Welcome to the Department of Physiotherapy at the University of Patras
The Department of Physiotherapy of the School of Health Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Patras, located at the University Campus in Rio, Achaia, commenced its academic operation in 2019–2020, pursuant to Law 4610/07-05-2019 on the Synergies of Universities and Technological Educational Institutes. The Department reflects the values and academic distinction of the University of Patras, which has been operating since 1966 (Legislative Decree 4425/11-11-1966) and is today a highly regarded Higher Education Institution, with international recognition and consistent ranking among leading universities worldwide.
The mission of the Department is fully aligned with that of the University of Patras: to advance and disseminate knowledge through teaching and research, while shaping responsible citizens with scientific, social, cultural, and political awareness. The Department’s objectives include monitoring international scientific, educational, and professional developments; fostering collaborations with academic institutions in Greece and abroad, as well as with industry and relevant professional bodies; integrating modern technologies into education; and equipping students with the knowledge and skills required to excel and remain competitive at both national and international levels. With the expertise of its academic staff, the Department aims to enhance the quality of its academic and research activities, to secure participation in national and international research programs, and to contribute to society by providing physiotherapy services to specific populations through partnerships with healthcare organizations.
As an autonomous academic unit, the Department of Physiotherapy has established all three cycles of higher education (undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs). It is also actively developing lifelong learning initiatives and outreach activities, thereby strengthening links with the socio-economic environment and the local community. Its integration within the broader academic ecosystem of the University of Patras further fosters extroversion and interdisciplinary collaborations. The Undergraduate Study Program (USP) in Physiotherapy is a modern, four-year curriculum (240 ECTS credits), fully compatible with the requirements of official physiotherapy associations in developed countries within and beyond Europe. In 2022, the USP was awarded academic accreditation by the Hellenic Authority for Higher Education (HAHE) (Protocol No. 31124/16-12-2022), receiving the highest possible evaluation (“fully compliant”) across all 12 quality assurance pillars. The Department was also granted the HAHE certification quality label for the USP, valid until 2028. In addition, the Department offers two Postgraduate Programs: (a) an Interdepartmental MSc in Rehabilitation Sciences in collaboration with the Departments of Nursing and Speech and Language Therapy, and (b) an MSc in Therapeutic Exercise, designed with innovative teaching methodologies (a combination of synchronous and asynchronous e-learning with face-to-face teaching), offering flexibility and high-quality training, particularly suitable for working professionals and students residing outside the region. Doctoral studies, with a minimum duration of three years, lead to Level 8 of the National and European Qualifications Framework (Law 4763/2020, Article 47) and require the successful completion of a doctoral dissertation in a research area aligned with the scientific fields of Physiotherapy. These programs aim to produce high-quality, contemporary scientific research and to train researchers capable of advancing the discipline.
Students of the Department of Physiotherapy at the University of Patras benefit from active engagement in international scientific, educational, and professional developments, applied research opportunities under the supervision of experienced faculty, and the acquisition of essential competencies for their academic and professional advancement. In addition, they have access to comprehensive student welfare services, including academic identification cards, transport passes, free e-textbooks via the “Eudoxus” platform, scholarships (subject to eligibility), free meals, accommodation (under certain conditions), psychological and counseling support, as well as full healthcare coverage through the National Health System. Students also receive a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for study-related mobility within the EU (e.g., Erasmus programs). Equal access services are provided to students with disabilities and special educational needs, ensuring their full participation in all educational, research, and administrative activities of the University.
With the support of its faculty and administrative staff, the Department of Physiotherapy encourages its students to pursue academic excellence, to advance the science and profession of Physiotherapy with integrity and responsibility, and to remain committed to serving patients and society.
Head of the Department
Sofia Lampropoulou
Associate Professor of Physiotherapy