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PHTH 600N - Human Gross Anatomy
6 Credits
This course provides detailed knowledge of structures of the human body with emphasis on the musculoskeletal, peripheral nervous, and circulatory systems. Also covered are the thoracic, abdominal and pelvic cavities. In the course, students examine the surface anatomy of the intact human body and the palpation skills necessary to locate important bony landmarks, joint spaces, muscles, ligaments, bursae, nerves, and vessels. Through cadaver dissection and other resources, the lab portion of the course focuses on the relationship of the skeleton, muscles, and neurological and vascular systems. Internal organs are also explored through dissection.
PHTH 602N - Human Physiology
3 Credits
This course provides students with an understanding of the fundamentals of physiology and pathophysiology of the nervous, pulmonary, cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, metabolic, gastrointestinal, genitourinary system, integumentary system and endocrine systems. Related regional neuromusculoskeletal components, regional autonomic neuronal system components, and regional lymphatic system components are also taught. Students are provided with a sound working knowledge of the structure and function of the human body with emphasis on the physiological mechanisms related to the maintenance of homeostasis. The interrelationships between structure, function and dysfunction at the molecular, cellular, tissue, organ and systemic levels and to the total human body is applied in each of the body systems.
PHTH 604N - Introduction to Physical Therapy
3 Credits
This course introduces students to physical therapy, its history, accomplishments, and future directions as a doctoring, autonomous profession. APTA’s core values, Code of Ethics and Guide for Professional Conduct are discussed. Students are educated about the application of generic skills. Topics of application include communication (verbal, nonverbal, and written), professional behaviors and abilities, and responsibility for professional development and documentation. The course also includes an independent module covering medical terminology. The independent module covers topics such as basic medical terminology, prefixes, suffixes, root words, abbreviations, and terminology specific to various body systems and diseases.
PHTH 605N - Movement Science I
4 Credits
This course involves the study of human movement. Kinesiological and biomechanical principles, and knowledge of muscle and joint function are applied to normal and pathological movements. Concepts of kinetics, kinematics, and functional movement are applied to patient situations. The study of normal and pathological gait using arthrokinematic and osteokinematic analysis is emphasized through lecture and lab activities.
PHTH 606N - Clinical Exercise Physiology
2 Credits
The course provides an in-depth analysis of the body’s physiological responses to physical activity. Principles of exercise testing and prescription are covered. The course investigates how the support systems of the body (respiratory, cardiovascular, muscular, endocrine, etc.) function, in cooperation with energy production, to ensure that sufficient energy is provided for physical activity. Lecture and lab activities address normal and abnormal function of these systems with an emphasis on measures of cardiopulmonary fitness, endurance, strength, and physical work capacity across the lifespan and among populations with pathophysiologic impairments. Testing and information are then integrated into exercise prescription for both healthy and impaired populations.
PHTH 607N - Clinical Neuroscience
4 Credits
This course serves as an introduction to normal and pathological development and function of the nervous system throughout the lifespan. It serves to familiarize the student with neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, basic neuroscience and evidence-based practice literature. Emphasis is placed on the application of neuroscience in regards to sensation, movement, motor learning, perception and cognition as typically seen in physical therapy practice. Nervous system components including the spinal cord, brainstem, cerebrum and the auditory, visual and vestibular systems are reviewed. In lab activities, an introduction to the neurological assessment is integrated with clinical cases to provide practical, patient-oriented application of the course material.
PHTH 611N - Introduction to Clinical Decision Making
2 Credits
This course introduces theories and concepts used in clinical decision-making as they apply to physical therapy assessment and intervention. The patient/client management model and clinical prediction rules in PT practices are covered. Using information regarding validity, reliability, and best available evidence, students critically appraise the literature to select appropriate tests and measures. Students learn to integrate this information critical thinking and decision-making to determine the most appropriate intervention and outcomes for all patients
PHTH 615N - Therapeutic Exercise
2 Credits
This course introduces underlying principles of therapeutic exercise including aspects of training, flexibility, strength, balance, and range of motion. The use of exercise to improve function, prevent disability and injury, and promote wellness is emphasized. Students are instructed in strategies to safely teach and progress patients in their treatment plans. Students use a variety of exercise equipment such as treadmills, cycles, weights, and elastic bands. The indications and precautions of exercise and lifespan consideration are explored. Laboratory experience, and problem solving using patient case studies serve to enhance the student’s understanding relative to direct patient care.
PHTH 617N - Neurological Management I
3 Credits
This course presents the foundations of evaluation and assessment of individuals with neurologic conditions and disorders. Testing of peripheral, central, and autonomic nervous system function is presented with an emphasis on specificity and sensitivity of the tests. The course prepares students to develop a diagnosis and prognosis for patients of all ages with central nervous system and peripheral nerve dysfunction. Lab activities emphasize neurological screening, balance assessment tools, common outcome measures, and a comprehensive neurologic examination.
PHTH 618N - Diagnostic Imaging
2 Credits
This course covers diagnostic imaging techniques used for musculoskeletal, neuro-logical, pulmonary, and cardiovascular systems. An overview of principles, techniques, purpose, process, and interpretation of diagnostic imaging will be offered as well as indications, contra-indications, advantages, and disadvantages of various specific imaging techniques. Diagnostic imaging covered will include plain film radiography, bones scans, DEXA, ultrasound, CT scans, MRI, MRA, PET scans, SPECT, and diffusion tensor imaging, as well as nuclear and interventional medicine. Emphasis will be on the role of diagnostic imaging as it relates to physical therapy, including indications for referral for imaging, and integrating imaging information with significant findings from patient history and patient examination in physical therapy assessment and intervention.
PHTH 619N - Critical Inquiry I
3 Credits
In this course, students are introduced to the science of clinical reasoning in health care and physical therapy. The integration of clinical reasoning and evidence-based practice is developed. Students learn to access knowledge for clinical practice and research, and learn the methods of scientific inquiry, including research theory, design, methods, and measurement. Students read research literature and participate in critical appraisal of selected research methods to discuss the meaningfulness of findings for clinical decisions.
PHTH 621N - Clinical Skills I
4 Credits
This course prepares the student for patient care activities including assessment of vital signs, principles of body mechanics, patient positioning and draping, transfers, and communication. Goniometric measurement, manual muscle testing and postural assessment is taught. The measurement and use of assistive devices and wheelchairs is also addressed. Students will develop these proficiencies through lecture and laboratory exposure.
PHTH 622N - Musculoskeletal Management II
4 Credits
This course introduces students to musculoskeletal assessment and treatment including examination (history, screening, tests and measures), evaluation, diagnosis, and prognosis for impairments, functional limitations, and disability in patients across the lifespan with pathologies of the spine. Students learn subjective and objective assessment measures including mechanism of injury, tissue and joint integrity, postural imbalances, soft-tissue evaluation, special tests and pain assessment. Using evidence-based guidelines and critical thinking, students formulate a PT diagnosis, prognosis and plan of care for conditions arising from the axial skeleton. Lectures are combined with demonstrations and hands-on laboratory practice. Labs address skill development for performing treatment techniques consisting of exercise prescription and functional retraining, joint and soft-tissue mobilization, and dynamic stabilization.
PHTH 623N - Neurological Management II
4 Credits
This course covers the management of individuals throughout the lifespan who experience neurologic injury or disorders. Building on previous coursework, students integrate current knowledge of neuroplasticity and recovery from injury, evidence-based practice and critical thinking to develop appropriate treatment strategies, interventions and prognoses. The role of the PT in prevention of neurologic conditions is also covered.
PHTH 624N Clinical Medicine
4 credits
This course introduces students to basic pathology and clinical presentations of a variety of general medicine diseases and disorders commonly encountered by physical therapists while integrating the pharmacological management background needed to treat those referred to physical therapy. These include pathological issues encompassing the gastrointestinal, peripheral vascular, genitourinary, hematological, lymphatic, endocrine, hepato-pancreato-biliary, and immune systems. Implications of multi-system pathology, such as oncology and self-regulation disorders will also be discussed. Considerations for the evaluation and treatment of patients presenting with these conditions will be highlighted. The fundamentals of drug actions, including therapeutic and adverse effects of major classes of drugs, will also be discussed, including those used to treat autonomic, cardiovascular, central nervous system, musculoskeletal, and endocrine disorders. Students gain information used to determine if referrals to other health professionals
are warranted.
PHTH 626N - Rounds I
1 Credits
Based on information from weekly reflection papers collected during their clinical education experience, this course will provide students with an opportunity to discuss patient scenarios, assessments, and interventions. Actual and simulated patients may provide scenarios for some cases. Students will improve clinical reasoning and decision-making abilities and strengthen the understanding of interdisciplinary roles encountered in a variety of PT settings.
PHTH 627N - Cardiopulmonary Patient Management
3 Credits
This course involves the examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, expected outcomes and criteria for examination of individuals with cardiovascular and pulmonary disorders. Students will gain competence in the interpretation of electrocardiograms, auscultation, pulmonary function tests and administration of exercise testing protocols. Cardiac rehabilitation will be covered as will bronchial drainage, and breathing and chest clearance methods.
PHTH 628N - Integumentary Patient Management
2 Credits
The course focuses on the examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, and inter-vention of individuals with integumentary dysfunction. Students learn about the process of normal wound healing and the causes of integumentary disorders including pressure ulcers, ulcers due to venous and arterial insufficiency, diabetic ulcers, and burns. The role of the physical therapist in the active wound care management is stressed.
PHTH 633N - Clinical Skills II
3 Credits
This course provides an overview of therapeutic interventions in the management of pain, tissue healing and dysfunction. The scientific rationale for the use of thermal, electrical, and mechanical modalities are covered. Indications, contraindications, physiologic basis, and clinical applications are covered. Additional topics include massage, soft tissue mobilization, mechanical compression, spinal traction, biofeedback, and extracorporeal shockwave therapy. The course will provide lectures, labs, case studies, and clinical experiences to enhance the student’s understanding of the application of content covered in the Clinical Skill I & II course series in addition to integration with MSKI and Ther Ex.
PHTH 634N - Movement Science II
3 Credits
This course introduced students to the theory and principles of motor control and motor learning with application for human motor performance across the lifespan. Students discuss task analysis and motor abilities. Students are educated on the neuromotor and sensory system contributions to motor learning and motor control, along with the neuroplasticity that occurs with motor learning. Students analyze current research related to skill acquisition, practice, feedback, transfer of training, modeling, part vs whole training, imagery, implicit and explicit learning and memory systems. Students learn about performance outcomes and production measures and discuss how these can best be applied to measure performance and learning changes over time or pre/post therapeutic intervention. This provides the basis for assessment and intervention strategies used to optimize movement.
PHTH 635N - Musculoskeletal Management I
4 Credits
Clinical Education I is the first course in a series of four full-time clinical education experiences. It is eight weeks long and is a required course for all DPT students. This course will provide students with the opportunity to integrate and implement didactic knowledge with practical experiences in a physical therapy setting, under the supervision and mentorship of a licensed physical therapist (Clinical Instructor). Over the course of the four Clinical Education experiences, students will be exposed to inpatient and outpatient practice settings. As students progress through their four clinical education experiences, it is expected that they will evolve professionally, as demonstrated by their clinical performance. Culminating clinical education experiences are based on the unique needs and professional goals of students, and the availability of clinic sites. This is the first opportunity for students to perform supervised practice of newly acquired clinical skills in a patient care environment. Critical thinking skills, professional behavior, safety, communication and assuming responsibility are emphasized and expected of the student. Students will supplement their clinical practice and enhance their learning with journal entries and topical on-line discussions with the Director of Clinical Education (DCE) and with their classmates.
PHTH 636N - Clinical Education I
4 Credits
This course is a full time clinical internship in which the student is supervised by a licensed physical therapist. Students are matched to appropriate clinical sites including, but not limited to acute care, outpatient physical therapy, or inpatient rehab. Clinical sites will provide adequate opportunities for students to practice the skills included in the Clinical Performance Instrument. The culmination of all four clinical experiences will allow the student to demonstrate competence in managing patients with a variety of dysfunction involving musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, cardiopulmonary, and integumentary systems. These clinical experiences will also expose the student to a variety of age groups and levels of patient care.
PHTH 637N - Critical Inquiry II
2 Credits
This course prepares students to advance in their ability to analyze information focused on a clinical question related to physical therapy. Students will individually deliver a presentation to summarize key components of a scientific article. Students will also complete all aspects of a mock application for the Institutional Review Board. Students will learn about data collection and perform computer analysis of data to introduce them to interpreting data.
PHTH 638N - Lifespan Physical Therapy-Pediatrics
4 Credits
This course is designed to provide an in-depth understanding, critical evaluation, and integration of current best practice towards pediatric physical therapy clinical practice. The readings, class discussions, and lab related activities will focus on increasing students’ understanding of typical and atypical development, and how factors affect a child’s motor performance across all environments. Theoretical principles of motor control and neurological development are applied to enhance understanding of typical motor development, as well as motor development in children with various diagnoses.
PHTH 639N - Rounds II
1 Credits
Following your first clinical experience, this course will provide students with an opportunity to discuss clinical settings, clinical issues, patient scenarios, assessments, and interventions. Students will participate in classroom activities designed to work through ethical clinical scenarios, practice initiating difficult conversations, and providing feedback. Students will present case studies on one of their clinical patients. Students will improve clinical reasoning and decision-making abilities and strengthen the understanding of interdisciplinary roles encountered in a variety of PT settings.
PHTH 640N PT in the Community
3 Credits
This course focuses on the core values of physical therapists and APTA’s vision related to improving the human experience through optimizing movement while considering the complexities of society and collaborating with others cross the continuum of care. Students will learn about social responsibility and duty by discussing the needs for inclusion, health, wellness, prevention, and patient-centered care. Aspects of ergonomics, nutrition, motivational interviewing, behavior change, adherence, health literacy, and teaching + learning while working with peers, patients/clients, caregivers, other clinicians, and members of the community will be covered. Students integrate information from all previous courses and clinical experiences as they develop projects to increase awareness of and expand the benefit of physical therapy.
PHTH 641N - Clinical Education II
4 Credits
Clinical Education II is the second course in a series of four full-time clinical education experiences. It is eight weeks long and is a required course for all DPT students. This course will provide students with the opportunity to integrate and implement didactic knowledge with practical experiences in a physical therapy setting, under the supervision and mentorship of a licensed physical therapist (Clinical Instructor). Over the course of the four Clinical Education experiences, students will be exposed to inpatient and outpatient practice settings. As students progress through their four clinical education experiences, it is expected that they will evolve professionally, as demonstrated by their clinical performance. Culminating clinical education experiences are based on the unique needs and professional goals of students, and the availability of clinic sites. This is the second opportunity for students to perform supervised practice of newly acquired clinical skills in a patient care environment. Critical thinking skills, professional behavior, safety, communication and assuming responsibility are emphasized and expected of the student. Students will supplement their clinical practice and enhance their learning with journal entries and topical on-line discussions with the Director of Clinical Education (DCE) and with their classmates.
PHTH 700N - Differential Diagnosis
3 Credits
This course is designed to assist the physical therapy student with the screening process used as the initial step in making a diagnosis and determining the need for referral to other health professionals. By becoming proficient in the screening interview, student will collect vital information about the patient including the medical history, risk factors, clinical presentation, associated signs and symptoms and a review of the systems. Students will gain the skills needed to identify the broad spectrum of conditions and pathologies encountered in physical therapy practice.
PHTH 703N - Prosthetics and Orthotics
2 Credits
This course covers the use of prosthetic and orthotic devices for individuals with congenital, traumatic, and circulatory conditions. An in-depth coverage of the components of prosthetics and orthotics will include assessing the need and function of these devices. Students will analyze the mechanics of gait in users of lower extremity prosthetics or orthotics. The role of the physical therapist in the management of patients/clients requiring these devices is covered with emphasis on the importance of education and wound prevention.
PHTH 705N - Administration and Leadership
3 Credits
This course introduces concepts that support the business, administration, supervision and financial management principles used in physical therapy practice. Students are introduced to current trends in legislation and regulation, marketing and public relations, and billing and reimbursement strategies used in clinical practice. The use of telemedicine is discussed. The importance of ethical decision-making and legislative advocacy is stressed. Students develop, plan, and market a physical therapy practice and take an active role in advocating for legislative changes related to the provision of health care services.
PHTH 706N - Lifespan Physical Therapy/Adults-Geriatrics
3 Credits
This course explores the lifespan development of the adult and older person including implications for physical therapist practice. The student explores developmental norms and changes that occur in motor, sensory, cognitive, and psychosocial realms throughout the adult and older adult periods. Women’s health issues encountered during pregnancy through post-menopause and a variety of gynecological disorders will be discussed. The responses of the individual and family to disability, aging, and death and dying are covered. Topics discussed include cultural and socioeconomic implications on physical therapy intervention as well as the importance of education, prevention of injury and disability, and health promotion. Domestic violence, elder abuse, and issues involved with death and dying are also covered. A lab component will include examination and intervention for special populations.
PHTH 708N/709N/710N - Doctoral Project
3 Credits
This independent study course will allow students to complete an in-depth exploration of a Physical Therapy-related topic. The doctoral project involves a minimum of 135-hours of effort to complete an intensive active-learning group endeavor. Each student group will have a faculty mentor with expertise or interest in a topic area that may be mutually developed. Throughout the duration of the project the students will promote knowledge translation based on the development of clear objectives that address their topic-related need or problem. Other elements of the doctoral project include 1) defining the topic or problem, 2) determining the project style (education/ service/ research) for disseminating the knowledge translation/findings, 3) performing an extensive literature review of evidence to support the establishment of project objectives, 4) the planning and implementation of all aspects of the project including an outcomes/evaluative assessment, and 5) a peer assessment delineating the group members’ work. The course culminates in the completion of a substantial final written report. A platform presentation, submittable abstract and digital poster for the project are linked to course PHTH 714 Capstone.
PHTH 711N - Clinical Education III
4 Credits
Clinical Education III is the third course in a series of four full-time clinical education experiences. It is ten weeks long and is a required course for all DPT students. This course will provide students with the opportunity to integrate and implement didactic knowledge with practical experiences in a physical therapy setting, under the supervision and mentorship of a licensed physical therapist (Clinical Instructor). Over the course of the four Clinical Education experiences, students will be exposed to multiple practice settings. As students progress through their four clinical education experiences, it is expected that they will evolve professionally, as demonstrated by their clinical performance. Culminating clinical education experiences are based on the unique needs and professional goals of students, and the availability of clinic sites. This is the third opportunity for students to perform supervised practice of acquired academic study and clinical skills in a patient care environment. Critical thinking skills, professional behavior, safety, communication and assuming responsibility are emphasized and expected of the student. Students will supplement their clinical practice and enhance their learning with journal entries and topical on-line discussions with the Director of Clinical Education (DCE) and with their classmates.
PHTH 714N - Capstone
1 Credits
This Capstone course is the culmination of doctoral projects in which the students present their scholarly project. The course prepares the students to present their scholarly project work in an oral presentation or poster format. Along with the final report, students should submit any product that resulted from the project, i.e., a video tape, written materials, etc.
PHTH 715N - Cumulative Review
1 Credits
This course involves a review of didactic content across the continuum of care and systems encountered by physical therapists. The course provides resources to assist students with assessing their individual strengths and weaknesses pertaining to the content outline of the National Physical Therapy Examination. Students will receive strategies to enhance their reasoning skills to assist them in navigating the licensure examination. Weekly seminars will serve as review sessions for key clinical areas throughout the course.
PHTH 716N - Clinical Education IV
5 Credits
Clinical Education IV is the final course in a series of four full-time clinical education experiences. It is ten weeks long and is a required course for all DPT students. This course will provide students with the opportunity to integrate and implement didactic knowledge with practical experiences in a physical therapy setting, under the supervision and mentorship of a licensed physical therapist (Clinical Instructor). Over the course of the four Clinical Education experiences, students will be exposed to multiple practice settings. As students progress through their four clinical education experiences, it is expected that they will evolve professionally, as demonstrated by their clinical performance. Culminating clinical education experiences are based on the unique needs and professional goals of students, and the availability of clinic sites. This is the fourth opportunity for students to perform supervised practice of acquired academic study and clinical skills in a patient care environment. Critical thinking skills, professional behavior, safety, communication and assuming responsibility are emphasized and expected of the student. Students will supplement their clinical practice and enhance their learning with journal entries and topical on-line discussions with the Director of Clinical Education (DCE) and with their classmates.
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