The programme is divided into four themes, through which your knowledge and skills are sequentially developed. These themes are:

Structure and Function
Clinical Skills
Professional Capabilities
Clinical Practice

The first two years of the course equip you with scientific knowledge, specialised manual techniques, and analytical, diagnostic and reasoning skills. Essentially these are to prepare for your final year where the focus moves to Clinical Practice and the application of what you have learned in the care of your patients. In Student Clinic throughout the final year you take responsibility (with Tutor support) for your own patient caseload. This preparation provided by us and unique among Irish schools, ensures that Institute graduates are competent practitioners with the confidence and skills to undertake private practise.

Structure and Function
This theme encompasses Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology. It is a detailed examination and analysis of the body’s structure, how it works and the changes that occur in its health and sickness. The theme runs through the first two years and the application of this scientific knowledge informs your Clinical Skills and Clinical Practice.

Clinical Skills
This module introduces you to the science and art of physical therapy diagnosis and practice, using your scientific knowledge from Theme 1. It begins with basic massage and develops over the three years to include highly specialised manual skills and techniques that include palpation and observation

Professional Capabilities
To be an effective therapist you first need to develop the skills and knowledge to become an effective learner. These skills are introduced through a module that also encourages the development of writing and oral communication skills - an important part of daily practice. This part of the course is particularly apposite if you have been away from study for some time, or are approaching physical therapy as a new career option. Critical analysis and the importance of reflective learning are also emphasised and are integrated into the learning strategies. You learn to manage client consultations and develop a self-critical approach to practice, working collaboratively with colleagues and developing your ability to give and receive feedback.

Clinical Practice
The clinical placement, which takes place at the Priory Clinic, allows you develop as a Clinician, from observation in first year to responsibility for the management of your own patient caseload in your final year. It is an exciting culmination of your study as you engage in the application of the theory and techniques you have mastered at the College. The quality and variety of clinical experience on the course is unrivalled in Ireland. It ensures that on graduation you have both the skills and confidence to establish your own private practise.