Physical Therapy (Hybrid Entry Level DPT)
Curriculum Requirements
Note: Total credits for program are 116.
First Year Students
| Course | credits |
|---|---|
| ANA 5420: Anatomy This foundational science course develops the knowledge of human anatomy necessary for the practice of the profession. It presents the anatomy of the human body in both lecture and lab format. It addresses gross structures of the human body and integrates topographic and radiographic anatomy, stressing the importance to clinical practice. |
5 |
| PHY 5400: Physiology The course is intended to provide students in the Physical Therapy Program with an understanding of the basic physiochemical concepts and physiological principles underlying the development, maintenance, and propagation of human life. It provides an examination of the physiological processes essential for students in the College of Health Care Sciences and reference to clinical applications is made where appropriate. Topics covered include basic examinations of cellular processes, membrane mechanisms, muscle physiology, the cardiovascular system, the nervous system, renal physiology, the respiratory system, endocrinology, reproductive physiology, and gastrointestinal physiology. |
3 |
| Total: | 8 |
| course | credits |
|---|---|
| PHTT 6705: Essentials of Exercise Physiology Exercise physiology describes the response to exercise and training on the cardiac, pulmonary, musculoskeletal, neural, and endocrine systems of the human body. The various methods of training for increased strength, hypertrophy, power, cardiovascular fitness, and endurance, and the effects of physical activities and work-related stress on the human organism will be discussed. Energy liberation, circulation and respiration, physical work capacity, physical training, energy cost of various activities, nutrition and performance, temperature regulation, factors affecting performance and fitness, and the physiology of various sport activities will be covered. Students will gain the knowledge required for designing exercise programs in the general and special populations based on established needs for function and performance. Upon completion of this course students are encouraged to prepare for the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), Certified Strength and Conditioning Examination. |
2 |
| PHTT 6714: Pharmacology The course will be clinically oriented to address the physical therapist's knowledge of clinical pharmacology to the Doctor of Physical Therapy level. Prescription, over-the-counter, and common herbal supplements will be included. Drug classification, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, mechanism of action, and indications for use will be addressed. Drug action, therapeutic dosage schedules, drug interactions, and common side effects will be brought into the clinical perspective of patient management. Recognition of expected drug effects, side effects, idiosyncratic reactions and signs of abuse or non-compliance will be explored. Emphasis will be placed on the therapist's incorporation of pharmacotherapeutic knowledge into physical therapy patient-client management. |
3 |
| PHTT 5610: Clinical Applications of Anatomy for Physical Therapists Clinical Applications of Anatomy for Physical Therapists addresses anatomical knowledge specific to the practice of physical therapy. This course is an in-depth study of joint anatomy including muscular attachments, ligamentous structures, neural innervations, and contribution to movement. Palpation of key bony and soft-tissue structures will be introduced. |
1 |
| PHTT 5611: Professional Issues in Physical Therapy The professional roles and responsibilities of physical therapists provide a framework for discussion of contemporary health care issues and the history of the American Physical Therapy Association. Ethical principles, core values, standards of practice, and key professional documents that guide clinical practice serve as the basis for student socialization into the profession of physical therapy. This transition into the profession of physical therapy is celebrated symbolically during the White Coat Ceremony. This course also addresses the roles of physical therapists (patient manager, educator, consultant, critical inquirer, and administrator) in their professional development over time from novice to expert practitioner. Students analyze their roles as members of health care teams and determine the broader position of the profession in society. |
3 |
| Total: | 9 |
| course | credits |
|---|---|
| PHTT 6700: Introduction to Evidence-Based Practice Evidence-based practice (EBP) integrates evidence from three sources to answer clinically relevant questions: 1) research literature, 2) clinician knowledge, experience, and judgment; and 3) patient values and circumstances. This course introduces the role of the physical therapist as a scientific, evidence-based practitioner of physical therapy and provides a foundation for the integration of critical inquiry and evidence-based practice throughout the curriculum. Emphasis will be on research evidence from primarily quantitative research about diagnosis, prognosis, interventions, and outcomes. |
3 |
| PHTT 6715: Essentials of Biomechanics and Kinesiology This is a basic science course to introduce physical therapy students to the study of Biomechanics and Kinesiology. The students will integrate their anatomy knowledge of muscle and joint structure into the study of joint motion and functional movements. The course introduces the student to basic principles of biomechanics including kinetics, kinematics, and tissue biomechanics. Basic biomechanics serve as the foundation for understanding kinesiology. The study of kinesiology will be separated by body parts: kinesiology of the upper extremity, kinesiology of the lower extremity, and kinesiology of the spine. Once the regional knowledge of kinesiology is understood, the final outcome of the course will be to facilitate the students to learn and comprehend complex kinesiologic analysis: gait, posture, and functional movements. |
3 |
| PHTT 6716: Medical Pathology for Physical Therapists This course provides an introductory overview of medical pathology across the lifespan commonly seen by physical therapists. Students will be introduced to immunity, tissue response to injury and healing processes. Students will also gain knowledge of signs and symptoms, pathogenesis and differential diagnosis of selected pathological disorders. Medical management of selected disorders will be introduced as well as prognosis associated with each disorder. Application of the Disablement Model will be used to determine the effect of pathological disorders on functional ability. Students will also gain a brief understanding of the role of the physical therapist in prevention and treatment of selected pathological and biopsychosocial disorders. Discussion will take place regarding cultural and other factors affecting diagnosis, treatment and prevention of pathological disorders and biopsychosocial disorders currently affecting society. |
3 |
| PHTT 6701: Communication and Cultural Competence This course explores concepts of cultural competence related to healthcare delivery. Inter-professional and interpersonal communication and group processes needed to function effectively as part of a team in the healthcare environment will also be addressed. Communication (written, verbal and non-verbal) methods used to enhance interactions with the patient/client; families and other members of the healthcare team will be discussed. Discussions will include epidemiology and healthcare access issues as they relate to cultural barriers. |
2 |
| PHTT 6811: Introduction to Clinical Education This course addresses the preparatory requirements needed to participate in on-campus Integrated Clinical Education (ICE) experiences occurring in the 2nd and 3rd academic years. The purpose of ICE is to provide students with patient interactions early within the Hybrid DPT curriculum. These clinical experiences have been integrated into the classroom lab time of specific courses in order to allow for immediate application of learned skills and concepts to actual patients. During the progression of these experiences, students will develop skills in all domains of learning: cognitive, psychomotor and affective in preparation for full time clinical internships. Course topics include compliance requirements for clinical education and patient interaction, including: physical therapy documentation, sample behaviors of the Clinical Performance Instrument, medical errors training, bloodborne pathogens and HIV/AIDS training, and HIPAA training. |
0 |
| Total: | 11 |
Second Year Students
| course | credits |
|---|---|
| * PHTT 6710: Clinical Skills I This course introduces students to physical therapy examination and evaluation, including: a) obtaining a history from patients and other sources; b) performing systems reviews; c) administering culturally appropriate and age-related tests and measures including reflexes, posture, gait, balance, range of motion/muscle length, muscle strength; and d) producing documentation of examination. Students will also learn to evaluate data from the history review, system's review, and tests/measures in order to make clinical judgments and determine the diagnosis, prognosis, and goals. Both psychomotor skills and clinical reasoning skills are addressed based on the descriptions in the Guide to Physical Therapist Practice. |
3 |
| * PHTT 6720: Clinical Skills II This course introduces students to basic clinical skills that are used in physical therapy interventions related to therapeutic exercise and functional training as described in the Guide to Physical Therapist Practice. Students will develop psychomotor skills in: Therapeutic exercise, including flexibility/stretching exercises, balance/coordination training, strength/power/endurance training of muscles; and functional training, including balance training, posture re-education, gait training, and assistive/adaptive device training. Students will learn how to develop and document a plan of care that includes: frequency/duration, coordination/communication, patient-related instruction, and direct interventions. |
3 |
| Total: | 6 |
| course | credits |
|---|---|
| * PHTT 6722: Integumentary PT The structure and function of the integument is presented. Skin functions in homeostasis including protection, regulation of body temperature, sensory reception, water balance, synthesis of vitamins and hormones, and absorption of materials. Students will safely perform physical therapy assessment and explore interventions for wounds and edema based on the current literature such as dressings, therapeutic massage, compression, and hydro and electrotherapeutic modalities. Assistive, adaptive supportive devices and equipment to prevent or relieve skin trauma will be addressed. At the end of this course, the students will be able to evaluate, treat, and document disorders of the skin that are frequently treated by PTs. The students will also be able to determine whether a skin disorder needs referral to another appropriate health care provider. |
2 |
| * PHTT 6915: Prosthetics and Orthotics Students will acquire the skills needed to manage movement-related problems in patients with amputations because of diabetes, burns, trauma, oncological problems, and genetic conditions. They will study upper and lower extremity prosthetics and orthotics and spinal orthotics. Orthotic needs associated with obesity, arthritis, pain, etc., will be addressed, as well. |
3 |
| * PHTT 6815: Physical Agents This course will emphasize both cognitive and psychomotor knowledge related to electro- and thermo-modalities. Basic science information related to physiological effects, indications, and contraindications will be discussed. Lecture, interactive teaching, and lab practice will be used to assist students in integrating the didactic knowledge into simulated and real-life scenarios. |
3 |
| PHTT 6802: Application of Evidence Based Practice Evidence-based practice (EBP) integrates evidence from three sources to answer clinically relevant questions: 1) research literature, 2) clinician knowledge, experience, and judgment; and 3) patient values and circumstances. This course reviews and builds on content introduced in Introduction to Evidence-Based Practice. Major topic areas will include systematic reviews and meta-analysis; Cochrane reviews; Philadelphia and Ottawa panels; clinical prediction rules and clinical practice guidelines; and the use of statistical tools in appraising evidence. Also discussed will be qualitative, management and education research. |
3 |
| Total: | 11 |
| course | credits |
|---|---|
| ANA 5423: Neuroanatomy This course examines the structural, functional, and developmental features of the human nervous system with reference to different disease states. It establishes an anatomical basis for the study and understanding of the nervous system as presented in the classroom and the lab. Application of these studies will help in the solving of problems encountered in your career as a future health care professional. |
3 |
| PHTT 6823: The Business of Physical Therapy This course is devoted to understanding the structure and function of the United States health care delivery system. It explores the regulatory, economic and financial responsibilities of the physical therapy manager in the utilization of human and material resources within a variety of health care environments. Students will develop knowledge and skills to effectively manage in various health care settings. |
3 |
| * PHTT 6725: Cardiovascular and Pulmonary PT This course provides an overview of the related pathologies and diagnostic and medical-surgical procedures of the cardiovascular and pulmonary systems. Physiological principles of exercise will be applied to cardiopulmonary examination and intervention for given pathologies. Students will demonstrate PT cardiovascular and pulmonary examination, procedures, treatment planning, documentation and outcome measurement across all clinical settings and explore interventions related to exercise, functional activities and airway clearance. The relevance of clinical laboratory values and medical/surgical diagnostics and interventions associated with cardiovascular and pulmonary dysfunctions will also be covered. Case studies are used in conjunction with lecture, and interactive teaching and learning to assist students in integrating didactic knowledge into simulated and real-life scenarios including laboratory skills Prerequisites: PHTT 6705 and PHTT 6714 |
3 |
| PHTT 6822: Health Promotion, Disease Prevention, and Wellness Teaching is an integral part of physical therapy practice and one of the foundations of a doctoring profession. This course explores both the theoretical basis and the practical techniques related to: patient-related instruction, designing educational programs, evaluating program/ teaching effectiveness, facilitating behavior change, creating professional presentations, and engaging in clinical education. Students will explore learning styles and factors that impact learning across the life span. The physical therapist's professional role as an advocate of health, wellness, and prevention will be analyzed. The course will examine the Healthy People 2020 initiative, APTA�s Vision 2020, wellness theory/models, dimensions of wellness, holistic versus conventional medicine, outcome measurements of wellness and quality of life, screening for health/fitness/wellness, and wellness considerations for special populations. Students will have the opportunity to design their own wellness program, applying the principles and strategies covered in this course. Learning will occur through reading, research, critical analysis of the literature, class discussion, lecture, collaborative learning, case studies, presentation, peer review, and writing. |
2 |
| Total: | 11 |
Third Year Students
| course | credits |
|---|---|
| PHTT 6816: Neuroscience This course provides the foundational knowledge necessary for patient /client management of patients with neuromuscular conditions through two modules: neurophysiology and motor control /motor learning. Students review the structure and function of the nervous system, emphasizing neurophysiological processes that relate to physical therapy and movement dysfunction. Principles of motor control and motor learning are discussed as they relate to normal human movement and movement dysfunction that results from neurologic disorders. Concepts of neuroplasticity and the recovery of function are also addressed. Classroom activities include case studies, group discussions, literature reviews, simulations, and lectures. Prerequisite: ANA 5423 |
3 |
| PHTT 6810: Musculoskeletal I This is the first of three courses designed to introduce the entry-level D.P.T. student to the elements of patient/ client management in the orthopedic setting. This course emphasizes the musculoskeletal system and follows both the sequence and nomenclature outlined in the Guide to Physical Therapist Practice including examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, intervention, and outcomes. Specific areas to be covered will include communication and history taking, systems review, symptom physiology, selection and administering tests and measures, principles of manual therapy, soft tissue/myofascial intervention, extremity and spine mobilization (non-thrust), common disorders and injuries, musculoskeletal radiology, and principles of musculoskeletal disorder/injury management. Students will acquire the cognitive, psychomotor, and affective skills necessary to conduct a general musculoskeletal examination and perform interventions relevant to physical therapy practice. At completion of this course, students will have acquired the requisite knowledge to learn advanced diagnoses and interventions covered in PHTT 6820, PHTT 6820L, PHTT 6821, and PHTT 6821L. Case studies will be utilized in conjunction with lecture, laboratory skill practice, and interactive teaching and learning methods to integrate didactic knowledge into real-life clinical scenarios. |
2 |
| * PHTT 6810L: Musculoskeletal I Lab Laboratory sessions will emphasize the psychomotor and affective skills required to perform the examination and interventions addressed in PHTT 6810. Co-requisite: PHTT 6810 (2 credits) |
2 |
| PHTT 6813: Gender-Specific Issues in Physical Therapy This course provides a review of diseases unique to the male and female body systems. Students will gain knowledge of gender-specific pathologic processes associated with selected diseases as well as disease-specific signs and symptoms. Common medical diagnostic and treatment approaches of gender-specific conditions are discussed, including both medical management and an introduction to physical therapy intervention. Changes to body systems during normal pregnancy will be discussed in addition to common pregnancy-related musculoskeletal problems. Topics will include male and female incontinence, prostate disease, erectile dysfunction, pregnancy-related movement dysfunction, pelvic floor dysfunction, urinary and fecal incontinence, lymph edema management, premenstrual dysphoric syndrome, female athlete triad, postmenopausal considerations, and osteoporosis. Students will be exposed to entry-level physical therapy examination techniques and interventions used to manage gender-specific diseases, including recognition of key subjective or historical information that may warrant a pelvic floor examination or referral to another professional. Basic examination and intervention techniques will be practiced in a simulated environment. |
2 |
| Total: | 9 |
| course | credits |
|---|---|
| PHTT 6820: Musculoskeletal II Students will acquire the skills needed to manage and prevent disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Students will address relevant practice patterns as they relate to the upper/lower quarter, diagnostic classifications, ICD9 codes, examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, and interventions. Case studies are utilized in conjunction with lecture to assist students in integrating the didactic knowledge into simulated and real life scenarios. |
3 |
| PHTT 6820L: Musculoskeletal II Lab Emphasizes the psychomotor and affective skills required when providing the musculoskeletal interventions and tests addressed in PHTT 6820. Students will acquire the psychomotor skills needed to manage and prevent disorders of the musculoskeletal system by addressing relevant practice patterns as they relate to the upper/lower quarter, ICD-9 codes, examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, and interventions related to these patterns. Co-requisites: PHTT 6820 |
2 |
| PHTT 6835: Medical Diagnostics for Physical Therapists This course provides students with the opportunity to develop their skills to identify patients with medical conditions outside the physical therapy practice scope. The focus is differential diagnosis through history and physical exam and not physical therapy intervention. The differential diagnosis is between musculoskeletal conditions and medical/psychological conditions commonly seen in outpatient settings. The course emphasizes conditions that should not be treated by physical therapists or conditions that require physical therapy intervention in direct consultation with other health care professionals (mainly physicians, dentists, and psychotherapists). The course will cover common laboratory tests applied to physical therapy (blood tests, urine analysis, synovial fluid analysis, cerebral spinal fluid). The course will also discuss the findings of imaging tests in diseases affecting the musculoskeletal system. Students are encouraged to apply the information learned in this course in their clinical internships and discuss each topic among themselves and with the instructors. Prerequisites: PHTT 6810 and PHTT 6716 |
3 |
| PHTT 6812: Topics in Clinical Education Topics in Clinical Education is designed to prepare students for clinical internship site selection for full-time clinical internships that take place in the 4th year. Topics include contemporary issues in clinical education, needs analysis of site selection, self-assessment and clinical education goal setting, and review of legislative and regulatory requirements. This class will assist students to compile and track all documents required for their Clinical Education Compliance Folder |
2 |
| Total: | 10 |
| course | credits |
|---|---|
| PHTT 6821: Musculoskeletal III This course is an evidence-based approach to the management of musculoskeletal disorders of the spine. Students will acquire the requisite skills necessary to examine, manage, and prevent musculoskeletal impairments; functional limitations; and disabilities of the spine. The course will address lumbar, thoracic, costal, cervical, sacroiliac, pelvis, temporomandibular, and headache disorders. Students are prepared for entry level patient/client management including the ability to perform an examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, and the ability to select optimum interventions. Moreover, students will acquire the knowledge necessary to accurately disseminate information (verbal and written/documented) related to the examination and management of spine disorders to patients and clients and across the broad range of health care disciplines. Case studies are utilized in conjunction with lecture and interactive teaching and learning to assist students in integrating the didactic knowledge into simulated and real life scenarios. |
2 |
| * PHTT 6821L: Musculoskeletal III Lab This course will emphasize the psychomotor and affective skills required when providing the associated musculoskeletal examination and interventions addressed in PHTT 6821. Students are instructed and mentored in the selection and application of tests, measurements, and physical therapy interventions. Case studies are utilized in conjunction with interactive teaching and learning to assist students in integrating the techniques into simulated and real-life scenarios relevant to the musculoskeletal system. Co-requisite: PHTT 6821 |
2 |
| PHTT 6830: Neuromuscular Systems I Neuromuscular Systems I addresses the examination and treatment of adults with neuromuscular disorders. Students apply knowledge from Neuroanatomy and Neuroscience to the clinical management of patients with neurological conditions. Neuromuscular Systems I provides the foundational concepts and clinical reasoning for choosing tests and measures used during PT examination of the neurological patient, including sensory and motor tests; examination of motor function, motor learning, and coordination; cranial nerves; functional mobility; selfcare and activities of daily living; community function; arousal, attention, and cognition; and balance, gait, and disease-specific tests. The foundational concepts for procedural interventions related to neuro-rehabilitation will be addressed. These include indications, precautions, and contraindications, as well as evidence-based recommendations for therapeutic exercise; balance and gait retraining; manual techniques and facilitation; electric stimulation; mobility training; upper extremity reach, grasp, and manipulation training; positioning, supportive, and protective devices; wheelchairs; and community re-entry. Prerequisites: ANA 5423 and PHTT 6816 |
3 |
| * PHTT 6830L: Neuromuscular Systems I Lab This course is the laboratory component of Neuromuscular Systems I which addresses the psychomotor skills needed for the examination and treatment of patients with neuromuscular disorders. The students will be exposed to a variety of clinical tests and measures including patient history; sensory testing (superficial, deep, and cortical sensations) by both peripheral nerve distribution and dermatome; myotome and manual muscle testing; motor function and coordination testing; balance, gait, and mobility testing; arousal, attention, and cognitive tests; environmental, home, and work/play barriers; self-care and home management (including ADLs and IADL testing); job/school/play reintegration testing; and assistive/adaptive device testing. Disease-specific tests and measures will also be performed. Psychomotor treatment skills will include balance and gait training, including body weight-supported treadmill training; therapeutic exercise to improve muscle performance, mobility, balance, and coordination for the neurological patient; functional training, self-care and home management in ADLs and IADLs; work/play integration; manual therapy techniques, positioning, and facilitation; and prescription and application of assistive and supportive devices; as well as physical agents and electrotherapeutic modalities. Prerequisites: ANA 5423 and PHTT 6816 |
2 |
| PHTT 6817: Pediatrics This course focuses on the physical therapy management of the pediatric patient/client and role of family-centered care. Students gain an understanding of typical infant and child development as it relates to movement. Using this foundation, students will analyze movement dysfunction exhibited in high-risk infants and children who have common childhood pathologies. Typical development is presented in the context of applying current motor control theories to predictable developmental sequences, motor progressions, and achievement of motor milestones. Atypical child motor dysfunction related to developmental delays; CNS damage; orthopedic conditions, respiratory conditions; sensory processing dysfunction; multisystem impairments; and congenital, neurological, and neuromuscular disorders content is covered to promote critical thinking and establishment of appropriate physical therapy management. Students become familiarized with commonly used pediatric screens, tests, and measurements. Guide to Physical Therapist Practice patterns (examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, and evidence-based interventions) are applied in context. Management incorporating use/need for assistive devices, technologies, adapted equipment (i.e., wheelchair prescription and seating), orthotics, and bracing, as well as use of newer interventions for the pediatric patient/client, are presented. Delegation and supervision of support personnel, legal/ ethical issues related to delivery of care, documentation, interdisciplinary team management, cultural issues, reimbursement, and patient/family and teacher education are explored. Content is presented through lecture, lab, case studies, large and small group discussion, and community-based activities. |
3 |
| Total: | 12 |
Fourth Year Students
| course | credits |
|---|---|
| PHTT 6914: Neuromuscular II Neuromuscular II integrates concepts from Neuroscience and Neuromuscular Systems I to engage students in the patient/client management of patients with neuromuscular dysfunction. Students are exposed to a variety of case studies, representing all adult neuromuscular practice patterns in the Guide to Physical Therapist Practice, to integrate and apply previously learned neuromuscular skills to patient scenarios. Emphasis is placed on clinical reasoning during all steps of patient/client management, the ability to apply evidence in practice, design and execution of patient/client-related instruction, delegation to support personnel, and documentation of all aspects of care. This class also addresses primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention for patients with neuromuscular conditions. |
2 |
| * PHTT 6914L: Neuromuscular II Lab This course is the laboratory component of Neuromuscular II. In it, students will perform all aspects of patient/client management including examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, development of a plan of care, procedural interventions, and outcome measurement. Students will apply these techniques to a variety of case studies, representing the scope of adult practice patterns in the Guide to Physical Therapist Practice. Neuromuscular II culminates in an intense, one-week laboratory experience, the Neuro Boot Camp, in which students work with real patients who have complicated neuromuscular disorders in a faculty-supervised setting. Students are responsible for performing a thorough examination, writing a comprehensive plan of care, performing procedural interventions, providing patient instruction, and communicating with caregivers. |
2 |
| PHTT 6920: Applied Clinical Decision Making Students apply problem solving heuristics, analyze case presentations of multifactor movement dysfunction, synthesize patient problem lists from collected data, develop intervention strategies, and evaluate the outcome of assessment and intervention decisions. The course integrates material from the foundational medical and clinical sciences and student clinical experiences. Accordingly, students demonstrate differential diagnosis and treatment planning across the life span as well as select and justify interventions, recommend referrals, and establish discharge dispositions. Student learning and course participation is driven by mock and real clinical cases and clinical experiences. Content experts guide cognitive domain discussion and the decision-making process, assess the affective domain and compliance with professional ethical standards, and evaluate complex overt performance of psychomotor tasks. Students will develop initial plans for examination and assessment, perform assessments, analyze and interpret test results, prepare written intervention plans, perform interventions, and suggest potential outcome assessments. Students will justify and modify treatment plans to account for changes in the patients status. In addition, students will prepare and present a clinical case report to the assembled class at the conclusion of the term. Topics for the clinical cases and clinical experiences will cover a broad spectrum of conditions seen by physical therapists in the clinical setting. |
4 |
| Total: | 8 |
| course | credits |
|---|---|
| PHTT 6911: Tier IIA Clinical Education Internship (10 weeks) This is the first of three full-time, clinical affiliation courses occurring in the 4th year. This course will provide senior physical therapy students the opportunity to intern in a physical therapy practice setting. Students will apply their knowledge and skills to develop skills in patient client management, clinical decision making, and evidence based practice. All 4th year clinical internships are 12 weeks in length and occur during the fall and winter semesters. The culmination of these 3 internships is achievement of entry-level practice in all criteria of the APTA Clinical Performance Instrument. Over the 3 internships, students are required to participate in settings that in total represent the depth and breadth of physical therapy practice including: continuum of care, acuity, lifespan and medical complexity. During the full-time clinical internships, students will execute the patient/client management model utilizing the Guide to Physical Therapist Practice by performing patient examinations, evaluations, establishing diagnoses & prognoses, developing the Plan of Care and performing interventions. |
6 |
| PHTT 6921: Tier IIB (10 weeks) This is the second of three senior, full-time, clinical affiliation courses. Students will complete an extended internship in multifaceted health care organizations with the goal of bringing their skills to entry level for both inpatient and outpatient care. Students will also have the opportunity to choose a specialty area in physical therapy practice and complete a portion of the internship in that specialty area. See PHTT 6911. |
6 |
| PHTT 6931: Tier IIC (12 weeks) This is the last of three, full-time, clinical affiliation courses. Students will complete an extended internship in multifaceted health care organizations with the goal of bringing their skills to entry level for both inpatient and outpatient care. Students will also have the opportunity to choose a specialty area in physical therapy practice and complete a portion of the internship in that specialty area. See PHTT 6911. |
6 |
| PHTT 6930: Wrap-up and Review The course provides a conclusion to TIER II as well as the didactic portion of the curriculum. Students present their Values portfolio and participate in licensure examination preparation classes and seminars. |
1 |
| PHTT 6904-Evidence in Practice Capstone Project Students present their Evidence in Practice Capstone to faculty, classmate, and the local physical therapy community. This presentation is the culmination of work completed during Tier II clinical internships and demonstrates the ability to apply research evidence in clinical practice. |
2 |
| Total: | 21 |