Physiotherapy
The main focus of the study programme is to prepare highly qualified physiotherapists with an in-depth understanding of physiotherapy and the ability to successfully conduct research and contribute to further development of the speciality.
This programme is also offered in Latvian.
Programme Fact File
Health Care
accredited until
Professional Bachelor's Degree in Health Care
Study environment and methods
Study environment
The aim of the study programme is to ensure a comprehensive study process and research possibilities. RSU has well-equipped classrooms and laboratories, e.g. the Gait Laboratory and Rehabilitation Research Laboratory, which offer extensive possibilities for research, as well as well IT infrastructure and a modern library with direct access to global databases. Students can use the state-of-the-art training equipment of the Medical Education Technology Centre and work closely with other RSU structural units and cooperation partners.
Physiotherapy is a full-time study programme, students attend lectures, take active participation in practical classes, workshops and discussions and study independently. RSU has introduced a modern e-learning platform and students are constantly offered new study opportunities.
The predominant part of the study programme consists of practical classes, which are designed to allow students to develop professional competences. During their practical classes students work in small groups. Thus, study process is student-centered. If necessary, students can apply for individual consultations, and the recommendations and proposals of students are always heard and taken into account. In addition, students can use physiotherapy classrooms for independent and practical training. This opportunity is highly valued and frequently used by our students.
- 1st study year
Students master the basic disciplines of medicine – anatomy, physiology, biology and microbiology, as well as specialised subjects – basics of physiotherapy, sports pedagogy, biomechanics, first aid, medical terminology in foreign languages, philosophy and ethics, research methods, biometry, basics of economics and business, etc.
- 2nd study year
Students acquire the basics in clinical subjects – pathological physiology, propaedeutics of internal diseases, clinical pharmacology, clinical care, internal diseases, general surgery, and technologies of medicine. Specialised subjects include basic physiotherapy study courses – ergonomics, physical medicine, massage, sports pedagogy, assessment of functional ability limitations, general and communication psychology, environmental health, public health, etc.
- 3rd study year
Students master clinical disciplines – neurology, orthopaedics, paediatrics, infectious diseases. Specialised subjects include physiotherapy in orthopaedics, internal diseases and geriatrics, neurology and paediatrics, general rehabilitation, basics of research methodology, sports medicine, health promotion and prevention in physiotherapy.
- 4th study year
Students undergo clinical placement and prepare to write their Bachelor’s thesis. The aim of the clinical placement is to strengthen the knowledge acquired during their studies, to develop and improve practical skills by dealing with patients of different age groups and pathologies, preventing or reducing functional movement disorders, and to acquire the competence in the selected profession that complies with the professional standards of proficiency for physiotherapists.
Placement locations are clinics, rehabilitation centres, outpatient clinics, private clinics, etc. Also, students can apply for ERASMUS+ Mobility for Placements and undergo clinical placement or a part of it in any EU country.
Study methods
In the beginning emphasis is placed on the basic disciplines of medicine. Nevertheless, professional subjects start in the 1st semester and gradually increase throughout the study years. Additionally, in the 4th year students master general and elective courses and undergo a 26-week placement. Placement is one of the most important parts of the study programme as students can successfully transition from studies to work. At the end of their studies, students have to defend their Bachelor’s thesis and pass the state examination to obtain a professional qualification.
The study programme complies with the requirements of Cabinet Regulations No. 512 “Regarding the State Standard for Second Level Professional Higher Education” and other applicable laws and regulations. The curriculum of the study programme has been improved based on the recommendations of professional associations (WCPT, WCPT ER, LFA) and ENPHE (European Network of Physiotherapy in Higher Education), which RSU is an active member of.
- Syllabus
During your studies you will learn to identify your goals and find a path to take you closer to your goals. A valuable lesson to learn that will help you grow professionally and empower you throughout your life.
Lect. Māra Kuļša, Head of the Study Programme
Admissions requirements
Study bases
Job Opportunities after Studies
Graduates of our programme work at clinics, hospitals, outpatient rehabilitation and health centres, private practice, social care institutions, schools, kindergartens, sports schools, etc. They carry out preventive and educational work and help patients recover the functions they lost due to an illness or injury. It is estimated that the number of physiotherapists will increase significantly in the future. Besides, physiotherapists play a crucial role in health promotion and disease prevention, and these fields of activity have been included in the standards of physiotherapy practice.
According to the results of the latest employer survey, a large number of employers are in need of more physiotherapists in their healthcare facilities, both public and private. It can be noted that, as reported by the Latvian Association of Physiotherapists, physiotherapy in private healthcare is currently experiencing rapid growth.
Graduates
At our university you will learn to think and be responsible. The decisions of physiotherapists often define whether a person will be able to recover successfully and return to society. It requires a tremendous amount of effort, but seeing a patient take their first steps for the second time in their life, gives you great satisfaction.
Jeļizaveta Lieldidža-Kolbina, physiotherapist, Salaspils Medical Centre
Further studies
Students may continue their studies in the following RSU Master's study programmes (the study programmes Public Health, Health Management, Rehabilitation, Social Work with Children and Youth are offered in English):
Head of Programme
