As demand for physiotherapy services continues to rise in Hong Kong, local university places in physiotherapy programmes have become increasingly competitive, with exceptionally stringent entry requirements. As a result, more and more students are exploring overseas study options—among which the United Kingdom stands out as a particularly popular destination. Grove Education introduces several UK universities offering highly recognised physiotherapy degrees, along with their admission requirements, to help students assess which institutions are best suited for pursuing physiotherapy studies in the UK.
What Does a Physiotherapist Do?
Physiotherapy is a specialised healthcare profession grounded in medical and scientific principles. It focuses on non-pharmacological and non-invasive approaches to help patients prevent, manage, and recover from physical impairments, cardiopulmonary issues, and pain caused by illness or injury. Physiotherapists must have in-depth knowledge of human anatomy, pathology, and rehabilitation. They apply a wide range of treatment techniques and equipment—including exercise therapy, manual therapy, electrotherapy, thermotherapy, cryotherapy, and functional training—while continuously assessing and adjusting treatment plans to support patients in regaining physical function and mobility.
Physiotherapists primarily work with individuals whose daily functioning is affected by illness, injury, or post-operative recovery. Their clients may include elderly individuals, athletes, patients with chronic conditions, and those recovering from orthopaedic or neurological surgery. In addition, physiotherapists support children and adults requiring rehabilitation due to poor posture, occupational strain, or developmental disorders. They also play a key role in preventive care, helping high-risk groups avoid injury and enhance physical capacity. Their services extend across all settings—from hospitals to community care.
Source: Freepik
Why Study Physiotherapy in the UK?
There are several compelling reasons to pursue physiotherapy studies in the UK:
- Comprehensive Curriculum: UK physiotherapy programmes are designed to provide a well-rounded education, combining theoretical knowledge, clinical placements, and research elements. These courses place strong emphasis on developing professional competencies and practical skills, enhancing graduates’ employability.
- Internationally Recognised Qualifications: Physiotherapy degrees from the UK are widely respected worldwide. Graduates are well-positioned to practise either overseas or in Hong Kong, with strong recognition and career security.
- Multicultural Learning Environment: UK programmes offer a global perspective and the opportunity to study alongside peers from around the world—fostering intercultural awareness and global outlook.
- Broad Career Prospects: Graduates can pursue careers in hospitals, private clinics, schools, sports institutions and more. The field offers strong employability and professional development opportunities.
- Flexible Study Pathways: Most undergraduate physiotherapy degrees in the UK are three years in duration. For students who do not yet meet direct entry requirements, one-year foundation courses are also available.
For these reasons, studying physiotherapy in the UK offers not only excellent academic and practical training, but also a vibrant multicultural experience and a solid foundation for future career development.
Recognition of UK Physiotherapy Qualifications for Practice in Hong Kong
When assessing overseas applications for physiotherapy registration, the Physiotherapists Board of Hong Kong currently refers to the following UK accreditations as key criteria for eligibility:
Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC): The UK’s statutory regulator for healthcare professionals. All practising physiotherapists in the UK must be registered with the HCPC.
Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP): The UK’s professional body and academic association for physiotherapists.
As such, students planning to study physiotherapy in the UK—whether with the intention of returning to Hong Kong or remaining overseas—are strongly advised to choose programmes that are accredited by both the HCPC and CSP.
By selecting a physiotherapy degree programme recognised by the HCPC and CSP, and by completing the required clinical placement hours (typically no fewer than 800 hours), graduates can submit their academic and clinical training documentation to apply for professional registration in Hong Kong. Once the application is reviewed and the curriculum and placement hours are confirmed to meet the standards, the individual may be granted registration to practise legally in Hong Kong.
Source: Freepik
Which UK Universities Are Best for Studying Physiotherapy? Recommended HCPC and CSP-Accredited Institutions
Now that we’ve reviewed the importance of course accreditation, here are several UK universities offering highly recognised physiotherapy programmes. These institutions are recommended for students considering where to study physiotherapy in the UK:
University of Southampton
- HKDSE Entry Requirements: Level 554 / 5*55 (depending on the chosen programme), including Mathematics and one science elective (Biology, Chemistry, or Physics) at Level 5 [1]
- English Language Requirements: IELTS overall score of 7.0, with no component below 6.5 [2]
Glasgow Caledonian University
- HKDSE Entry Requirements: Level 4, 4, 3 across three subjects, with two from Mathematics/Biology/Chemistry/Physics [3]
- English Language Requirements: IELTS overall score of 6.5, with no component below 6.0 [4]
University of Birmingham
- HKDSE Entry Requirements: Level 5, 5, 4 in Chinese, English, and Mathematics, plus an elective in Biology or Physical Education at Level 5 [5]
- English Language Requirements: IELTS overall score of 7.0, with no component below 6.5 [5]
King's College London
- HKDSE Entry Requirements: Level 4 in Chinese, English, and Mathematics, plus three electives at Level 5, 5, 4 or higher [6]
- English Language Requirements: IELTS overall score of 7.0, with no component below 6.5 [7]
Robert Gordon University
- HKDSE Entry Requirements: Applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis [8]
- English Language Requirements: IELTS overall score of 7.0, with no component below 6.5, or HKDSE English at Level 4 or above [9]
University of Liverpool
- HKDSE Entry Requirements: 3 electives at Level 5, 4, 4 including Biology at Level 5 and Mathematics at Level 4; or 2 electives and 1 core subject at Level 5, 4, 4, with Biology at Level 5 and Mathematics at Level 4 [10]
- English Language Requirements: IELTS overall score of 7.0, with no component below 6.5, or HKDSE English at Level 5 overall with no sub-score below Level 4 [10]
These six universities are all recognised by both the Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC) and the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP). Their programmes are well-regarded within the field of physiotherapy. Upon completing their degree and the required clinical placements, graduates are eligible to register as qualified physiotherapists in the UK, and may also apply for professional registration in Hong Kong.
Prospective applicants are advised to consult the official websites of the universities, HCPC, and CSP for the latest accreditation status and policy updates to ensure they meet current professional requirements.
Source: Shutterstock
Career Prospects and Salary of Physiotherapists in Hong Kong
With an ageing population and a rising number of chronic illness cases in Hong Kong, the demand for physiotherapists has increased significantly. According to the government’s Strategic Review on Healthcare Manpower Planning and Professional Development, it is projected that Hong Kong will face a shortfall of approximately 933 physiotherapists by 2030, indicating a persistent undersupply of professionals in the field.[11] This suggests that physiotherapy graduates over the next decade are likely to enjoy stable career prospects. In addition, as the healthcare system continues to expand and community health services develop further, graduates will have opportunities to work across a variety of settings, including public hospitals, private clinics, rehabilitation centres, sports institutions, and NGOs. Some may even consider pursuing private practice.
Newly qualified physiotherapists employed by the Hospital Authority are remunerated based on the government’s Master Pay Scale and the Authority’s structured salary framework, which offers clear career progression and competitive benefits[12][13]:
- Physiotherapist II: Starting salary is approximately HKD $33,405 per month (Point 14), with progression based on experience and performance up to $42,640 (Point 19) and $53,980 (Point 24).
- Physiotherapist I: Upon promotion, the monthly salary ranges from around $54,805 (Point 25) to $82,330 (Point 33A).
- Senior Physiotherapist: Further promotion can lead to a salary of $82,330 (Point 34) up to $97,575 (Point 39) per month.
For those working in private clinics, rehabilitation centres, or in self-employed practice, income tends to be more flexible. In fact, physiotherapists in the private sector may earn salaries exceeding the public sector scale, depending on their professional expertise, years of experience, and client base.
Understanding the information above can help students make more informed decisions when choosing the most suitable UK university and programme for studying physiotherapy. In addition to personal interests and needs, students should prioritise physiotherapy programmes that are highly recognised and accredited in the UK. This ensures smoother pathways for professional practice whether they choose to return to Hong Kong or pursue opportunities abroad. For a personalised study plan, students are welcome to consult the expert advisory team at Grove Education.
Reference:
1. University of Southampton - Coming to study from Hong Kong SAR
2. University of Southampton - Physiotherapy (Hons)| BSc
3. Glasgow Caledonian University - Hong Kong
4. Glasgow Caledonian University - English language requirements
5. University of Birmingham - Physiotherapy MSc
6. King's College London - Physiotherapy
7. King's College London - Undergraduate English language entry requirements
8. RGU University - Your country or territory - Hong Kong
9. RGU University - Physiotherapy Course with MPhys Degree
10. University of Liverpool - Physiotherapy BSc (Hons) | September 2025 entry | Courses
11. Health Bureau - Report of the Strategic Review on Healthcare Manpower Planning and Professional Development – Executive Summary，P.39 - 41
12. Social Welfare Department - Salary Scale of Common Posts w.e.f. 01.04.2025 13. Civil Service Bureau - Master Pay Scale