This course provides an in-depth study of human anatomy with a strong emphasis on applied anatomical principles. Students will examine embryology, histology, and functional anatomy in relation to human movement across the lifespan. This course integrates 3D anatomy software, living and surface anatomy, palpation, and synthetic human anatomical models to enhance hands-on learning. The course covers all major anatomical regions and their interrelationships in movement and function. Emphasis is placed on clinical application to prepare students for evidence-based physical therapy practice.
This course addresses the physiologic principles necessary for physical activity and the associated physiological effects of exercise across the lifespan. This course explores the physiology and pathophysiology of disease and disability as it relates to common conditions found in healthcare and the practice of physical therapy.
This course explores foundational knowledge of the neuroscience of the movement system, with emphasis on the neuroanatomical structures and neurophysiological functions of the motor and sensory systems that regulate movement. Emphasis will be placed on the structure and functions of the movement system that contribute to neurological dysfunction. The course addresses the essential elements of the neurologic examination, including assessment tools, clinical problem solving that integrates neurological structure and function, and standard outcome measures used in neurologic populations across the lifespan.
This course emphasizes the integration of exercise science principles into prevention health, wellness, and fitness. Topics include injury prevention, nutritional influences, fitness testing, and exercise prescription in apparently healthy individuals. Clinical applications include developing injury prevention and exercise programs based on test results and adapting interventions for specific healthy populations using appropriate clinical procedures.
This course introduces the principles of biomechanics, kinesiology, and movement. Foundation concepts of motor control, motor development, and motor learning are presented. Functional anatomy and biomechanical concepts are reinforced through analysis of simple and complex movements, including typical gait. Movement analysis constructs and the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) model are applied to integrate theory with clinical decision-making in physical therapy practice.
Introduces general research and evidence-based principles by exploring research methodologies used in health care research. Examines the formulation of clinical questions, searches appropriate literature sources, and critically appraises the evidence. Addresses literature searches and evidence-based analysis of research with emphasis on clinical decision-making. Introduces the student to the physical therapist as a consumer of the literature.
This course expands elements of applied research design and statistics that foster students becoming intelligent consumers of scientific literature. Items related to measurement, research design, statistical analysis, critical inquiry, and strength of evidence are presented. Provides a framework for subsequent courses in which scientific foundations of physical therapy practice are presented.
The first of four courses on the musculoskeletal system, this course emphasizes dysfunctions of the lumbar spine, pelvis, and hip region. Content includes regional differential diagnosis, examination, assessment, intervention planning/ implementation, and establishing a physical therapy diagnosis and prognosis. Evidence-based interventions focus on patient education, manual therapy, and therapeutic exercise within a patient-centered approach across the lifespan. Clinical pharmacology relevant to musculoskeletal conditions is addressed, with attention to medication implications and potential adverse effects. Diagnostic testing, including laboratory values, imaging, and other studies, is also considered.
The second of four courses on the musculoskeletal system, this course emphasizes dysfunctions of the lower extremities. Content includes regional differential diagnosis, examination, assessment, intervention planning/ implementation, and establishing a physical therapy diagnosis and prognosis. Evidence-based interventions focus on patient education, manual therapy, and therapeutic exercise within a patient-centered approach across the lifespan. Clinical pharmacology relevant to musculoskeletal conditions is addressed, with attention to medication implications and potential adverse effects. Diagnostic testing, including laboratory values, imaging, and other studies, is also considered.
The third of four courses on the musculoskeletal system, this course emphasizes dysfunctions of the cervicothoracic, temporomandibular joint, and rib region. Content includes regional differential diagnosis, examination, assessment, intervention planning/ implementation, and establishing a physical therapy diagnosis and prognosis. Evidence-based interventions focus on patient education, manual therapy, and therapeutic exercise within a patient-centered approach across the lifespan. Clinical pharmacology relevant to musculoskeletal conditions is addressed, with attention to medication implications and potential adverse effects. Diagnostic testing, including laboratory values, imaging, and other studies, is also considered.
The fourth of four courses on the musculoskeletal system, this course emphasizes dysfunctions of the upper extremities. Content includes regional differential diagnosis, examination, assessment, intervention planning/ implementation, and establishing a physical therapy diagnosis and prognosis. Evidence-based interventions focus on patient education, manual therapy, and therapeutic exercise within a patient-centered approach across the lifespan. Clinical pharmacology relevant to musculoskeletal conditions is addressed, with attention to medication implications and potential adverse effects. Diagnostic testing, including laboratory values, imaging, and other studies, is also considered.
The first of two courses on the neuromuscular system, this course emphasizes the management of patients with acquired brain injuries, including cerebral vascular accident and traumatic brain injury. Content includes differential diagnosis, examination, assessment, intervention planning and implementation, and establishing a physical therapy diagnosis and prognosis, guided by the ICF model. Evidence-based interventions integrate principles of motor control, motor learning, and theoretical constructs within the patient/client management model. Clinical pharmacology relevant to neuromuscular conditions is addressed, with attention to medication implications and potential adverse effects. Diagnostic testing, including laboratory values, imaging, and other studies, is also considered.
The second of two courses on the neuromuscular system, this course emphasizes the management of patients with spinal cord injury, vestibular disorders, Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, other neuromuscular disorders, and central nervous system cancers. Content includes differential diagnosis, examination, assessment, intervention planning and implementation, and establishing a physical therapy diagnosis and prognosis, guided by the ICF model. Evidence-based interventions integrate principles of motor control, motor learning, and theoretical constructs within the patient/client management model. Clinical pharmacology relevant to neuromuscular conditions is addressed, with attention to medication implications and potential adverse effects. Diagnostic testing, including laboratory values, imaging, and other studies, is also considered.
This course emphasizes dysfunctions of the cardiovascular and pulmonary systems, including conditions with cardiovascular, metabolic, and pulmonary causes of movement dysfunction. Content includes differential diagnosis, examination, assessment, intervention planning and implementation, and establishing a physical therapy diagnosis and prognosis. Evidence-based interventions focus on patient education, therapeutic exercise, and rehabilitation strategies within a patient-centered approach across the lifespan and continuum of care. Clinical pharmacology relevant to cardiopulmonary conditions is addressed, with attention to medication implications and potential adverse effects. Diagnostic testing, including laboratory values, imaging, and other studies, is also considered.
This course introduces the patient management framework used throughout the curriculum and the fundamental skills essential across physical therapy practice settings. Content includes functional mobility and transfers, mobility device management, and basic examination measures such as goniometry, range of motion, manual muscle testing, and anthropometric assessment. Techniques for interviewing, documentation, systems review, and outcome measures are introduced to develop core examination, intervention, and clinical reasoning skills.
This course introduces the principles and application of selected physical agents for the management of patients with pain and tissue injury, addressing impairments related to mobility, strength, and motor control across diverse practice settings. Foundational concepts of pain science are presented in relation to pain management and the clinical use of modalities. Current evidence and clinical decision-making are integrated to emphasize appropriate selection, instruction, and progression of interventions.
This course advances clinical decision-making in the evidence-based selection, instruction, and progression of interventions applicable across the lifespan and practice settings. Focus areas include the principles and application of therapeutic exercise and manual therapy for patients with pain, tissue injury, and impairments of mobility, strength, and motor control.
This course addresses pathological gait and its management through the integration of orthotics, prosthetics, and bracing in patients with diverse movement disorders across the lifespan. Functional and surgical anatomy of upper and lower limb amputations, as well as conditions requiring lower quarter orthotic and prosthetic intervention, are presented. Emphasis is placed on gait and movement analysis, residual limb management, orthotic and prosthetic management, amputee rehabilitation, and gait training to advance core examination, intervention, and clinical reasoning skills.
This course introduces the professional roles and responsibilities expected of practicing physical therapists, including their role as members of intra- and interprofessional healthcare teams. The course emphasizes professional conduct, supports the process of professional formation, and cultivates lifelong learning skills necessary for the development of a physical therapy practitioner. Throughout the course, students explore the ethics, core values, and responsibilities of the physical therapist. The course also examines the importance of professional communication with patients, families, and other healthcare providers, emphasizing respect for individuals, their cultural diversities, and varying abilities.
This course prepares students professionally and emotionally for clinical practice, as lifelong learners and educators in the physical therapy profession. Explores major forms of health care delivery and how they interact with physical therapy services, including but not limited to medical ethics, legal issues, health care regulations, billing, and risk management strategies. This course builds on professional communication between providers within and external to the profession.