Physical Therapy (PT)
Lecture and laboratory focusing on anatomical structure and function of the human body. Cadaveric dissection provides practical experiences allowing students to develop working images of the body and its function.
Normal and abnormal structure and function of central, peripheral and autonomic systems, neurodevelopment, and neural mechanisms mediating motor control and pain with emphasis on clinical relevance to physical therapy.
Comprehensive screening, exam and evaluation of patients with neurological dysfunction with focus on selection and interpretation of examination components in order to discern underlying pathophysiology reflective of neurological dysfunction.
Theoretical basis and clinical application of neurophysiological approaches to treatment utilizing motor control, sensorimotor development and integration principles, including discussion and practice of current methods of evaluation and intervention.
Lecture and laboratory introducing students to basic histology of connective, nervous, epithelial and muscle tissue utilized in human movement, palpation, goniometry, and manual muscle testing.
Biomechanical terminology and principles, muscle actions, joint mechanics, joint segments and whole body movement pattern analysis, and mastery of human movement observational analysis skills necessary for differential diagnosis of movement dysfunction.
Reviews maturation of movement systems, lifespan motor skills development, and contemporary theories of motor control and learning to build evidence-based foundations for evaluation and management of movement dysfunction.
Assessment of constraints to normal movement, application of standardized tools for assessment of movement dysfunction, examination of statistical data (population specific reliability, validity, sensitivity, specificity, odds ratios) of said tools.
Reviews normal human cellular- and organ-level physiology, histology, and function and introduces related topics of pathophysiology including: clinical signs and symptoms, clinical laboratory science, medical management and pharmacological issues.
Physiological effects of exercise and training in heathy individuals and individuals with pathological dysfunction.
Theory/practice of essential physical therapy skills, including clinical decision making, interview, postural and functional assessment, safe patient handling techniques of positioning, bed mobility, transfers, and use of assistive devices.
This 3 credit hour course introduces students to teaching and learning principles through the application of physical, thermal, and mechanical modalities and therapeutic interventions. Therapeutic interventions include activities to improve joint and muscles.
Pathological conditions, and medical and surgical considerations for treatment of genetic, gastrointestinal renal, endocrine and metabolic, immune, hematologic, and infectious disorders in patients treated by physical therapists.
Pathological conditions, and medical and surgical considerations for treatment of musculoskeletal disorders in patients treated by physical therapists.
This course reviews the functional neuroanatomy and neuropathlogy correlated with select neuropathlogical conditions or injury, focusing on etiology, epidemiology, medical/surgical considerations, neural substrates of cognitive, perceptual, and sensorimotor function in patients treated by physical therapists.
Basic principles of medical diagnostic tests, such as laboratory tests, medical imaging, sonography and EKG, commonly encountered in physical therapy.
Examination of the effects of commonly used prescription, over the counter and homeopathic drugs. Focus on method of action, indications, contraindications, side effects and impact on physical therapy patients.
Introduces students to medical terminology, historical foundations, and contemporary practice of physical therapy, traditional and emerging roles and responsibilities and professional behaviors of the physical therapist and issues of self-awareness and communications.
Development of cultural competence, analysis and practice of communications skills including documentation, professionalism, group dynamics and leadership to assume roles of practitioner, instructor, supervisor, and leader.
Introduction to legislative process, liability, and legal and ethical issues, including considerations of task delegation and supervision of patients/clients, physical therapist assistants, staff, and students.
Teaching and learning principles, practitioner and clincial instructor roles, clinical education program, facility, faculty, and student responsibilities, clinical and program evaluative instruments, patient advocacy and preparation for community service opportunities.
Micro and macro principles of healthcare delivery systems, sites, and organizations and pro bono services. Legalities of appropriate documentation for third party payers and federal insurance programs are addressed.
Allows participation in service learning programs emphasizing advocacy for the health needs of the region, as well as coordination with community agencies.
Emphasis on administration of clinical practice in multiple settings. Information about licensure, attainment and retention of employment, professional organization membership, residency and fellowship programs, and specialization.
Introduction to patient motivation and behavioral change in physical therapy practice. Emphasis on practical strategies to promote healthy patient/client change leading to improved human movement and overall health
Decision making, diagnosis, and hypothesis development, utilization of information sources, and principles, concepts, and skills required to critically analyze and conduct clinical research in physical therapy.
Principles, concepts, and basic skills required to conduct clinical research in physical therapy. Topics include research design, sampling, bias, sensitivity and specificity, questionnaire design, statistical computing, conceptual review of literature.
Students are guided through the process of a Systematic Literature Review development on a topic selected by the student and their Faculty Research Advisor and learn to apply principles of research to the clinical decision making process and to make recommendations for practice.
Continuation of Evidence Based Practice III where students receive continued guidance in the completion of the faculty led capstone project begun in EBP III. Presentation of capstone required before graduation.
Continuation of Evidence Based Practice IV where students receive continued guidance in the completion of the faculty led capstone project begun in EBP III. Presentation of capstone required before graduation.
Continuation of Evidence Based Practice V where students receive continued guidance in the completion of the faculty led capstone project begun in EBP III. Presentation of capstone required before graduation.
Continuation of Evidence Based Practice VI where students receive continued guidance in the completion of the faculty led capstone project begun in EBP III culminating with presentation of completed capstone.
A seminar course designed to foster application of information and clinical skills learned in concurrent and prior DPT coursework in a small group discussion and pseudo-clinical setting. Focus on clincial interview and basic evaluation skills.
Continued application of information and clinical skills learned in concurrent and prior DPT coursework in a small group discussion and pseudo-clinical setting. Focus on general interventions in neuromuscular dysfunction.
Continued application of information and clincial skills learned in concurrent and prior DPT coursework in a small group discussion and pseudo-clinical setting. Focus on musculoskeletal dysfunction of the extremities.
Continued application of information and clinical skills learned in concurrent and prior DPT coursework in a small group discussion and pseudo-clinical setting. Focus on spinal pathology and neuromuscular dysfunction.
Continued application of information and clinical skills learned in concurrent and prior DPT coursework in a small group discussion and pseudo-clinical setting. Focus on cardiopulmonary and complex neuromuscular dysfunction.
Continued application of information and clinical skills learned in concurrent and prior DPT coursework in a small group discussion and pseudo-clinical setting. Interdisciplinary management of patients with complex concerns.
Continued application of information and clinical skills learned in concurrent and prior DPT coursework in a small group discussion and pseudo-clinical setting. Focus on health promotion and chronic disease prevention.
The basic principles of orthopedic medicine including an overview of etiology, diagnosis, and surgical management will be covered. Physical Therapy examination, evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of extremities and spine will be emphasized.
Advanced concepts of musculoskeletal examination, evaluation, diagnosis and treatment of the extremities and spine will be covered. An evidence-informed/clinical reasoning-based manual therapy approach will be used including mobilization and manipulation.
An overview of cardiovascular and pulmonary systems pathologies, medical diagnosis and management and physical therapy diagnosis, examination, assessment and management of related physiological and movement dysfunctions.
Review of structure, function, and applied pathophysiology of the integumentary system. Translate knowledge towards PT examination and management of common integumentary impairments with focus on prevention, restoration, and optimizing independence.
Development and maintenance of healthy lifestyles for patients and clients. Focus on disease prevention, nutritional needs, and the benefits of exercise as well as managing individuals with injury or disease.
Principles of evaluation and treatment in the areas of pediatrics and geriatrics. Emphasis placed on biopsychosocial aspects of developmental disabilities, coordination of care and complexities of multi-system and multi-organ disease.
Principles of evaluation and management of patients with amputation and/or neuromuscular disorders to maximize functional independence. Focus on prosthetic and orthotic prescription, components, fabrication, fit, and use during functional activities.
Principles of physical therapy management of select patient populations including bariatrics, women's health, oncology, and selected progressive and chronic diseases.
Advanced diagnosis and management approaches for complex orthopedic and sports PT populations will be covered. Differential diagnosis of upper and lower quarter pathology, along with specialized treatments unique to this population will be emphasized.
Supervised clinical education experience emphasizing continued development and reinforcement of clinical skills in clinical settings. Competence is expected in areas of the material presented to date in the curriculum.
Supervised clinical education experience emphasizing continued development and reinforcement of clinical skills in various clinical settings. Competence is expected in areas of the material presented to date in the curriculum.
Supervised clinical education experience emphasizing continued development and reinforcement of clinical skills in various clinical settings. Competence is expected in areas of the material presented to date in the curriculum.
Independent study of a specific nature under the supervision of a qualified faculty member. Hours of credit are determined by the magnitude of the project. (PR: permission of Chair of School of Physical Therapy)
Integration and review of clinical physical therapy principles and concepts in preparation for the National Physical Therapy Board Examination.