Physical Therapy
(AHPT)
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Master of Physical Therapy
5000
Level Courses
5099. Independent Study in Physical Therapy (1-6 hours). Prerequisite: instructor approval. This course is a structured review of previously presented classroom and/or laboratory experiences. A literature review and discussion, clinical observation and/or hands-on clinical experience may be required. Each independent study is designed to meet the student’s particular needs.
5104. Clinical Education (1:1:0). This course emphasizes the different forms of communication necessary for the physical therapist student to succeed as a professional. Documentation of patient care, interpersonal relationships with patients and professionals, and patient education principles and techniques are emphasized. Grading requirements and documentation of the student’s upcoming clinical education experience are included topics.
5122. Residual Limb Care and Prosthetics (1:1:0). Prerequisite: AHPT 5505, 5506 This course includes the study of technological materials and devices used in rehabilitation of patients with residual limbs, including the study of biomechanics, gait, and proper fit of upper and lower extremity prostheses. Selection criteria for prosthetics and physical therapy management for persons with recent amputations are included.
5124. Research Process 2 (1:1:0). Prerequisite: AHPT 5223. This course focuses on developing skills to critically read and analyze peer-reviewed scientific literature. Students are instructed on searching the scientific literature with electronic databases.
5128. Research Process 3 (1:1:0). Prerequisites: AHPT 5223, 5124. This course focuses on the development of writing skills and students make contributions to the scientific literature.
5152. Seminar in Physical Therapy 1 (1:1:0). This is a seminar course examining issues in the field of physical therapy. Specific subject matter varies.
5202. Principles of Kinesiology (2:1:3). This course focuses on applied human anatomy and basic kinesiology with emphasis on normal form and function as it relates to physical therapy practice. Lab experiences focus on surface anatomy and palpation.
5204. Healthcare Issues and Ethics (2:2:0). This course includes the study and application of legal guidelines and ethical principles as they relate to healthcare practice. Special emphasis is placed on ethical dilemmas relevant to the practice of physical therapy including current issues and problems affecting healthcare.
5205. Neuroscience 1 (2:2:0). This course provides an introduction to nervous system function and pathophysiology. An emphasis is placed on axon physiology and its relevance to electrical modalities, synaptic neurotransmission, and nervous system anatomy. Students are introduced to pathologies of the nervous system and corresponding physical therapy interventions.
5206 . Pharmacology (2:2:0). This course focuses on the study of pharmacology and its relationship to pathophysiology, emphasizing implications for the practice of physical therapy. Basic principles of pharmacology and pharmacokinetics are addressed with focus on the mechanism of action and effects of specific drugs on the musculoskeletal, cardiovascular and central nervous system.
5211. Therapeutic Exercise (2:1:3). This course focuses on prescriptions and interventions using various therapeutic exercise techniques. Lab experiences focus on teaching therapeutic exercises to patients in various settings.
5223. Research Process 1 (2:2:0). This course introduces students to fundamentals of experimental research design and statistics as they apply to physical therapy practice and scientific literature.
5227. Current Medical Diagnosis and Treatment 1 (2:2:0). This course examines the pathology, medical diagnosis process, and medical and surgical interventions of patients with musculoskeletal conditions that are commonly seen by physical therapists.
5228. Motor Control and Learning (2:2:0). This course emphasizes the principles and various theories of motor control and motor learning and their application to physical therapist practice.
5231. Clinical Reasoning 1 (2:1:3). This course is a structured, interactive review of previously presented classroom material. The focus is on synthesizing materials learned thus far and applying the information to clinical cases. The course includes an online supplementary review of information in preparation for a successful licensure examination process.
5232. Clinical Reasoning 2 (2:1:3). Prerequisite: AHPT 5231. This course is a structured, interactive review of previously presented classroom material. The focus is on synthesizing materials learned thus far and applying the information to clinical cases. The course includes an online supplementary review of information in preparation for a successful licensure examination process.
5233. Clinical Reasoning 3 (2:1:3). Prerequisite: AHPT 5232. This course is a structured, interactive review of previously presented classroom material. The focus is on synthesizing materials learned thus far and applying the information to clinical cases. The course includes an online supplementary review of information in preparation for a successful licensure examination process.
5234. Graduate Seminar (2:2:0). Prerequisite: AHPT 5233. This course is designed to prepare graduates for the licensure examination and entering the work force. The course includes an online supplementary review of information in preparation for a successful licensure examination process.
5237. Current Medical Diagnosis and Treatment 2 (2:2:0). Prerequisite: AHPT 5227. This course examines the pathology, medical diagnosis process, and medical and surgical interventions of patients with cardiopulmonary conditions that are commonly seen by physical therapists.
5243. Current Medical Diagnosis and Treatment 3 (1:1:0). Prerequisite AHPT 5237. This course examines the pathology, medical diagnosis process, and medical and surgical interventions of patients with neuromuscular conditions that are commonly seen by physical therapists.
5245. Orthotic Devices (2:2:0). The course includes the study of materials, biomechanics, selection, and proper fit of upper extremity, lower extremity and spinal orthotics. Wheelchair prescription and fitting are included. Introduction to powered mobility options, environmental controls, and augmentative communication devices are included.
5304. Clinical Applied Physiology (3:2:3). Prerequisite: AHPT 5500 This course includes the study of exercise physiology, including normal physiological responses to acute and chronic exercise, and physical training principles. This course also emphasizes concepts of health promotion and wellness.
5305. Clinical Kinesiology (3:2:3). Prerequisite: AHPT 5202. This course focuses on the study of human movement with integration of biomechanics fundamental to understanding exercise concepts and musculoskeletal evaluation. Ergonomics, basic postural, and gait assessment are included.
5320. Early Growth and Development (3:3:0). This course focuses on the study of human growth and development issues and theories. The emphasis is on typical and atypical physical growth and motor development, and on developmental testing. The course includes the study of social-emotional, cognitive, and language development and cultural influences on growth and development.
5321. Adult Development and Aging (3:3:0). This course focuses on the physical, psychological, emotional, cultural and socioeconomic influences involved with adult development. Considerable emphasis is placed on age-related changes and current literature regarding concepts in this area.
5325. Physical Therapy Administration (3:3:0). This course provides initial personnel management perspectives and skills needed by the entry-level physical therapist in a clinical setting. It focuses on organizing, directing, developing, and measuring the management and entrepreneurial components of physical therapist practice. Billing and coding procedures are included.
5335. Musculoskeletal Evaluation and Management 2 (3:2:3). Prerequisite: AHPT 5430. This course focuses on physical therapy examination, evaluation, prognosis, intervention, and outcomes for patients with musculoskeletal disorders of the spine, based on current research, evidence, and practice guidelines. Lab experience focuses on specific tests and measures and interventions.
5341. Developmental Evaluation and Management (3:2:3). Prerequisite: AHPT 5320. This course focuses on physical therapy examination, evaluation, prognosis, intervention, and outcomes for children with neuromuscular, musculoskeletal, or developmental disorders based on current research, evidence, and practice guidelines. The course includes the requirements for physical therapy practice in specialized settings such as neonatal intensive care, Birth to Three programs, and public schools. Lab experience focuses on specific tests and measures and interventions.
5343. Cardiopulmonary Evaluation and Management (3:2:3). Prerequisite: AHPT 5304. This course focuses on physical therapy examination, evaluation, prognosis, intervention, and outcomes for patients with cardiopulmonary disorders based on current research, evidence, and practice guidelines. Lab experience focuses on specific tests and measures and interventions.
5405. Pathophysiology of Body Systems (4:4:0). This course focuses on general physiological principles of diseases and disorders that affect organ systems of the body. There is an emphasis on integrating the interrelationship between different organ systems in the context of clinical correlations relevant to physical therapists. Neuromuscular, musculoskeletal, cardiopulmonary, endocrinology, and immune system and body fluids and electrolytes, neoplasias, and genetic disorders will be discussed from molecular and systems perspectives.
5420. Neuroscience 2 (4:3:3). Prerequisite: AHPT 5205. This course focuses on the functional relationships of neuroanatomical structures in the human nervous system. Topics include the organization of the nervous system in terms of development, mechanisms of processing of sensory and motor information (including receptors and reflexes), and pathological conditions of the nervous system.
5430. Musculoskeletal Evaluation and Management 1 (4:2:6). Prerequisite: AHPT 5506. This course focuses on physical therapy examination, evaluation, prognosis, intervention, and outcomes for patients with musculoskeletal disorders in the extremities based on current research, evidence, and practice guidelines. Lab experience focuses on specific tests and measures and interventions.
5436. Clinical Experience 1 (4:0:12). Prerequisites: AHPT 5506, 5104. This eight-week full-time clinical experience allows the student to practice acquired skills and learn additional basic clinical skills, while acting as a student physical therapist under the direct supervision of a licensed professional. The student performs all aspects of patient care and other professional duties, and may practice in an inpatient or outpatient setting. All prior coursework prepares the student, and additional information and skills are gained in the clinic.
5438. Clinical Experience 2 (4:0:12). Prerequisites: AHPT 5436, 5335. This eight-week full-time clinical experience allows the student to practice acquired skills and learn additional clinical skills including all basic and advanced musculoskeletal skills, while acting as a student physical therapist under the direct supervision of a licensed professional. The student performs all aspects of patient care and other professional duties, and may practice in an inpatient or outpatient setting. All prior coursework prepares the student, and additional information and skills are gained in the clinic.
5444. Adult Neurological Assessment and Rehabilitation (4:3:3). Prerequisite: AHPT 5228. This course focuses on physical therapy examination, evaluation, prognosis, intervention, and outcomes for adult patients with neuromuscular disorders based on current research, evidence, and practice guidelines. Lab experience focuses on specific tests and measures and interventions.
5446. Clinical Experience 3 (4:0:12). Prerequisite: AHPT 5444, 5341, 5438. This eight-week full-time clinical experience allows the student to practice all previously acquired skills and learn additional clinical skills as the culmination of physical therapy training, while acting as a student physical therapist under the direct supervision of a licensed professional. The student performs all aspects of patient care and other professional duties, and may practice in an inpatient or outpatient setting. The student practices in either a neurologic setting or in an elective setting selected according to the student’s individual needs and desires. All prior coursework prepares the student, and additional information and skills are gained in the clinic.
5448. Clinical Experience 4 (4:0:12). Prerequisites: AHPT 5444, 5341, 5446. This eight-week full-time clinical experience allows the student to practice all previously acquired skills and learn additional clinical skills as the culmination of physical therapy training, while acting as a student physical therapist under the direct supervision of a licensed professional. The student performs all aspects of patient care and other professional duties, and may practice in an inpatient or outpatient setting. The student practices in either a neurological setting or in an elective setting selected according to the student’s individual needs and desires. All prior coursework prepares the student, and additional information and skills are gained in the clinic.
5500. Human Anatomy (5:3:6). This course is the integrated study of human gross anatomy including gross morphology, coordinated with developmental and histological aspects of the body. Regional dissection is included with emphasis on the integumentary, musculoskeletal, nervous, circulatory, and respiratory systems.
5505. Patient Evaluation and Management 1 (5:3:6). Prerequisite: AHPT 5500. This course focuses on basic examination skills and tests and measures used in a variety of settings. It also includes beginning level intervention skills, and principles of care used in acute care settings, including medical terminology and basic documentation skills. Beginning-level problem solving skills are developed using case studies.
5506. Patient Evaluation and Management 2 (5:3:6). Prerequisite: AHPT 5505. This course focuses on examination, tests and measures, and interventions used in a variety of settings. The course emphasizes the use of physical agents and modalities. This course includes the care of burns and wounds.
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Doctor of Science in Physical Therapy
6000-7000
Level Courses
6201. Advanced Clinical Practice for Shoulder Afflictions (2:2:0). Examination and treatment of dysfunction in the shoulder complex. Lecture components include advancements in patho-anatomy, biomechanics, interpretation of functional examination, pathology, and treatment approaches to arthritis/arthrosis, impingement, instability, labral afflictions, and soft tissue lesions. Clinical laboratory sessions include surface anatomy, basic functional examination and special tests, soft tissue treatments, and joint-specific treatment measures.
6202. Advanced Clinical Practice for Elbow and Forearm Afflictions (2:2:0). Examination and treatment of dysfunction in the elbow/forearm complex. Lecture components include advancements in patho-anatomy, biomechanics, interpretation of functional examination, pathology, and treatment approaches. Clinical laboratory sessions include surface anatomy, basic functional examination and special tests, soft tissue treatments, and joint-specific treatment measures.
6203. Advanced Clinical Practice for Wrist and Hand Afflictions (2:2:0). Examination and treatment of dysfunction in the wrist/hand complex. Lecture components include advancements in patho-anatomy, biomechanics, interpretation of functional examination, pathology, and treatment approaches. Clinical laboratory sessions include surface anatomy, basic functional examination and special tests, soft tissue treatments, and joint-specific treatment measures.
6204. Advanced Clinical Practice for Hip Afflictions (2:2:0). Examination and treatment of dysfunction in the hip complex. Lecture components include advancements in patho-anatomy, biomechanics, interpretation of functional examination, pathology, and treatment approaches. Clinical laboratory sessions include surface anatomy, basic functional examination and special tests, soft tissue treatments, and joint-specific treatment measures.
6205. Advanced Clinical Practice for Knee Afflictions (2:2:0). Examination and treatment of dysfunction in the knee complex. Lecture components include advancements in patho-anatomy, biomechanics, interpretation of functional examination, pathology, and treatment approaches. Clinical laboratory sessions include surface anatomy, basic functional examination and special tests, soft tissue treatments, and joint-specific treatment measures.
6206. Advanced Clinical Practice for Ankle and Foot Afflictions (2:2:0). Examination and treatment of dysfunction in the ankle/foot complex. Lecture components include advancements in patho-anatomy, biomechanics, interpretation of functional examination, pathology, and treatment approaches. Clinical laboratory sessions include surface anatomy, basic functional examination and special tests, soft tissue treatments, and joint-specific treatment measures.
6207. Advanced Clinical Practice for Upper Cervical Spine Afflictions (2:2:0). Examination and treatment of dysfunction in the upper cervical complex. The lecture components of this course include advancements in patho-anatomy, biomechanics, interpretation of functional examination, pathology, and treatment approaches. Clinical laboratory sessions include surface anatomy, basic functional examination and special tests, soft tissue treatments, and joint-specific treatment measures.
6208. Advanced Clinical Practice for Lower Cervical Spine (Disc Segment) Afflictions (2:2:0). Examination and treatment of dysfunction in the cervical disc segments (CDS). Lecture components include advancements in patho-anatomy, biomechanics, interpretation of functional examination, pathology, and treatment approaches. Clinical laboratory sessions include surface anatomy, basic functional examination and special tests, soft tissue treatments, and joint-specific treatment measures.
6209. Advanced Clinical Practice for Cervico-Thoracic Junction Afflictions and TOS (2:2:0). Examination and treatment of dysfunction in the cervico-thoracic junction. Lecture components include advancements in patho-anatomy, biomechanics, interpretation of functional examination, pathology, and treatment approaches. Clinical laboratory sessions include surface anatomy, basic functional examination and special tests, soft tissue treatments, and joint-specific treatment measures.
6210. Advanced Clinical Practice for Thoracic Spine and Rib Afflictions (2:2:0). Examination and treatment of dysfunction in the thoracic spine and ribs. Lecture components of include advancements in patho-anatomy, biomechanics, interpretation of functional examination, pathology, and treatment approaches. Clinical laboratory sessions include surface anatomy, basic functional examination and special tests, soft tissue treatments, and joint-specific treatment measures.
6211. Advanced Clinical Practice for Sacroiliac and Lumbar Primary Disc Afflictions (2:2:0). Examination and treatment of lumbar 1 degree disc-related disorders, as well as dysfunction at the sacroiliac joint. Lectures include advancements in patho-anatomy, biomechanics, interpretation of functional examination, pathology, and treatment approaches. Clinical laboratory sessions include surface anatomy, basic functional examination and special tests, soft tissue treatments, treatment to 1 degree disc afflictions, and joint-specific treatment measures to the sacroiliac joint.
6212. Advanced Clinical Practice for Lumbar Secondary Disc Afflictions (2:2:0). Examination and treatment of 2nd degree disc related disorders in the lumbar spine. Lecture components include advancements in patho-anatomy, biomechanics, interpretation of functional examination, pathology, and treatment approaches. Clinical lab sessions include surface anatomy, basic functional examination and special tests, soft tissue treatments, and joint-specific treatment measures.
6213. Clinical Internship (2:2:0). Prerequisite: 6 of the previously listed clinical courses. Sc.D.P. T. students will be given the opportunity to develop and enhance advanced clinical skills associated with evaluation and treatment of the extremities. Students will be guided by a clinical mentor and will use skills in problem solving, diagnosis, treatment selection, and management implementation for orthopaedic dysfunction in the spine and or extremities.
6214. Clinical Internship 2 (2:2:0). Prerequisite: All 12 of the previously listed clinical courses. Students, guided by a clinical mentor, will be given the opportunity to develop and enhance advanced clinical skills associated with evaluation and treatment of the spine.
6215. Research Internship I (2:2:0). Prerequisite: AHPT 6201 through 6212. Sc.D. students will be given the opportunity to conduct directed literature review and concept development that pursues a line of inquiry that is agreed upon between the student and faculty mentor. A manuscript will be required for course completion.
6216. Research Internship II (2:2:0). Prerequisite: AHPT 6201 through 6212, and 6215. Sc.D. students will continue the process begun in AHPT 6215, with emphasis on the development of concepts and hypotheses, analysis and synthesis of ideas, and evaluation of current clinical research practices in the pre-elected area of study. A manuscript will be required for course completion.
6301. Issues in Orthopaedic Physical Therapy and Manual Therapy 1 (3:3:0). Survey of the professional issues surrounding the advanced practice of orthopaedic physical therapy and manual therapy, including history of orthopaedic manual therapy, legal and ethical aspects of manual therapy, risk management, and communication and patient education in clinical management.
6302. Issues in Orthopaedic Physical Therapy and Manual Therapy 2 (3:3:0). Survey of selected topics in basic and applied science as they relate to orthopaedic physical therapy and manual therapy, including neurophysiology, histology, exercise physiology, and applied medical science.
6303. Basic and Applied Science in Orthopaedics (3:3:0). Prerequisite: AHPT 7302 or consent of the instructor. Addresses select basic science processes associated within the musculoskeletal system, including histology and physiology of bone, cartilage, tendons, and ligaments. Muscle physiology will be discussed as it relates to orthopaedic dysfunction.
6304. Orthopaedic Physical Therapy Screening (3:3:0). Enhances knowledge and clinical skills designed to assist in the screening of patients for orthopaedic conditions which require examination by a physician. Radiology and laboratory screening are presented as special topics to further the therapist’s understanding of pathology and the clinical implications of patient presentation.
6305. Updates in Orthopaedic Surgical Management (3:3:0). Evaluation of recent developments from the literature in orthopaedic surgical management, in terms of indications, methodology, and rehabilitation. Emphasis will be placed on the implications of each procedure for rehabilitation.
6311. Clinical Studies in Anatomy: a Lab Course (3:3:0). Evaluation of prosected human cadaveric specimens with emphasis on musculoskeletal structures. Each session will include a short lecture at the beginning for review of anatomical structures to be observed, as well as the relevance of each of those structures to examination and treatment of orthopaedic afflictions.
6312. Neuroscience in Orthopaedic Physical Therapy (3:3:0). Prerequisite: AHPT 6302 or consent of the instructor. Addresses select neuroscience processes associated within the musculoskeletal system, including the neuroscience of motor planning, initiation and control; sensory function and integration; and dysfunction of the nervous system as it relates to orthopaedic afflictions such as pain production and control.
6313. Biomechanics in Orthopaedic Physical Therapy (3:3:0). Theory and application of biomechanical principles to orthopaedic physical therapy practice emphasizing the biomechanics of musculoskeletal structures, including bone, cartilage, ligament, tendon, and muscle tissue. Emphasis on joint and tissue mechanics will be related to musculoskeletal injury and orthopaedic affliction.
6314. Motor Control in Orthopaedic Physical Therapy (3:3:0). Relates theory and application of motor control and learning principles to orthopaedic physical therapy practice. Emphasis on motor control strategies associated with musculoskeletal function, and motor control dysfunction associated with orthopaedic pathologies.
6315. Advanced Healthcare Administration (3:3:0). Addresses fundamental and contemporary issues in organization and management of physical therapy services, with an emphasis on the ambulatory setting. Topics include design, structure, and effective operation of contemporary healthcare services; strategic planning, conflict resolution, managed care systems, insurance regulations, and third-party reimbursement.
6316. Marketing in Outpatient Physical Therapy (3:3:0). Addresses fundamental and contemporary issues in marketing as they apply to outpatient physical therapy services, including epidemiology, market analysis, managerial economics, financial planning, marketing strategy decisions, structural relationships, marketing tactics, forecasting, marketing ethics, and entrepreneurship.
6317. Radiologic Anatomy (3:3:0). Examines the technology and applications of imaging for understanding normal and pathological human anatomy. Plain-film imaging, MRI, CT, and diagnostic ultrasound will be appropriately applied to this discussion. A systematic approach to understanding various images across different joint systems will be provided. In addition, specific normal and pathological anatomy for the spine and extremities will be viewed on x-ray, MRI, and CT, along with special topics in diagnostic ultrasound. Emphasis will be placed on defining normal and pathological anatomy associated with various joint systems as it relates to musculoskeletal condition. These topics will be related to evidence-based clinical practice of musculoskeletal disorders that is appropriate for the physical therapist. Evidence-based readings and web-supported tutorials will be utilized.
6318. Musculoskeletal Management of Chronic Pelvic Pain (3:3:0). Designed to integrate the understanding of orthopedic musculoskeletal diagnosis with knowledge of the visceral systems to improve management of patients with chronic pelvic pain. Screenings of the urogenital, gastrointestinal, and gynecological systems will be incorporated into the musculoskeletal examination of related joint regions along with understanding of traditional medical evaluation. Additionally, this course will enhance the knowledge of peripheral and central pain mechanisms for both the somatic and autonomic systems. At the conclusion of this course, the student will have developed a rationale for physical therapy interventions targeted at each of these systems as well as the ability to effectively communicate this information to the team of medical practitioners managing these conditions.
6319. Seminar in Contemporary Topics for Autonomous Practice (3:3:0). This course will address selected special topics in modern orthopaedic Physical Therapy practice. This course will emphasize special topics not covered in the other courses within the Sc.D. curriculum. Selected special topics will serve as the cornerstone of the course, including modern soft tissue examination and management, while other topics will change in pace with changes in contemporary Physical Therapy clinical practice. Patient examination and management strategies derived from these principles will be discussed.
7000. Clinical Research/Education Project (V1-3). Independent clinical project centering on either a clinical research or teaching design. Content and goals will be established through mutual consent between the student and the project committee.
7104. Clinical Research/Education Project Presentation (1:1:0). Student presents the development and findings from the clinical project (with either a research or teaching emphasis) before the Sc.D.P. T. faculty, other students, and clinicians from the community.
7301. Seminar in Clinical Research Design (3:3:0). Study of methods in clinical research. Processes of obtaining, processing, interpreting, and using clinical data.
7305. Curriculum Design and Teaching in Allied Health (3:3:0). Discussion of the theories and applications of curriculum design, emphasizing applications to entry-level and post-professional educational settings in physical therapy.
7404. Educational Evaluation in Allied Health (4:4:0). Discussion of educational evaluation theory and tools, emphasizing methods of objective and performance-based evaluation. Students will learn to draft specific evaluation measures used in an educational setting.
7406. Advanced Statistics in Allied Health Sciences (4:4:0). This course will familiarize the student with various tools used in the parametric and non-parametric statistical analyses. Parametric tolls will include Pearson r correlation, regression, t-test, analysis of variance, and selected multivariate designs. Non-parametric tools will include one, two, and k-sample designs; as well as Spearman, phi, and point biserial correlation coefficients. The course will include single-subject design, sequential clinical trials, and survey methodology. Emphasis will be placed on research findings that evaluate specific clinical populations. Track: Research.
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Doctor of Physical Therapy
8000 Level Courses
8100. Ethics and Professional Development (1:1:0). This course will focus on the principles that govern ethical decisions, profession roles, and professional behaviors as they specifically relate to the practice of physical therapy. Additional emphasis will focus on the development of skills related to the following: (1) the effective management of time and stress, (2) effective study and test taking strategies, and (3) conflict management skills. This course will incorporate discussion-based didactic lecture, individual and group assignments and online instruction.
8110. Health and Wellness Promotion (1:1:0). This course focuses on guiding students in the development of a personalized fitness and wellness program as a means to enhance their patients’ health and wellbeing in addition to providing them the knowledge and skills they need to guide others in developing health and wellness promotion programs, both at individual and organizational levels. Students will complete fitness and wellness modules on major health and wellness topics, such as principles of nutrition and physical fitness, disease prevention, risk factor reduction, and disease management, and learn to use behavior modification techniques to achieve healthy lifestyle habits in their patients. Students will learn concepts and techniques for health and fitness assessment, behavior modification counseling, nutrition and physical activity analysis and tracking, and program design and implementation across the lifespan for patients.
8114. Critique and Interpretation of Research (1:1:0). This course teaches students how to read the scientific literature critically in preparation for becoming an evidence-based practitioner. The focus of the course will be on becoming a consumer of scientific literature.
8120. Communication and Clinical Education (1:1:0). This course is designed to improve the students’ communication through written, verbal and nonverbal forms, enhance professional behaviors and address issues concerning clinical education. Topics discussed are related to documentation styles, teaching and learning, components of respectful interaction with cultural and generational differences, difficult patients and various age groups. Professional behaviors as they relate to the generic abilities and clinical education will also be addressed, along with using the PT MACS on clinical internships.
8123. Clinical Reasoning 1 (1:0:3). Clinical Reasoning 1 is designed to explore the nature of clinical reasoning in the profession of Physical Therapy and to examine strategies for assisting learners to develop their reasoning expertise. This course focuses on clinical problem solving used in minimally to moderately complex case studies to including the following practice patterns across the life span: general, cardiopulmonary, musculoskeletal, and neuromuscular. Knowledge and skills from the curriculum taught to this point will be incorporated. The laboratory course places less emphasis on didactic learning and more toward case competence, problem solving and patient care management ability. Also incorporated are quizzes with licensure type test items covering material presented in the curriculum thus far and that are representative of the categories in the content outline of the licensure exam.
8142. Assistive and Adaptive Technology (1:1:0). Study of assistive technology including manual and powered mobility, postural control, environmental controls, augmentative communication, and transportation.
8144. Professional Project (1:1:0). Prerequisites: Research Design and Statistics; Critique and Interpretation of Research. This course is the culmination of the research courses in which students will perform a scholarly literature review of a physical therapy-related topic. This course will provide the instruction to perform this task.
8146. Special Topics (1:1:0). This course includes selected topics of interest to the profession of physical therapy. Topics may include, but are not limited to, the healthcare of women, especially during the childbearing years; incontinence; pelvic/ vaginal pain; prenatal and postpartum musculosketelal pain; osteoporosis; rehabilitation following breast surgery; and lymphedema. Other topics of current interest will be presented.
8160. Graduate Seminar (1:1:0). This integrative capstone seminar course format designed to prepare graduates for the licensure examination and entering the work force. Learning method includes online supplementary review and seminar format.
8200. Physiology of Body Systems (2:2:0). This course provides a survey of human physiology and covers key concepts related to the function and biological control of cells, tissues, organs, and body systems. Basic principles of physiology are addressed with focus on the coordinated functions and activities of specific body systems: nervous, musculoskeletal, cardiorespiratory, immune, endocrine, gastrointestinal, and other body systems. Emphasis is given to normal system function, interaction, and homeostasis and the ways that these contribute to the functions of the body as a whole. Abnormal function and interaction will also be addressed.
8201. History and Systems Screening (2:1:3). This course will present an important responsibility of physical therapists, specifically, the recognition of co-morbid medical conditions. Accurate diagnosis depends on three major clinical indices: the subjective information obtained from the patient, the signs identified on physical examination, and the results obtained from diagnostic tests (imaging and laboratory tests). This course examines the relative value and importance of the subjective data obtained from the medical history as related to physical examination and imaging/laboratory investigations in the establishment of a diagnosis. Included is information regarding the knowledge and processing skills necessary to enhance physical therapists’ medical screening and clinical judgments regarding when to treat and when to refer their patients. Combined with students’ existing knowledge and skills, this medical screening course will provide a more comprehensive evaluation scheme that will facilitate safe, effective and efficient patient management within the context of a collaborative practice paradigm.
8203. Functional Anatomy (2:1:3). This course focuses on the study of anatomy with respect to function. Emphasis will be placed on joint orientation and description of normal osteokinematic and arthrokinematic components of movement of the upper extremity, lower extremity and spine. Laboratory experiences focus on surface anatomy palpation and visualization of kinematic motion.
8205. Research Design and Statistics. This course provides the student with an introduction to statistics and research design. Students will obtain the requisite knowledge about the research process and experimental designs commonly used in pre-clinical and clinical studies. The course will present the fundamental concepts of descriptive statistics and statistical inference.
8207. Clinical Pathology (2:2:0). This course provides a survey of clinical pathology and covers key concepts related to the structural and functional changes in cells, tissues and organs that underlie human disease. Basic principles of pathology are addressed with focus on the cause, development, progress, and consequences of diseases related to the nervous, musculoskeletal, cardiorespiratory, immune, endocrine, gastrointestinal, and other body systems. In each system, normal structure, function, and the symptoms and signs that arise from pathologic changes are discussed. Emphasis is given to pathologies that are more likely to be encountered in physical therapy practice and to developing an understanding of how disease affects functional abilities, patient safety, and treatment outcomes.
8209. Exercise Physiology (2:2:0). This course is designed to provide students an understanding of basic exercise physiology with a focus on the acute physiological responses and adaptive changes to exercise across systems, between genders, and over the lifespan. Students will develop their understanding of the body’s ability to perform physical work, adapt to stressful situations, and improve its physiological capacities for health and exercise performance. Laboratory sessions will allow students the opportunity to develop knowledge and skills in the application of principles of exercise physiology to the assessment and prescription of physical activity and exercise in the clinical rehabilitation setting. This course also emphasizes concepts of health and wellness promotion.
8210. Therapeutic Exercise (2:1:3). This course will include lecture and lab components exploring the principles guiding therapeutic exercise prescription by the physical therapist. The major therapeutic exercise domains that will be explored include flexibility training, resistance training, cardio-respiratory/aerobic training, relaxation, aquatic exercise, proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation, balance, coordination, stabilization training. The course will place special emphasis on health and wellness of the general population and exercise principles related to women’s health.
8212. Pharmacology (2:2:0). This course provides a survey of pharmacology and covers key concepts related to the cellular actions, therapeutic uses, and side effects of major drug classes used in humans. Basic principles of pharmacology are addressed with focus on the mechanisms of action of classes of drugs and effects of specific drugs on the nervous, musculoskeletal, cardiorespiratory, immune, endocrine, gastrointestinal, and other body systems. Basic principles of pharmacology and their relation with pathophysiology are addressed with focus on and relevant applications to the practice of physical therapy.
8214. General Practice Patterns (2:1:3). This course presents material essential to a Physical Therapist’s role in patient/client management in diverse practice settings. Using didactic lecture and clinical laboratory practice, material associated with the five elements of the patient/client management by the physical therapist are acquired. These elements include the examination, evaluation of examination results, diagnosis, establishing a prognosis, and instituting appropriate interventions. This course will discuss the assessment process and interventions involved with the care of the patient/client encountered in general medicine and surgical practice.
8216. Physical Agents and Modalities (2:1:3). This course presents material that allows development of clinical skills fundamental to patient management for the physical therapist. Course content includes theory, scientific principles, and clinical applications associated with a physical therapy evaluation, assessment, and intervention with physical agents and modalities. This course emphasizes instruction in physical agents and modalities available to the practicing physical therapist. These will include electrophysiology, thermal agents, laser, application of traction, electromyographic (EMG) biofeedback, biomedical compression, alternative and palliative care, soft tissue modalities, and the practical usage of each agent or modality. Both classroom and laboratory learning will be included.
8222. Clinical Internship 1 (2:0:6). Four weeks of full-time clinical experience (approximately 160 hours) in a physical therapy practice setting. During Clinical Internship 1, the student has the opportunity to integrate patient evaluation and management skills in a clinical setting to develop entry-level competencies for entry-level physical therapists as defined in the Physical Therapist Manual for the Assessment of Clinical Skills (PT MACS).
8224. Clinical Reasoning 2 (2:1:3). Clinical Reasoning 2 is designed to explore the nature of clinical reasoning in the profession of Physical Therapy and examine strategies for assisting learners to develop their reasoning expertise. This course focuses on clinical problem solving used in moderate to complex case studies to including the following practice patterns across the life span: general, cardiopulmonary, musculoskeletal, and neuromuscular to include pediatrics. Knowledge and skills from the curriculum taught to this point will be incorporated. The laboratory course places less emphasis on didactic learning and more toward case competence, problem solving and patient care management ability. Also incorporated are quizzes with licensure type test items covering material presented in the curriculum thus far and that are representative of the categories in the content outline of the licensure exam.
8228. Motor Behavior (2:2:0). The course focuses on the principles of the current theories of motor control, motor learning, and recovery of function. Application to neurologic physical therapist practice using a theoretical framework. The focus is on normal and pathological postural control, mobility, and upper extremity function.
8231. Diagnostic Imaging (2:2:0). This course will cover the basic science behind multiple imaging modalities (e.g., x-rays, magnetic resonance imaging [MRI], computed tomography [CT], doppler, arthrograms, diagnostic ultrasound [DUS]) the benefits of each imaging method, as well as how to refer for imaging services or consultation. Anatomy of bone, joint, cartilage, soft tissue, central nervous system (CNS) structure, and gastrointestinal and genitourinary systems for the appropriate imaging devices will be discussed by joint/region along with clinical reasoning algorithms for assistance with imaging selection and interpretation. Special features and views will be discussed as applicable for each imaging device. Vascular modalities and special bone scans will also be discussed.
8240. Differential Diagnosis (2:1:3). This course provides education and training in differential diagnosis of conditions that may require referral to or examination by a physician. Using basic to complex case studies from a variety of practice patterns, the course will educate the student about proper screening for medical disease to make an informed diagnosis. Students will be required to draw upon their comprehensive knowledge of all body systems to distinguish musculoskeletal and neuromuscular pathology from systemic conditions involving medical pathology. This course will utilize complex case studies in the laboratory setting and formal student presentations in the lecture setting to enhance student learning.
8301. Basic Skills and Assessment (3:2:3). This course presents foundational tests and measures for physical therapy practice. Using didactic lecture and clinical laboratory practice, basic physical therapy skills and assessments are covered, including but not limited to, goniometry, manual muscle testing, postural assessment and gait assessment. General assessment techniques and foundational test and measures will be covered.
8303. Biomechanics (3:3:0). This course provides students with a fundamental understanding of the biomechanics of the musculoskeletal system and integrated human movement with clinically relevant applications.
8324. Orthotics and Prosthetics (3:2:3). This course is designed to provide the physical therapy student knowledge of orthotic and prosthetic prescription, parts components, and physical therapy application. This course includes exercise prescription for amputees, evaluative procedures for orthotics and prosthetics, gait analysis, device checkouts and case studies. The course also will involve interactions with prosthetists and orthotists and prosthetic and orthotic device users.
8327. Healthcare and Business Management (3:3:0). The course provides an understanding of basic organizational, fiscal, payer, and accessibility issues pertinent to the administration and management of rehabilitative services as well as initial business management perspectives needed by the entry-level physical therapist, concentrating on supervision, staffing, planning, and administration.
8329. Human Development (3:3:0). Study of human growth and development issues and theories relevant to the practice of physical therapy. The course focuses on typical development from conception to senescence within the physical, cognitive, social, and emotional domains.
8414. Cardiopulmonary Practice Pattern (4:3:3). This course is designed to focus on the primary and secondary cardiopulmonary impairments that limit therapeutic and patient outcomes in various settings, which include intensive care units, long term care, outpatients, school setting and home care. The physiological and evidence basis of intervention will primarily focus on practical aspects relating to all patients and client. Current medical diagnosis and treatment of common cardiac and pulmonary disorders seen by physical therapy practice will be incorporated in this course. The Guide to Physical Therapist Practice will be used to discuss the process of selecting appropriate tests and measures, establishing a diagnosis, prognosis and plan of care, and selecting interventions for patients with cardiovascular and pulmonary impairments.
8418. Neuroscience (4:4:0). This course provides students with a fundamental understanding of the functions and pathologies of the central nervous system (CNS) as a basic science course in the neurorehabilitation curriculum. The emphasis will be on “systems-level neuroanatomy” (i.e., functional neuroanatomy [e.g., motor and sensory pathways] and regional neuroanatomy [e.g., organization of spinal cord, brainstem, cerebral cortex]). In addition, information processing by neurons will be addressed by coverage of axon physiology, synaptic neurotransmission and plasticity. The course will first survey the anatomical organization of the CNS, then sensory and motor functions of the CNS, and finish with a description of a number of neurological disorders that have clinical relevance to physical therapists.
8422. Pediatric Practice Patterns (4:3:3). This course focuses on physical therapy examination, evaluation, interventions, and expected outcomes for pediatric patients with musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, cardiopulmonary, or general medical impairments and functional limitations. The course includes discussion of physical therapy practice in specialized setting such as neonatal intensive care, early childhood intervention programs, and public schools.
8425. Musculoskeletal Practice Pattern 1: Extremities (4:2:6). An in-depth study of the principles of orthopedic examination, evaluation and intervention aimed at incorporating a detailed working knowledge of pathologic anatomy as it relates to dysfunction of the extremities. This course will teach the basis for orthopedic intervention utilizing modalities, joint mobilization/manipulation, therapeutic exercise, functional and post surgical rehabilitation principles.
8426. Musculoskeletal Practice Pattern 2: Spine (4:2:6). An in-depth study of the principles of orthopedic examination, evaluation and intervention aimed at incorporating a detailed working knowledge of pathologic anatomy as it relates to dysfunction of the spine. This course will teach the basis for orthopedic intervention utilizing modalities, joint mobilization/manipulation, therapeutic exercise, functional, chronic pain, and post surgical rehabilitation principles.
8453. Clinical Internship 2 (4:0:12). Eight weeks of full-time clinical experience (approximately 320 hours) in a predetermined specific PT clinical setting (acute care, musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, or elective). The student has the opportunity to integrate patient management and evaluation skills and to develop entry-level and advanced competencies for entry-level physical therapists as defined in the Physical Therapist Manual for the Assessment of Clinical Skills (PT MACS).
8455. Clinical Internship 3 (4:0:12). Eight weeks of full-time clinical experience (approximately 320 hours) in a predetermined specific PT clinical setting (acute care, musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, or elective). The student has the opportunity to integrate patient management and evaluation skills and to develop entry-level and advanced competencies for entry-level physical therapists as defined in the Physical Therapist Manual for the Assessment of Clinical Skills (PT MACS).
8456. Clinical Internship 4 (4:0:12). Eight weeks of full-time clinical experience (approximately 320 hours) in a predetermined specific PT clinical setting (acute care, musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, or elective). The student has the opportunity to integrate patient management and evaluation skills and to develop entry-level and advanced competencies for entry-level physical therapists as defined in the Physical Therapist Manual for the Assessment of Clinical Skills (PT MACS).
8458. Clinical Internship 5 (4:0:12). Eight weeks of full-time clinical experience (approximately 320 hours) in a predetermined specific PT clinical setting (acute care, musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, or elective). The student has the opportunity to integrate patient management and evaluation skills and to develop entry-level and advanced competencies for entry-level physical therapists as defined in the Physical Therapist Manual for the Assessment of Clinical Skills (PT MACS).
8500. Gross Anatomy (5:3:6). An integrated study of gross human anatomy embodying gross morphology and coordinating with developmental and histological aspects of the body. Included is regional dissection with emphasis on the musculoskeletal, nervous, circulatory and respiratory systems.
8521. Neuromuscular Practice Patterns (5:3:6). This course examines the pathology, medical diagnosis process, and medical and surgical interventions of neuromuscular conditions in adults that are commonly seen by physical therapists. It focuses on physical therapy examination, evaluation, and intervention for adult clients with neurological disorders based on current research, evidence, and practice guidelines.
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