Course details

Master of Physiotherapy (MPhty)
NZQF Level 9

About the course

The Master of Physiotherapy (MPhty) coursework programme aims to advance the student's clinical reasoning and patient management skills beyond that of the entry level practitioner and provide one of the prerequisites necessary to achieve specialisation. The one-semester research paper requires involvement in a small project. Under the supervision of a member of staff, students may be involved in aspects of the design or implementation of a treatment, a case series, a data-based clinical audit, observational or qualitative study. The member of staff will ensure that the student is research enabled and ready to embrace evidence based practice in the performance of their career. Applicants may enrol in the MPhty by coursework directly or by staircasing up from the PGDipPhty.

The Master of Physiotherapy (MPhty) by thesis (Research pathway) requires the completion of two papers, usually PHTY545 and PHTY610, and a thesis to obtain a research master's. The School of Physiotherapy has a strong postgraduate research programme currently supporting numerous master's research students working on topics that range from neurological or musculoskeletal disorders, health equity, pain science, to anatomical studies. We aim to provide students with a high level of knowledge and experience in order to help them develop their own research skills whether using qualitative or quantitative methodologies. Our aim is to have students complete their master's confident in their abilities to conduct research and assess relevant literature and practices, whether this leads to PhD study in the future or to more assured clinical practice. Applicants may enrol in the MPhty by thesis (Research pathway) directly.

Entry requirements

General entry requirements

A university entrance qualification is essential for admission to the University of Otago for all types of programmes. You must also be at least 16 years of age by the first day of classes in your period of study and meet English language requirements.

Domestic students

You need to have met the New Zealand University Entrance standard, based on your achievement in secondary school or other prior study. Learn about the different categories for achieving University Entrance and what information you may need to provide with your application.

International students

Check recognised entry qualifications by country, and find out what documents you need to provide for a successful application.

English language requirements

All students must be proficient in the use of English. If your first language is not English, there are several ways you may provide evidence of English proficiency, including through prior secondary or tertiary study, internationally recognised English language tests, and foundation language programmes.

The level of English proficiency required for undergraduate study is equivalent to an overall IELTS score of 6.0, with no individual band below 5.5.

About the provider

The University of Otago, New Zealand’s first university, was founded in 1869 and offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes with a strong emphasis on research and academic excellence. Ranked in the top 1% of universities globally and 2nd in New Zealand, it is also 214th worldwide according to QS rankings. Recognised as the top university in New Zealand for student academic performance by the Tertiary Education Commission, 96% of its graduates either enter the workforce or pursue further study shortly after graduation. 

Located in Dunedin, a vibrant student city where students make up 20% of the population, the University benefits from a unique atmosphere. Dunedin, on the south-eastern coast of New Zealand’s South Island, is known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, featuring Victorian and Edwardian architecture, picturesque hills, and wildlife reserves. 

The University’s campus is ranked the 5th most beautiful in the world by THE Student Voice, enhancing the educational experience. The Otago region offers diverse scenery and is close to popular destinations such as Queenstown. New Zealand is rated the 1st most beautiful country by Rough Guides 2024, is renowned for its natural beauty, Māori heritage, and multicultural society, providing a friendly, inclusive environment for students and residents. 

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