What A Levels Do I Need for Physiotherapy?

A physiotherapist is an exciting, rewarding career. They have a unique opportunity as professionals to help people of all ages. A physiotherapist can choose to work in a variety of settings, including clinics, schools, sports clubs, nursing homes, hospitals, or private practices. Many pursue physiotherapy to help patients restore mobility.

A career as a physiotherapist will take two to three years to complete, depending on the chosen academic track. A Bachelor of Science (BSC) in physiotherapy is the primary requirement for practicing as a physiotherapist in the UK. To successfully obtain this degree, you’ll need several A Levels for physiotherapy. These requirements can differ from course to course, but most physiotherapy courses will require at least one A Level science subject, usually biology.

Essential A Levels for a Physiotherapist

Most universities require A Level Biology since it covers many of the essentials of human anatomy, physiology, and biological processes relevant to the practising physiologist. 

Along with Biology, most universities will require a second science such as Chemistry or Physics, which helps lay a well-rounded scientific foundation for aspiring physiotherapists.

Biology

Most universities will require A Level Biology along with other science and maths classes.  It lays foundational knowledge for the physiotherapist who will need to exhibit a good understanding of physiology, human anatomy, and cellular functions. 

Biology covers topics like genetics, muscle physiology, and neurobiology, which physiotherapists will need to diagnose and treat physical ailments. 

Chemistry

A Chemistry course will provide the foundational knowledge in biochemical processes that are relevant to Physiotherapy. 

A Level Chemistry covers a variety of topics useful for students to understand how different substances interact in the body, including organic chemistry, metabolism, and chemical bonding.

Physics

Physics provides essential insights into biomechanics and how physical forces act on the body. A Level Physics covers a variety of topics, including dynamics, energy transfer, and kinematics, which help physiotherapists analyse and improve the physical functions of patients. 

A Level Physics also helps with understanding advanced therapeutic methods and equipment used by physiotherapists.

Physical Education (PE)

Physical Education is not always required, but it is useful for becoming a physiotherapist. PE is helpful for understanding the efforts needed by athletes in various sports. 

Taking A Level PE offers insights into human movement, health, and fitness, which are related to the physiotherapy practice.

Optional A Levels for Physiotherapy

Psychology

Studying Psychology is not always a requirement for a physiotherapy degree. However, it is highly useful for the physiotherapist since it covers cognitive processes, emotional responses, and human behaviour. 

Understanding these and other psychological principles in A Level Psychology helps the physiotherapist address both mental and emotional aspects of rehabilitation. It equips the physiotherapist to support patients in the recovery process.

Mathematics

A Level Mathematics is relevant to Physiotherapy, especially for those interested in research or data analysis. Mathematics covers areas like probability and statistics, which are helpful for designing studies as well as interpreting research findings. 

Mathematical skills are useful for understanding biomechanics and quantitative aspects of patient assessment. These skills help enhance and support decision-making in a clinical setting.

Sociology

A physiotherapist can benefit from A Level Sociology, even though it is not always a requirement. 

Sociology looks at the social context of health and illness. The physiotherapy student will explore how societal factors, social interactions, and cultural norms affect health behaviours and influence access to care.

Understanding social dynamics is helpful for physiotherapists who may need to address barriers to treatment, provide holistic care, and promote health equity within the patients’ social environments.

Best A Level Combinations for Physiotherapist

The best A Levels for physiotherapy are science-related courses. Most universities require one or two minimally with a grade of an A or a B. The top two recommended classes are Biology and Physics, since these two will integrate and correlate with other required classes. Additionally, it is highly advised to take A level Psychology, which will be helpful once a physiotherapist starts working directly with patients.

The best A Level combinations for a physiotherapy degree will focus on science-based subjects. Most universities will require Biology and other sciences, usually Chemistry or Physics. Biology is foundational and should be included in a course plan. 

Chemistry is the best choice to combine with Biology, especially if the university requires two science subjects for their physiotherapist degree. Other courses may be chosen based on the type of patient the physiotherapist is planning on working with upon graduation. 

For example, if the plan is to work with athletes, a great A Level combination would be Biology, Chemistry, and Physical Education. Biology, Chemistry, and Psychology make a great combination because it provides the skill set for managing and supporting patients in the recovery process.

If further physiotherapist work is planned in the data, statistics, and research fields, Biology, Physics, and Maths make a great combination of A Level courses.

Requirements for Top UK Universities

Universities can have different A Level requirements for entry. When choosing a university for a Physiotherapy degree program, make sure to check their requirements before applying. Also, keep in mind that many top UK universities require some field-related work experience. Here is a good idea of what to expect.

University of Southampton A Level Requirements 

Students must have AAB including one pure science subject (Biology, Physics, Chemistry) and pass the practical to get an offer from the University of Southampton.

University of Brighton A Level Requirements

To attend the University of Brighton, students must have a minimum of ABB which includes Biology, Human Biology, or Physical Education (PE). A candidate must also pass occupational health and DBS checks (Disclosure and Barring Service. They must also have at least one week placement in a physiotherapy environment in a hospital setting.

Sheffield Hallam University A Level Requirements 

Candidates for Sheffield Hallam University must have 128 UCAS points, which must include at least a B grade in Human Biology, Biology, or PE. They do accept applications from candidates with a BTEC in sport and exercise science, but AS-levels and general studies are not accepted.

University of Wolverhampton A Level Requirements 

To enter the physiotherapist program at the University of Wolverhampton, candidates must have at least a BBB from three A Level courses, including a science subject (Biology, Chemistry, Social Science, or PE).

University of Hertfordshire A Level Requirements 

University of Hertfordshire candidates must have completed two Science GCE A2 subjects with an A and a B grades. They must also obtain at least a B grade in one other CCE A2 subject.

How to Choose Your A Level Subject for Physiotherapy

Choosing A Level subjects for Physiotherapy can feel overwhelming and confusing. But it’s not as complex as it may seem at first. Here are four major factors to consider to help with choosing A Levels for physiotherapy.

Relevance to the Field

It’s important to prioritise the subjects that are directly related to the human body and its functions. Biology, physics, and chemistry are the top A Level subjects to pursue for a career in physiotherapy. 

Requirements for University Entry

Check with each university under consideration to make sure chosen classes meet their specific requirements. Universities list their requirements for entering physiotherapy programs. They may also specify certain A Level combinations.

Personal Strengths and Interests

Mastering the science subjects is important, but it’s also important that interests are high in the field you are pursuing. A Level subject choice should be aligned with both academic abilities and personal interests to ensure success. Play to your own strengths while choosing something you are going to enjoy doing for the unforeseen future.

Creating a Well-Rounded Application

While you are focused on a specific physiotherapist course, don’t forget to choose subjects that will help you in your pursuits. For example, including Physical Education or Psychology can provide you with valuable insights into movement analysis and patient behaviour patterns.

Alternative Pathways for Physiotherapists

Degree Apprenticeship

Some UK universities offer degree apprenticeships in physiotherapy. The advantage to this pathway is being able to study while doing paid work. Most of your time will be spent at work, but you’ll be allowed one or two days a week for university study.

Extended Degree Course

Sometimes, universities offer an extended degree option for students who don’t meet entry requirements into a bachelor’s degree for physiotherapy. The extended degree pathway equips students with the academic knowledge they need to begin the degree. Entry requirements for an extended degree plan are much easier to achieve.

Apply for a Similar Course

There are other subjects that cover various aspects of physiotherapy such as sports therapy, strength and conditioning, and sports rehabilitation. However, if you want to practice physiotherapy, make sure your chosen course is approved by the HCPC. Before making your final decision, makes sure you do adequate research and check possible career outcomes.

Gap Year and Resit Exams

If you are certain about the course you want to pursue, you can choose to resit your exams and apply for the next year. During this gap year, you can gain relevant work experience in the field to help boost your application.

What Happens If I Don’t Choose These Subjects?

There are a few reasons you might not choose these recommended A Level subjects. For example, you may find subjects like Biology or Physics too challenging or uninteresting. It may be better to choose subjects that play to academic strengths, where you are more likely to succeed. 

If your interests lie more in creative fields or humanities, Chemistry and Physics may not be aligned with natural talents. It’s far more important to focus on subjects you are passionate about and can enjoy.

If you are not yet certain about pursuing a career in physiotherapy, choosing from a broader range of subjects like History, English, or Business Studies may allow you to be more flexible with future career choices. Even though these subjects are not directly aligned with physiotherapy, they can possibly open doors to other interesting and enjoyable career fields.

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