Alternative Routes to Physiotherapy

Portobello Institute provides and exciting new education pathway for those seeking to become physiotherapists.

CAO points for entering physiotherapy courses are typically some of the highest courses in the country due to demand. But the CAO isn't the only way into physiotherapy.

Portobello Institute's three-year BSc (Hons) Sports Therapy is a level 8 degree awarded by the University of Essex. You can enter directly at any stage of your life and study either in a full-time capacity or through flexible 'blended learning' study focused mostly at the weekends.

How does it work?

Four of the general physiotherapy course providers in Ireland in 2024 required 575 Leaving Cert point or above as a minimum requirements to enter the competition for a place on the course - for a four year degree.

Portobello Institute's BSc (Hons) Sports Therapy degree is a three-year honours degree programme which prepares graduates to go straight into our two year MSc Physiotherapy (Pre-registration).

Added Benefits of a BSc Sports Therapy degree

Studying Sports Therapy rather than physiotherapy alone during your three years at Portobello Institute will give you a broader skill set and open more opportunities for you after graduation.

It will be easier for you to own your own Sports Therapy clinic. Conor Shiels, another recent graduate of the Sports Therapy degree, has done just that.

Conor established his clinic shortly after graduating and has developed a growing client base.

Now working as Shamrock Rovers Senior Sports Therapist, Conor attributes his success to "three years of in-depth study and research" at Portobello Institute.

Once qualified as a sports therapist, you are eligible to become a member of The Society of Sports Therapists (SST). SST members are recognised globally as highly trained therapists. They are employed by leading clubs around the world and are also eligible for special Professional Indemnity and Public Liability Insurance.

Find Out More

If you are interested in becoming a sports therapist or physiotherapist, get in touch with our course advisor Janice O'Toole. You can book a call, email janice.otoole@portobelloinstitute.com or call 01 892 0041.