Vocational Physiotherapist
The aim of the Vocational Physiotherapist study programme is to provide contemporary theoretical and practical knowledge in the fields of physiotherapy, rehabilitation, and physical medicine, based on modern scientific achievements and clinical practice. The programme enables students to understand the structure and function of the human body, as well as the pathological processes that affect functional abilities, through courses in anatomy, physiology, pathology, internal medicine, and clinical pharmacology.
During their studies, students are trained to apply kinesitherapy, manual therapy, general and specialized physical therapy, pain therapy, occupational therapy, and physical medicine in pediatrics, geriatrics, and sports. Knowledge in kinesiology, somatopedics, as well as orthotics and prosthetics, allows for an individualized approach to the rehabilitation of patients with different functional and developmental disorders.
The programme also includes courses aimed at developing professional, communication, and organizational competencies, including healthcare management, hygiene and health education, communication skills, legal frameworks, ethics, and public health, thereby preparing students for responsible and ethical work within the healthcare system and in team-based practice.
Particular importance is placed on continuous professional and summer practice throughout all three years of study, enabling students to apply the knowledge they have acquired in real clinical and outpatient settings. Upon completion of the study programme, graduates earn the title of Vocational Physiotherapist and acquire the competencies required for the independent performance of professional duties, as well as a foundation for further professional development and lifelong learning, with the aim of improving functional health and the quality of life of individuals and the community.
The competencies of graduates of the Vocational Physiotherapist study programme are based on contemporary professional knowledge and practical skills in the fields of physiotherapy, rehabilitation, and physical medicine, as well as on the needs of the healthcare and social care systems. These competencies are aligned with applicable national and international standards, professional guidelines, and healthcare regulations, as well as with the classification within the National Qualifications Framework of Serbia (NQFS), level 6, in the field 09 – Health and Social Care.
Upon completion of the study programme, students acquire applied professional knowledge and skills that enable them to perform more complex professional duties in the field of physiotherapy independently and responsibly, within clearly defined professional competencies.
Students who complete the Vocational Physiotherapist study programme become qualified to:
• independently and responsibly perform duties in the field of physiotherapy and rehabilitation in accordance with applicable laws and professional standards;
• participate in the work of multidisciplinary healthcare teams in institutions of primary, secondary, and tertiary healthcare, as well as in rehabilitation and social care institutions;
• apply contemporary methods and techniques of kinesitherapy, manual therapy, and physical therapy in working with patients of different age groups and health conditions;
• carry out physiotherapy procedures aimed at the prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation of functional disorders, in accordance with the therapy plan;
• maintain healthcare and therapy documentation and apply information systems in healthcare;
• apply professional ethics, principles of humanity, safety, and responsibility in working with patients.
In addition to the general competencies of NQFS level 6, students also acquire the following subject-specific competencies:
• carrying out general and specialized physiotherapy procedures in accordance with the rehabilitation plan;
• assessing the functional status of patients and monitoring the effects of the applied therapy within the scope of acquired competencies;
• applying safety measures, occupational protection, and infection control procedures in healthcare and rehabilitation institutions;
• properly using medical, rehabilitation, and orthopedic equipment in everyday physiotherapy practice.
Learning outcomes, especially taking into account that professional and summer practice are integral parts of the curriculum of this study programme, are reflected in the mastery of the following knowledge and skills:
• providing high-quality, safe, and individually tailored physiotherapy services;
• effective communication with patients, their families, and members of the healthcare team;
• applying theoretical knowledge in practical work under real clinical and outpatient conditions;
• planning and implementing physiotherapy and rehabilitation treatment in accordance with contemporary professional standards;
• developing professional responsibility and readiness for continuous professional development.
Through these competencies and learning outcomes, graduates holding the title of Vocational Physiotherapist are qualified for efficient, safe, and professional work within the healthcare and social care systems, as well as for further education and professional development in accordance with the level of qualifications acquired.