The Complete Guide to Study Physiotherapy in Malaysia

This program is one of the most intensive physiotherapy programs that can provide knowledge on how to evaluate and control physical ailments and restrictions. They claim that in over four years, they assume abilities in anatomy, biomechanics, and manual therapy based on UKM and Monash universities. Stakeholders can get employment opportunities in the health sector in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and in sporting facilities.

Country

Malaysia

Duration

4 Years

Fees

$9,000+ Yearly

Field

Healthcare

Program Overview

Physiotherapy, often known as physical therapy, is a vital healthcare speciality that primarily assesses, diagnoses, and treats various physical disorders and movement limitations. This discipline incorporates knowledge from multiple areas, including anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics, to better comprehend the science of movement in the human body and its problems.

Physiotherapy assists individuals in regaining and maintaining optimal physical function, mobility, and overall well-being. Physiotherapists work with patients of all ages, from pediatric (infant population) to senior (old age population), addressing various conditions such as musculoskeletal injuries and neurological disorders and managing chronic diseases and their negative impact on the body’s movements.

Physiotherapy educational institutions aim to equip students with knowledge and expertise that enable them to comprehend and diagnose movement problems and functional limits, devise effective rehabilitation plans to treat them and make the patient independent and pain-free. These programs frequently incorporate exercises, manual therapy, and the application of therapeutic modalities to improve physical performance and avoid future injuries.

As a fast-evolving area, physiotherapy constantly incorporates new research and techniques, making it an exciting and dynamic career for those passionate about healthcare and enhancing patients’ quality of life.

Physiotherapy degrees teach various courses at both the undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Some of the most commonly taught courses include anatomy and physiology, which educates the structure and function of the human body; biomechanics; and exercise physiology, which educates movement dynamics, physiological responses, and adaptations to physical activity. Manual therapy teaches students about numerous hands-on approaches to treat patients’ pain and relieve symptoms, as well as many other courses, including cardiopulmonary, musculoskeletal physiotherapy, neurological physiotherapy, and supervised clinical practice.

The demand for physiotherapists is gradually increasing in Malaysia and worldwide as the population ages and more people become aware of the benefits of physical therapy. The World Health Organization (WHO) notes that non-communicable diseases such as heart disease and diabetes, which frequently necessitate physiotherapy interventions, are on the rise globally. According to current studies, more persons are increasingly prone to disabilities as a result of a sedentary lifestyle. This is where the function of physiotherapy comes into play: educating individuals about how to prevent and deal with disability.

Due to the rising demand, there are more career prospects for physiotherapists. The average starting wage for physiotherapy graduates in Malaysia is between RM 3,000 and RM 4,500 per month, with opportunities for advancement through experience and specialization.

Career prospects exist in various contexts, such as hospitals, rehabilitation centres, sports facilities, and private practices.

Malaysia is home to several prestigious universities that offer comprehensive physiotherapy programs. Some of the leading institutions providing degrees or diplomas in physiotherapy are:

1. UKM⁠
2. UOC⁠
3. IMU⁠
4. Monash⁠
5. USM

Why Study Physiotherapy?

Studying physiotherapy provides many opportunities and benefits, some of which are described here:

High Demand for Physiotherapists: Physiotherapists are in high demand worldwide because they are known as movement experts who specialize in treating chronic pain and managing the long-term effects of many lifelong diseases, such as diabetes and hypertension. Physiotherapists help patients maintain mobility and enjoy an independent and pain-free life regardless of age. According to a recent study, 28% of participants in the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) identify as having an intellectual disability, indicating that physiotherapy can dramatically enhance physical activity levels.

Job Satisfaction: Physiotherapy is a satisfying job in which you can thrive and positively impact your patients’ lives by treating their chronic pain and restoring their ability to move independently. Physiotherapy roles are physically demanding but typically don’t include extended shifts, making them an excellent career choice for people looking to preserve a work-life balance. According to the American Physical Therapy Association’s poll, more than 90% of physiotherapists are satisfied with their jobs.

Impact on Patient Quality of Life: Physiotherapists play an important role in helping patients recover from injuries and diseases and treat their deformities and illnesses. They allow patients to enjoy life again while managing pain and regaining mobility. Studies have found that effective physiotherapy interventions can considerably improve physical function and minimize disability.

Research and Innovation: Physiotherapy values research and innovation. Physiotherapists are actively involved in developing innovative procedures and treatments to improve patient outcomes. This ongoing education and commitment to scientific knowledge keep the profession intellectually exciting.

Why Study Physiotherapy in Malaysia?

There are several reasons you should study Physiotherapy in Malaysia; the best among them include the following:

Quality Education: Malaysia is known for being home to all the highly accredited and globally renowned universities that offer the best physiotherapy courses. Each of these courses and programs is accredited by professional global bodies such as the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA), which ensures that quality education is offered to students who meet international standards. The curriculum has been rigorously developed with the latest developments in the world’s economy and upcoming trends in mind.

Affordable Tuition Fee: Unlike most educational institutions, Malaysia offers affordable fees. While ensuring the best quality education is provided and that global standards are not compromised, Malaysian universities offer low-cost study options, making themselves an attractive destination for students with high-end academic dreams.

Strategic Location & International Exposure: Located in the very central heart of Southeast Asia, Malaysia offers strategic access to almost every economically growing state. It is an easy-to-access study destination for students aiming to get a quality education abroad and experience an international perspective of physiotherapy at the same time.

Vibrant Student Life: Universities of Malaysia are known for offering vibrant campus lives for both local and international students. These all-inclusive educational centres welcome students from varying cultures and allow them to engage with each other, enjoy multicultural festivities, and experience a fun-loving study environment where their academics are always complemented with the best extracurricular activities to ensure a balanced life.

Career Prospects:
Physiotherapy graduates have many job options, each with its obligations and benefits. The following are some of the most prevalent employment options for physiotherapy graduates:

Clinical Physiotherapists: Clinical physiotherapists operate in hospitals, clinics, and rehabilitation facilities, treating patients with various physical ailments. They create tailored rehabilitation plans to assist patients in recovering from injuries and procedures. The demand for clinical physiotherapists is significant, especially in orthopaedic and neurological rehabilitation.

Sports Physiotherapist: The growing emphasis on the fitness and well-being of athletes has led to an increase in the demand for sports physiotherapists, sports physiotherapists, and trained individuals to specialize in treating athletes’ injuries and assisting them in recovering quickly to ensure their safe return to play sports.

Pediatric Physiotherapist: Pediatric physiotherapists treat newborns, toddlers, and adolescents with developmental, neurological, and musculoskeletal issues. They are essential in helping youngsters meet developmental goals and enhance their physical ability. The need for pediatric physiotherapists is increasing as people become more aware of the importance of early intervention.

Geriatric Physiotherapist: Geriatric physiotherapists work with the elderly to treat age-related physical ailments such as arthritis, osteoporosis, and mobility problems. They assist elders in maintaining their independence and improving their overall quality of life. The world’s ageing population is generating demand for geriatric physiotherapy treatments.

Program Duration

Undergraduate Programs

1. Bachelors in Physiotherapy (3-4 years typically)

Postgraduate Programs

1. Master’s Degree in Physiotherapy (1-2 years typically)
2. Doctorate (PhD) in Physiotherapy (3-5 years typically)

Entry Requirements

The general entry requirements set by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) are implied and followed by every professional university in Malaysia. They can be described as follows:

Undergraduate Programs

Academic Qualifications

1. A-Levels (at least two passes)
2. Matriculation/Foundation (at least 2.00 CGPA)
3. Diploma (a course-relevant diploma with at least a 2.00 CGPA)
4. Unified Examination Certificate (at least five Bs)
5. STPM (Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia) ( at least 2.00 CGPA)

English Language Proficiency

1. At least one credit in SPM English or equivalent for Malaysian Nationals.
2. A minimum IELTS score of 5.5 or TOEFL score of 550 (paper-based) and 80 (internet-based) for international students.

Post Graduate Programs (Masters' Degree)

Academic Qualifications

1. A relevant bachelor’s degree with at least a 2.00 CGPA.

English Language Proficiency :

1. At least one credit in SPM English or equivalent for Malaysian Nationals.
2. A minimum IELTS score of 6.0 or TOEFL score of 550 (paper-based) and 80 (internet-based) for international students.

Postgraduate Programs (Doctorate – PhD)

Academic Qualifications:

1. A relevant master’s degree with at least a 3.00 CGPA.
2. A well-crafted and subject-relevant research proposal is to be submitted.

English Language Proficiency :

1. At least one credit in SPM English or equivalent for Malaysian Nationals.
2. A minimum IELTS score of 6.0 or TOEFL score of 550 (paper-based) and 80 (internet-based) for international students.

Fee and Costing

The fee structures for both undergraduate and postgraduate degree and diploma programs in Malaysia vary based on the program you’ve chosen, the institution you might be looking for, the duration of study, etc. However, the generic cost of a bachelor’s degree in Malaysia may be between 20,000 MYR and 70,000 MYR (an estimated 5,000 USD to 17,500 USD) a year.

Postgraduate programs, however, may cost a bit higher, ranging from 25,000 MYR to 80,000 MYR (an estimated 6,250 USD to 20,000 USD) a year. The range is often similar for both master’s and doctorate programs. However, the total expense of doctorate programs might vary based on the nature and duration of the research involved.

But the good news is that most Malaysian Universities offer scholarships and financial aid to students in need. Many flexible payment plans are also provided to accommodate students without strong financial backgrounds who desire bright academic careers.

Accommodation

Accommodation facilities offered by Malaysian universities are often excellent and versatile, suiting each student’s diverse needs and requirements. As a foreign student landing in an entirely new destination for studies, accommodation could be a significant issue for you. But you need not worry because most Malaysian Universities offer a wide range of options, including hostels, dormitories, and even spacious apartment residences. You can pick what suits your needs and comes under your budget, and boom – enjoy all the great facilities they offer along with the comfortable and budget-friendly accommodation.

The shared facilities and amenities usually include :

1. Study desks
2. Beds
3. Attached bathrooms
4. Fully functional kitchens or pantries include a microwave, electric kettle, stove, fridge, etc.
5. Laundry rooms
6. Socializing areas
7. Recreational activities
8. 24/7 security surveillance

Admission Procedure

The admission process for getting into Malaysian Universities typically comprises multiple steps, including submission of an application, verification of the documents, eligibility assessment, and, in some cases, entrance exams or interviews etc. While it can be overwhelming and tedious to handle all that pressure while preparing for your entrance exams and interviews, TJS Study Steps can be your savior and simplify the admission process like never before. Here’s how the experts from TJS Study Steps can help during each stage of the admission procedure and ease you from the hassle!

1. We have added featured university and program guides on our website that experts from the industry have prepared. These guides can help you pick the finest universities and programs from a widespread palate as per your academic goals and aspirations.
2. Filling out the lengthy application forms can be exhausting; our team’s experts know how to ease you from that hassle. They offer professional assistance to the students in filling out correct information and attaching the required documents with their applications without any error to ensure the admission process goes smoothly.
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5. If a university invites you to an interview or entrance exam, TJS can also assist you in your preparation and ensure you perform well and get selected.
6. Once you’ve secured admission at a university in Malaysia, the next step is to get a student Visa, and we also provide total guidance for the Visa application process.
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