Rebecka Ruden
Master of Health Practice in Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy student
For Rebecka Ruden, the move from Sweden to New Zealand for postgraduate study in physiotherapy had been a long time coming.
“When I first travelled to New Zealand in 2015, I developed a strong connection with the country, its culture, natural environment and people. During my travels, I happened to meet several physiotherapists who encouraged me to consider pursuing postgraduate education in physiotherapy in New Zealand. At the time, I had only recently decided to become a physiotherapist, but the idea remained with me throughout my bachelor’s degree and the first years of my professional career. The COVID-19 pandemic delayed my plans for several years. However, in 2024, I was finally able to apply for the master’s programme I had long hoped to pursue.”
She says there was one particular AUT staff member who helped her turn her dream of studying in New Zealand into reality.
“I met Linsell Richards from AUT’s international office at a Study Abroad fair in Sweden, and he presented AUT and its opportunities in a way that immediately made me feel that it would be the right choice for me. He also helped me identify the programme that best suited my academic background and professional goals. I’m very grateful for his support and guidance throughout the application process, particularly his assistance in ensuring that my application was complete and accurate.”
Building skills and professional networks
The Master of Health Practice in Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy has covered a broad range of content and provided an excellent balance between practical and theoretical learning, says Rebecka who plans to work as a physiotherapist in New Zealand after graduating, provided that her registration application is approved.
“My studies have taught me how to continuously develop my knowledge and critically evaluate both my own professional practice and the physiotherapy profession as a whole. This experience has been extremely valuable and has equipped me with competencies that will support my continued professional development throughout my career as a physiotherapist. The professors and teaching staff I’ve encountered have been exceptionally supportive, knowledgeable and engaging. Their commitment to the students and the quality of the learning experience exceeded my expectations.”
She also appreciated the strong focus on preparing students for their career after graduation.
“The Master of Health Practice included applied clinical practice supported by supervision, structured discussion and constructive feedback. This provided valuable opportunities to critically evaluate my clinical reasoning, reflect on my existing beliefs and practices and continuously identify areas for improvement.
“The programme also offered opportunities to build professional networks through compulsory clinical observation and shadowing. These experiences broadened my understanding of physiotherapy practice by allowing me to learn from other physiotherapists, healthcare professionals and clinical specialties. This included exposure to orthopaedic surgeons, specialist physicians, hand therapists, radiologists and other practitioners working across the New Zealand healthcare system.”
Advice for other students
Expecting to graduate from AUT at the end of the year, Rebecka has some great advice for other students.
“Make full use of the help and support available through the university. It can make a significant difference not only to your academic success and achievements, but also to your mental wellbeing and stress levels. Attend the classes, engage with your programme and make the most of every opportunity. You may not realise how valuable these experiences are until they’ve passed, and you may find yourself missing them once the programme is over.”
She wouldn’t hesitate to recommend AUT to other students.
“The exceptional support and engagement from the professors, teaching staff and administrative teams create a strong foundation for academic success. Their support goes far beyond helping students simply pass their courses. The emphasis is on gaining knowledge and skills that are genuinely valuable, so that completing the programme feels like a meaningful academic and professional achievement rather than merely obtaining another qualification.”
