Physiotherapy

▎Studying Physiotherapy in Iran: A Comprehensive Guide

Physiotherapy, a vital branch of healthcare, focuses on the assessment, treatment, and prevention of physical disabilities and impairments. With the growing demand for qualified physiotherapists worldwide, pursuing a degree in physiotherapy in Iran presents an excellent opportunity for both local and international students. In this article, we will explore the benefits, educational institutions, curriculum, career prospects, and challenges of studying physiotherapy in Iran.

▎Why Study Physiotherapy in Iran?

▎1. Quality Education

Iran boasts a number of reputable universities offering physiotherapy programs that adhere to international standards. Institutions such as Tehran University of Medical Sciences and Shahid Beheshti University are recognized for their commitment to excellence in medical education. These universities employ experienced faculty members and provide state-of-the-art facilities for practical training.

▎2. Affordable Tuition Fees

Compared to many Western countries, the cost of studying physiotherapy in Iran is relatively low. Tuition fees are affordable, making it an attractive option for students from diverse economic backgrounds. Additionally, the cost of living in Iran is generally lower than in many Western nations.

▎3. Cultural Experience

Studying in Iran offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in a rich cultural heritage. Students can experience the warmth of Iranian hospitality, explore historical sites, and enjoy diverse cuisines. This cultural exposure enhances personal growth and broadens one’s global perspective.

▎4. Growing Demand for Physiotherapists

As awareness of physical health and rehabilitation increases, the demand for qualified physiotherapists continues to rise in Iran and globally. Graduates can expect a wide range of job opportunities in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, sports clinics, and private practices.

▎Educational Institutions Offering Physiotherapy Programs

Several universities in Iran offer undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in physiotherapy:

▎1. Tehran University of Medical Sciences

One of the leading medical universities in Iran, it offers a comprehensive Bachelor’s degree in Physiotherapy that includes both theoretical knowledge and practical experience.

▎2. Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences

Known for its strong emphasis on research and clinical practice, this university provides a robust curriculum that prepares students for various challenges in the field.

▎3. Tarbiat Modarres University

This institution offers innovative programs focusing on manual therapy, sports physiotherapy, and neuro-rehabilitation.

▎4. Iran University of Medical Sciences

With a commitment to producing skilled professionals, Iran University of Medical Sciences provides extensive hands-on training through its affiliated hospitals.

│Degrees offering Physiotherapy in Iran

It should be noted that medical physics is taught in Iranian universities.

▎Tuition Fees Overview
The cost of studying Physiotherapy at various universities is presented below.

▎Curriculum Overview

The physiotherapy curriculum in Iran typically spans four years for undergraduate programs and includes the following key components:

• Foundational Sciences: Subjects such as anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics form the basis of understanding human movement and function.

• Clinical Practice: Students undergo practical training in hospitals and clinics, gaining hands-on experience in patient assessment and treatment.

• Specialized Areas: Advanced courses may cover areas like pediatric physiotherapy, geriatric care, sports injuries, and neurological rehabilitation.

• Research Methodology: Students learn to conduct research, fostering critical thinking and evidence-based practice.


▎Syllabus of Bachelor in Physiotherapy in Iran

The following table shows the list of units related to this field in Bachelor:

Title of Module(Bachelor)	Types of the Module
Biochemistry and pharmacology	Theory
General Physiology	Theory-Practice
Muscle and Nerve Physiology	Theory-Practice
Anatomy I	Theory-Practice
Anatomy II	Theory-Practice
Anatomy III		Theory-Practice
NeuroAnatomy		Theory
Anatomy IV		Theory-Practice
Anatomy Surface, Clinical & Functional		Theory-Practice
Histology		Theory-Practice
Pathology		Theory
General & Handicaps Psychology		Theory
Psychiatry		Theory
Genetics		Theory
Neurology		Theory
Cardiovasculo-pulmonary Diseases		Theory
Skin and Rheumatologic Diseases		Theory
General Surgery		Theory
Radiology		Theory
Orthopedics		Theory
First Aides & Emergencies		Practice
Principles of Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy		Theory
Advance English & Medical Terminology		Theory
Physical Therapy in cardiovasculopulmonary conditions		Theory
Physical Therapy in Skin and Rheumatologic diseases		Theory
Physical Therapy in Surgical Condition		Theory
Orthopedic Physical Therapy (I)		Theory-Practice
Orthopedic Physical Therapy (II)		Theory
Biomechanics & Kinesiology I (General & Upper limbs)		Theory
Biomechanics & Kinesiology II (lower limbs)		Theory
Biomechanics & Kinesiology III (Vertebral column)		Theory
Therapeutic Exercises I (Principles)		Theory-Practice
Therapeutic Exercises II (PNF &MET)		Theory-Practice
Physical Therapy in neurological diseases I		Theory
Physical Therapy in neurological diseases II (Hemiplegic)		Theory-Practice
Physical Therapy in neurological diseases III (Cerebral Palsy)		Theory-Practice
Electrotherapy II (Electrical Modalities)		Theory-Practice
Electrotherapy I (Thermal Agents)		Theory-Practice
Electrotherapy II (Electrical Modalities)		Theory-Practice
Orthetics, Prosthetic & Assistive Device		Theory-Practice
Musculuskeletal Physical Examination (Muscle Testing)		Theory-Practice
Manual Therapy I (Therapeutic Massage)		Theory-Practice
Manual Therapy II ( Mobilization)		Practice
Evidence-Based physical therapy		Theory
Professionalism		Theory
Management of Physical Therapy Clinic		Theory

▎Syllabus of Mater in Physiotherapy in Iran

The following table shows the list of units related to this field in Master:

Title of the Module (Master)	Types of the Module
Compensatory Courses
Medical Information Systems	Theory-Practice
Medical Terminology (Specialized Language)	Theory
Core Courses
Biostatistics	Theory-Practice
Research Methods in Health Systems	Theory
Evidence-Based Physiotherapy	Theory
Electroneuromyograhy	Theory-Practice
Familiarity with (Introduction) Laboratory Equipment Physiotherapy	Practice
Clinical Training (Practice)	Practice
Research Seminar	Theory
Research Project	Practice
Thesis	Practice
Non-Core Courses
Physiology and Pathophysiology of the Neuromuscular System	Theory
Biomechanics of Extremity and Gait Disorders	Theory
Biomechanics of Spinal Disorders	Theory
Manual Therapy of Functional Disorders of the Joints of the Spine	Theory-Practice
Electrophysiology of the Central Nervous System	Theory
Motor Control	Theory
Advanced Specialized (Specific) Techniques	Theory
Pathophysiology of the Cardiovascular Pulmonary System	Theory
Exercise Physiology	Theory
Physiotherapy in Cardiopulmonary Disease	Theory-Practice
Paraclinical Diagnosis of Cardiovascular Pulmonary Disease	Theory-Practice

▎Syllabus of PhD in Medical Physics in Iran

The following table shows the list of units related to this field in PhD:

Title of the Module(PhD)	Types of the Module
Core Courses
Physiological Principles of Therapeutic Exercise	Theory
Advanced Physiology of Muscles and Nerves	Theory
Occupational biomechanics	Theory
Electrophysiology	Theory-Practice
Seminar	Theory-Practice
Thesis	Theory-Practice
Non-Core Courses
Analysis of the sensorymotor systems	Theory
Motor control	Theory
Advanced Anatomy and Physiology of CardioPulmonary System	Theory
Physiotherapy in musculoskeletal injuries	Theory-Practice
Physiotherapy in sports injuries	Theory
Biochemistry	Theory
Pharmacology in rehabilitation	Theory
Histology	Theory-Practice
Familiarity with Laboratory Animals	Theory-Practice
Tissue biomechanics	Theory
Manual therapy	Theory-Practice

▎Career Prospects

Graduates with a degree in physiotherapy have diverse career options:

• Clinical Physiotherapist: Working in hospitals or private clinics to assess and treat patients with physical impairments.

• Sports Physiotherapist: Specializing in the rehabilitation of athletes and active individuals.

• Researcher or Educator: Engaging in academic roles or contributing to research initiatives within healthcare.

• Rehabilitation Specialist: Focusing on recovery programs for patients with chronic illnesses or disabilities.

▎Challenges of Studying Physiotherapy in Iran

While there are numerous benefits to studying physiotherapy in Iran, students may face certain challenges:

• Language Barrier: Most courses are taught in Persian, which may pose difficulties for non-Persian speakers. However, some universities offer programs in English.

• Cultural Differences: International students may need time to adapt to cultural norms and practices within Iranian society.

• Limited Resources: While many institutions are well-equipped, some may lack advanced technology or resources compared to Western universities.

▎Conclusion

Studying physiotherapy in Iran offers a unique blend of quality education, cultural immersion, and promising career prospects. With its affordable tuition fees and growing demand for healthcare professionals, Iran is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for aspiring physiotherapists. By choosing to study physiotherapy in Iran, students not only gain valuable skills but also contribute to the improvement of health outcomes within their communities.

Whether you are considering a career change or seeking your first degree, exploring the opportunities available in Iranian universities could be your first step towards a fulfilling career in physiotherapy.