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Around 25 programmes in physiotherapy, osteopathy and chiropractic at over 10 private universities in Germany – from shortened distance degrees for qualified physiotherapists to dual programmes that combine clinical training with a bachelor’s degree. All programmes are NC-free (no GPA requirement), with tuition starting at €147/month.
Physiotherapy is Germany’s number one shortage profession among specialists: roughly 12,000 positions remain unfilled, with an average vacancy time of 280 days (Bundesagentur für Arbeit). Graduates enjoy near-guaranteed employment.
- Overview of all Courses
- How much does it cost to study physiotherapy at a private university in Germany?
- Are there English-taught physiotherapy programmes?
- Study pathways: with or without prior clinical training
- Specialisations: osteopathy, chiropractic and sports physiotherapy
- How to get in: admission without NC
- Student visa, health insurance and working in Germany
- What do physiotherapists earn in Germany?
- Frequently asked questions about studying physiotherapy in Germany
- Related programmes at private universities
Overview of all Courses
We have a total of 26 courses in the field of Physiotherapy. The first 20 top courses are displayed. Use the filter function or our search to discover more courses in the field.
Physical Therapy
Fresenius University of Applied Sciences · B.Sc. · 7 Semester
Osteopathy
Fresenius University of Applied Sciences · B.Sc. · 8 Semester
Physiotherapy
IU International University of Applied Sciences · B.Sc. · 6 Semester
Neurorehabilitation for Therapists
Fresenius University of Applied Sciences · M.Sc. · 4 Semester
Physiotherapy
FHM University of Applied Sciences · B.Sc. · 28 Months
Osteopathy
Dresden International University · M.Sc. · 2 Semester
Basics of Chiropractic
Fresenius University of Applied Sciences · B.Sc. · 6 Semester
Physical Therapy
Dresden International University · B.Sc. · 8 Semester
Physical Therapy
hochschule 21 - University of Applied Sciences · B.Sc. · 7 Semester
Physical Therapy
DIPLOMA University of Applied Sciences · B.Sc. · 8 Semester
Neurorehabilitation
Medical School Hamburg · M.Sc. · 4 Semester
Chiropractic
Dresden International University · B.Sc. · 8 Semester
Physical Therapy
Medical School Hamburg · B.Sc. · 8 Semester
Physical Therapy
Fresenius University of Applied Sciences · B.Sc. · 3 Semester
Osteopathy
Fresenius University of Applied Sciences · M.Sc. · 3 Semester
Physical Therapy
Fresenius University of Applied Sciences · B.Sc. · 8 Semester
Physical Therapy
FHM University of Applied Sciences · B.Sc. · 42 Months
Osteopathy
Dresden International University · B.Sc. · 8 Semester
Chiropractic
Dresden International University · M.Sc. · 2 Semester
How much does it cost to study physiotherapy at a private university in Germany?
Tuition fees for physiotherapy at private German universities range from €147 to over €1,000 per month, depending on format and specialisation. Distance programmes for qualified physiotherapists are the most affordable; on-campus chiropractic degrees are the most expensive.
| Format | Monthly tuition | Total cost | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Distance learning | €147–259 | €6,750–9,481 | Requires prior PT qualification; shortened to 3–4 semesters |
| Dual (work-integrated) | €0–430 | €0–18,360 | Often tuition-free (employer-funded); includes clinical training |
| Full-time campus | €278–625 | €13,128–26,945 | Physiotherapy only; chiropractic up to €1,066/mo. |
| Part-time / evening | €455–475 | €8,800–12,740 | Master’s level; for working professionals |
International comparison: A physiotherapy degree at a private German university costs between €6,750 and €27,000 total. In the UK, tuition runs £9,250/year (€10,800, ∼€32,400 for three years). In the US, a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) costs $50,000–$150,000. In Australia, international students pay A$30,000–45,000/year (∼€18,000–27,000/year). Germany’s private options are competitive, and dual programmes can be tuition-free.
| Course | University | Duration | Fees | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Physical Therapy, Bachelor of Science Distance learning program | DIPLOMA University of Applied Sciences | 8 Semester | from 8705 € total from 147 € monthly | |
| Physiotherapy, Bachelor of Science Distance learning program | IU International University of Applied Sciences | 6 Semester | from 9481 € total from 259 € monthly | |
| Physical Therapy, Bachelor of Science Distance learning program | Fresenius University of Applied Sciences | 3 Semester | from 14220 € total from 259 € monthly |
Are there English-taught physiotherapy programmes?
Currently, all physiotherapy programmes at private German universities are taught in German. There are no English-taught physiotherapy degrees available at the bachelor or master level. If you want to study physiotherapy in Germany, you will need German language skills – typically B2 to C1 level.
However, some related health science programmes are offered in English (e.g. at SRH University or Medical School Hamburg). If studying in English is a requirement, consider related fields like health management or international health sciences.
Language preparation: Many universities accept TestDaF (level 4 in all sections), DSH-2 or Goethe-Zertifikat C1. Some offer preparatory German language courses (Studienkolleg) before enrolment.
Study pathways: with or without prior clinical training
German physiotherapy education has a unique structure: both vocational training (Ausbildung) and university degrees exist side by side. Private universities offer programmes for both pathways.
Dual programmes: training + degree combined
For school leavers without clinical training, dual programmes combine state-recognised physiotherapy training with a bachelor’s degree in 7–8 semesters. The clinical placement partner typically covers tuition. Available at Medical School Hamburg, Dresden International University, Fresenius University and others.
Note for international applicants: Dual programmes involve direct patient contact during clinical training, which requires strong German skills (C1 recommended). The practical training component is exempt from student visa work-hour limits because it is part of the curriculum. However, you will need to arrange a clinical placement partner – universities often help with this.
| Course | University | Duration | Fees | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Physical Therapy, Bachelor of Science Dual studies | Medical School Hamburg | 8 Semester | from 12600 € total from 200 € monthly | |
| Physical Therapy, Bachelor of Science Dual studies | Dresden International University | 8 Semester | from 12720 € total from 265 € monthly | |
| Physical Therapy, Bachelor of Science Dual studies | Fresenius University of Applied Sciences | 8 Semester | from 14360 € total from 295 € monthly |
Distance learning: bachelor in 3 semesters (with prior qualification)
Qualified physiotherapists can have their training recognised and complete a bachelor’s degree in as few as 3 semesters (full-time) or 4–8 semesters (part-time). Fully online, no attendance required. Available at Fresenius University, DIPLOMA University and IU International University.
Full-time campus: direct entry
SRH University and DHGS Berlin offer full-time campus programmes that do not require prior clinical training. Duration: 6–7 semesters with integrated clinical placements.
Recognition of foreign qualifications: If you hold a physiotherapy qualification from another country, check the anabin database to see whether your degree is recognised in Germany. The uni-assist service can help with credential evaluation.
Specialisations: osteopathy, chiropractic and sports physiotherapy
Beyond general physiotherapy, private universities offer specialised programmes in osteopathy, chiropractic and sports physiotherapy – roughly one-third of all programmes in this category.
| Specialisation | Universities | Level | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Osteopathy | Fresenius, DIU Dresden | B.Sc. + M.Sc. | Heilpraktiker licence required for independent practice |
| Chiropractic | Fresenius, DIU Dresden | B.Sc. + M.Sc. | Only 2 universities in Germany – niche specialisation |
| Sports Physiotherapy | Fresenius | M.Sc. (part-time) | For working professionals; €475/month |
| Neurorehabilitation | Fresenius | M.Sc. (part-time) | For working professionals; €475/month |
| Course | University | Duration | Fees | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chiropractic, Master of Science On-campus program | Fresenius University of Applied Sciences | 4 Semester | from 4320 € total from 945 € monthly | |
| Osteopathy, Master of Science On-campus program | Dresden International University | 2 Semester | from 5976 € total from 498 € monthly | |
| Osteopathy, Master of Science Part-time program | Fresenius University of Applied Sciences | 3 Semester | from 8800 € total from 475 € monthly | |
| Sports Physical Therapy, Master of Science Part-time program | Fresenius University of Applied Sciences | 4 Semester | from 11650 € total from 475 € monthly | |
| Neurorehabilitation for Therapists, Master of Science Part-time program | Fresenius University of Applied Sciences | 4 Semester | from 11650 € total from 475 € monthly |
How to get in: admission without NC
All physiotherapy programmes at private German universities are NC-free – there is no minimum GPA requirement. Admission is based on the university’s own selection process, typically a motivation letter and a short interview.
Requirements:
- School-leaving certificate: Abitur, Fachhochschulreife, or international equivalent (check anabin)
- Without Abitur: Access via master craftsman certificate, advanced vocational training, or relevant professional experience + aptitude test
- Distance/part-time programmes: Completed physiotherapy training (state-recognised) required
- Health certificate: Most universities require proof of physical fitness
- Language: German B2–C1 (all programmes are taught in German)
Student visa, health insurance and working in Germany
International students from outside the EU need a student visa and a blocked account (Sperrkonto) with €11,904/year (€992/month) to prove financial means. Key practical information:
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Blocked account (Sperrkonto) | €11,904/year (€992/month), mandatory for visa |
| Health insurance | ~€120/month (student tariff, mandatory) |
| Working rights | 140 full days or 280 half days per year |
| Deutschlandticket | €63/month for unlimited public transport nationwide |
| Semester contribution | €100–350/semester (varies by university; often includes transit pass) |
Post-graduation: After completing your degree, you can apply for an 18-month job-seeking visa. Given that physiotherapy is Germany’s number one shortage profession, finding employment is highly likely. For physiotherapy specifically, you will also need to have your foreign qualifications recognised by the relevant state authority to practise clinically.
What do physiotherapists earn in Germany?
Physiotherapy salaries in Germany depend heavily on qualification level, specialisation and employment type. A university degree increases starting salary by €400–600/month compared to vocational training alone.
| Qualification | Entry (gross/year) | With experience |
|---|---|---|
| Vocational training only | €26,400–31,200 | €42,000–46,800 |
| Bachelor’s degree | €33,600–38,400 | €38,400–42,000 |
| Master’s + leadership role | €38,400–48,000 | €45,600–54,000 |
| Self-employed (solo practice) | €37,200–75,600 (varies by patient volume) | |
| Practice owner with employees | €60,000–96,000 | |
Sources: StepStone Salary Report 2025, Entgeltatlas (Federal Employment Agency), medi-karriere.de
Labour market: With roughly 12,000 unfilled positions and an average vacancy time of 280 days, physiotherapy graduates in Germany enjoy near-guaranteed employment. The shortage is driven by an ageing population and increasing demand for rehabilitation services.
Frequently asked questions about studying physiotherapy in Germany
Currently, no. All physiotherapy programmes at private German universities are taught in German. You will need German language skills at B2–C1 level. Some universities offer preparatory language courses.
Not necessarily. Dual programmes combine clinical training with a bachelor’s degree – no prior training needed. Full-time campus programmes at SRH University and DHGS Berlin are also open to applicants without prior qualifications. Distance and part-time programmes, however, require a completed physiotherapy qualification.
German physiotherapy degrees from accredited private universities are recognised across the EU under the European Qualifications Framework. For countries outside the EU (US, Canada, Australia), you may need to complete additional licensing exams. Germany is currently transitioning physiotherapy from a vocational to a fully academic profession, aligning with international standards.
Yes, but only for applicants who already hold a state-recognised physiotherapy qualification. Three universities offer distance bachelor’s programmes: DIPLOMA University (€147/month), Fresenius University (€215/month) and IU International University (€259/month). Study duration: 3–8 semesters depending on full-time or part-time enrolment.
Related programmes at private universities
If you are interested in health sciences beyond physiotherapy, consider these related fields:
- Occupational Therapy – focus on daily living skills and functional independence
- Speech Therapy – speech, language and swallowing disorders
- Nursing Science – academic nursing and care management
- Health Management – management in the healthcare sector
- Sports Science – sports management, exercise science, sports therapy
- Medicine – human medicine and dentistry at private universities
About the Author Christian Wolf
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