What is Physiotherapy?: Course Fees 2025, Subjects, Top Colleges, Admissions

No, Physiotherapists cannot be called doctors.

They examine, diagnose, and treat different physical disorders, injuries, or disablement conditions by using various physical techniques, exercises, and therapies.
While the physiotherapist is a mainstay in patient care and rehabilitation, he does not have a medical degree in himself, be it an MD or even an MBBS.
Instead, they have either a bachelor's or master's degree in physiotherapy from registered institutions. They apply specific therapies, working together with doctors and other health experts to improve mobility, manage pain, restore function, and maximize the potential of physical health.

Yes, you may go for Physiotherapy course.

Physiotherapists are required in each department of a hospital, be it ICU or geriatrics, and they can also choose to work independently or be part of a multidisciplinary team. You can also enjoy flexible working hours as a consultant, choosing the number of hours you work everyday. 

In India, the starting salary ranges from INR 5,000 to INR 30,000 per month. Generally, private hospitals provide remuneration ranging between INR 5,000 to INR 15,000 per month for a fresher. In a government hospital like AIIMS, you begin as a Junior Physiotherapist and earn approximately INR 30,000 per month. 

Physiotherapy mainly deals with the practices in healthcare, rehabilitation, and improving the physical well-being of individuals.

It provides some impressive career opportunities along with a decent pay scale. The various specializations in this field allow candidates to widen the scope of their expertise. It is an ever-evolving field with continuous medicinal advancements. So, there is no concern about the job market ups and downs.

For more information, read:
BPT (Bachelor of Physiotherapy) courses: Fees, List, Admission

BPT (Bachelor of Physiotherapy) syllabus: the latest updated syllabus

No, BSc is not a requirement for one to be enrolled for Physiotherapy.
Since this is an undergraduate program, no bachelor's degree is explicitly required. The basic eligibility for admission to the BPT course is passing Class 12 with a Science stream, securing at least 50%, and studied at least a PCB combination.

If you wish to become a physiotherapist after your Class 12, candidates can follow the below steps:

Step 1. Choose the Science Stream

Step 2. Complete Class 12

Step 3. Research and Choose a College/University

Step 4. Apply for BPT Programs

Step 5. Complete the BPT 

Step 6. Get Degree

Step 7. Look for Internship

Yep, you can totally do an MSc in Psychology after finishing your Bachelor’s in Physiotherapy. The catch is, some colleges might ask you to take a few extra psych subjects first to qualify.
Best move? Check out the specific MSc programs you’re eyeing and hit up their admission teams to know exactly what they want from physio grads.

Nah, you don’t usually need NEET to get into a BPT (Bachelor of Physiotherapy) program. Most colleges either take students through their own entrance test or just based on your Class 12 marks in Physics, Chem, and Bio.
Some places might look at state-level exams or have their own rules. So, always double-check the college you’re aiming for, ‘cause the admission process can be different everywhere.

The major entrance exams for Physiotherapy courses are as follows:

• CUET
• CUET PG
• NEET
• AIPMCET

Yes, state-wise or university-level exams for Physiotherapy courses are below:

• BIEAP
• AIPMCET
• IPU CET
• NSAT
• GUJCET
• CENTAC
• LPU NEST

The ease of studying a Physiotherapy course depends on individual tastes, learning styles, dedication, and effort that candidates are ready to pay to their studies. Much as any other field, Physiotherapy comes along with its challenges and complexities, but opportunities presented are rewarding for one interested in healthcare, human anatomy, and rehabilitation.
Ultimately, how easy or difficult a Physiotherapy course may be varies from person to person.

The major subjects taught in a Physiotherapy course syllabus include:

1. Anatomy and Physiology

2. Biomechanics and Kinesiology

3. Pathology

4. Orthopedics and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy

5. Neurology and Neurophysiotherapy

6. Cardiopulmonary Physiotherapy

7. Pediatric Physiotherapy

8. Geriatric Physiotherapy

9. Sports Physiotherapy

10. Manual Therapy Techniques

The main subjects in Physiotherapy courses are as follows:

• Human Anatomy

• Physiology

• Biomechanics

• Kinesiology

• Orthopedic Physiotherapy

• Neurological Physiotherapy

• Cardiopulmonary Physiotherapy

• Exercise Therapy

• Electrotherapy

• Sports Physiotherapy

The main difference between a degree and a Diploma in Physiotherapy has something to do with the level of education and area of practice.
A degree in Physiotherapy generally means a university or college undergraduate or graduate degree course. All undergraduate courses are roughly 3 to 4 years in duration. The degree course envisions an all-rounded education in physiotherapy, comprising elements of theory, practical skills, clinical practice in the form of clinical placements, and research.
A Diploma in Physiotherapy, on the other hand, is rather shorter and more focused than a degree. Such programs are usually short, running for 1 to 2 years. Students pursuing Diploma in Physiotherapy courses achieve practical skills with functional training for entry-level jobs in physiotherapy settings. Whereas Diploma holders may do basic physiotherapy tasks under supervision, their scope in practice and career prospects remain limited as compared to degree holders.

BPT is the most popular Physiotherapy course in India. 

BPT full form is Bachelor of Physiotherapy. It is a UG degree program that focuses on teaching students the basics of Physiotherapy studies.

This course is designed to give students a strong foundation on Physiotherapy education, as well as practical skills required for assessing, diagnosing, and treating musculoskeletal, neurological, cardiopulmonary, and other physical disorders.

The graduates from government colleges have better accesses to the job sectors in public sector institutions like government hospitals and clinics, while the private college graduates find opportunities in the private hospitals, private clinics, sports facilities, and the rehabilitation centers.
Particularly for freshers from government colleges, the starting salary could be a bit higher; in government healthcare institutions, pay scales are mostly standardized. 

But, Physiotherapists from private colleges may get lower salaries at the beginning but may have a wider scope of earning greatly through private practice or specialization.

Yes, many private Physiotherapy colleges in India offer good placements. These are as follows:

Benefits of doing online Physiotherapy course:

• You can study flexibly.

• You can read material from anywhere.

• Easy to balance study with other things.

• Mostly cheaper than normal classes.

• You can learn again and again by revisiting content.

• Many courses from colleges all over world.

Limitations of doing online Physiotherapy course:

• Very less hands-on practice.

• No direct talking with teacher or classmates.

• Maybe not accepted in some places.

• Less chance for hospital training and real experience.

• Need strong self-control to study.

• Internet or tech problem can disturb learning.

The Indian Army definitely has openings for Physiotherapists. Physiotherapists play a tremendously important role in the physical rehabilitation of soldiers, thus helping them recover from injuries and ensuring an improved level of fitness with less possibility of recurring injuries. They attend servicemen/women in almost every capacity within the healthcare system of the Army. You could contact the recruitment office of the Indian Army or view their official website for vacancy details and the eligibility criteria necessary to join the Indian Army as a physiotherapist.

Physiotherapists are not nurses.

A physiotherapist is a person who check, find problem, and treat people with body issues, injuries or disability. They use exercise, therapy, and some techniques to help patients move better, feel less pain, and improve body function.

Nurses take care of patients in many way. They help with body, mind, and feelings. They give medicine, check vitals, and support patients under doctor guidance.

The BSc Physiotherapy will lean towards scientific input in Physiotherapy, along with other foundational Science courses.
On the other hand, BPT stands for a professional course on Physiotherapy mainly.

Thus, the former may be having more practical-oriented training and clinical exposure in various physiotherapy techniques compared to the latter.
Now, which one to pursue depends on the individual and what matters more to the individual, their career goals, and the programs available. Consider factors like curriculum, training opportunities, certification, and your academic and professional interests in making your choice.

Physiotherapy deals with the rehabilitation of patients through physical therapy techniques. Physiotherapy courses were developed for assessing, diagnosis, and treating patients with physical impairments and disabilities.
On the other hand, there are courses in Paramedical fields, which could be termed as a group of health professions constituting the support system to the medical profession in looking after the patients. They call for specialised skills and training in keeping with the specific nature of the particular paramedical roles.
Ultimately, one will have to reach a decision based on interests, career goals, market demand, and strengths.

Most of the time, physiotherapists are not allowed to give injections. Their main work is helping patients with exercises, hands-on therapy, and treatments like heat or cold therapy.

But in some countries, if they get extra training or special certificates, they may be allowed to do certain things, like dry needling, where thin needles are put into muscles or tissues.

Physiotherapy course graduates can find opportunities in various industries, including:

• Healthcare and Medical Institutions

• Sports and Fitness Industry

• Orthopedic and Neurological Clinics

• Geriatric Care

• Education and Research

• Corporate Sector

• Home Healthcare Services

• Government and Military

• Public Health and Rehabilitation NGOs

Here's a list of essential skills to become a successful physiotherapist:

• Strong Knowledge of Anatomy and Physiology

• Manual Dexterity Communication Skills 

• Empathy and Compassion 

• Problem-Solving Skills 

• Patience 

The growth opportunities and career progression after the Physiotherapy course are as follows:

• Clinical Practice

• Private Practice

• Sports Physiotherapy

• Rehabilitation Centers

• Research and Development

• Teaching and Academia

Here's a table with average salary for Physiotherapy people across different industries:

Note: These figures are average estimates and can vary based on experience, location, and specific employer.