Discover Physical Therapy Internships & Kinesiology Internships Abroad

Physical Therapy Internships & Kinesiology Internships Abroad

 

Why Physical Therapy & Kinesiology Internships?

Physical therapy internships immerse students in a real-life Physical Therapy environment, such as a therapy clinic. It includes working alongside professional physical therapists to observe, assist, and receive hands-on training. Interns can gain exposure to various specialities within physical therapy, such as orthopaedics, sports rehab, and neurology, which helps them discover their areas of interest and guides their career direction.

 

Kinesiology internships provide students with practical experience in human movement science, bridging the gap between academic learning and practice. Internships allow students to work in settings such as sports clinics, rehabilitation centers, fitness organizations, or research labs, where they can apply their knowledge of anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and exercise science.

 

Who are physical therapy internships for? 

Physical therapy internships are great for students, recent graduates, or inspiring young professionals seeking a career in physiotherapy. It is a good opportunity to work with experts and gain hands-on experience. 

Who are kinesiology therapy internships for? 

Kinesiology internships are great for students, recent graduates, or inspiring young professionals who want to gain hands-on experience in fields related to human movement, exercise science, rehabilitation, and sports performance. 

 

Benefits and Challenges of Physical Therapy and Kinesiology Internships Abroad

Interning abroad in physical therapy and kinesiology offers hands-on experience in diverse healthcare settings. It is a great way to get exposed to new cultures and treatment methods. Not only can it enhance resumes, but it also can build adaptability and expand professional networks. However, challenges such as language barriers and differences in healthcare systems should be carefully considered before pursuing an internship abroad.

 

Benefits	Challenges
Gain valuable experience in diverse healthcare systems and cultural environments	Cultural and Language Barriers: Different cultural norms and language differences can make communication with patients and healthcare teams challenging.
Exposure to a variety of treatment techniques, patient care approaches, and rehabilitation practices.	Adapting to Different Healthcare Systems and Practices: Each country may have distinct physical therapy protocols, ethical & documentation standards, and treatment methodologies.
Enhance your resume with hands-on experience and networking opportunities that can open doors to global career prospects.	Visa and Legal Requirements: Securing the appropriate visa for an internship abroad can be complex, and some countries may have additional requirements.
Develop key skills such as adaptability, cultural competence, and effective communication, making you a more well-rounded, globally aware professional.	Financial Costs: International internships can be expensive with travel, accommodation, and living expenses.

 

Eligibility for Physical Therapy and Kinesiology Internships Abroad: 

• Enrollment or Degree Completion: Most programs require applicants to be enrolled in or have completed a degree program.
• Clinical hours or Coursework: Applicants must often have completed a specified number of clinical hours or coursework before applying. 
• Academic Performance & Recommendations: Some internships may require a certain level of academic achievement and/or recommendation letters from faculty or clinical supervisors.
• Language Proficiency: Many English-speaking countries may not have specific language barriers, but proficiency in the local language could be necessary for internships where English is not an official language.
• Visa & Medical Requirements: Interns may also need to meet visa requirements, which can vary depending on the destination country, and some countries may require medical certifications or vaccinations.

 

Where to Find Physical Therapy and Kinesiology Internships Abroad?

Finding physical therapy and kinesiology internship abroad required research and planning, but is an exciting opportunity for clinical exposure, sports rehabilitation, or community-based healthcare work. There are many meaningful pathways to secure an international internship. 

University partnerships  

Many academic institutions have partnerships with international hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and clinics. Check with your school, academic advisor, or study abroad office for potential opportunities. 

Nonprofit & Volunteer Organizations

Companies like RealStep offer structured internship programs specifically in the field, placing students in healthcare facilities worldwide. They provide experience in different communities, combining clinical work with cultural immersion. 

Direct Outreach 

Researching specific global healthcare clinics or centers could be an effective way to secure an international internship. Directly contacting through LinkedIn, alumni networks, or industry conferences could open opportunities that were not publlciy advertised. 

 

Common Physical Therapy & Kinesiology Global Destionation Internships:

• Australia: Australia is known for its high standard of healthcare and a well-established Physical Therapy and Kinesiology profession. Interns can work in sports medicine clinics, rehabilitation centers, or community health programs.
• United Kingdom: The UK provides various internship options, with exposure to the National Health Services. Interns can gain experience in different settings, from hospitals to community clinics.
• Thailand: Interns interested in exploring Physical Therapy & Kinesiology in an emerging healthcare market. Interns can gain valuable experience in a country with a growing demand for such healthcare services.

Physical Therapy Internships in Europe

Europe offers many opportunities for physical therapy internships with advanced healthcare systems. Exposure to different patient care systems can help students adapt to various treatment methods and cultural norms. 

Hospitals & Rehabilitation Centers – Many European hospitals and clinics accept international interns. Explore countries like Germany, Sweden, and the Netherlands, which have strong rehabilitation programs.

Sports Medicine & Athletic Training Facilities – Spain, Italy, and the UK are excellent for internships in sports therapy, working with professional teams or fitness organizations.

 University Exchange & Study Abroad Programs – Many European universities have partnerships with international schools, offering short-term physical therapy internships.

 

Physical Therapy and Kinesiology Internships by RealStep

RealStep offers hands-on physical therapy and kinesiology internships in various international locations, providing students with professional experience in patient care. These programs focus on skill development, cultural immersion, and exposure to diverse healthcare systems. 

Explore our programs below:

Physiotherapy Internship in Tanzania

The physiotherapy internship in Tanzania by RealStep offers students and recent graduates the opportunity to work in a diverse healthcare setting. This program allows individuals to join a multicultural team once on-site where you will develop your skills discovering the Tanzanian healthcare system. 

Physiotherapy and Kinesiology Internship in Sri Lanka

The Physiotherapy and Kinesiology internship in Sri Lanka allows participants to work on a variety of body parts while being supervised by lead physical therapists. This project allows students to gain university credits while acquiring field experiences and contributing to the UN’s goal of universal access to healthcare. 

Physiotherapy and Kinesiology Internship in Argentina

The Physiotherapy and Kinesiology internship in Argentina

Physiotherapy and Kinesiology internship in Argentina takes place in a neurological rehabilitation center that works with professionals such as psychologists, physicians, nutritionists, and more. This project allows students to gain university credit while acquiring field experience and contributing to the UN’s goals of universal access to healthcare. 

Interested in our other programs? Check out our page here!

FAQs

Can a US physical therapist work in other countries?

Yes, a US-trained physical therapist can work in other countries, but the requirements may vary depending on the country. It is important to consider the country's licensing certifications, language proficiency, and/or work visa or residency. 

What are the requirements for a physical therapy and kinesiology internship?

Oftentimes, you will need to be enrolled in the healthcare program (undergraduate or graduate level) or have completed certain coursework. Some internships may require specific prerequisites such as an understanding of anatomy, kinesiology, or exercise science. 

Can a physical therapy or kinesiology internship lead to a career?

Yes, internships in these fields can lead to job offers or open doors to further opportunities, as internships are great ways to gain professional experience and network with professionals in the industry.