Course summary

We have a long history of successfully delivering animal science-related courses in conjunction with animal healthcare organisations, for individuals and their employers. This programme is another example of collaboration, this time with the National Association of Veterinary Physiotherapists (NAVP). Delivery is provided by colleagues from Harper Adams, technical specialists who are members of NAVP and also specialist external academics. The programme fulfils the need to support veterinary surgeons who treat both companion and large animals. The veterinary physiotherapist (VP) can provide this support during an animal’s recovery from injury or surgery as well as in preparation of the athletic animal. Considering the number of animals owned and cared for in the UK and a general wish for high standards of animal health and welfare, there is now a growing need for well-educated and highly qualified, accredited VPs to provide this sort of service. This programme is delivered on a part-time basis and studied over three academic years, with students completing the taught modules of the PgD within the first two years and completing the Masters Research Project within an individually negotiated timescale over one to two years. How will it benefit me? Veterinary physiotherapy is now well established as a mainstream complimentary treatment and offers the opportunity to become part of a growing professional community. Successful completion of this programme will provide individuals with more extensive opportunities for graduate employment as a VP in the animal health sector by developing the specific scientific, technical and business skills required. On successful completion, students will gain a recognised Higher Education postgraduate qualification as a veterinary physiotherapist as well as being able to apply for registration with the Animal Health Professions’ Register and membership of NAVP.