Overview

The UBC Graduate Certificate in Orthopaedic Musculoskeletal Physical Therapy (GCOMP) is a 21-credit specialized program for experienced physical therapists who aim to advance their evidence-based knowledge and skills in orthopaedic manual and musculoskeletal physical therapy practice. The certificate is intended to be completed over a 2-year period of part-time study.

By the end of this program, students will be able to provide advanced orthopaedic musculoskeletal physiotherapy assessment and treatment that will enhance their provision of effective, evidence-based treatment of musculoskeletal conditions.

What makes the program unique?

UBC’s GCOMP program is a new benchmark in musculoskeletal post-graduate clinical training. Renowned clinicians teach within an integrated framework to develop your expertise in musculoskeletal physiotherapy.

  • Expert clinicians and instructors, selected for their in-depth knowledge and teaching experience
  • The integrated program covers musculoskeletal anatomy and biomechanics, advanced manual therapy and exercise prescription, and pain neuroscience
  • A mix of online and in-person delivery for working clinicians
  • Can be used for credit toward a Master of Rehabilitation Sciences
 

Program Structure

The 21 credits required to complete the Graduate Certificate in Orthopaedic Manipulative Physical Therapy program consist of:

  • RHSC 501 (3): Evidence for Practice
  • PHTH 580 (9): Orthopaedic Clinical Reasoning and Skills
  • PHTH 581 (3): Evidence and Theory in Musculoskeletal Therapy
  • RHSC 587 (3): Major Research Project (I)
  • RHSC 589 (3): Major Research Project (II)

Quick Facts

Mode of delivery
On campus / Online combination
Program Components
Coursework + Major Project/Essay required
 

Program Enquiries

If you have reviewed the information on this program page and understand the requirements for this program, you may send an enquiry

Requirements

Prior Degree Requirements

Candidates must hold an entry-level degree in physical therapy.

Other Requirements
  • Candidates must have a minimum of one-year of recent clinical experience in orthopaedic physical therapy, and have completed 30 hours of clinical mentorship in manual therapy.
  • Candidates must have successfully completed the Level II Upper and Lower courses and examinations in the Canadian Physiotherapy Orthopaedic Division Advanced Orthopaedic Manual and Manipulative Physiotherapy program, or the equivalent.
  • Candidates must be physical therapists registered in British Columbia.

Research Information

Program Components

The GCOMP curriculum blends three types of learning – online course-work, hands-on instruction at the UBC campus, and a clinical mentorship assignment.

Tuition and Fees

FeesCanadian Citizen / Permanent Resident / Refugee / DiplomatInternational
Application Fee$0.00Not applicable
Tuition *
Tuition per credit$589.80$675.49
Other Fees and Costs
Supplementary fees (once)$3275.75 Lab fee
Student Fees (yearly)$1,116.60 (approx.)
Costs of livingEstimate your costs of living with our interactive tool in order to start developing a financial plan for your graduate studies.
* Regular, full-time tuition. For on-leave, extension, continuing or part time (if applicable) fees see UBC Calendar.
All fees for the year are subject to adjustment and UBC reserves the right to change any fees without notice at any time, including tuition and student fees. Tuition fees are reviewed annually by the UBC Board of Governors. In recent years, tuition increases have been 2% for continuing domestic students and between 2% and 5% for continuing international students. New students may see higher increases in tuition. Admitted students who defer their admission are subject to the potentially higher tuition fees for incoming students effective at the later program start date. In case of a discrepancy between this webpage and the UBC Calendar, the UBC Calendar entry will be held to be correct.
 
 
Program Enquiries
If you have reviewed the information on this program page and understand the requirements for this program, you may send an enquiry
 

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