Invited review: 100 years of education, research, and clinical practice: The University of Otago School of Physiotherapy in 2013

Abstract

This paper provides an overview of the University of Otago School of Physiotherapy, which celebrates its centenary in 2013. Based in Dunedin, as well as in main centres in Christchurch and Wellington, the School employs some 70 staff, including academics, professional practice fellows, researchers and administrative and technical staff; it currently has over 400 students enrolled in its courses and research programmes. The School’s activities range from teaching (at undergraduate and postgraduate level), and research to clinical practice through its dedicated teaching Clinics. The most salient recent developments at the School include: (i) the development and expansion of research activities (evidenced by significant increases in research publications, research funding support, and numbers of research students, as well as Performance- Based Research Funding scores); and, (ii) staff development through higher degree training to increase research capabilities and to offer opportunities for staff progression. The principal challenge as the School advances into the next century remains the chronic underfunding of physiotherapy education by government.