School of Physiotherapy
Master of Applied Science
Click here to print : Master of Applied Science Information Package (pdf)
The School of Physiotherapy at La Trobe University has a long established history of running postgraduate programs. The School’s research Masters program (Master of Applied Science) has successfully attracted a range of students from different places and academic backgrounds. The high standard of supervision and research opportunities within the School are reflected in its reputation for excellence, both within Australia and internationally.
The School’s Master of Applied Science program provides opportunities for students with suitable undergraduate training to develop their research skills while being supervised by experienced and active researchers.
The Master of Applied Science research degree program enables students to develop :
- Independent research skills.
- Expert knowledge in the science and theories underpinning physiotherapy and clinical practice.
- Skills relevant to investigating the effectiveness of clinical practices.
- Advanced skills in research design and critical analysis of literature.
- Skills relevant to publishing papers in peer reviewed journals.
- Skills in interpretation of evidence about effects of physiotherapy practices.
MAppSc programs within the School of Physiotherapy are research degrees open to suitably qualified students from a range of backgrounds (physiotherapists and non-physiotherapists).
Admission Requirements
For entry requirements into the Master of Applied Science, candidates will normally have either an Honours Degree, or a pass degree and a Postgraduate Diploma (completed with at least a B average) or have completed appropriate Masters preliminary studies. Students undertaking a Masters degree by research have the opportunity to subsequently convert their candidature to that of a PhD if suitable progress is being made at a sufficiently high standard.
The School of Physiotherapy reserves the right to conduct an interview as part of the selection process.
Course Structure
The Master of Applied Science is a research degree that may be completed by thesis only. The period of completion is a minimum of one year full-time, or the equivalent part-time, and a maximum of three years full-time or four years part-time. A thesis should not normally exceed 50,000 words in length and should show that the candidate mastered the skills of research appropriate to the field of study. The collection and critical evaluation of existing knowledge and techniques, their application (under supervision) to a specific program of research and ultimately their inclusion in a well-written and presented thesis are important features of a Masters degree. Reviewing the literature, solving problems, applying techniques, designing experiments and statistical evaluation are skills gained during the course of a Masters degree.
Applications
Application forms and details of closing dates for the Master of Applied Science degree are available from the Research and Graduate Studies Office at La Trobe University.
International applicants should contact the University’s International Programs Office. International students for all courses are required by the Australian Government to study on a full-time basis.
Fees
Commonwealth Supported Places (previously known as HECS).
Candidature in the Masters by Research degree is offered under the Research Training Scheme (RTS). The RTS provides Commonwealth-funded higher degree by research (HDR) students with an ‘entitlement’ to a commonwealth supported places scheme exemption for the duration of an accredited HDR course, up to a maximum period of two years’ full-time equivalent study for a master by research. An RTS student must be: (1) an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident or New Zealand citizen; and (2) enrolled in an accredited HDR course leading to a Master by research on a full-time or part-time basis. Students are also required to pay the University’s General Service Fee.
Information on eligibility and fees for international students can be obtained from the International Programs Office.
Allocation of Places
The following will be considered by the Selection Committee in the assessment of applications :
- Qualifications and academic record.
- Referees’ reports.
- Research experience.
- Availability of supervisors, equipment and suitable research facilities.
- Availability of RTS places in the Faculty of Health Sciences.
School Facilities
The School of Physiotherapy is located in the Health Sciences 3 building on the Bundoora Campus of La Trobe University. The building is purpose built (opened in 1998) and facilities include technologically advanced equipment. Students have opportunities to see and use the following:
- Modern, well equipped research laboratories including one of the most advanced movement laboratories in the world, a high class electrophysical agents laboratory and biomechanics facilities.
- Modern library with one of the most extensive collections of physiotherapy books and serials, and advanced on-line searching facilities.
- Up-to-date information technology services including computers for on-line learning and software for thesis construction and data analysis.
- State of the art lecture, practical, and clinical teaching facilities.
Teaching and Research Supervision Staff
The Master of Applied Science degrees are all supervised by La Trobe University School of Physiotherapy staff. The teaching and research staff involved with these courses have higher degrees in research, extensive research and publication experience, and have been recognised internationally for their work. In addition, expert researchers and supervisors (often from a clinical facility) external to La Trobe University can be involved as associated supervisors for specific research projects.
International Links
The School of Physiotherapy encourages and has developed valuable collaborative links with physiotherapists and physiotherapy teaching and research facilities in different regions of the world including – Canada, USA, Thailand, the United Kingdom, China, Israel, India and Singapore.
Graduate Outcomes
Graduates of the Master of Applied Science degree will contribute to research in physiotherapy and related areas. They typically have the skills required to publish their research in peer reviewed journals. Many graduates obtained accelerated career advancement because of their research skills and knowledge.
Features of the Programs
- High quality research supervision and education.
- High quality teaching staff.
- Access to strong research base and infrastructure.
Enquiries
Enquiries relating to academic content or admission should be directed to :
Dr Nora Shields
Postgraduate Co-ordinator
School of Physiotherapy
Faculty of Health Sciences
La Trobe University
Victoria 3086
AUSTRALIA
Telephone : +61 3 9479 5815
Facsimile : +61 3 9479 5768
Email : N.Shields@latrobe.edu.au
International applicants please initially contact :
International Programs Office
La Trobe University
Victoria 3086
AUSTRALIA
Telephone : +61 3 9479 1199
Facsimile : +61 3 9479 3660
Email : International@latrobe.edu.au
Web : www.latrobe.edu.au/international/
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