If you are interested in health and helping others but do not want to be a doctor, look no further than rehabilitation.
Bachelor degree courses will prepare you for niche health professions such as:
- physiotherapy;
- speech pathology; and
- optometry.
Another option is rehabilitation counselling—perfect if you want to take a broader approach. In this specialisation you will use your counselling and liaison skills to help clients reach personal, social and economic independence.
A range of study options
Your undergraduate degree will take three to four years to complete. Because health professions are highly regulated, courses are generally similar from university to university. However, requirements for professional recognition between the different niches can vary, so it is a good idea to check these details with the relevant professional bodies (see below). You may need to follow your studies with a period of practical work experience.
Courses leading to para-professional jobs can be found in the vocational education and training (VET) sector. See the ‘Health services and support’ profile for more information. If you are interested in this field, you should also look at courses in psychology or perhaps medicine, veterinary science and dentistry.
Options for postgraduate students
Postgraduate study programs in the rehabilitation field are designed for graduates and/or workers in this or related fields, for example, osteopathy and podiatry.
Look for schools with an established research program if you are interested in a research degree. Doctoral degrees, including professional doctorates, are available in a number of fields including physiotherapy, speech therapy and occupational therapy.
Your Australian professional degree can help you find employment overseas. If you do your research it will not be difficult to find an Australian qualification that will be recognised in your home country. Contact your local health authority or professional association to check your proposed study program.
Use our Search function to find a list of Australian institutions offering qualifications in this field.
More information