Abstract

Objective: To analyze the methodological and research characteristics, records of the participants, and the evaluations and interventions of undergraduate theses of students in the Physiotherapy program in a Chilean university between 2010-2018. Materials and methodology: 91 theses were analyzed, using a validated instrument organized in three categories: methodological and research characteristics, records of the participants, and records of the evaluations and interventions. The said instrument consisted of a total of 38 items. Results: We reported that most theses were written by two candidates each and a thesis advisor with a bachelor’s degree. The theses have a descriptive scope, a non-experimental design, and a cross-sectional design with small non-probabilistic purposeful samples. Moreover, the instruments used in the theses are mainly questionnaires and surveys to measure physical condition and activity parameters, mainly in respiratory and orthopedic areas. The theses follow the structure of a scientific report, even when a big percentage of them present outdated references and do not include data regarding approval from the ethics committee. The participants in the studies were mainly young people and adults who belonged to different elementary schools, secondary schools, and universities or people who presented cardiometabolic disease and belonged to a public health establishment. Conclusion: The study revealed important information regarding how research training in the program has been carried out, identifying areas for growth, and barely explored populations and health conditions, as well as frequently used treatments.