We asked alumni in the School of Sport and Health Sciences how their degrees helped prepare them for the workplace.
3 min read
We catch up with graduates from the Faculty of Science and Health who have progressed onto rewarding careers and futures in research.
Hricha Bastola graduated from MSc Applied Sport and Exercise Performance in 2026. She currently works as an MSK Physiotherapist in GP surgeries and as an MSK Physiotherapist and Sports Physiotherapist at Farnham Physiotherapy & Sports Clinic. We spoke with Hricha to find out how the MSc supported her development and gave her the skills and knowledge to start his career.
What does an MSK Physiotherapist do?
I assess, diagnose and manage patients with musculoskeletal and sports-related conditions, providing evidence-based physiotherapy treatment and rehabilitation. I work within GP surgeries and at Farnham Physiotherapy & Sports Clinic, supporting patients with pain management, injury rehabilitation, exercise programmes and return-to-sport/activity planning.
I particularly enjoyed the practical and applied nature of the course, which allowed me to develop my understanding of exercise prescription, rehabilitation and performance optimisation.
Hricha Bastola, MSc Applied Sport and Exercise Performance, MSK Physiotherapist and Sports Physiotherapist
How did your time at Portsmouth shape your career path?
My MSc in Applied Sport and Exercise Performance at the University of Portsmouth developed my knowledge and practical skills in sports rehabilitation, exercise prescription, performance optimisation and evidence-based practice. It enhanced my ability to assess and support individuals in their rehabilitation and return to sport and physical activity.
The course developed my skills in exercise prescription and rehabilitation, which I now use to design individualised exercise programmes for patients with musculoskeletal and sports-related conditions. This has helped me provide more structured, evidence-based rehabilitation and support patients in returning safely to their usual activities and sport.
What parts of your course did you enjoy the most?
I particularly enjoyed the practical and applied nature of the course, which allowed me to develop my understanding of exercise prescription, rehabilitation and performance optimisation. I found applying evidence-based knowledge to real-world sporting and clinical scenarios particularly beneficial.
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