Physiotherapy is one of the most sought-after degree courses in the CAO system. There are currently only two courses - in TCD and UCD - with a total of 62 first-year places between them. The downside is that this translates into high entry points.

But, if you do manage to secure a place, you are virtually guaranteed employment when you qualify. Anne Ging, public relations officer for the Irish Society of Chartered Physiotherapists, says there has never been an unemployed physiotherapist, although finding permanent work may be more difficult than temporary employment.

Even though entry is purely points based, Dr Mary Garrett, head of UCD's physiotherapy department, says that they are very lucky in attracting caring people. "I know they are in the top five to ten per cent of the Leaving Cert cohort but there is some spirit of service that guides them into the profession. These students have a very wide range of choices yet they chose physiotherapy."

So, how do you know you are suited to this career? Garrett says that it's essential for students to visit the physiotherapy department in a local hospital. "Many students get their first introduction to physiotherapy through seeing a physiotherapist run on to a pitch at an All-Ireland final or a rugby match." While it's true that there has been a huge growth in sports physiotherapy, most physiotherapists will work in general physiotherapy treating medical and surgical patients, she adds.

Physiotherapists need good communication skills and practical skills. Ging explains that it's "a challenge to assess patients' needs, plan and carry out a course of treatment to help him or her reach independence again".

Both four-year degree programmes include at least 1,000 hours clinical practice, she says. The academic course content includes anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, pathology, social and behavioural sciences, electrotherapy, manipulative procedures, clinical studies, research and statistical methods.

Clinical practice begins in second year and continues to the end of fourth year, she explains. Students are assigned to recognised hospitals, clinics, day centres and community care centre. Students must also complete an extensive dissertation in third and fourth year.

Graduates of both UCD and TCD's courses are eligible to become members of the Irish Society of Chartered Physiotherapists and are qualified to work as professional physiotherapists, says Ging.

Garrett says that, increasingly, graduates are returning to college to complete a postgraduate qualification. Some are combining this with their work, on a part-time basis while others are pursuing full-time options. There is a general commitment to education throughout the profession, she adds.