Physical Therapy, Bachelor of Science

On-campus program @ Fresenius University of Applied Sciences 

👉 The Bachelor's degree programme in Physiotherapy at Hochschule Fresenius is aimed at prospective students with university entrance qualifications who wish to support people in restoring their mobility. The full-time course lasts seven semesters and imparts medical expertise, modern therapy concepts, as well as interdisciplinary collaboration with doctors and nursing staff. Integrated internships in various fields such as neurology, paediatric physiotherapy, and gerontopsychiatry provide practical experience. The training concludes with a Bachelor of Science degree and state recognition as a physiotherapist. The programme is state-accredited, has no admission restrictions (NC-free), and is offered at the Cologne campus. Additionally, StudyPLUS supports students with further continuing education opportunities.

At a Glance

🏫 University Fresenius University of Applied Sciences, UAS based in Idstein (Germany)
Fresenius University of Applied Sciences is one of Germany's largest private universities with campuses in Berlin, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt am Main, Hamburg, Idstein, Cologne, Munich and Wiesbaden. It offers practice-oriented bachelor's and master's degree programs in the fields of chemistry & biology, business & media, health & social affairs and design, as well as training and continuing education. Studies are possible on a full-time, part-time and distance learning basis.
🎓 Field of Study Health SciencesPhysiotherapy
📜 Degree Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
⏳ Duration 7 Semesters
🎯 ECTS 210 Credit Points
🌍 Language of Instruction German
📖 Course contents Professionalisation of Physiotherapy, Fundamentals of Scientific Work, Therapeutic Action in the Health Science Context I, Analysis and Assessment of Body Functions, Body Structures, Activity and Participation I, Therapeutic Action in the Health Science Context II, Analysis and Assessment of Body Functions, Body Structures, Activity and Participation II, System-based Therapy Concepts for Cell Regulation, Practical Module I, Therapeutic Action in the Health Science Context III, Analysis and Assessment of Body Functions, Body Structures, Activity and Participation III, Practical Module II, Therapeutic Action in the Health Science Context IV, Analysis and Assessment of Body Functions, Body Structures, Activity and Participation IV, Practical Module III, Therapeutic Action in the Health Science Context V, Analysis and Assessment of Body Functions, Body Structures, and much more.
📍 Location Cologne
📅 Enrollment Winter semester
💶 Fees
from 625 € monthly
from 26945 € total
🔗 More Info https://www.hs-fresenius.de

Requirements and Target Group for the Bachelor of Physiotherapy (B.Sc.)

The Physiotherapy degree programme at Hochschule Fresenius in Cologne is aimed at individuals who wish to combine direct entry into physiotherapeutic professional practice with a scientifically based course of study. The target group includes school leavers with the Abitur as well as those with a university of applied sciences entrance qualification or professional qualification who have a strong interest in medicine, movement, and humanity. In particular, it addresses school graduates aiming for a dual qualification (Bachelor of Science and state-certified physiotherapist) as well as career changers planning an academic career in healthcare.

What formal requirements must you meet?

The following criteria apply for admission to the Bachelor’s degree programme in Physiotherapy (B.Sc.):

  • General higher education entrance qualification (Abitur), university of applied sciences entrance qualification, or an equivalent qualification recognised as such
  • Alternatively: professional qualification (e.g. master craftsman’s certificate, completed three-year vocational training followed by at least three years of professional experience)
  • Extended police clearance certificate before starting studies
  • For integrated training degree programmes additionally: training contract with the cooperation partner Ludwig Fresenius Schulen

Admission is without numerus clausus (NC-free). Depending on the federal state, proof of prior practical experience may be required. The language of instruction is German.

You should enjoy working with people, possess high social competence and empathy. Resilience is important as you will need to cope with physically and mentally challenging situations. Interest in medical-scientific questions, analytical thinking skills, and ability to work in a team are also important. Practical experience in sport or social institutions can be an advantage. Personal responsibility and willingness to collaborate interdisciplinarily are essential for successful study.

Study Content in Detail: What Awaits You in the Bachelor Physiotherapy?

In the Bachelor’s degree programme in Physiotherapy at Hochschule Fresenius in Cologne, you acquire comprehensive competencies for modern physiotherapeutic professional practice. You learn to scientifically plan and apply individual therapies. The focus is on a combination of medical expertise, therapeutic practical skills, and research competence. The central study contents include:

  • Professionalisation of physiotherapy and development of a scientific understanding of the discipline
  • Methods of scientific work, including physiotherapeutic research and evidence-based practice
  • Analysis and assessment of body functions, body structures, activity, and participation (deepened in several modules)
  • System-based therapy concepts, especially concerning cell regulation and its effects
  • Therapeutic practice in the health sciences context: application, reflection, and interdisciplinary collaboration
  • Practical modules: acquisition of practical competencies in clinical and outpatient facilities

From the first semester onwards, you develop skills in diagnostics, therapy planning, and interdisciplinary cooperation. You benefit from practically oriented lecturers and expand your understanding of working with various patient groups. The direct combination of theory and practice, as well as modules on professionalism and reflective abilities, allow you a sound preparation for a demanding healthcare profession.

Study Organisation: How Is the Programme Structured?

The Bachelor’s degree programme in Physiotherapy comprises 7 semesters in a full-time on-site format at the Cologne location and concludes with the academic degree Bachelor of Science as well as a state-recognised professional qualification. You begin with foundational subjects and develop specialised skills during the course. The study programme is structured into:

  • Subject-specific foundational modules on anatomy, physiology, and pathology
  • Methodical modules in scientific work and therapeutic practice
  • Regular practical modules at cooperating institutions (e.g. clinics, practices)
  • Specialisations, for example in the areas of internal organs, neurology, gerontopsychiatry, neuro-paediatrics, and interdisciplinary fields
  • Ongoing reflection of your therapeutic competences and confidence in action
  • A research-oriented internship and the preparation of a bachelor's thesis in the 7th semester

The close interlinking of theory and practice characterises the entire programme. You benefit from numerous cooperations with the healthcare sector and already build a professional network during your studies.

Career Prospects & Professional Opportunities after Graduation

As a graduate of the Bachelor’s degree programme in Physiotherapy, you are qualified for a wide range of professional fields in the healthcare sector. The professional opportunities include:

  • Work as a state-recognised physiotherapist in hospitals, rehabilitation centres, outpatient practices, and care facilities
  • Specialisation, for example, in areas such as paediatric physiotherapy, sports physiotherapy, or neurophysiological therapies (possibly with supplementary advanced training or a master's degree)
  • Consulting, prevention, and health promotion in companies, schools, or clubs
  • Self-employment with your own physiotherapy practice
  • Opportunities in the scientific field, such as research, teaching, or health management

By acquiring dual recognised qualifications (Bachelor of Science and professional qualification), you have access both to traditional therapeutic activities and development prospects for advancement and further qualifications, for example through master’s programmes in sports physiotherapy or paediatrics.

Study Location: How and Where Do You Study Physiotherapy?

The programme is offered at the state-of-the-art campus of Hochschule Fresenius in the heart of Cologne. The MediaPark Cologne location offers you excellent infrastructure, modern teaching rooms, and an inspiring learning environment. After the sessions, you are just a few minutes from Cologne city centre. For the practical modules, the university works with a network of clinics, rehabilitation facilities, and therapeutic practices in the region. This ensures a direct transfer between theory and practice. Personal interaction with lecturers and fellow students is at the centre of the on-site studies.

Costs and Funding Options: What Should You Budget For?

The monthly tuition fees for the Bachelor’s degree programme in Physiotherapy amount to 625 euros. The total cost for the 7-semester full-time programme is 26,250 euros (subject to individual payment arrangements). Additionally, a one-time registration fee of 695 euros is charged.

The price includes your entitlement to participate in StudyPLUS events, language courses, personal development, career offers, and networking events. Hochschule Fresenius provides individual support regarding financing. The following funding options are available:

  • Funding via BAföG if personal requirements are met
  • Application for scholarships for particularly high-achieving or committed applicants
  • Education funds and student loans, e.g. through the KfW
  • Advice on combining funding options and assistance with application procedures

This way, you can focus on your studies while financing is made plannable.

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