MSci Veterinary Physiotherapy | Hartpury University

Develop an in-depth knowledge and practical skills in Veterinary Physiotherapy and rehabilitation of animals. This programme combines theoretical learning with hands-on experience, allowing you to develop a comprehensive understanding of the profession.

Benefit from state-of-the-art facilities, including dedicated animal rehabilitation centres and equipment, such as hydrotherapy pools, therapeutic exercise equipment, and gait analysis tools. You'll have access to these resources to enhance your learning and practical training in veterinary physiotherapy.

Subject to validation.

Key Information

Course Duration: 4 years full-time

Part or Full Time: Full Time

Level of Study: Integrated Master's

Typical Offer: 128 UCAS tariff points or equivalent

Course information

The MVetPhys is ideal for those passionate about improving animals' lives. It’s designed for driven, capable individuals eager to make a real difference to animals. This programme is tailored for those with the ambition and academic aptitude needed to succeed in a hands-on career. Many graduates will go on to start their own businesses in veterinary physiotherapy.

The MVetPhys is a four-year integrated master’s degree programme. This course combines undergraduate and postgraduate study into a single, continuous four-year programme. Graduates achieve a master’s degree (Level 7) qualification. Integrated Master’s degrees are especially popular in fields such as veterinary physiotherapy, engineering, and science, where a more advanced, comprehensive knowledge base is beneficial for professional practice.

As part of this course you can expect to study a range of subjects related to animal physiotherapy and rehabilitation. Some of the key topics covered in the veterinary physiotherapy programme include: Anatomy and Physiology of animals, Principles of Physiotherapy, Pathophysiology of Animal Injuries and Conditions, Biomechanics and Gait Analysis, and Clinical Practice and Hands-On Training.

You'll have the opportunity to network with experts, participate in industry placements, and gain valuable practical experience in real-world settings. These industry connections can help you build a strong professional network and enhance your career prospects upon graduation.

We are in the process of gaining accreditation with the Register of Animal Musculoskeletal Practitioners (RAMP). RAMP is a voluntary industry regulatory body which maintains a competent national register of professionals who have signed up to take responsibility to attain and maintain gold standards of practice in animal musculoskeletal treatment. Being a registered member of RAMP signifies that an individual has met the required standards of education, training, and professional practice in animal musculoskeletal therapy. This recognition enhances credibility and trust among clients, colleagues, and industry professionals.

UCAS tariff points | 128-144 UCAS tariff points, to include Biology.

A Levels | ABB or equivalent from at least two full A Levels. This must include Biology at grade B or above.

Vocational Awards | DDD in an Extended Diploma in a Science related subject. To include Distinctions in Biology modules.

Access | 128 UCAS tariff points in an Access to Higher Education Diploma. This must include nine level 3 credits at Distinction in Biology.

International Baccalaureate | 128 UCAS tariff points in an IB Diploma, from at least two Highers at H4 or above, including Biology at H5 or above.

Scottish Highers | 128 UCAS tariff points from at least two Highers, to include Advanced Higher Biology at grade B or above. You must have completed two years study at Higher Level.

Irish Leaving Certificate | 128 UCAS tariff points from at least two Highers, to include Higher Biology at H1.

T Level | An overall grade of Distinction* to include grade A or above in the Core component in a Science subject. T Level subjects considered are Animal Care and Management (Science Pathway), Healthcare Science and Science. Health will be considered on an individual basis.

Additional Information

Successful students will need to have obtained at least 2 days of work experience with a UK RAMP Veterinary Physiotherapist as well as provide evidence of handling proficiency with horses and small animals.

In addition to the above, we require a minimum of five GCSEs at grade 9-4 (A*-C), to include English, Maths and a Science. We will consider equivalencies including but not limited to functional skills level 2, Irish Ordinary level, National 5s, IB standard level.

We will consider combinations of level three qualifications.

We welcome applications from individuals with equivalent, non-UK qualifications and mature students (over 21). We may interview as part of the application process.

The minimum academic entry requirement for this programme is 120 UCAS tariff points, providing this is combined with relevant experience.

International students

Please read the entry requirements for your country and contact our admissions team if you have any questions.

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Your career

The field of veterinary physiotherapy offers a range of opportunities for employability, including:

Working in Veterinary Clinics: Veterinary physiotherapists can work in veterinary clinics, providing rehabilitation services to animals recovering from injuries, surgeries, or chronic conditions. They may work alongside veterinarians to develop treatment plans and implement specialised rehabilitation techniques to improve the mobility and quality of life of animals.
Animal Rehabilitation Centres: Many animal rehabilitation centres employ veterinary physiotherapists to provide specialised care to a variety of animals, including companion animals, working animals, and exotic species. These centres may offer services such as hydrotherapy, therapeutic exercise programs, and manual therapy to help animals recover from injuries and improve their physical function.
Equine Facilities: Veterinary physiotherapists may also find employment opportunities in equine facilities, working with horses to improve their performance, prevent injuries, and manage musculoskeletal conditions. They may work with sport horses, or leisure horses to optimise their physical health and well-being through tailored rehabilitation programs.
Research and Education: Some veterinary physiotherapists choose to pursue careers in research and education, conducting studies on animal rehabilitation techniques, contributing to academic publications, and teaching future veterinary physiotherapists. These professionals may work in universities, research institutions, or educational organisations to advance the field of veterinary physiotherapy through evidence-based practice and knowledge dissemination.

Work placements and experience

Work placements on-site and off-site, throughout your programme, mean you'll gain valuable industry experience progressing professional and clinical competence. Alongside the theory and practical components of the course you will develop business and multi-disciplinary team working expertise.

Graduate careers

Veterinary Physiotherapist (Equine and/or small animal)
University Lecturer
PhD student

Success Stories

Your support network

You'll benefit from a strong support network from day one to be the best you can be. This will range from your personal tutor and specialist academic support team (our Achievement and Success Centre) to dedicated wellbeing and employability (Employability, Skills and Careers) centres.

Academic support

You’ll have your own personal tutor while you’re here who will support you to succeed in your studies. You’ll also have access to our academic and wellbeing support teams who run regular workshops and one-to-one sessions on campus and online.

Alongside this, we have a comprehensive bank of online study skills resources to help you make the most of your qualification.

Your learning experiences

You'll experience a range of teaching methods to strengthen your digestion of topics, including lectures, workshops and practical sessions, as well as supported work placement learning as part of many courses.

Your career

Each year of your course will be made up of two semesters, within which you’ll study compulsory modules on different industry-focused topics, enabling you to develop your own unique portfolio of knowledge, skills and experience, ready for your career.

The course is taught in English.

Course information

Overview

Entry requirements

UCAS tariff points | 128-144 UCAS tariff points, to include Biology.

A Levels | ABB or equivalent from at least two full A Levels. This must include Biology at grade B or above.

Vocational Awards | DDD in an Extended Diploma in a Science related subject. To include Distinctions in Biology modules.

Access | 128 UCAS tariff points in an Access to Higher Education Diploma. This must include nine level 3 credits at Distinction in Biology.

International Baccalaureate | 128 UCAS tariff points in an IB Diploma, from at least two Highers at H4 or above, including Biology at H5 or above.

Scottish Highers | 128 UCAS tariff points from at least two Highers, to include Advanced Higher Biology at grade B or above. You must have completed two years study at Higher Level.

Irish Leaving Certificate | 128 UCAS tariff points from at least two Highers, to include Higher Biology at H1.

Additional Information

We will consider combinations of level three qualifications.

We welcome applications from individuals with equivalent, non-UK qualifications and mature students (over 21). We may interview as part of the application process.

The minimum academic entry requirement for this programme is 120 UCAS tariff points, providing this is combined with relevant experience.

International students

Please read the entry requirements for your country and contact our admissions team if you have any questions.

Employability

Your career

The field of veterinary physiotherapy offers a range of opportunities for employability, including:

Working in Veterinary Clinics: Veterinary physiotherapists can work in veterinary clinics, providing rehabilitation services to animals recovering from injuries, surgeries, or chronic conditions. They may work alongside veterinarians to develop treatment plans and implement specialised rehabilitation techniques to improve the mobility and quality of life of animals.
Animal Rehabilitation Centres: Many animal rehabilitation centres employ veterinary physiotherapists to provide specialised care to a variety of animals, including companion animals, working animals, and exotic species. These centres may offer services such as hydrotherapy, therapeutic exercise programs, and manual therapy to help animals recover from injuries and improve their physical function.
Equine Facilities: Veterinary physiotherapists may also find employment opportunities in equine facilities, working with horses to improve their performance, prevent injuries, and manage musculoskeletal conditions. They may work with sport horses, or leisure horses to optimise their physical health and well-being through tailored rehabilitation programs.
Research and Education: Some veterinary physiotherapists choose to pursue careers in research and education, conducting studies on animal rehabilitation techniques, contributing to academic publications, and teaching future veterinary physiotherapists. These professionals may work in universities, research institutions, or educational organisations to advance the field of veterinary physiotherapy through evidence-based practice and knowledge dissemination.

Work placements and experience

Graduate careers

Veterinary Physiotherapist (Equine and/or small animal)
University Lecturer
PhD student

How you'll study

Your support network

Academic support

Alongside this, we have a comprehensive bank of online study skills resources to help you make the most of your qualification.

Your learning experiences

Your career

The course is taught in English.

Modules

What you'll study

Across the four years of this course, you’ll build strong foundations in animal behaviour, welfare, anatomy, biomechanics and physiology, while gaining early exposure to handling and management through placement experiences.

In your first year, an introduction to veterinary physiotherapy practice will ensure you are knowledgeable about legislation, scope of practice and professional networks within the multidisciplinary team.

As you progress through the course you’ll deepen your understanding of biomechanics, locomotion and functional assessment, and begin developing clinical skills alongside further industry-focused placements.

You’ll undertake clinical placements in canine and equine settings to develop practical competencies under professional supervision, supported by modules in evidence-based treatment, rehabilitation and research. In your final year, you’ll refine your clinical skills to an independent level and complete a research project.

These compulsory modules are designed to develop the skills and competencies required to practice successfully in the veterinary physiotherapy industry.

Module credits

On successful completion of your modules you’ll gain academic credit that accumulates towards your awards. The marks you gain in your final two years on campus may contribute towards your final degree classification.

Your first year will focus on building knowledge and developing skills that are critical to success with your patients as a veterinary physiotherapist.

Compulsory Modules

Applied Anatomy and Physiology for Veterinary Physiotherapies

This module provides an in-depth exploration of the musculoskeletal system across a variety of animal species, including equine, canine, large animals and exotics. You'll examine musculoskeletal anatomy and physiology, including cell and tissue formation, body systems, and anatomical terminology. Species-specific differences and the functional roles of systems such as cardiovascular, nervous, reproductive, and respiratory are investigated.

The module also considers physiological responses to training and exercise across different populations and life stages, as well as the processes involved in healing and recovery. You'll establish the scientific foundations required to apply anatomical and physiological concepts within veterinary and animal science contexts.

Animal Welfare, Behaviour and Management for Veterinary Physiotherapists

This module introduces the fundamental principles of animal behaviour, welfare, and handling. You'll explore animal husbandry, physiology and environmental influences across animal species, including equine, canine, large animals, and exotics. Key areas include behaviour assessment, recognition of pain and stress indicators, and the application of ethical and legal frameworks to promote optimal animal well-being. This module provides the essential knowledge and techniques to enhance animal management and welfare in the context of veterinary physiotherapy.

Introduction to Professional Practice for Veterinary Physiotherapists

This module provides a comprehensive foundation in veterinary physiotherapy across a variety of animal species. It introduces key legislation, professional standards, codes of conduct, and digital record keeping requirements. The role of the multidisciplinary team in animal healthcare is explored, alongside safe and effective animal handling and basic palpation techniques. Emphasis is placed on evidence-based problem-solving, clinical reasoning, and self-appraisal to support high-quality veterinary physiotherapy practice.

Veterinary Physiotherapy Practice One

This module delivers 132 hours of practical learning, including 60 hours of offsite industry engagement. You'll develop core interpersonal skills and professional behaviours, while developing verbal communication skills through self-appraisal. The application of knowledge across various species, including equine, canine, and large animals is examined within a variety of professional settings.

In your second year, you'll build underpinning knowledge with topics relating to Neuromusculoskeletal pathology and veterinary diagnostics.

Compulsory Modules

Animal Biomechanics, Locomotion and Function for Veterinary Physiotherapists

This module explores the science of animal movement, including biomechanics and locomotion, across a range of species and disciplines. You'll examine fundamental principles of kinematics and kinetics along with the influence of genetics, environment, and conformation on movement. The use of digital assessment tools supports the evaluation and analysis of performance and informs evidence-based biomechanical strategies aimed at optimising function and reducing risk.

Musculoskeletal Pathology and Diagnostics for Veterinary Physiotherapists

This module provides a comprehensive overview of the pathological processes, diagnostic strategies, and assessment techniques related to injury and disease across various animal species. You'll investigate long-term injury implications, pain mechanisms, and the application of diagnostic tools to inform effective treatment and management plans.

Treatment Skills for Veterinary Physiotherapists

This module develops comprehensive skills in equine, canine, and large animal musculoskeletal assessment and therapy. You'll cover detailed examination techniques, treatment planning and application of manual and electrotherapy techniques. Case progression strategies and modification of treatments to individual needs are explored, supporting evidence based rehabilitation and therapy techniques.

Veterinary Physiotherapy Practice Two

This module provides comprehensive practical experience in veterinary physiotherapy across multiple species, including equine, canine, and large animals. Through 120 hours of industry engagement; comprising onsite training and offsite observational placements, it develops practical skills, professional behaviours, and an understanding of business structures within the associated animal industries. Reflective practice underpins ongoing personal and professional development.

In this year, you will progress to clinical placements in canine and equine settings working on your practical competencies supervised by experienced and qualified veterinary physiotherapists.

When not on placement, modules will cover how to apply evidence-based treatments and rehabilitation, as well as developing your research skills.

Compulsory Modules

Evidence Based Veterinary Physiotherapy

This module provides an in-depth exploration of therapeutic techniques in veterinary physiotherapy, emphasising critical evaluation, evidence-based application, and ethical considerations. Neural pathways and treatment modalities, such as thermal therapy, electrotherapy, massage, and proprioceptive techniques, are examined across a variety of species. Current research is critically analysed to inform effective interventions and rehabilitation strategies.

Research Skills for Veterinary Physiotherapists

This module develops a comprehensive understanding of research principles and methods in the context of veterinary physiotherapy. You'll research design, literature evaluation, qualitative and quantitative data analysis and ethical considerations. Academic writing, critical thinking and clinical reasoning are embedded throughout, supporting the development and implementation of robust research projects.

Applied Treatment Skills for Veterinary Physiotherapists – One

This practical-based module provides 228 hours of supervised clinical experience across equine, canine, and large animal species. You'll develop core competencies in musculoskeletal assessment, treatment planning, and the application of manual and electrotherapy techniques. Objective examination, passive and active treatment methods and gait analysis are practised, supporting the development, of clinical reasoning, professional conduct, and interprofessional skills.

In your final year you’ll advance your clinical skills and demonstrate a level of independence giving you confidence ready for clinical practice after graduation.

When not on placement, modules will cover how to apply evidence-based treatments and rehabilitation, as well as developing your research skills by completing a project to fulfil the requirements for your science degree.

Compulsory Modules

Applied Treatment Skills for Veterinary Physiotherapists – Two

This module provides an in-depth exploration of therapeutic techniques and clinical reasoning within veterinary physiotherapy. You'll develop hands-on skills through 216 hours of supervised practical learning. Emphasis is placed on critical evaluation of complex cases, application of diverse modalities such as electrotherapy, acupuncture, manual therapy, and collaboration within multidisciplinary teams. Through practical sessions and professional behaviour assessments, clinical reasoning, therapeutic competency, and the ability to design and evaluate effective treatment plans across various species are enhanced.

Veterinary Physiotherapy Research Project

This module develops advanced research skills tailored to veterinary physiotherapy. You'll focus on research techniques, selecting appropriate data collection and analysis methods and ensuring ethical, reliable and valid approaches in animal studies. Critical evaluation of academic writing and dissemination skills underpin the development of industry-related research outputs.

Professional Skills for Veterinary Physiotherapists

This module provides an in-depth exploration of advanced veterinary therapeutic techniques across multiple species, including equine, canine, and large animals. Complex case analysis and the development of comprehensive management strategies are central. Emphasising a multidisciplinary approach, the module covers business management, marketing, and client communication to enhance service delivery and client concordance. Practical skills include applying modalities such as Kinesio tape and hydrotherapy, as well as evaluating joint function and physiological responses. The module supports the development of both clinical proficiency and the operational knowledge required for effective practice within veterinary physiotherapy.

Modules

Overview

What you'll study

These compulsory modules are designed to develop the skills and competencies required to practice successfully in the veterinary physiotherapy industry.

Module credits

Level four (year one)

Your first year will focus on building knowledge and developing skills that are critical to success with your patients as a veterinary physiotherapist.

Compulsory Modules

Applied Anatomy and Physiology for Veterinary Physiotherapies

Animal Welfare, Behaviour and Management for Veterinary Physiotherapists

Introduction to Professional Practice for Veterinary Physiotherapists

Veterinary Physiotherapy Practice One

Level five (year two)

In your second year, you'll build underpinning knowledge with topics relating to Neuromusculoskeletal pathology and veterinary diagnostics.

Compulsory Modules

Animal Biomechanics, Locomotion and Function for Veterinary Physiotherapists

Musculoskeletal Pathology and Diagnostics for Veterinary Physiotherapists

Treatment Skills for Veterinary Physiotherapists

Veterinary Physiotherapy Practice Two

Level six (year three)

In this year, you will progress to clinical placements in canine and equine settings working on your practical competencies supervised by experienced and qualified veterinary physiotherapists.

When not on placement, modules will cover how to apply evidence-based treatments and rehabilitation, as well as developing your research skills.

Compulsory Modules

Evidence Based Veterinary Physiotherapy

Research Skills for Veterinary Physiotherapists

Applied Treatment Skills for Veterinary Physiotherapists – One

Level seven (year four)

In your final year you’ll advance your clinical skills and demonstrate a level of independence giving you confidence ready for clinical practice after graduation.

Compulsory Modules

Applied Treatment Skills for Veterinary Physiotherapists – Two

Veterinary Physiotherapy Research Project

Professional Skills for Veterinary Physiotherapists

The modules contain a mixture of scheduled learning – lectures, seminars and practical sessions, alongside independent learning. Students are expected to dedicate at least two to three hours of independent study per contact hour. The course also includes work placement learning as part of a module.

The course is taught in English.

Year	Contact learning	Placement learning	Independent learning
Level four (year one)	24%	5%	71%
Level five (year two)	24%	5%	71%
Level six & Level 7 (year three)	23%	10%	67%
Level six & Level 7 (year four)	20%	10%	70%

You’ll be assessed through a mixture of written, oral and practical exams, as well as written assignments. Many of the modules will be marked based on a mixture of assessment types, whilst others will be based solely on one type of assessment. Written feedback will be provided for all assignments, specific exam feedback is available via the module team.

Year	Written exam	Practical exam	Coursework
Level four (year one)	38%	63%	0%
Level five (year two)	24%	38%	38%
Level six & Level seven (year three)	24%	38%	38%
Level six & Level seven (year four)	12%	50%	38%

Year one, two, three and four of this course are taught over two semesters, normally consisting of 12 weeks of scheduled teaching and then assessment weeks, with an overview below.

- - Scheduled teaching takes place between 8:30 to 20:30 Monday to Friday
  - Wednesday afternoons are normally reserved for sports and cultural activities
  - Work placements may entail different days and hours
  - Timetables are available during enrolment week

View term dates

Please visit our student finance page for information on tuition fees and student loans, as well as non-repayable grants, bursaries and scholarships, eligible to different groups, to support with study costs.

Below, you'll find extra costs associated with studying this course.

Clothing and footwear (circa £150)

We recommend you purchase appropriate clothing and footwear before you enrol, or during enrolment week. We’ll let you know exactly what you could to purchase in your enrolment guide.

Additional costs

Throughout the degree, you are expected to source any external placements that meets the accredited criteria. This may have additional travel costs.

We may host various extra-curricular activities and courses, prices may vary dependent on the nature and duration of the course and external provider, but these are not compulsory.

You’ll need individual insurance in your third and fourth year.

Accommodation and living costs

Please visit our student accommodation page for details.

Fees & Finance

Our Resource Library is where you'll find all the essential details about Hartpury University's courses. It includes Programme and Module Specifications, along with Course Information Sheets for every course. You can easily download a complete revision history for each of these, clearly showing the dates changes were made.

Course Information Sheets: These are PDF versions of the course webpages. They provide an overview of the course, what to expect during your studies, and the topics covered.

Programme Specifications: These are detailed, validated documents containing academic specifics for each programme. They include descriptions of the programme, its aims, learning outcomes, year and module structure, as well as teaching, learning, and assessment strategies.

Module Specifications: Each Programme consists of several Modules. Our Module Specifications outline the topics covered and the expected outcomes for students studying each Module.

Resource library

Accommodation

Settle into an accommodation option to suit your taste and budget – at Hartpury University, undergraduate students can choose to live on-campus surrounded by Gloucestershire’s beautiful countryside or off-campus in the heart of Gloucester City centre. Enjoy the best of both worlds.

Finance

We can help you understand how it all works, and what you need to do next. Find out everything you need to know about tuition fees, student loans and bursaries and scholarships. In 2021/22, we provided assistance to over 1/3 of our students through bursaries, scholarships and grants, totalling a little under £1million.

Support

When you become a student at Hartpury, you become part of our community. As a small university, we provide personalised support based on your individual requirements and aspirations. Our teams cover wellbeing, achievement and success, learning support, careers, and more. From wellbeing, safety and employability, to finance, accommodation and IT, our staff will answer your questions or get you set up with someone who can.

Specialist University of the Year

Hartpury University has been named Specialist University of the Year 2026 – a major national recognition of its exceptional teaching, facilities, and student experience (The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide, 2026).

TEF Gold

Our undergraduate provision has been awarded Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) Gold in all aspects - Overall, Student Experience, and Student Outcomes.

Graduate employability

95% of graduates are in employment, further study or other purposeful activity (Graduate Outcomes 2025).

Academic support

We’re a top 10 university for academic support (NSS 2025, UK universities).

PG Animal Canine Hydrotherapy Research 2

Gain valuable hands-on experience

Animal facilities

Important information

Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of our published course information, however our programmes are reviewed and developed regularly. Changes or cancellation of courses may be necessary to ensure alignment with emerging employment areas, to comply with accrediting body requirements, revisions to subject benchmark statements or as a result of student feedback. We reserve the right to make necessary changes and will notify all offer-holders of changes as and when they occur.

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Veterinary Physiotherapy

Key Information

Course information

Your career

Work placements and experience

Graduate careers

Your support network

Academic support

Your learning experiences

Your career

Course information

Overview

Entry requirements

Employability

Your career

Work placements and experience

Graduate careers

How you'll study

Your support network

Academic support

Your learning experiences

Your career

Modules

What you'll study

Compulsory Modules

Compulsory Modules

Compulsory Modules

Compulsory Modules

Modules

Overview

What you'll study

Level four (year one)

Compulsory Modules

Level five (year two)

Compulsory Modules

Level six (year three)

Compulsory Modules

Level seven (year four)

Compulsory Modules

Teaching modes

Assessment and Feedback

Timetables

Fees and funding

Further course details

Accommodation

Finance

Support

Specialist University of the Year

TEF Gold

Graduate employability

Academic support

Animal facilities

Important information

Related courses

BSc (Hons) Equine Performance and Rehabilitation

BSc (Hons) Veterinary Nursing

BSc (Hons) Equine Veterinary Nursing

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