MSc

Veterinary Physiotherapy

Learn how to enhance performance, promote recovery and support the long-term wellbeing of horses and dogs. Gain advanced skills at ARU in Writtle.

Start date
September 2026
Location
Writtle
Award
MSc
Duration
3 years part-time
20%

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If you’re currently working as an animal therapist and want to enhance your skills and broaden your experience, this is the course for you. Taking place over three years, with most teaching held on weekends, it’s designed to fit around your existing commitments.

You'll deepen your understanding of anatomical structure in relation to function, treatment and rehabilitation, and develop core business and professional skills that open up new career opportunities.

Professional recognition

Our MSc Veterinary Physiotherapy is pending accreditation by the Animal Health Professions’ Register (AHPR) and recognised by Register of Animal Musculoskeletal Practitioners (RAMP).

Animal Health Professions' Register (AHPR) logo
Why ARU?
  • Enhance your skills and experience – and take the next step in your career

  • Use evidence-based techniques to assess and treat equines and canines

  • Study anatomy, biomechanics and rehabilitation techniques

  • Gain practical experience in specialist therapy facilities and a commercial canine clinic

  • Study part-time while you work, with most classes taking place on weekends

  • Carry out an in-depth research project and master essential research skills

Logo: THE Awards 2023
 

Study at an award-winning university

We were named Times Higher Education University of the Year 2023. We've also been awarded a Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework – a reflection of the outstanding education we offer our students.

Careers

Open doors to careers in private practice, veterinary clinics and specialist therapy centres.

Graduates from accredited programmes with advanced clinical and professional skills are highly regarded by employers and clients across the veterinary physiotherapy sector. You’ll be qualified to assess, treat and rehabilitate animals, particularly dogs and horses, using evidence-based techniques.

The course also supports self-employment, equipping you with business and clinical skills to help you start and manage your own practice.

Graduation doesn't have to be the end of your time with us. You might decide to continue your academic career and join a research programme at ARU. Take advantage of our Alumni Scholarship and save £400 on your fees.

Teaching and modules

Combine scientific theory with hands-on practice.

You’ll study anatomy, biomechanics and rehabilitation techniques for both equine and canine patients, while developing strong clinical, communication and business skills. You’ll consider ethical practice and sustainability throughout, and learn best practices for working within a multidisciplinary team.

In practical sessions, you’ll get involved in dissections, gait analysis, therapeutic interventions, and more.

In your final year, you’ll complete an independent research project on a relevant topic of your choice, gaining experience in scientific inquiry and presentation.

Modules are subject to change and availability, and may vary by location. If you have the choice of optional modules, these are indicated with a *.

Year 1
  • Animal Structure, Function and Pathology (45 credits)
  • Academic and Professional Development for Future Success (15 credits)
Year 2
  • Advancing Clinical Skills and Professional Development (30 credits)
  • Advanced Therapy, Manual and Electrophysical Agents and Exercise Prescription (30 credits)
Year 3
  • Major Project (60 credits)
Module details

Read profiles of teaching and research staff on this course.

Facilities

Here at ARU Writtle, you'll enjoy our expansive 150 hectare campus, offering:

  • A rural campus on the edge of the village of Writtle, in the middle of the Essex countryside.
  • A fully operational farm, home to sheep, pigs, and cattle, alongside a variety of arable crops and grass leys.
  • Dedicated conservation areas, carefully managed to support local biodiversity.
  • A state-of-the-art Science Centre, complete with modern labs and purpose-built teaching spaces.

Take a guided tour and meet our students.

Entry requirements

Fees and funding

Apply now for Veterinary Physiotherapy

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