Getting a degree, diploma or certification is not enough for physical therapists to stay competitive. You’ll also need regular physiotherapy continuing education to keep abreast of new developments in your field, enhance knowledge and skills and to serve your patients and clients more effectively.

The successful physiotherapist may not have enough time during the day or to travel away from work and family to attend a regular classroom-type instruction. For many therapists, obtaining an online physiotherapy continuing education is the perfect solution because it brings learning to your office or home, allowing you to learn at your own pace and time.

How it works

A regular program typically consists of short courses that you can complete at your own pace. You’ll have access to reading material, virtual classroom courses and exams as well. While many assume that distance learning falls short of the benefits that actual face-to-face instruction has, advanced Internet technology has made it possible for students to interact with fellow students and faculty members, providing a highly engaging environment crucial in learning. A course culminates with an exam that you will also take online. Some providers may even allow you to print your certificate right after taking the online test.

What to look for

Delivery method: Each student may have different learning styles making specific delivery methods more suitable than others. Find out first if the delivery method of the courses suits your learning style to maximize learning. This may also hasten learning and completion.

Accreditation: Your professional organization may require you to obtain further training only from accredited course providers. Ensure first that your provider is accredited; most learning institutions readily supply therapists with a list of professional organizations that recognize them.

Courses you can take

You can take advanced courses leading to higher degrees or honorific titles such as online Master’s, doctorate and PhD degrees in physiotherapy and rehabilitation science. These diploma courses may take at least a year to complete but add to your prestige.

You may also want to brush up on the latest techniques or developments in your field by taking short courses from various specialties such as dry needling, pediatric physiotherapy, geriatric, cardio-pulmonary, sports and musculoskeletal physiotherapy and radiology.

Short courses in physiotherapy continuing education can also enhance the practice of other health professionals like doctors and nurses and may even qualify for CE credits for licensed doctors. Re-licensing requirements vary among states so it’s best to check with your local licensing board for compliance procedures.

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