Physiotherapy Syllabus and Subjects List

Physiotherapy is one of the most popular career choices in the healthcare sector today. Whether you’re planning to pursue a Bachelor of Physiotherapy (BPT) or a Diploma in Physiotherapy (DPT), understanding the physiotherapy syllabus and subjects list is the first step toward your career as a licensed physiotherapist.

This detailed guide covers everything you need to know — from core subjects and practical training to internship details and career prospects after completing the course.

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📘 What is Physiotherapy?

Physiotherapy (also called Physical Therapy) is a branch of medical science that focuses on restoring movement and function in patients affected by injury, illness, or disability. Physiotherapists help people recover using manual therapy, exercise, electrotherapy, and rehabilitation techniques, avoiding surgical or drug-based interventions whenever possible.

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🎓 Types of Physiotherapy Courses in India

Before diving into the syllabus, let’s understand the main course types available in physiotherapy education:

In this blog, we’ll focus mainly on BPT (Bachelor of Physiotherapy), as it’s the most comprehensive and popular course among students.

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📚 Bachelor of Physiotherapy (BPT) – Course Overview

The BPT course is designed to provide students with both theoretical knowledge and clinical training in physiotherapy. The course includes anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, exercise therapy, electrotherapy, rehabilitation, and more.

Key Highlights:

• Duration: 4 years academic + 6 months internship

• Eligibility: 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, Biology

• Admission Process: Merit or entrance exam (state/national level)

• Objective: Train students to assess, diagnose, and treat patients with physical impairments

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🗓️ Year-Wise Physiotherapy Syllabus (BPT)

Let’s break down the year-wise syllabus and subjects list for BPT.

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🩻 First Year BPT Syllabus

The first year focuses on basic medical sciences, building a strong foundation for understanding human anatomy and physiology.

Core Subjects:

1. Anatomy – Structure of the human body, bones, muscles, joints, organs

2. Physiology – Functions of body systems and processes

3. Biochemistry – Chemical basis of body functions

4. Psychology – Human behavior and mental processes

5. Sociology – Social aspects of health and illness

6. Basic Nursing – Fundamental nursing skills

7. Orientation to Physiotherapy – Introduction to the profession

Practical Training:

• Anatomy dissections and models

• Physiology lab experiments

• Basic nursing practice

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💪 Second Year BPT Syllabus

In the second year, students begin learning core physiotherapy subjects along with medical fundamentals.

Core Subjects:

1. Biomechanics and Kinesiology – Study of human movement and mechanics

2. Exercise Therapy – Therapeutic exercises and rehabilitation techniques

3. Electrotherapy – Use of electrical modalities for pain relief and healing

4. Pathology and Microbiology – Study of diseases and microorganisms

5. Pharmacology – Basic drug action and interactions

6. First Aid and CPR – Emergency care skills

Practical Training:

• Exercise therapy demonstrations

• Electrotherapy lab sessions

• Case-based discussions

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🧍 Third Year BPT Syllabus

In the third year, the focus shifts to clinical subjects and assessment techniques.

Core Subjects:

1. Orthopaedics and Traumatology – Musculoskeletal injuries and treatments

2. General Medicine and Surgery – Common medical and surgical conditions

3. Physical Diagnosis – Clinical examination and patient evaluation

4. Neurology and Neurosurgery – Nervous system disorders and rehabilitation

5. Community Medicine – Public health and preventive care

6. Research Methodology and Biostatistics – Basic medical research and data analysis

Practical Training:

• Clinical posting in orthopedic and neurological wards

• Real patient case assessments

• Group projects and seminars

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❤️ Fourth Year BPT Syllabus

The final year emphasizes specialized branches of physiotherapy and advanced clinical practice.

Core Subjects:

1. Cardiopulmonary Physiotherapy – Treatment of respiratory and cardiac patients

2. Community-Based Rehabilitation (CBR) – Rural and community health programs

3. Sports Physiotherapy – Injury prevention and rehabilitation in athletes

4. Geriatric and Pediatric Physiotherapy – Therapy for elderly and children

5. Orthopedic and Neurological Rehabilitation – Post-surgery and trauma care

6. Ethics, Administration & Professional Practice – Legal and ethical aspects of physiotherapy

Practical Training:

• 6-month compulsory internship in hospitals and clinics

• Clinical rotation across departments

• Research project and viva

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🧾 Summary – BPT Syllabus at a Glance

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🧠 Diploma in Physiotherapy (DPT) Syllabus

If you are planning to do a Diploma in Physiotherapy, the syllabus is shorter but covers core essentials.

First Year:

• Anatomy and Physiology

• Biomechanics

• Pathology and Microbiology

• Basic Nursing

• Exercise Therapy (Basics)

Second Year:

• Electrotherapy

• Orthopaedics & Neurology

• Rehabilitation Techniques

• Clinical Practice and Internship

Duration: 2 years
Internship: 3–6 months

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⚕️ Practical Training and Internship

The internship is an integral part of the physiotherapy syllabus. During this period, students work under supervision in hospitals, clinics, and rehabilitation centers.

Internship Departments:

• Orthopaedics

• Neurology

• Cardiorespiratory

• Pediatrics

• Sports Medicine

• Community Health

Interns gain real-world experience in patient assessment, diagnosis, treatment planning, and rehabilitation.

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🎯 Skills You’ll Learn in a Physiotherapy Course

By the end of your BPT or DPT program, you’ll develop the following key skills:

• Manual therapy and exercise prescription

• Patient handling and communication

• Electrotherapy application

• Orthopedic and neurological assessment

• Rehabilitation planning

• Research and documentation

These skills prepare you for diverse roles — from clinical practice to academic and research positions.

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💼 Career Scope After Physiotherapy

After completing your physiotherapy education, you can pursue various career paths:

• Clinical Physiotherapist (Hospitals, Clinics)

• Sports Physiotherapist (Teams, Academies)

• Rehabilitation Specialist

• Researcher or Lecturer

• Physiotherapy Consultant

• Entrepreneur (Own Clinic or Wellness Center)

Average Starting Salary: ₹3 – ₹6 LPA (can increase with specialization and experience)

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🌍 Popular Specializations in Physiotherapy

1. Orthopedic Physiotherapy

2. Neurological Physiotherapy

3. Sports Physiotherapy

4. Cardiopulmonary Physiotherapy

5. Pediatric Physiotherapy

6. Geriatric Physiotherapy

7. Women’s Health Physiotherapy

Each specialization offers unique career opportunities and advanced practice areas.

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🧩 Importance of Studying Physiotherapy Syllabus Thoroughly

Understanding the physiotherapy syllabus and subjects list helps you:

• Prepare better for exams and practicals

• Plan your specialization early

• Stay ahead in clinical internships

• Develop core skills aligned with real-world healthcare needs

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is NEET required for Physiotherapy?

Most colleges do not require NEET, though some state universities or top private colleges may conduct their own entrance exams.

2. Which subjects are most important in Physiotherapy?

Core subjects like Anatomy, Physiology, Exercise Therapy, Biomechanics, and Electrotherapy form the foundation of physiotherapy.

3. Can I open my own clinic after BPT?

Yes. After completing BPT and registering with your state physiotherapy council, you can legally practice or open your own clinic.

4. What is the difference between BPT and DPT?

• BPT – 4.5 years, deeper learning, better career growth

• DPT – 2 years, diploma-level, more basic clinical exposure

5. Is Physiotherapy a good career in India?

Absolutely! With increasing awareness about fitness and rehabilitation, the demand for qualified physiotherapists is rising in hospitals, sports, and private practice.

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🏁 Conclusion

The Physiotherapy syllabus and subjects list is designed to create competent professionals who can understand, diagnose, and treat physical disorders effectively. Whether you choose BPT or DPT, the blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience ensures you are industry-ready by graduation.

Physiotherapy is not just a career — it’s a service that restores movement, confidence, and quality of life. If you’re passionate about healthcare and helping others, this is a perfect career path to choose!