Rehabilitation

On the PgDip in Rehabilitation from RCSI School of Physiotherapy you'll learn from experts from a range of disciplines who promote interdisciplinary learning and practice. Year 1 covers topics such as neuroscience, neurorehabilitation and ageing, alongside optional modules to tailor your learning to your personal goals.



Upon successful completion of Year 1 of the programme, you will be awarded a Postgraduate Diploma in Rehabilitation (60 ECTS).



If you wish to gain an MSc (90 ECTS), you may continue your studies in Year 2 of the programme, in which you will undertake a module in Advanced Research Methods and complete a dissertation in the area of neurology and gerontology. This programme is two years, part-time.



Please note: this programme runs on a hybrid model: 1.5 or two in-person sessions are required per module, with the remainder of content delivered online.



This course is a Level 9 award on the Irish National Framework of Qualifications and is subject to final accreditation.



Suitable for

This course is designed for healthcare professionals and is particularly suitable for those who want to assume a management and leadership position in the care of older people and neurological rehabilitation.



Accreditation and recognition

We are proud to be a recognised University of the National University of Ireland (NUI). Recognition by ministries and bodies in other jurisdictions must be determined by the individual applicants.

Core

Clinical Neuroscience:

This module develops knowledge in neuroscience, underpinning clinical reasoning in managing neurological conditions and older adults.



Neurorehabilitation:

Provides advanced knowledge of current neuro-rehabilitation practice, developing critical and analytical thinking for neurological conditions.



Research Methods for Healthcare Professionals:

Enhances understanding of the research process through protocol design.



Translating Evidence to Practice:

Develops skills to search, retrieve, and appraise evidence for professional practice, combining online and in-person workshops.



Leadership and Management Essentials in Healthcare:

Delivered online, this module covers essential leadership and management skills in healthcare, aiding transition from clinical roles to leadership.



Optional

Stroke Rehabilitation:

Develops knowledge in stroke rehabilitation, underpinning clinical reasoning in stroke patient management.



Paediatric Neurodisability:

The care and treatment of children with neurodisability.



Ageing:

Advances knowledge of major issues in gerontology and applies this knowledge to work settings.



Physical Activity and Health Behaviour Change in Clinical Populations:

Enhances knowledge of health behaviour change psychology, focusing on promoting physical activity in long-term conditions.

To be considered for entry into the programme, applicants must:

• Be a healthcare professional.

• Hold a bachelor degree. If you don’t hold a bachelor degree, please see the recognition of prior learning pathway.

• Experience in neurology and gerontology desirable, but not essential.



Each application will be assessed on an individual basis.



If English is not your first language, you will also need to supply a copy of an IELTS examination or equivalent, with an overall score of at least 6.5 and no individual band below 6.5. English language requirements for RCSI Postgraduate programmes are published here.



Recognition of prior learning (RPL)

If you do not meet the minimum academic requirements above, you may still be eligible to apply through recognition of prior learning (RPL). RPL is the assessment of knowledge, skills and competence previously acquired.



Learning occurs in many contexts which include work, involvement in social and community activities, or learning through life experience generally. RPL does not give credit for experience as such; rather it considers the learning that was acquired as a result of the experience.



RPL may be used to gain:

• Admission to courses/programmes where a person may not have obtained the standard entry requirements.

• Exemptions from course modules which duplicate the learning outcomes an individual has already demonstrably acquired through prior learning.

How to apply

Applications for this course are now open for the next intake.



Please ensure you attach the following supporting documents with your application:

• Clear copy of a valid passport.

• Copies of your academic transcripts/degree.

• Copy of your CV.

• English proficiency test (if required).

1 year. Mode of delivery Hybrid - Part-time.

Next start date: September 2026.

Progression options

On successful completion of Year 1 of the programme, you will be awarded a Postgraduate Diploma in Rehabilitation (60 ECTS). If you wish to gain an MSc (90 ECTS), you may continue your studies in Year 2 of the programme, in which you will undertake a module in Advanced Research Methods and complete a dissertation in the area of neurology and gerontology.