently.

I already have a qualification in massage. Will that qualify for exemptions?

The Institute welcomes applications from students who have experience or have studied previously in this area. If you have received an award (certificate, diploma, or degree) in any related subject – theoretical or practical - we will be happy to discuss the areas of overlap and explore which exemptions might apply. If the exemptions are for a significant part of the course there may also be a reduction in the tuition fee. Each application is individually assessed. For complete information see Credits & Exemptions. 

When I qualify will I be recognised?

Your professional qualification will be recognised by The Irish Association of Physical Therapists (IAPT), the body which currently regulates physical therapy in Ireland. Your degree will also be recognised internationally and is internationally accepted for the purposes of academic progression (access
via Level 8 degree to Master’s courses and other).

At present there are no laws specific to physical therapists regulating practice in Ireland. If this is to change it will be a matter for the profession and the regulators. The qualification and expertise is also recognised by many other Professional Associations including the Health Insurers, State Departments and private employers.

Is it possible to get insurance?

Yes. There are a number of insurers who cover physical therapy. Members of the Irish Association of Physical Therapists (IAPT) have access to comprehensive cover at a very competitive rate.

I have no previous study in this area. Will this be a disadvantage?

Not at all. Students turn to physical therapy from a very wide variety of backgrounds and professions. An interest in sport is a frequent theme, but a significant number of therapists never develop an interest in sport and still have a rewarding career as a physical therapist. We have never identified a single group as being more likely to succeed. However, we rate communication skills as being important, as is an interest in people and thirdly the potential to study to third level.

One of the most exciting parts of the course is the different life skills that students bring to the classroom. At the Institute we try to ensure you know as much as possible about the course before you enrol.

How can I learn more?

The best way to find out more is to schedule an appointment for a treatmen at our Student Clinic in Dublin or in Limerick. As well as experiencing the therapy first hand, you can also chat informally with a student and discuss the course and career with them. You can also find a list of physical therapists in Ireland on the Association website - www.iapt.ie

 


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