Shape the future of physiotherapy

• Introduction to Professionalism, Ethics and Biomedical Law
• Compassion in CARE
• Accountability in CARE
• Respect in CARE
• Excellence in CARE
• Professionalism in Practice
• Research Methods and Dissertation

• Physical Activity and Health Behaviour Change in Clinical Populations

Or

• Musculoskeletal Injection Therapy*

*Additional eligibility criteria also apply to the optional musculoskeletal injection therapy module. This module is offered as an alternative to the Physical Activity and Behaviour Change in Clinical Populations module (Year 1, Semester 2). This module is best suited to physiotherapists working in musculoskeletal triage roles, alongside consultants, in public or private rheumatology or orthopaedic clinics, with onsite medical support.

Applicants must:

• Hold a Bachelor's/Master’s degree or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard in Physiotherapy (2.2 degree or higher). Please note that a physiotherapy degree covering the three core areas (cardiorespiratory, musculoskeletal and neurology)  is essential for entry onto this programme. If you have any queries around whether your qualification is eligible, please contact rcsionline@rcsi.ie for further advice.
• Be a physiotherapist (CORU-registered or equivalent from overseas regulator)
• At least one year of musculoskeletal clinical experience
• Have access to musculoskeletal patients for Year 2

Each application will be assessed on an individual basis.

This programme is delivered through blended learning and students will be required to attend in-person workshops and classes at RCSI's St Stephen's Green campus in Dublin, Ireland: if students are not able to attend in person then unfortunately they will not be eligible for the programme. Please note that this programme is not eligible for a student visa.

Why study the MSc in Advanced Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy?

• Hybrid delivery: Designed for working clinicians, the programme is delivered primarily through asynchronous online lectures, allowing you to study on your schedule, with just one live online module. In-person sessions are focused, practical and skills-based, combining workshops and real clinical scenarios.
• Experienced faculty: Learn from seasoned educators and clinical leaders who have taught across undergraduate and postgraduate physiotherapy programmes for years.
• Career progression: The curriculum is built to help physiotherapists deepen their clinical specialisation in musculoskeletal care and progress into senior or clinical specialist roles.
• Professional recognition: Graduates are eligible for Level 2 membership with the Chartered Physiotherapists in Musculoskeletal Therapy (CPMT), a mark of clinical specialisation recognised by the Irish Society of Chartered Physiotherapists (ISCP). Ideal for private practitioners seeking credibility and visibility.
• Simulation-based learning: Gain hands-on experience using RCSI's world-class simulation facilities to reinforce theoretical knowledge through high-fidelity clinical scenarios.
• Mentored clinical practice: In Year 2, apply your learning through mentored clinical practice with no need to leave your current workplace or secure external placements.
• Competitive edge: Ireland's only postgraduate MSc in musculoskeletal physiotherapy. Unlike many alternatives, our hybrid format reduces travel and cost while delivering world-class quality.