Year 1/2: Students spend the first 18 months studying at the university and then have a series of clinical placements in physiotherapy settings throughout the south-east of England; they return to the university at intervals between placements and also for the final term; this initial study period ensures that students have the knowledge and skills to contribute effectively to the physiotherapy management of patients when they begin placements; emphasis is placed on the development of practical skills and clinical reasoning, built on a sound theoretical and research base. Some elements are shared with students on nursing, midwifery and podiatry degrees.