ENTRY-LEVEL DPT
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS AND SCHEDULE
Nova Southeastern University Physical Therapy Program
Entry DPT Curriculum

 Year 1 Summer - 12 weeks

PHS 5400
Physiology (3 credits- 12 weeks)
This foundational science course presents the normal physiology of all major body systems, with emphasis on the musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, cardiopulmonary, and integumentary systems.
Top ^

ANA 5420
Anatomy (5 credits - 9 weeks)
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 cadaver lab format. It addresses gross structures of the human body, and integrates topographic and radiographic anatomy stress the importance to clinical practice.
Top ^

PHT 5611
Professional Development – Introduction to Physical Therapy (3 credits - 9 weeks)
Introduces the new PT student to the program and the PT profession. It addresses the history of physical therapy, the Guide to Physical Therapy Practice, and medical terminology. Professional socialization begins through introduction to ethical and professional standards (including decision-making, supervision, and delegation) and state and federal laws governing PT practice (including issues requiring advocacy). Certifications required for clinical practice such as CPR, AIDS etc. will be acquired. Students are required to join the American Physical Therapy Association.

PHT 5610 
Clinical Applications of Anatomy for Physical Therapists (1 Credit - 9 weeks)
This course addresses anatomical knowledge specific to the practice of physical therapy.  It is an in-depth study of joint anatomy including muscular attachments, ligamentous structures, innervations, and contribution to movement.  Palpation of key bony and soft-tissue structures will be introduced.  ANA 5420 is a prerequisite to this course.

Top ^

Year 1 Fall -16 weeks

PHT 6710
Clinical Skills I – (3 credits)
Introduces students to basic PT examination and interventions in accordance with the patient management model found in the Guide to Physical Therapy Practice . Students will safely interact and communicate with patients including history taking and producing documentation of patient status. Safe performance of psychomotor skills such as patient postural assessments, positioning and draping, palpation addressing surface anatomy of the head, trunk and extremities, bed mobility, transfers, the use of assistive gait devices, vital signs monitoring, and patient guarding and handling techniques will be emphasized. An overview of the terms related to CPT-coding and reimbursement will be provided.
Top ^

PCO 6714
Pharmacology (3 credits)
The goal of this course is to provide the student with the basic principles required to understand the selection, mechanisms, and therapeutic applications of classes of drugs used in medicine. This course will define terminology; discuss receptor theory and basic pharmacokinetics of drug classes commonly used in clinical practice. Students will identify adverse effects of selected drugs based on signs and symptoms. The implications for physical therapy related to medications and exercise, cognition, and function will be addressed.
Top ^

PHT 6715
Essentials of Biomechanics and Kinesiology (3 credits)
This is a basic science course to introduce physical therapy students to the study of Kinesiology. The students will integrate their anatomy knowledge of muscle and joint structures into the study of joint motion and functional movements. The course introduces the student to basic principles of biomechanics, which serves as the foundation for understanding kinesiology. This includes kinetics, kinematics, and tissue biomechanics. The course will be structured by body parts: the upper extremity, the lower extremity, and the spine. Once the regional knowledge of kinesiology is understood, the final outcome of the course will be to learn and comprehend complex kinesiologic analysis: gait, posture, and functional movements.
Top ^

PHT 6705
Essentials of Exercise Physiology (2 credits)
Describes the normal response to exercise and training on the cardiac, pulmonary, musculoskeletal, neural, and endocrine systems of the human body. It explains nutritional considerations as they relate to work performance. The various methods of training for increased strength, cardiovascular fitness, and endurance, and the effects of physical activities and work-related stress on the human organism will be discussed. It includes 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.
Top ^

PHT 6716
Medical Pathology for PTs (3 credits)
Provides a discussion of selected pathological processes across the lifespan. An overview of medical and surgical management of these dysfunctions will be presented. Use of the Nagi Disablement Model complements the medical model for a more in-depth focus on the functional consequences of these dysfunctions. The Disablement Model allows assessment of the impact of acute and chronic conditions on the functioning of specific body systems (impairments) and basic human performance (functional limitations).
Top ^

Year 1 Winter - 16 weeks

PHT 6720
Clinical Skills II (3 credits)
Presents models for clinical decision-making including the patient care management model as presented in the Guide to Physical Therapy Practice. Students will learn to safely apply assessment and intervention techniques that address range of motion and strength deficits, pain and soft tissue dysfunction. Safe performance of psychomotor skills such as goniometric measurements, AROM exercises, MMT, tilt and standing table, superficial thermal modalities, and therapeutic massage techniques will be emphasized.
Top ^

PHT 6725
Cardiovascular and Pulmonary PT (3 credits)
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. The effects of exercise and health promotion to prevent coronary heart disease and respiratory dysfunction as well as the specific effects of exercise on risk factors related to these systems will be addressed. Students will demonstrate cardiopulmonary PT examination procedures, treatment planning and documentation across all clinical settings, and explore interventions related to exercise and airway clearance. The relevance of clinical laboratory values associated with these dysfunctions will also be addressed. 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. Pre-requisite: PHT 6705; Ex. Physiology and PHT 6714; Pharmacology.
Top ^

PHT 6722
Integumentary PT (2 credits)
The structure and function of the integument and lymphatic systems are presented. Students will safely perform physical therapy assessment and 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 explored.
Top ^

PHT 6701
Professional Development – Communication and Cultural Competence (2 credits)
Students will explore the concepts of inter-professional and interpersonal communication, and the negotiation and team building concepts and skills needed to function effectively as part of a group or team in the healthcare environment. Communication (written verbal and non-verbal) methods with the patient/client, their families and other members of the health care team will be explored and practiced. The concepts of cultural competence related to healthcare will also be explored. Discussions will include epidemiology and healthcare access issues as they relate to culture. Specifically the patterns of illness in various populations, health promotion, health status, injury, environmental health, occupational health, maternal and child health, organization of community health, health of racial/ethnic and senior groups, and mental health and substance abuse issues will be described.
Top ^

PHT 6700
Introduction to Research Methods and Design (3 Credits)
This course addresses global concepts of research.  The role of theory in clinical research is included, and ethical issues in clinical research are explored.  Students will be introduced to the principles of reliability, and validity of measurement, and will develop an understanding of the four levels of measurement: nominal, ordinal, interval, and ratio. In addition, the outline of the capstone project (Year 3 Fall Semester) will be introduced. The Analysis part will address multiple areas of quantitative data analysis.  Students will learn about descriptive statistics and measures of variability, as well as statistical inference (including Type 1 and Type 2 errors).  In addition, students determine which statistical tools to apply to what kind of data including the basic use of the SPSS statistical software. Students will learn about the various types of designs, the researcher’s role in the process, and the procedures for data collection, data recording, and data analysis in qualitative research.  The assumptions of qualitative designs will also be presented. Students will learn about the various types of designs, the researcher's role in the process, and the procedures for data collection, data recording, and data analysis in qualitative research. In addition, students will address the verifications steps, what is triangulation, and what are the elements of the qualitative narrative.
Top ^

ANA 5423
Neuroanatomy (3 credits - 9 weeks)
Provides a study of the gross structure of the brain and spinal cord and the functional relationship among their parts. Emphasizes major motor and sensory pathways and integrative mechanisms of the central nervous system. The neuro-physiological basis of movement and motor control will be addressed. Motor programming, motor learning principles, central pattern generators, postural control, plasticity, and the role of various motor centers in regulation of movement will be emphasized.
Top ^

PHT 6706
Tier 1A Clinical Education (2 credit)
This is a self-contained clinical education model where students are directly supervised in the clinic by academic faculty. Students concurrently practice the evaluation and treatment skills learned in the curriculum. Emphasis is on developing skills in professional behavior, clinical safety, communication, therapeutic presences, assessment, examination, screening, treatment planning and performance of basic skill intervention. Theories and issues related to aging and geriatric physical therapy will be explored relative to current health care trends and predictions. From a client management perspective, students will get a global perspective on interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary roles in the aging adult.
Top ^

Year 2 Summer - 12 weeks

PHT 6810
Musculoskeletal I (2 credits - 8 weeks)
Emphasizes the musculoskeletal system by addressing relevant Guide to Physical Therapy practice patterns as they relate to the upper extremity/upper quarter including diagnostic classifications, ICD-9 codes, examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, and interventions related to these patterns. 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 relevant to musculoskeletal conditions .
The course combines knowledge of physiological characteristics of movement with the neuro-physiological mechanisms that produce movement.
Top ^

PHT 6810L
Musculoskeletal I Lab (2 credits - 8 weeks)
Emphasizes the psychomotor and affective skills required when providing the associated musculoskeletal interventions of manual exercise, fitness training, and functional mobility training addressed in Musculoskeletal I. 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 relevant to musculoskeletal conditions. Must be taken in conjunction with PHT 6810.
Top ^

PHT 6815
Physical Agents (3 credits - 8 weeks)
This course will emphasize both cognitive and psychomotor knowledge related to electro- and thermo- modalities. Basic science information related to physiological effects, indications, and contra-indications 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.
Top ^

PHT 6811
Tier IB Clinical Education (2 credits - 4 weeks)
The skills and knowledge of teaching and learning principles are essential for successful outcomes in the physical therapist’s professional role as an advocate of wellness and prevention. This course explores both the theoretical basis and the practical techniques related to: patient-related instruction, designing educational programs/in-services, evaluating program/teaching effectiveness, facilitating behavior change, creating professional presentations, and engaging in clinical education. Students will also explore factors that impact learning across the lifespan.
Top ^

PHT 6822
Teaching & Learning in Physical Therapy (2 credits - 8 weeks)
The skills and knowledge of teaching and learning principles are essential for successful outcomes in the physical therapist’s professional role as an advocate of wellness and prevention. This course explores both the theoretical basis and the practical techniques related to: patient-related instruction, designing educational programs/in-services, evaluating program/teaching effectiveness, facilitating behavior change, creating professional presentations, and engaging in clinical education. Students will also explore factors that impact learning across the lifespan.
Top ^

Year 2 Fall - 19 weeks

PHT 6820
Musculoskeletal II (3 credits - 15 weeks)
Students will acquire the skills needed to manage and prevent movement-related musculoskeletal problems of the musculoskeletal system by addressing relevant practice patterns as they relate to the lower extremity/lower quarter, and pelvic floor dysfunction diagnostic classifications, ICD-9 codes, examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, and interventions related to these patterns. 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.
Top ^

PHT 6820L
Musculoskeletal II Lab (2 credits - 15 weeks)
Emphasizes the psychomotor and affective skills required when providing the associated musculoskeletal interventions addressed in PHT 6820 Musculoskeletal II. Students will acquire the skills needed to manage and prevent movement-related musculoskeletal problems of the musculoskeletal system by addressing relevant practice patterns as they relate to the lower extremity/lower quarter, and pelvic floor dysfunction diagnostic classifications, ICD-9 codes, examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, and interventions related to these patterns. 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 relevant to musculoskeletal conditions . Must be taken in conjunction with PHT 6820.
Top ^

PHT 6816
Neuroscience (2 Credits - 15 weeks)
Neurological Systems I provides the foundation 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 as well as movement dysfunction that result 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.
Top ^

PHT 6802
Evidence-Based Practice (2 credits) 
This course is based on Sackett's model of evidence-based practice, which is defined as "the explicit, judicious and conscientious use of the current best evidence from health care research in making decisions about the health care of individuals..." It is the integration of research evidence, clinical expertise, and patient values in making the best clinical decisions. Students will formulate answerable clinical questions, conduct efficient literature searches, and critically appraise the research evidence. In addition, students will learn about the work of the Philadelphia Panel and APTA's Hooked on Evidence project, and the relationship of outcome measures to evidence based practice.
Top ^

PHT 6817
Pediatrics (3 credits - 15 weeks)
Management of infants, children, adolescents and young adults with complex central nervous system (CNS) and multisystem disorders will be presented. Musculoskeletal impairments, neuropathology, examination, evaluation, physical therapy diagnosis, prognosis, and fundamental interventions will be stressed for a broad range of pediatric populations. Both acquired injuries and congenital disorders will be included. Assistive devices and technologies, adapted equipment (i.e. wheelchair prescription and seating), orthotics, and bracing for the pediatric client will be presented. Issues of supervision, delegation, legal/ethical issues, documentation, interdisciplinary team approaches, cultural concerns, reimbursement based on settings are explored. Content is presented through lecture, lab, case studies, large and small group discussion and observations of pediatric physical therapists.
Top ^

PHT 6831
Tier IC Clinical Education (2 credits – 4 weeks)
A variety of patient types will be observed during a 4-week full-time immersion in a clinical setting. Students will see patients/clients at assigned clinical sites to apply examination, evaluation and treatment skills. Students will integrate the didactic information from the first year and be exposed to professional roles and issues in an authentic context. Licensed physical therapists or academic faculty will provide direct supervision of students.
Top ^

Year 2 Winter - 16 weeks

PHT 6821
Musculoskeletal III (2 credits)
This course will emphasize the musculoskeletal system by addressing relevant practice patterns as they relate to the lower extremity/lower quarter including diagnostic classifications, ICD-9 codes, examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, and interventions related to these patterns. 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.
Top ^

PHT 6821L
Musculoskeletal III Lab (2 credits)
Emphasizes the psychomotor and affective skills required when providing the associated lower extremity/lower quarter musculoskeletal interventions addressed in PHT 6820 Musculoskeletal III. It addresses relevant practice patterns including diagnostic classifications, ICD-9 codes, examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, and interventions related to these patterns. 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. Must be taken in conjunction with PHT 6821.
Top ^

PHT 6830
Neuromuscular I (3 Credits)
This course introduces common neurological/ neuromuscular and related disorders encountered by physical therapy practitioners working with the pediatric/early lifespan patient to the adult population. It addresses relevant practice patterns of the neuromuscular system in accordance with the Guide to Physical Therapy Practice. This includes diagnostic classifications, and ICD 9 codes. It facilitates the integration of pathophysiology and clinical medicine to develop and refine cognitive and psychomotor skills of examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, goal setting, treatment planning and interventions for the early lifespan patient. The impact of assistive and adaptive equipment such as orthotics, casts, splints, wheelchair seating and mobility, and gait devices in comprehensive care planning for early lifespan through adult populations with neurological/ neuromuscular disorders, is integrated with education, prevention/wellness and ongoing therapeutic strategies.

Evidence based research studies related to pediatrics and early lifespan ---through the adult lifespan will be analyzed for efficacy and outcomes with respect to therapeutic interventions used with this patient population.

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 documentation and laboratory skills. Neurological Systems I:PHT 6816 is a course pre-requisite.
Top ^

PHT 6830L
Neuromuscular I (2 Credits)
This course is the laboratory component of Neuromuscular II, which addresses common neurological/ neuromuscular and related disorders encountered by physical therapy practitioners working with the pediatric/early lifespan patient to the adult population.
Case studies and simulated and real-life scenarios will be used to assist students in integrating didactic knowledge, including documentation and laboratory skills. Specific laboratory skills relate to assistive and adaptive equipment such as orthotics, casts, splints, wheelchair seating and mobility, and gait devices in comprehensive care planning for early lifespan through adult populations with neurological/ neuromuscular disorders. This is integrated with education, prevention/wellness and ongoing therapeutic strategies. Must be taken in conjunction with PHT 6830.
Top ^

PHT 6835
Medical Diagnostics for Physical Therapists (3 credits)
This course provides the student a thorough understanding of medical diagnostics commonly used to identify and diagnose dysfunctions and diseases of all body systems relevant to physical therapy. Emphasis will be placed on basic principles, basic terminology, significance of findings, and appropriate use.
Top ^

PHT 6841
Tier ID Clinical Education (1 credit)
This is the second of a self-contained clinical education model where students are directly supervised in the clinic by academic faculty. Students concurrently practice the evaluation and treatment skills learned in the curriculum. It is the final TIER I rotation.
Top ^

Year 3 Summer - 12 weeks

PHT 6914
Neuromuscular II (2 Credits - 9 weeks)
Neurological Systems III continues to address the adult population is in Neuro II. It integrates the foundational and clinical knowledge from prior courses. In accordance with the Guide to Physical Therapy Practice, this course introduces common neurological/neuromuscular and related disorders encountered by physical therapy practitioners, and addresses relevant practice patterns of the neuromuscular system, including diagnostic classifications, and ICD 9 codes in the adult population. It facilitates the integration of pathophysiology and clinical medicine to develop and refine cognitive and psychomotor skills of examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, goal setting, treatment planning and interventions for the adult patient. The impact of assistive and adaptive equipment such as orthotics, casts, splints, wheelchair seating and mobility, and gait devices in comprehensive care planning for adult neuromuscular involved individuals, is integrated with education, prevention/ wellness and ongoing therapeutic strategies.

Evidence based research studies related to the adult – through the adult lifespan, will be analyzed for efficacy and outcomes with respect to therapeutic interventions used with this population. 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.
Top ^

PHT 6914L
Neuromuscular II (2 Credits - 9 weeks)

This course is the laboratory component of Neuromuscular III, which addresses common neurological/ neuromuscular and related disorders encountered by physical therapy practitioners working with the adult population.

Case studies and simulated and real-life scenarios will be used to assist students in integrating didactic knowledge, including documentation and laboratory skills. Specific laboratory skills relate to assistive and adaptive equipment such as orthotics, casts, splints, wheelchair seating and mobility, and gait devices in comprehensive care planning for early lifespan through adult populations with neurological/ neuromuscular disorders. This is integrated with education, prevention/wellness and ongoing therapeutic strategies. Must be taken in conjunction with PHT 6911.
Top ^

PHT 6915
Prosthetics & Orthotics (3 credits - 9 weeks)
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. Orthotic needs associated with neurological problems, wounds, obesity, arthritis, pain etc. will be further addressed.
Top ^

PHT 6823
Professional Development – The Business of Physical Therapy (3 credits - 9 weeks)
Is devoted to understanding the structure and function of the United States health care delivery system. This course explores the regulatory, economic and financial responsibilities of the physical therapy manager in the utilization of human and material resources within a variety of healthcare environments. Students will develop knowledge and skills to effectively manage in various healthcare settings.
Top ^

PHT 6920
Applied Clinical Decision Making (4 credits – 12 weeks)
This course prepares students to engage in advanced differential diagnosis and patient/client management based on the preferred practice patterns defined in the Guide to Physical Therapist Practice : Musculoskeletal, Neuromuscular, Cardiopulmonary, and Integumentary/Systems. It integrates the foundational medical and clinical sciences with clinical signs and symptoms in the cognitive, affective and psychomotor domains for appropriate examination, evaluation, prognosis determination, establishment of progressive plans of care across all settings, interventions, referral and determination of discharge disposition, for complex, multi-system cases through the lifespan.
Evidence based research will be applied to justification of therapeutic interventions and patient/client management decisions.

Year 3 Fall - 16 weeks

PHT 6904
Research Capstone Project (3 credits - 16 weeks)
The student and faculty advisor will come to agreement on the final assignment required for this course. The assignment may consist of any one of the following: a) a comprehensive case study from the student's clinical internship experiences; b) a comprehensive literature review on a specified topic area; c) a research proposal; or d) a research project. The quality of the written assignment must be such that it is publication ready for a peer-reviewed journal before the end of the course. All assignments must therefore follow the format of the journal in which the student intends to publish or the associated grant application.
Top ^

PHT 6911
Tier IIA Clinical Education Internship (4 credits - 8 weeks)
This is the first of four senior full-time, clinical affiliation courses. The course begins with an orientation to clinical education and other issues needed to prepare students for the clinical internship. Students then complete an internship in a primary care setting.
Top ^

PHT 6921
Tier IIB Clinical Education Internship (4 credits - 8 weeks)
This is the second full-time, clinical affiliation course. Students will complete an extended internship in multifaceted healthcare organizations with the goal of bringing their skills to entry-level for both inpatient and outpatient care.
Top ^

Year 3 Winter/Summer 16 weeks

PHT 6931
Tier IIC Clinical Education Internship (4 credits - 8 weeks)
This is the third full-time, clinical affiliation course. Students will complete an extended internship in multifaceted healthcare organizations with the goal of bringing their skills to entry-level for both inpatient and outpatient care.
Top ^

PHT 6941
Tier IID Clinical Education Internship (4 credits - 8 weeks)
This is the final full-time, clinical affiliation course. Students will complete an extended internship in multifaceted healthcare organizations with the goal of bringing their skills to entry-level for both inpatient and outpatient care.
Top ^

PHT 6930
Wrap-up (2 credits)
This course is offered at the end of students’ clinical and didactic course work. It provides a review of physical therapy concepts, a comprehensive examination addressing  the curriculum content will be administered. Additionally, preparation for the job market, the management of the graduation process and commencement exercises, as well as financial aid exit procedures, outcomes studies data collection, and other CAPTE-required and program activities. The course also prepares  students for taking the National Physical Therapy Examination. It is a hybrid course, combining on-line and on-campus instruction.
Top ^

PHT 6910
Independent Study (1-6 credits)
Individualized study completed under the supervision of an instructor. Requires permission of the Physical Therapy Department Chair or the Program Director.
Top ^