Duration
2 years full time / 3 years part time
Mode (Location)
Mixed Attendance Mode (Parkville)
Intake
February, October
Key dates
Key dates
Fees
AUD $27,000 (2026 indicative first year fee). Commonwealth Supported Places (CSPs) are not available
Learn more
Learn more
Student experience
Overview
- Gain access to esteemed academics and a dynamic peer group
- Enjoy the flexibility of blended online and face-to-face learning
- Get comprehensive support from expression of interest to graduation
The Master of Physiotherapy (Paediatrics) is designed to advance your expertise in paediatric physiotherapy practice through a blended learning model. This course combines face-to-face learning and online learning, providing flexibility while allowing for rich engagement with experts and peers.
Highlights of the physiotherapy (paediatrics) experience
Expert instruction
Throughout your studies, you will be guided by subject matter experts drawn from the University of Melbourne and its partner health services. Learn from experienced academics like Tara FitzGerald, a dedicated paediatric physiotherapist who serves as a Lecturer in Physiotherapy and Course Coordinator for the Master of Physiotherapy (Paediatrics). Tara brings extensive clinical experience, research expertise, and a commitment to evidence-based practice and reflective learning.
Placement opportunities
Students of this course will undertake clinical observation across various settings, including hospitals, private practices and community hubs. Specialty paediatric areas may include developmental care, gait laboratories, cardiorespiratory, and orthopaedics. With access to high-quality facilities and close supervision from clinical experts, you will learn directly from leaders in the field across a range of specialties within paediatric physiotherapy.
Flexible and interactive learning
For your online subjects, you'll have access to high-quality online education tools, accessible anytime – all you need is a computer and an internet connection. Your virtual classroom is academically robust and designed to prepare you for excellence in paediatric physiotherapy practice. You will expand your skills and knowledge via educational tools like webinars, podcasts, and moderated discussion forums.
Profile
Tara FitzGerald
Tara FitzGerald
Lecturer in Physiotherapy and Course Coordinator - Master of Physiotherapy (Paediatrics)
Tara FitzGerald, a dedicated paediatric physiotherapist, serves as a Lecturer in Physiotherapy and Course Coordinator at the University of Melbourne. Graduating from the University of Melbourne with a Bachelor of Physiotherapy (Honours), Tara's clinical journey led her from Monash Health to Kings College Hospital in London, before returning to Melbourne to work at The Royal Children's Hospital and begin her PhD studies. Her doctoral research focused on physical activity for preschool-aged children born preterm, highlighting her commitment to improving long-term outcomes for vulnerable populations.
In her current roles, Tara teaches and coordinates various postgraduate courses in physiotherapy as well as a subject in the Doctor of Physiotherapy program, with a focus on paediatric physiotherapy practice. Drawing from her extensive clinical experience and research expertise, she emphasises evidence-based practice and reflective learning in her teaching. Courses Tara works on offers students opportunities for practical experience, networking with leading clinicians and researchers, and tailoring their studies to their interests through electives and research or professional practice capstone projects.
Teaching at the University of Melbourne provides Tara with the platform to inspire students and witness their growth as evidence-based practitioners. She finds fulfillment in seeing students apply their new knowledge to real-world clinical scenarios and appreciates the University's strong links to renowned paediatric institutions like Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, and Royal Women’s Hospital.
Students enrolled in The Masters or Graduate Diploma in Physiotherapy (Paediatrics) courses can expect a blend of theoretical learning and practical application, empowering them to become proficient clinicians equipped with critical thinking skills and effective communication abilities. Tara encourages aspiring paediatric physiotherapists to embrace lifelong learning and seize opportunities to connect with experts in their field, ultimately benefiting both their careers and the communities they serve.