Doctor of Physiotherapy (CRICOS course code 071302J) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) over 3 years. This intensive program prepares international students for professional practice as physiotherapists in Australia and globally. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 00116K), it meets Australian standards for health education and includes a substantial work-integrated learning component. Located in Parkville, Melbourne, the course combines academic rigor with practical placement. HeadStart Academy provides this profile using data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) as a free resource for prospective students. Always verify current details with the provider.
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The Doctor of Physiotherapy at The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) is a graduate-entry master's degree designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills for professional physiotherapy practice. The course is classified under AQF Level 9 (Masters Degree (Coursework)) in the field of Rehabilitation Therapies (061701). It is delivered over 3 years (156 weeks) with English as the language of instruction. This is a single qualification (no dual award) and does not include foundation studies. The course includes a mandatory work component of 38 weeks at 35 hours per week (approximately 1330 total hours), typically involving clinical placements in hospitals and community settings. All data is sourced from the CRICOS register as of 1 April 2026. The University of Melbourne is a public university (Government) and has been CRICOS-registered since 2005. International students are protected under the ESOS Act.
As a Doctor of Physiotherapy student, you will develop clinical reasoning, diagnostic skills, and intervention techniques for musculoskeletal, neurological, cardiopulmonary, and other conditions. The curriculum covers anatomy, physiology, exercise prescription, manual therapy, and patient management across the lifespan. While specific syllabi may vary, graduates typically learn to assess movement dysfunction, plan rehabilitation programs, and apply evidence-based practice. The course also emphasizes professional ethics, communication, and interprofessional collaboration. This field of education (0617 - Rehabilitation Therapies) leads to careers in hospitals, private practices, sports medicine, aged care, and research. The University of Melbourne's program is accredited by the Australian Physiotherapy Council.
The Doctor of Physiotherapy is a full-time course lasting 3 years (156 weeks on the CRICOS register). Instruction is in English. It is a single qualification (no dual degree) and does not include foundation studies. The course is not a VET qualification (VET national code: N/A). Students should expect a significant time commitment including lectures, practical sessions, and self-directed study. The University of Melbourne may offer some flexibility in study mode, but international students typically must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with visa conditions.
Tuition fees for the Doctor of Physiotherapy are indicative only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. The total tuition is A$231,648 over 3 years. Non-tuition fees (materials, library access, etc.) are estimated at A$150, bringing the estimated total to A$231,798. These fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (accommodation, food, transport), or the visa application charge. For current fees, always check The University of Melbourne's official website (unimelb.edu.au). Living costs in Melbourne can vary; indicative weekly expenses: rent A$200-400, groceries A$80-150, transport A$30-50. The Department of Home Affairs requires students to demonstrate financial capacity for tuition, living costs, and OSHC.
Entry to the Doctor of Physiotherapy requires an IELTS overall score of 6.5-7.0 (no band less than 6.5) or equivalent. Applicants typically hold a bachelor's degree in a relevant field (e.g., health science, exercise science) with prerequisites in anatomy and physiology. The University of Melbourne may also consider graduate entry pathways. There are no foundation studies offered within this course; however, students who need additional English or academic preparation should explore pathway programs at other providers. Always confirm specific entry requirements directly with the admissions office. HeadStart Academy does not assess individual eligibility; consult a registered education agent for personalised advice.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 38 weeks, with 35 hours per week, totalling approximately 1330 hours. This is classified as work-integrated learning (WIL) and typically involves clinical placements in various healthcare settings such as hospitals, rehabilitation centres, and private practices. These placements allow students to apply theoretical knowledge under supervision, develop professional competencies, and meet accreditation requirements. The University of Melbourne arranges placements, but students may need to travel to different locations within Victoria. International students must ensure their visa allows for such placements; student work rights permit 48 hours per fortnight during term, but clinical placements are considered part of the course and not subject to work hour limits.
The Doctor of Physiotherapy is delivered at The University of Melbourne's Parkville campus in Victoria. Parkville is a suburb just north of Melbourne's central business district, home to a cluster of hospitals and research institutes. The campus is easily accessible by tram, train, and bus. Melbourne has over 25 CRICOS-registered providers offering health courses, and it is Australia's second-largest student city with a vibrant multicultural community. The city offers a high quality of life but also higher cost of living compared to other Australian cities. Students should budget for accommodation, transport, and lifestyle expenses.
International students enrolled in this course require a Student visa (Subclass 500). To apply, you must have a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from The University of Melbourne. Student visa conditions include: maintaining enrolment in a full-time CRICOS-registered course; meeting attendance and academic progress requirements; holding Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay; and complying with work rights (48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks). The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement must be satisfied. The current visa application charge is A$1,600. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice; consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs. ESOS Act protections apply to all international students, ensuring tuition refunds, course changes, and complaint handling.
Melbourne is home to over 300,000 international students and more than 50 CRICOS-registered providers. It is known for its world-class universities, cultural diversity, and lively arts scene. The cost of living is moderate compared to Sydney, with average weekly rent around A$350 for a shared apartment and transport costs of A$40-50. Students benefit from excellent healthcare, public transport, and employment opportunities. However, the climate can be variable. If you prefer a larger city with more clinical placement options, Melbourne is a top choice. Smaller cities like Adelaide or Brisbane may offer lower living costs. Consider your budget and lifestyle preferences when deciding.
Ready to apply? Start by checking your eligibility and preparing your documents. The University of Melbourne accepts applications through its online portal. For visa guidance, consult a registered migration agent.
View the full The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) profile →
Doctor of Physiotherapy is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of Melbourne (UniMelb). Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.