Doctor of Physical Therapy
About the Program
Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT): 128.0 quarter credits
The Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) curriculum is directed toward producing broadly educated physical therapists, yet is sensitive to the needs of the health care community and the students’ interests. The program strives to foster both intellectual and professional growth in students and is reflective of contemporary practice to prepare graduates for the ongoing changes in health care delivery.
The curriculum is directed toward producing broadly educated physical therapists, yet is sensitive to the needs of the health care community and the students’ interests. The program strives to foster both intellectual and professional growth in students and is reflective of contemporary practice to prepare graduates for the ongoing changes in health care delivery.
The Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program prepares students for autonomous practice in physical therapy. As a science, physical therapy examines human motion at the tissue, organ, and systems levels. In the clinical environment, physical therapists (PTs) examine and evaluate patients/clients and implement procedural interventions that restore physical function for all people across the life span. As essential practitioners in the health care delivery system, PTs assume roles in rehabilitation services, prevention and health maintenance programs, and professional and community programs. As professional members of the health care team, PTs supervise support personnel, serve as consultants to other health care personnel; serve as consultants to families and caregivers; participate in administrative services; and conduct clinical research. PTs also serve as advocates for health policy and standards of care that help ensure optimum care for their patients/clients.
Graduates of the Doctor of Physical Therapy program are prepared to fulfill their professional obligations, provide leadership to the profession, and use their knowledge and skills to contribute to the health care of society.
The 31-month curriculum spans ten academic quarters and consists of integrated didactic and clinical study with an emphasis on adult learning methodology. The curriculum consists of foundational courses during the first year, with subsequent quarters sequenced to progress through the hierarchy of educational objectives from simple to complex. All didactic material is organized for synthesis and application to professional practice.
The program strives to foster both intellectual and professional growth in students and is reflective of contemporary practice. An overarching goal is to prepare graduates for practice in the changing health care delivery environment.
For more information visit the Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science page on the College of Nursing and Health Professions website.
For application instructions, visit the Drexel's Graduate Admission web page for the Doctor of Physical Therapy.
Degree Requirements
The DPT curriculum occurs in a 10-week quarter format over ten quarters: fall, winter, spring, and summer I; fall, winter, spring, and summer II; and fall and winter III.
The program comprises 10 academic and clinical quarters occurring over 31 months. Classes begin in late September for first-year students.
The curriculum is subject to modification.
The Plan of Study for the Program consists of ten terms of courses.
| First Year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Fall | Credits | |
| PTRS 530 | Kinesiology I | 4.0 |
| PTRS 534 | Physical Therapy Exam & Intervention I | 3.0 |
| PTRS 532 | Human Gross Anatomy I | 4.0 |
| PTRS 537 | Clinical Correlations I | 3.0 |
| PTRS 633 | Professional Development | 1.0 |
| PTRS 613 | Clinical Practice I | 0.5 |
| Term Credits | 15.5 | |
| Winter | ||
| PTRS 533 | Human Gross Anatomy II | 3.5 |
| PTRS 531 | Kinesiology II | 3.0 |
| PTRS 535 | Physical Therapy Exam & Intervention II | 3.0 |
| PTRS 539 | Topics in Pathophysiology I | 3.5 |
| PTRS 624 | Functional Modality | 2.5 |
| PTRS 614 | Clinical Practice II | 0.5 |
| PTRS 751 | Evidence-Based Practice | 2.0 |
| Term Credits | 18.0 | |
| Spring | ||
| NEUR 507 | Neuroscience I | 3.0 |
| PTRS 620 | Orthopedic Physical Therapy: Upper Extremity | 4.0 |
| PTRS 623 | Physical Agents | 4.0 |
| PTRS 540 | Topics in Pathophysiology II | 2.0 |
| PTRS 639 | Motor Learning | 2.5 |
| PTRS 615 | Clinical Practice III | 0.5 |
| Term Credits | 16.0 | |
| Summer | ||
| NEUR 508 | Neuroscience II | 2.0 |
| PTRS 621 | Orthopedic Physical Therapy: Lower Extremity | 4.0 |
| PTRS 627 | Cardiopulmonary Physical Therapy I | 4.0 |
| PTRS 641 | Neurological Exam and Intervention I | 4.0 |
| PTRS 646 | Orthosis Management | 1.5 |
| PTRS 616 | Clinical Practice IV | 0.5 |
| Term Credits | 16.0 | |
| Second Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| PTRS 652 | Life Span Development I | 3.0 |
| PTRS 634 | Health Professional Roles | 3.0 |
| PTRS 644 | Wound Care Management | 1.5 |
| PTRS 645 | Prosthesis Management | 1.5 |
| PTRS 752 | Research and Measurement in Physical Therapy | 2.0 |
| PTRS 774 | Clinical Education Seminar | 0.5 |
| PTRS 775 | Clinical Education I | 1.0 |
| Term Credits | 12.5 | |
| Winter | ||
| PTRS 622 | Orthopedic Physical Therapy: Spine | 4.0 |
| PTRS 628 | Cardiopulmonary Physical Therapy II | 4.0 |
| PTRS 637 | Professional Project I | 1.0 |
| PTRS 642 | Neurological Exam and Intervention II | 5.0 |
| PTRS 656 | Motor Control and Rehabilitation | 2.0 |
| Term Credits | 16.0 | |
| Spring | ||
| PTRS 776 | Clinical Education II | 2.0 |
| PTRS 610* | Issues in Pharmacotherapy | 3.0 |
| Term Credits | 5.0 | |
| Summer | ||
| PTRS 538 | Clinical Correlations II | 3.0 |
| PTRS 632 | Pediatric Physical Therapy | 5.5 |
| PTRS 643 | Applied Biomechanics | 3.0 |
| PTRS 653 | Life Span Development II | 2.0 |
| PTRS 654 | Topics in Health Policy & Services | 2.0 |
| PTRS 753 | Evaluation of Research in Physical Therapy | 4.0 |
| Term Credits | 19.5 | |
| Third Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| PTRS 777 | Clinical Education III | 2.0 |
| PTRS 655* | Health Administration | 2.5 |
| Term Credits | 4.5 | |
| Winter | ||
| PTRS 778 | Clinical Internship | 3.0 |
| PTRS 647 | Professional Project II | 2.0 |
| Term Credits | 5.0 | |
| Total Credit: 128.0 | ||
| * | Conducted online. |
Clinical Education
A strong history of comprehensive clinical education exists for professional students. The clinical education for the DPT program is integrated into the didactic portions of the curriculum so that knowledge obtained in the classroom is readily put into practice. The DPT program has contracts with hundreds of clinical sites across the nation, representing all facets of professional practice. Students are required to complete four clinical education experiences that offer various levels of acuity in different clinical environments. The first clinical education experience is 6 weeks in length, clinical education II and III are 10 weeks long, and the fourth experience, the clinical internship, is 12 weeks.
Students may select from clinical sites that offer experiences in pediatrics, adult rehabilitation, geriatrics, orthopedics, sports medicine, and industrial and occupational rehabilitation.
For more information visit the Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Sciences Overview page on the College of Nursing and Health Professions web site.
Facilities
Teaching Facilities
Most classes are held in lecture halls, classrooms, or laboratories on the Center City (Health Sciences) Campus of Drexel University. The entire campus has wireless capability for easy internet access. The Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Sciences has two state-of-the-art dedicated laboratories where the clinical components of the professional curriculum are taught. In these laboratories equipment reflects current physical therapy practice and is part of a multi-disciplinary clinical learning and resource center. Included as part of the resource center is a standardized patient lab that utilizes paid actors to simulate various clinical situations while students' interactions with those "patients" are monitored by supervising faculty. This center provides a rich environment for student learning.
Our teaching resources also include supported distance learning technology. Instructional materials are provided through text, graphics, audio and video formats and are available online through a course management system 24 hours a day. Our online courses are highly interactive through the use of web discussion boards and audio chat tools.
Additionally, the Professional DPT program uses various clinical sites in the area to enhance the educational experience of the student. Some teaching sessions, including the the content taught in the Clinical Practice series, are conducted at places like Bryn Mawr Rehabilitation Hospital, Hahnemann University Hospital, Magee Rehabilitation Hospital, Philadelphia Nursing Home, United Cerebral Palsy of Philadelphia, 11th Street Family Health Services, and in the Department of Athletics at Drexel University. These experiences are in addition to the 38 weeks of clinical education the student will experience throughout the curriculum.
Research Facilities
The department supports and maintains over 2,000 square feet of research laboratories. The gait and motion analysis lab contains a video-based motion analysis system with integrated EMG and in-floor force plates. The neuromuscular performance lab is equipped with custom-built force measuring systems, l6-channel EMG system and electromagnetic tracking systems. The osteoporosis lab is equipped with an integrated human performance measurement system. The pediatric research lab houses a conference room and data-entry computers.
The Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation also values community partners as a central part of the research resources. Many faculty and students are involved in community-based research through collaborations with CanChild Centre, Shriners Hospital, 11th Street Family Health Center, and early intervention providers. Faculty are collaborating on research projects with nationally and internationally known researchers on several multi-site funded projects.
Professional DPT students have the opportunity to work with faculty and PhD students on ongoing laboratory projects through optional research practica or as part of the final project, a capstone experience for the curriculum.
Courses
PTRS 501 Introduction to Research 4.0 Credits
The course is designed to provide professional graduate students with the skills necessary to evaluate the relationship between practice and published research using an interdisciplinary approach. The content includes an overview of research concepts, research ethics, literature reviews, quantitative and qualitative research methods, including sampling, data collection, and analysis.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
PTRS 530 Kinesiology I 4.0 Credits
This course is part one of a two-part series designed to provide students with basic knowledge of biomechanics and functional aspects of the musculoskeletal system. It involves the study of the anatomical, biomechanical, and physiological fundamentals of human motion as it pertains to the upper extremity.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Restrictions: Can enroll if major is PT or major is RHAB.
PTRS 531 Kinesiology II 3.0 Credits
This course is part two of a two-part series designed to provide students with basic knowledge of biomechanics and functional aspects of the musculoskeletal system. It involves the study of the anatomical, biomechanical, and physiological fundamentals of human motion as it pertains to the spine and lower extremity.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Restrictions: Can enroll if major is PT or major is RHAB.
PTRS 532 Human Gross Anatomy I 4.0 Credits
This course is part one of a two-part series designed to introduce students to the structure and function of the back, neck, face, and upper extremity with particular emphasis on the nervous and musculoskeletal systems. Special emphasis is places on clinical relevance and functional interrelationships of the anatomic structures.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Restrictions: Can enroll if major is PT or major is RHAB.
PTRS 533 Human Gross Anatomy II 3.5 Credits
This course is part two of a two-part series designed to introduce students to the structure and function of the cranium, thorax, abdomen, and lower extremity with particular emphasis on the nervous and musculoskeletal systems. Special emphasis is placed on clinical relevance and functional interrelationships of the anatomic structures.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Restrictions: Can enroll if major is PT or major is RHAB.
Prerequisites: PTRS 530 [Min Grade: C] and PTRS 534 [Min Grade: C] and PTRS 532 [Min Grade: C] and PTRS 537 [Min Grade: C] and PTRS 633 [Min Grade: C] and PTRS 613 [Min Grade: C]
PTRS 534 Physical Therapy Exam & Intervention I 3.0 Credits
This course prepares a student to perform a basic musculoskeletal examination of the cervical spine and upper extremity. The entire patient management process from history taking to prescription of interventions is introduced and applied. Basic skills needed in the examination are described and practiced.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Restrictions: Can enroll if major is PT or major is RHAB.
PTRS 535 Physical Therapy Exam & Intervention II 3.0 Credits
This course prepares a student to perform a basic musculoskeletal examination of the lumbar spine and lower extremity. The patient management process from history taking to prescription of interventions is applied. Basic skills needed in the examination are described and practiced.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Restrictions: Can enroll if major is PT or major is RHAB.
PTRS 537 Clinical Correlations I 3.0 Credits
Utilizing a case-based format, this course assists students with clinical decision-making strategies as outlined in the Guide to Physical Therapist Practice. Students apply concepts of patient-client management including examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, and intervention. Through small group discussion, students develop their group skills and are introduced to the team approach.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Restrictions: Can enroll if major is PT or major is RHAB.
PTRS 538 Clinical Correlations II 3.0 Credits
This course emphasizes decision-making strategies for patients with multiple co-morbidities. Meta-cognitive strategies are used during clinical decision making to assist with student transitions from novice to entry-level clinicians.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Restrictions: Can enroll if major is PT or major is RHAB.
PTRS 539 Topics in Pathophysiology I 3.5 Credits
Topics in Pathophysiology I is the of two lecture-format courses that introduce physiology of organ systems, disease states and conditions. Differential diagnosis, medical screening, the impact of pathology and medical management in physical therapy practice will be investigated.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Restrictions: Can enroll if major is PT or major is RHAB.
PTRS 540 Topics in Pathophysiology II 2.0 Credits
Topics in Pathophysiology II is the second of two lecture-formal courses that introduce physiology of organ systems, disease states and conditions. Differential diagnosis, medical screening, the impact of pathology and medical management in physical therapy practice will be investigated.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Restrictions: Can enroll if major is PT or major is RHAB.
PTRS 590 Clinical Anatomy 3.0,4.0 Credits
Exposes clinicians to the structure and function of the body with particular emphasis on the nervous and musculoskeletal systems. The format consists of online presentations and an optional onsite lecture session that includes prosections/dissections. Special emphasis is placed on clinical relevance and functional interrelationships of the anatomic structures.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
PTRS 604 Induction Inquiry Integration 3.0 Credits
This course provides an introduction to the learning philosophy of the program, introducing models of adult learning, learning styles and experiential learning. Different forms of knowledge are explored. Methods of creating knowledge from experimentation, observation and experience are studied.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
PTRS 609 Experiential Accreditation 6.0 Credits
Provides an opportunity for bachelors prepared students to gain credit for their professional experiential learning. With guidance from the course director, students compile a portfolio, reflecting on evidence that demonstrates their ability to perform higher-level academic functions in a clinical context: analysis and decision making.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
PTRS 610 Issues in Pharmacotherapy 3.0 Credits
Issues in Pharmacotherapy is a lecture-format course that focuses on providing foundational information about pharmacotherapy, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics that is applicable in physical therapy. Drug classifications are described. Examples are provided of various drug categories. This is a required course taken by all entry-level DPT students.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Restrictions: Can enroll if major is PT or major is RHAB.
PTRS 612 Pharmacotherapeutics 3.0 Credits
Pharmacotherapeutics is a lecture-format course that focuses on providing foundational information about pharmacotherapeutics, pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics that is applicable in physical therapy. Drug classifications are described. Examples are provided of various drug categories.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
PTRS 613 Clinical Practice I 0.5 Credits
Clinical Practice I is an opportunity for students to practice skills learned in Musculoskeletal Examination & Intervention I and Clinical Correlations I. Practice will be related to orthopedic diagnoses and reading and interpreting patient data. Students will have the opportunity to practice skills under direct supervision of faculty instructors.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Restrictions: Can enroll if major is PT or major is RHAB.
PTRS 614 Clinical Practice II 0.5 Credits
Clinical Practice II is the second opportunity for students to practice skills learned in Musculoskeletal Examination and Intervention I and II and Clinical Correlations I. Practice will be related to orthopedic diagnoses and reading and interpreting patient data. Students will have the opportunity to practice skills under direct supervision of faculty instructors.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Restrictions: Can enroll if major is PT or major is RHAB.
PTRS 615 Clinical Practice III 0.5 Credits
This is the third in a series of four clinical practice courses. Students will apply concepts and skills learned in Functional Mobility in working with patients and residents in various hospital-based settings, including an acute care hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, and a nursing home.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Restrictions: Can enroll if major is PT or major is RHAB.
PTRS 616 Clinical Practice IV 0.5 Credits
This is the fourth in a series of four clinical practice courses. Students will apply concepts and skills learned in Cardiopulmonary PT I in working with patients and clients in various settings, including an acute care hospital and healthcare center (11th Street Family Health Services).
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Restrictions: Can enroll if major is PT or major is RHAB.
PTRS 620 Orthopedic Physical Therapy: Upper Extremity 4.0 Credits
This is the first in a series of three courses on orthopedic physical therapy. This course emphasizes differential diagnosis, clinical decision making, and development and implementation of a plan of care for conservative and post-operative management of patients demonstrating musculoskeletal dysfunction of the upper extremity.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Restrictions: Can enroll if major is PT or major is RHAB.
PTRS 621 Orthopedic Physical Therapy: Lower Extremity 4.0 Credits
This is the second in a series of three courses on Orthopedic Physical Therapy. This course emphasizes differential diagnosis, clinical decision making, and development and implementation of a plan of care for conservative and post-operative management of patients demonstrating musculoskeletal dysfunction of the lower extremity.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Restrictions: Can enroll if major is PT or major is RHAB.
PTRS 622 Orthopedic Physical Therapy: Spine 4.0 Credits
This course is one of three courses in orthopedic physical therapy. Emphasis is on examination, differential diagnosis, clinical decision making, and development and implementation of a plan of care for conservative management (including joint manipulation) and post operative interventions for patients with musculoskeletal dysfunction.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Restrictions: Can enroll if major is PT or major is RHAB.
PTRS 623 Physical Agents 4.0 Credits
Physical Agents discusses the equipment used and the general application of thermal agents, electrotherapy, compression devices and massage. The clinical decision making when using all of these modalities in the management of clinical conditions including pain, edema, inflammation, decreased range of motion, and muscle weakness will be discussed.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Restrictions: Can enroll if major is PT or major is RHAB.
PTRS 624 Functional Modality 2.5 Credits
This course addresses the functional management of patients with limited mobility and their equipment needs, emphasizing functional training and clinical decision making for therapeutic intervention as well as prescription of durable medical equipment. Patient, caregiver, and healthcare provider safety for injury prevention are stressed throughout this course.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Restrictions: Can enroll if major is PT or major is RHAB.
PTRS 627 Cardiopulmonary Physical Therapy I 4.0 Credits
This is the first of two courses designed to provide exposure to the normal and abnormal anatomy, physiology and function of the cardiac, vascular and pulmonary systems. Physiology and pathophysiology are explored in relation to functional performance, compensation for disease process and implications for management. Clinical decision making is emphasized.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Restrictions: Can enroll if major is PT or major is RHAB.
PTRS 628 Cardiopulmonary Physical Therapy II 4.0 Credits
Cardiopulmonary Physical Therapy II is the second of two courses designed to provide students with exposure to the normal and abnormal anatomy, physiology and function of the cardiac, vascular and pulmonary systems. Primary and secondary cardiopulmonary diseases/dysfunction are discussed as they relate to functional ability.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Restrictions: Can enroll if major is PT or major is RHAB.
PTRS 632 Pediatric Physical Therapy 5.5 Credits
Takes systems approach to understanding the bases for pediatric disabilities. Examination and intervention planning are discussed both broadly and in terms of specific disabilities in the context of current evidence for client management models. Lab component provides opportunity to work with a child with a disability in a community setting.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Restrictions: Can enroll if major is PT or major is RHAB.
PTRS 633 Professional Development 1.0 Credit
This is the first in a series of five professional development courses. This focus of this course is to provide students with the opportunity to enhance self-awareness as learners and to familiarize the student with the concept of professionalism for the practice of physical therapy.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Restrictions: Can enroll if major is PT or major is RHAB.
PTRS 634 Health Professional Roles 3.0 Credits
This is the second in a series of five professional development courses. This course focuses on professional issues and behaviors that are necessary to prepare physical therapy students for their clinical experiences. The course is structured modules with focus on cultural competency, health administration and organization, and developing roles as a health care professional.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Restrictions: Can enroll if major is PT or major is RHAB.
PTRS 637 Professional Project I 1.0 Credit
Students will identify, design and initiate the professional projects that they will present at Scholarship Day. Projects may be individual or in small groups, depending upon the project and mentor. Students will work with their mentors to develop proposal contracts with timelines for completion.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Restrictions: Can enroll if major is PT or major is RHAB.
PTRS 639 Motor Learning 2.5 Credits
This course examines topics in movement science at different points in the life span, traces the evolution of skill acquisition, and critically reviews current theories of motor learning and control. Emphasis will be placed on basic concepts of motor learning and control in populations with typical development.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Restrictions: Can enroll if major is PT or major is RHAB.
PTRS 641 Neurological Exam and Intervention I 4.0 Credits
This course introduces the student to examination, evaluation, diagnosis and comprehensive interventions for the adult with neurological dysfunction. It focuses on examination skills and common interventions used with this patient population. Clinical decision making will be utilized to develop appropriate intervention strategies, application techniques, and neuromuscular strengthening and conditioning principles.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Restrictions: Can enroll if major is PT or major is RHAB.
PTRS 642 Neurological Exam and Intervention II 5.0 Credits
This course focuses on adults with central nervous system dysfunction where vestibular, sensory, perceptual, cognitive, and communication deficits result in more complex movement dysfunction and limited capacity for learning. Students will learn to integrate neuromuscular, sensory-perceptual, cognitive, behavioral and functional mobility strategies into a comprehensive plan of care.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Restrictions: Can enroll if major is PT or major is RHAB.
PTRS 643 Applied Biomechanics 3.0 Credits
This course provides content essential for understanding and evaluating research literature related to the effects of aging, pathology, immobilization, and therapeutic procedures on biological tissues and human movement. Methods for quantifying and evaluating tissue properties and human control are included. Application to practice will come from discussion of current literature.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Restrictions: Can enroll if major is PT or major is RHAB.
Prerequisites: PTRS 776 [Min Grade: C]
PTRS 644 Wound Care Management 1.5 Credit
The focus of this course is on wound assessment and management techniques used in the clinical setting as outlined in the Guide to Physical Therapy Practice. The use of evidence-based practice to guide clinical decision making will be emphasized.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Restrictions: Can enroll if major is PT or major is RHAB.
PTRS 645 Prosthesis Management 1.5 Credit
This course will provide students with knowledge of appliance components and biomechanical principles of upper and lower extremity prosthesis. In addition to the basic principles, a foundational knowledge will be presented regarding appliance prescription, checkout and functional training with such devices.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Restrictions: Can enroll if major is PT or major is RHAB.
PTRS 646 Orthosis Management 1.5 Credit
Using a combination of lecture and laboratory, this course will provide students with knowledge of appliance components and biomechanical principles of upper, lower and spinal orthoses. A foundational knowledge will be provided regarding appliance prescription, checkout and functional training with such devices. Case presentation will be use to enhance learning.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Restrictions: Can enroll if major is PT or major is RHAB.
PTRS 647 Professional Project II 2.0 Credits
The course provides an opportunity for physical therapy students to implement and complete their previously selected final professional projects (PTRS 637) and present it in a poster or platform form at Scholarship Day.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Restrictions: Can enroll if major is PT or major is RHAB.
PTRS 650 Motor Control and Learning Rehabilitation 3.0 Credits
Students examine topics in movement science in motor control and motor learning throughout the lifespan and the application of these principles to varied patient populations. This course also allows students to review the movement science literature as it applies to select patient populations.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
PTRS 651 Applied Tissue Biomechanics 3.0 Credits
This course is designed to provide the information necessary for the understanding and evaluation of the effects of immobilization, increased stress and strain, injury, disease, healing and aging on biological tissues. Emphasis is placed upon the integration of tissue biomechanics into the rationale and basis for therapeutic interventions.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
PTRS 652 Life Span Development I 3.0 Credits
Life Span Development is a required course for professional DPT students. This course addresses physical, cognitive, emotional, and social-cultural aspects of development and the changes that occur during childhood and adolescence. Course content will provide foundational knowledge for concurrent and subsequent courses and for physical therapy evaluation, examination and intervention.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Restrictions: Can enroll if major is PT or major is RHAB.
PTRS 653 Life Span Development II 2.0 Credits
Life Span Development II is required for all Professional Doctor of Physical Therapy students. This course addresses the physical, cognitive, emotional, and social-cultural aspects of aging, and the changes that occur throughout adulthood. Course content will provide foundational knowledge for concurrent and subsequent courses and for physical therapy examination and intervention.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Restrictions: Can enroll if major is PT or major is RHAB.
PTRS 654 Topics in Health Policy & Services 2.0 Credits
This is the third course in the professional development series for professional doctor of physical therapy students. This course provides information on health policy and health services specific to physical therapy. Students are exposed to health legislation, social determinants of health, issues in health disparities and development of advocacy skills.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Restrictions: Can enroll if major is PT or major is RHAB.
PTRS 655 Health Administration 2.5 Credits
This is the last in a series of four professional development courses. The focus of the course is on the organizational, fiscal and administrative workings of the health care environment and the responsibilities of individual physical therapists in these areas.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Restrictions: Can enroll if major is PT or major is RHAB.
PTRS 656 Motor Control and Rehabilitation 2.0 Credits
This course examines contemporary insights for the application of motor control and learning in physical therapy for children and adults with movement dysfunctions. Emphasis is placed on critical review of current evidence applied to patient populations. Practice paradigms for patient scenarios for evaluations and intervention will be critically discussed.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Restrictions: Can enroll if major is PT or major is RHAB.
PTRS 720 Rehabilitation Management 3.0 Credits
This course focuses the student on the organization and administrative aspects of health care delivery. Students knowledge of managerial and service-related business concepts are enhanced in order to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of their and others? practice in today's health care environment.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
PTRS 721 Teaching Concepts in Rehabilitation 3.0 Credits
The course provides information on the means of teaching/learning theory, teaching and learning styles, planning of learning experiences, clinical teaching tools and strategies, teaching objectives, effective feedback, and performance evaluation, all within the context of adult education and with the acknowledgment of the clinical experience of the participants.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
PTRS 740 Issues in Pediatric Health & Rehabilitation 4.0 Credits
The course addresses issues within health, prevention and rehabilitation, services and outcomes for children, youth and families. Key themes are participation, self-determination and advocacy. Materials addressing intervention, service delivery models and care across the lifespan, leadership, innovation and knowledge translation will be integrated.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
PTRS 750 Differential Diagnosis 1.0 Credit
This course uses published evidence to explore the process of differential diagnosis and explain how it is an essential piece of all physical therapy examinations. The recognition of significant medical conditions that fall out of the scope of physical therapy practice is emphasized.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
PTRS 751 Evidence-Based Practice 2.0 Credits
The objective of this course is development of skills for finding, analyzing, communicating and applying knowledge and research to physical therapy practice. Students will develop competencies in evidence-based clinical decision making.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Restrictions: Can enroll if major is PT or major is RHAB.
PTRS 752 Research and Measurement in Physical Therapy 2.0 Credits
This course introduces stages of research processes including research theory, formulating the research question, literature review, sampling, and experimental controls. Areas of psychometric measurement theory including reliability and validity issues will be examined. This information is applied to common clinical and research tests and measurements related to physical therapy.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Restrictions: Can enroll if major is PT or major is RHAB.
PTRS 753 Evaluation of Research in Physical Therapy 4.0 Credits
This course introduces experimental, quasi-experimental, exploratory, descriptive, and other research designs and the statistical analyses most often used in biomedical and rehabilitation research. Emphasis is on determining the appropriate design for the research question, integrating the research design with data analysis, synthesizing information, and understanding and critically appraising scientific literature.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Restrictions: Can enroll if major is PT or major is RHAB.
PTRS 758 Evidence-Based Rehabilitation 4.0 Credits
The focus of this web-based course is on analysis of the evidence for physical (occupational) therapy practice including models and guidelines for practice. Participants development competencies in transfer of knowledge and research into practice, clinical reasoning, and evidence based decision making.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
PTRS 760 Pediatric Decision Making 4.0 Credits
The course focuses on evidence-based examination and intervention of children with disabilities within the context of child, family, and environmental factors. The course highlights the role of therapists in promoting the status of the neuromuscular and musculoskeletal systems. The importance of family-centered care, parent-child interactions, and play are explored.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
PTRS 761 Pediatric Clinical Application 4.0 Credits
Pediatric Clinical Application is a primary course in the post-professional pediatric concentration area. Through a problem-based case study format, the course facilitates transfer of knowledge into the specialty practice area of pediatrics and promotes independent learning.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
PTRS 762 Women's Health in Physical Therapy 4.0 Credits
Provides a review of female anatomy and physiology. Emphasis on aspects of examination, evaluation and intervention for selected topics related to women's health across the lifespan, especially during reproductive and menopausal years. Students are encouraged to explore the unique niche physical therapists have in providing health care services for women.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
PTRS 763 Decision Making in Rehabilitation 4.0 Credits
This course is designed to provide students with the opportunity to integrate basic and clinical science research in the design of intervention paradigms for patients being served in rehabilitation settings.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
PTRS 764 Geriatric Rehabilitation 4.0 Credits
This course examines the implications of an aging population, effects of age on physiological, kinesiological, social, and psychological function, using evidence as a framework for examination, intervention and clinical decision making, advocacy for patients and caregivers, health promotion and wellness, the impact of Medicare, and pharmacological issues in the elderly.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
PTRS 765 Spinal Rehabilitation 4.0 Credits
This course applies an evidence-based approach to answering clinical questions about examination, diagnosis, prevention, and management of spinal and pelvic disorders. Goals are to foster independent, critical thinking based on interpretation of scientific literature and its integration into PT theory and practice and to enhance clinical examination and intervention skills.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
PTRS 766 Extremity Rehabilitation 4.0 Credits
This elective, on-line course explores advanced examination and intervention strategies for the upper and lower extremities. Clinical examination procedures (including clinical imaging), outcome measures, prevention and treatment interventions will be critically analyzed using an evidence-based approach.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
PTRS 767 Foundations in Hand Therapy 4.0 Credits
This course introduces the student to the specialized field of hand therapy. The principles of hand therapy included are musculoskeletal tissues and pathology, clinical reasoning, hand examination, splinting principles, physical agents, and therapeutic exercise. Common elbow, wrist, and hand disorders are discussed to integrate the foundation topics into clinical practice.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
PTRS 768 Upper Quarter Joint Pathology 4.0 Credits
This course reviews the common pathologies that effect the articulations and surrounding soft tissues, especially tendons and ligaments. Anatomy, biomechanics, and examination principles for each region, shoulder, elbow, wrist, and hand are discussed. Conservative and post-operative therapeutic management for fractures, dislocations, tendon repairs, ligament injuries, and degenerative disorders are presented.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Prerequisites: PTRS 767 [Min Grade: C]
PTRS 769 Nerve Injuries of the Upper Quarter 4.0 Credits
This course emphasizes the anatomy and basic science principles for the cervical spine and major peripheral nerves of the upper quarter. Age-related changes and pathophysiology of nerve lacerations and entrapment neuropathies are discussed. Advanced examination skills and interventions, conservative and post-operative, for the peripheral nervous system are presented.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Prerequisites: PTRS 767 [Min Grade: C]
PTRS 770 Diseases That Affect the Hand 4.0 Credits
Course content emphasizes the impact of disease on hand function, especially with activities of daily living, vocational activities, and recreational activities. The overview includes pathology, clinical presentation, examination techniques and clinical interventions specific to the hand. Additionally, multisystem involvement associated with mutilated hand injuries and pain syndromes is discussed.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Prerequisites: PTRS 767 [Min Grade: C]
PTRS 771 Work Injury Management 3.0 Credits
This course emphasizes management of clients with work-related musculoskeletal injuries with focus on identifying and defining the therapists' involvement in the return to work process. Topics such as ergonomic assessment, onsite programs, safety and wellness programs, and government regulations will be presented with a global view of the industrial setting.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Restrictions: Can enroll if major is PT or major is RHAB.
PTRS 772 Selected Topics in Pediatrics 1.0-4.0 Credit
This course is designed to provide the opportunity for advanced content and discussion regarding issues facing the pediatric practitioner. This course is designed to address current issues related to practice in various pediatric settings. Topics are introduced and content delivered, but the emphasis will be on student/instructor interaction and discussion.
Repeat Status: Can be repeated 4 times for 16 credits
PTRS 774 Clinical Education Seminar 0.5 Credits
This seminar-based course precedes the student's first full-time clinical education experience and assists the student in transitioning from the classroom to the clinical setting. Through simulated cases and role-playing exercises, the student will develop knowledge and behavioral skills for effective practice as a student physical therapist in the clinical environment.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Restrictions: Can enroll if major is PT or major is RHAB.
PTRS 775 Clinical Education I 1.0 Credit
This course is the first of four required full-time supervised clinical education experiences. This course is the student's opportunity to begin to apply classroom knowledge and laboratory skills to patients and clients. The student also begins to develop as a professional through role modeling by the clinical instructor.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Restrictions: Can enroll if major is PT or major is RHAB.
PTRS 776 Clinical Education II 2.0 Credits
This course is the second of four required full-time supervised clinical education experiences. The student continues to apply classroom knowledge and laboratory skills and will be involved in all aspects of patient-client management (examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, intervention, discharge, and outcomes management).
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Restrictions: Can enroll if major is PT or major is RHAB.
PTRS 777 Clinical Education III 2.0 Credits
This course is the third of four required full-time supervised clinical education experiences. Prior to this course the student will have completed all didactic coursework. He or she is expected to demonstrate competence in the comprehensive management of the simple patient and occasional guidance in managing the complex patient.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Restrictions: Can enroll if major is PT or major is RHAB.
PTRS 778 Clinical Internship 3.0 Credits
This course is the final and capstone full-time supervised clinical education experience. The student attains mastery of knowledge, skills, and attitudes to effectively and safely practice in today's healthcare environment. The student will experience the multiple roles of the physical therapist, such as those related to administration and health promotion.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Restrictions: Can enroll if major is PT or major is RHAB.
PTRS 779 Independent Project 1.0-3.0 Credit
Independent Project provides the student an exposure to physical therapy scholarship and research through participation in a faculty research project or self-directed study.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Restrictions: Can enroll if major is PT or major is RHAB.
PTRS 780 Foundations of School-based Practice 2.0 Credits
This web-based course is designed to enhance knowledge and competencies of physical therapists in school-based practice. Emphasis on the roles and responsibilities of the physical therapist in educational settings. Participants will develop competencies to support students, families and educational teams.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
PTRS 781 Advanced Competencies in School-based Practice 2.0 Credits
This web-based course builds on Foundations of School-base Practice. The focus is on advanced competencies for physical therapists in school-based practice. Emphasis is on innovation in practice, solutions to challenges, and leadership roles as a member of the education team.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
PTRS 786 MHS Final Project I 1.0-2.0 Credit
Students develop a final project to demonstrate the ability to use current best evidence to evaluate methods of service delivery or interventions at individual or program levels. Completion of an in-depth literature review associated with the project approved by the student's advisory committee is the focus of this course.
Repeat Status: Can be repeated 3 times for 6 credits
Restrictions: Can enroll if major is PT or major is RHAB and program is MHS.
Prerequisites: PTRS 501 [Min Grade: C] and RHAB 759 [Min Grade: C] and PTRS 758 [Min Grade: C] and PTRS 721 [Min Grade: C] and PTRS 650 [Min Grade: C] and PTRS 651 [Min Grade: C]
PTRS 787 MHS Final Project II 1.0-2.0 Credit
Students conduct a well designed and executed study that addresses service delivery at the individual or program level. The results of the study are presented in manuscript format suitable for dissemination at a professional meeting, in a relevant peer-reviewed journal, or other educational resources used by rehabilitation specialists.
Repeat Status: Can be repeated 3 times for 6 credits
Restrictions: Can enroll if major is PT or major is RHAB and program is MHS.
Prerequisites: PTRS 786 [Min Grade: C]
PTRS 799 Essentials of Physical Therapy 0.5-3.0 Credits
Designed to remediate students who require intensive instruction to achieve acceptable performance in the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program. Addresses students’ individual performance deficiencies. Credits assigned based on extent of remediation required. Specific requirements are outlined in a learning contract.
Repeat Status: Can be repeated 3 times for 9 credits
