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The degree has given me the ability to work with any age, any sport, and in any kind of setting.
A career switch with purpose
I was working 70-hour weeks running a gastro pub in Ireland when I found myself in physio with a bad back. I’d always been interested in the gym, but that moment made me realise I wanted to pursue a career in physiotherapy. While researching courses in the UK, I discovered Sport and Exercise Therapy at USW. It had the perfect blend of injury treatment and strength and conditioning - just what I was after. I moved from Ireland specifically for the course and haven’t looked back.
Although I didn’t attend an Open Day, the course quickly proved to be the right choice. A conversation with our course leader made everything click. When I learned about the variety of career paths the course could lead to, I knew I was in the right place.
Find your courseHands-on experiences and future plans
I’ve been lucky with placements. I’m currently based at Cardiff Arms Park with Cardiff RFC and the Rugby Academy, getting exposure to all levels - from youth to senior teams. I also earned a trauma qualification through the WRU. On top of that, I work in a gym-based physio setting at Aspire Fitness in Cardiff, where I treat everyone from general gym goers to ultramarathon runners. The range of experience has been invaluable.
The degree’s focus on exercise prescription, supported by qualifications like Level 2 Fitness Instructor and Level 3 Personal Trainer, helped me become a full-time PT at Pure Gym. It’s set me up to work with clients dealing with injuries, post-op recovery, or chronic conditions like arthritis. I plan to open my own clinic one day, but for now, I’m gaining experience in different areas - including a season at a sports physio clinic in the Alps.
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Interested in Sport?
The University of South Wales has a strong sporting background, an excellent reputation for sport degrees, and impressive facilities for our students to study and train in.