Practical physiotherapy training in Dresden

Physiotherapy training lasts three years full-time and comprises 2,900 hours of theoretical and practical instruction at a vocational school and 1,600 hours of practical training in clinics, practices and rehabilitation facilities. Under certain conditions, it is possible to shorten the duration of training, for example if the trainee already has medical training.

Training at Heimerer in Dresden is completely free of tuition fees. You are also entitled to non-repayable student BAföG. Costs may only arise for learning materials, although free access to the physioLink e-learning platform greatly reduces your book costs. In addition, there may be minor expenses for work clothing and examination fees. 

Funding is available through the education voucher from the Employment Agency (according to SGB II or III), as well as through pension insurance providers and BFD.

For the training programme, you will need:

• Secondary school leaving certificate (Realschulabschluss) or an equivalent educational qualification
• Alternatively: a secondary school leaving certificate with at least two years of completed vocational training
• Medical certificate confirming fitness for work
• Enjoyment of physical activity and working with people
• An interest in medical matters. 

Yes, during your physiotherapy training at school, you are entitled to student BAföG (Federal Training Assistance Act) funding. This BAföG does not have to be repaid, so you do not have to pay anything back. The amount depends on your income and that of your parents. You can apply for this at the relevant office for training assistance in Dresden.

After completing your training, a wide range of career opportunities will be open to you:

• Hospitals and clinics: acute care and inpatient treatment
• Physiotherapy practices: Outpatient treatment of various patient groups
• Rehabilitation clinics: Support for rehabilitation patients
• Sports clubs and fitness centres: prevention and sports physiotherapy
• Nursing homes and senior care facilities: geriatric physiotherapy
• Self-employment: Setting up your own practice

The placement rate for Heimerer graduates is very high due to the high-quality training and high demand.

Yes, after completing your training, there are numerous opportunities for further development:

• Further training: specialisations in various fields such as manual therapy, lymphatic drainage or sports physiotherapy (e.g. at the Heimerer Academy)
• Study: Bachelor's degree in osteopathy or physiotherapy
• Specialisation: In areas such as neurology, orthopaedics or paediatrics

Physiotherapy offers you lifelong learning opportunities and a wide range of career paths.

The school-based physiotherapy training programme is not remunerated, as it takes place at a vocational school. However, the training is free of charge and you are entitled to non-repayable student BAföG financial support. Unlike dual training programmes, there is no monthly training allowance, but you benefit from more intensive practical phases and comprehensive theoretical preparation.