University of the Free State

Bachelor of Science in Physiotherapy

Health Sciences and Social Services - Curative Health

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Purpose and Rationale

Purpose: The qualification prepares learners for professional training, postgraduate studies, or professional practice in a Physiotherapy career. It emphasizes general principles and theory along with procedural knowledge to provide learners with a strong foundation in the knowledge, theory, principles, and skills of Physiotherapy. This qualification is designed in consultation with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) and is a requirement for obtaining a license to practice Physiotherapy. The modules offered in this qualification aim to prepare learners for professional training, postgraduate studies, or professional practice.

Rationale: Physiotherapists play a crucial role in the healthcare team, assessing and managing patients' return to functional activity. With the growing demand for healthcare professionals in areas like health education, prophylaxis, therapy, and rehabilitation, learners of this qualification need exposure to a wide range of professional fields. The rationale behind this qualification is to produce competent physiotherapists who can provide professional services in various healthcare environments. Graduates will have acquired the necessary knowledge, skills, clinical reasoning abilities, attitudes, values, and behavior to excel in their profession and as rehabilitation managers within the broader healthcare setting. They will be equipped to meet the community, business, and industry needs, understand the importance of lifelong learning, value education and society, and contribute positively to society through their knowledge, skills, and applied competence in the field of study.

Outcomes

  1. A sound knowledge and understanding of the health care system, the role of the physiotherapist in preventative, promotive and rehabilitative patient care and treatment of disease and injuries relevant to physiotherapy.
  2. A sound knowledge of basic scientific research principles and procedures.
  3. The ability to correctly identify and apply manual techniques, therapeutic exercises, electro-physical modalities.
  4. Adequate clinical reasoning and problem-solving abilities enabling him/her to effectively construct and execute and appropriate patient treatment plan.
  5. An awareness of the functioning and policies relevant to the various levels of health care within the context of the South African health care setting.
  6. The ability to utilise diagnostic and treatment aids, as well as the services of other health care professions, successfully participating and contributing within the context of the multi-professional team.

Assessment Criteria

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes:

  1. Research Project Execution:

    • Ability to execute a basic research project within given time frames.
    • Document and present research findings in accordance with a compiled protocol.

  2. Knowledge of Human Development:

    • Demonstrate understanding of normal human development, structures, and pathology.

  3. Knowledge of Diseases and Pathological Processes:

    • Comprehensive knowledge of diseases and pathological processes as the basis of physiotherapy practice.

  4. Utilization of Scientific Terminology:

    • Apply correct utilization of physiotherapeutic scientific terminology.

  5. Clinical Assessment Skills:

    • Proficient execution of basic clinical assessment skills.
    • Comprehensive patient history taking.
    • Subject interview and physical examination.
    • Interpretation and correct documentation of assessment findings.

Integrated Assessment:

  • Formative and Summative Assessment:

    • Provides opportunities for ongoing monitoring of progress.
    • Addresses problems as they occur.
    • Includes presentations and projects on approved topics.
    • Tests and provides insight into the complexities of practicing Physiotherapy.

  • Continuous Assessment:

    • Demonstrates achieved competences required by qualification outcomes.
    • Utilizes tests, assignments, practical reports, and oral presentations.

The overall assessment strategy includes a combination of Formative and Summative Assessment opportunities, as well as Continuous Assessment to allow learners to monitor progress regularly and address any issues promptly.

Qualification Details

Type
National First Degree(Min 480)
NQF Level
08
Min. Credits
480
SAQA Source
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University of the Free State
University of the Free State
Description
The University of the Free State (UFS) is a public research university located in Bloemfontein, South Africa. It was established in 1904 and is one of the oldest institutions of higher education in the country. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including humanities, natural and agricultural sciences, law, health sciences, education, and economic and management sciences. UFS is known for its commitment to inclusivity and diversity, and it strives to provide quality education and promote social justice. The university has a strong research focus and collaborates with national and international partners to address societal challenges and contribute to knowledge creation. UFS also has a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, sports facilities, and cultural activities.
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This page includes information from the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) . Builtneat Pty Ltd trading as Study Start, has modified all or some of this information. SAQA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.