Understanding the beliefs, motivations and perceived barriers of physiotherapists toward career development and related post-graduate training opportunities: a qualitative study

Decision-making surrounding career development in physiotherapy is fluid and impacted by various intrinsic and extrinsic influences. Perceived benefits include improved professional credibility, personal and professional identity, career sustainability and competitiveness for job opportunities. Perceived barriers relate to associated post-graduate training pathways, and span financial, social and geographical domains. Career development is seen as an investment, and perceived benefits are actively weighed up against associated costs. It is important for physiotherapists that career development opportunities align with their own values and circumstances.