Physiotherapy is one of South Africa’s most respected and in-demand healthcare professions. It focuses on helping patients recover from injury, manage pain, and improve physical function through movement and exercise.
If you’re passionate about health, wellness, and human anatomy, studying Physiotherapy can lead to a fulfilling career in hospitals, sports medicine, rehabilitation centres, or private practice.
Here are the top universities in South Africa currently offering Physiotherapy degrees for the 2026 academic year.
1. Nelson Mandela University (NMU)
Programme: Bachelor of Physiotherapy (BPhysio)
Faculty: Health Sciences
Duration: 4 years
Nelson Mandela University’s Physiotherapy degree combines classroom learning with extensive practical experience. Students work with real patients through the university’s clinical partnerships, focusing on rehabilitation, orthopaedics, neurology, and sports therapy.
Highlights:
- Hands-on training at accredited hospitals and clinics.
- Focus on community health and wellness.
- Fully accredited by the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA).
2. University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
Programme: Bachelor of Physiotherapy (BPhysio)
Faculty: College of Health Sciences
Duration: 4 years
UKZN’s Physiotherapy programme provides a solid foundation in anatomy, physiology, and clinical rehabilitation. Students are trained to assess and treat a wide range of physical conditions, from sports injuries to neurological impairments.
Highlights:
- Practical experience at hospitals and rehabilitation centres across KwaZulu-Natal.
- Strong focus on rural and community-based healthcare.
- Accredited by the HPCSA and internationally recognised.
3. University of Cape Town (UCT)
Programme: BSc in Physiotherapy
Faculty: Health Sciences
Duration: 4 years
UCT’s Physiotherapy programme is one of the most prestigious in Africa. Students gain an in-depth understanding of human movement, rehabilitation science, and clinical practice. The programme emphasises research, innovation, and evidence-based healthcare.
Highlights:
- Clinical placements in hospitals across the Western Cape.
- Research-driven approach to physiotherapy and rehabilitation.
- Excellent global reputation for academic excellence.
4. University of the Western Cape (UWC)
Programme: BSc in Physiotherapy
Faculty: Community and Health Sciences
Duration: 4 years
UWC’s Physiotherapy degree focuses on promoting physical health and independence across all communities. Students learn to apply physiotherapeutic techniques to improve quality of life and reduce disability in both clinical and community settings.
Highlights:
- Community-based health education model.
- Focus on social justice and equal access to healthcare.
- Accredited by the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA).
5. University of Pretoria (UP)
Programme: Bachelor of Physiotherapy (BPhysT)
Faculty: Health Sciences
Duration: 4 years
UP’s Department of Physiotherapy offers a modern, research-oriented programme that prepares students to become skilled rehabilitation specialists. The university provides exceptional training facilities and a curriculum aligned with global best practices.
Highlights:
- World-class anatomy and physiology laboratories.
- Clinical placements starting from the second year.
- Focus on evidence-based physiotherapy and healthcare innovation.
6. University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
Programme: Bachelor of Science in Physiotherapy
Faculty: Health Sciences
Duration: 4 years
Wits University’s Physiotherapy programme is internationally recognised for its excellence in health education and clinical research. Students gain practical experience in some of Johannesburg’s top teaching hospitals.
Highlights:
- Strong focus on rehabilitation science and movement analysis.
- Clinical placements at major hospitals such as Chris Hani Baragwanath.
- Pathway to postgraduate study and research in rehabilitation science.
Why Choose a Career in Physiotherapy?
- High employability: Physiotherapists are in demand across hospitals, schools, and private practices.
- Global recognition: South African physiotherapy degrees meet international standards.
- Meaningful work: Help people regain independence and improve their quality of life.
- Diverse opportunities: Specialise in sports, orthopaedics, neurology, or paediatrics.
How to Apply for 2026 Admission
Applications for 2026 open between April and September 2025. Students must have strong results in Life Sciences, Physical Sciences, and Mathematics to qualify.
Apply Online:
- Nelson Mandela University (NMU)
- University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
- University of Cape Town (UCT)
- University of the Western Cape (UWC)
- University of Pretoria (UP)
- University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
Final Thoughts
Whether you choose to study at UCT, UKZN, UWC, UP, Wits, or NMU, each of these universities offers a world-class Physiotherapy degree that blends science, compassion, and hands-on experience.
If you’re ready to turn your passion for helping others into a rewarding career, start preparing your application today — and take the first step toward becoming a qualified Physiotherapist in 2026.
The post Top Universities Offering Physiotherapy Courses in South Africa appeared first on StudentRoom.co.za.
