Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Courses
DPT 5010 MEDICAL PHYSIOLOGY & DISEASES FOR PHYSICAL THERAPY (4 credits)
This course is designed to provide an introduction to Human Physiology and the basic principles in the study of disease. The course is concerned with the basic underpinnings of structure, function, and pathological processes. Emphasis will be placed on general cellular physiology with an overview of pathological processes at the cellular and molecular level, neurophysiology, muscle physiology epithelium, and connective tissue. In addition, there will be an introduction to general organ system human physiology and organ system and multisystem pathologies; emphasis will be placed on cardiovascular, pulmonary, renal, endocrine, and gastrointestinal systems and on diseases that occur in patients that are often treated by the physical therapist. Physiology and Pathology serve as an underpinning of mechanisms that lead to impairments, functional limitations, and disabilities that are treated in the hospital and clinic.
DPT 5100 FOUNDATION FOR PHYSICAL THERAPY PRACTICE (1 credit)
This course is designed to introduce the student to the foundational language and precepts for professional practice. As the foundation for intra- and inter-professional communication, part of this course will be devoted to introducing the student to commonly used medical terminology. Another portion of this course will introduce the student to the foundational concepts required for appropriate professional behaviors and interactions. This part of the course will emphasize the documents that frame and guide the profession, professional association, and the basic regulations of the physical therapy profession. Ethical issues and the moral reasoning process in health care will be examined, including the philosophical, sociocultural, and professional influences. Students will analyze ethical dilemmas and evaluate ethical theory.
DPT 5120 PSYCHOSOCIAL ASPECTS OF PHYSICAL THERAPY (3 credits)
This course is designed to introduce students to the multiple roles of the physical therapist and the responsibilities inherent in the relationships with clients, colleagues, families, and the profession. Learning experiences will be focused on psychological and social factors relevant to physical therapy practice, and the dynamics associated with effective patient/client-practitioner interactions. Emphasis will be placed on self-awareness as well as awareness of others with respect to illness, pain, addictions, cultural differences, spirituality, and coping strategies. Essential to effective patient/client-practitioner interactions is effectual communication. Therefore, this course also addresses communication strategies, from theoretical principles to application, which are necessary for students to become engaged professionals.
DPT 5140 TEACHING AND LEARNING (2 credits)
This course is designed to introduce students to their role as teachers to professional colleagues, patients, health care stakeholders, and future students. Emphasis is on integrating and applying teaching and learning theories as they relate to the planning, implementation, and evaluation of instructional units in didactic settings, clinical settings, and the community.
DPT 5180 DOCUMENTATION FOR PHYSICAL THERAPISTS (1 credit)
This course emphasizes the development of effective documentation skills, including exposure to a variety of documentation formats and implications for proper reimbursement. This course will emphasize both traditional hand-written documentation and the use electronic medical record (EMR) systems.
DPT 5200 HUMAN ANATOMY I (4 credits)
This is the first course in a two-course series which provides an in-depth study of human anatomy, including an introduction to anatomical and medical terminology, and foundational information on human development and structure fundamental to considerations of function, physical diagnosis, trauma, and disease. Using a regional approach, this course places emphasis on obtaining functional knowledge of normal human gross anatomy. This course will focus on the anatomy and anatomical relationships of the neck, back, thoracic cage/cavity, and upper extremities as a basis for solving clinical problems related to these body regions.
DPT 5220 HUMAN ANATOMY II (4 credits)
This is the second course of the two course series, which provides an in-depth study of human anatomy, including an introduction to anatomical and medical terminology and foundational information on human development and structure fundamental to considerations of function, physical diagnosis, trauma and disease. Using a regional approach, this course places emphasis on obtaining functional knowledge of normal human gross anatomy. This course will focus on the anatomy and anatomical relationships of the head, abdomen, pelvis, perineum and lower extremities as a basis for solving clinical problems related to these body regions.
DPT 5300 INTRODUCTION TO RESEARCH (2 credits)
This course is designed to provide a thorough analysis of selected research that allows students to develop an understanding of adequate clinical research design, appropriate analytical procedures, and the nature of research criticism. Research designs across the spectrum of research will be explored in relation to clinical research for physical therapists. Students will analyze data using computer software, participate in discussions regarding selected research designs, and critically review selected professional literature.
DPT 5400 BIOMECHANICS (3 credits)
Biomechanics is concerned with the mechanical/anatomical bases of human movement. An interdisciplinary approach is used in which concepts from anatomy, physiology, and physics (mechanics) are integrated. Quantitative and qualitative biomechanical analyses of human movement are studied from the perspective of kinematic and kinetic descriptions of single and multi-segment motion. This course also investigates tissue biomechanical properties required during the production of movement.
DPT 5500 PHYSICAL THERAPY TESTS AND MEASURES (3 credits)
This course is designed to introduce students to some of the tests and measures that physical therapists use in the clinical examination as a means to gather information about the patient/client. The tests and measures covered include: vital signs, anthropometric measures, musculoskeletal screening tests, postural assessment, goniometry, manual muscle testing, sensory testing, reflex testing, palpation of surface anatomy, and an introduction to joint mobility. This course includes laboratory time in order to facilitate psychomotor learning that is essential to the development of sound clinical decision-making skills.
DPT 5520 FOUNDATIONS OF ACUTE CARE AND PATIENT CARE SKILLS (3 credits)
This course is designed to introduce students to the skills required by the physical therapist in the generalist acute care/in-patient environment. This course will emphasize proper body mechanics, infection control, standard precautions and sterile technique, basic assessment, transfers, bed mobility and positioning, safe use and handling of tubes, clinic safety procedures, prescribing the proper WC and instruction on wheelchair mobility, applying proper therapeutic ROM exercises, and using appropriate assistive devices for gait and transfers.
DPT 5540 BIOPHYSICAL AGENTS (3 credits)
This course covers the physical modalities, hydrotherapy, massage, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, dry needling, and acupressure/ acustimulation. The modalities include thermal modalities, traction, continuous passive ROM, electrical stimulation, and biofeedback techniques. The indications, contraindications, physiologic basis for therapeutic effect, and known efficacy are discussed in the lecture/discussion component. Students will experience the effect of each modality and develop psychomotor skills in the application of each modality during the laboratory portion of the course.
DPT 5560 EXERCISE PRINCIPLES AND PRESCRIPTION (3 credits)
This course provides the scientific basis and principles of therapeutic exercise prescription, as well as practical application and hands-on experience in performing various therapeutic exercise techniques correctly. Aquatic physical therapy techniques, training, and performance enhancement approaches to exercise will also be addressed.
DPT 5600 FUNCTIONAL NEUROANATOMY (3 credits)
This course introduces students to neuroscience principles necessary for clinical practice. Throughout the course, information builds from the structure and function of the individual cell, to how cells connect and communicate, to how cells coalesce into functional systems responsible for the control of particular aspects of behavior. The primary focus of the course is functional systems (e.g. motor, sensory, visual, and vestibular systems). Within each functional system, we will examine the adequate stimulus, sensory receptors, afferent pathways, control center, efferent pathways, effectors, and functional deficits if the system is damaged.
DPT 5710 EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGY AND WELLNESS (4 credits)
This course provides the foundational basis for understanding the body’s physiological responses to physical activity and exercise, focusing on both acute responses and chronic physiologic adaptations to physical activity and exercise, as well as methods for testing fitness and exercise readiness. The course also provides an overarching view of health and wellness, the inter-relationship of human physiology, exercise, health and wellness, and the growing dynamic of these factors in physical therapy practice. Wellness topics will include multiple dimensions of physical wellness, mental, and social wellness. Areas covered include: Bioenergetics (energy substrate and energy transfer at rest and with activity); Cardiopulmonary adaptations to activity; Neuromuscular and Endocrine adaptations to activity; Training for physiologic and performance adaptations; Exercise Testing/Fitness Assessment; Physical, Mental, and Social Wellness and their impact on Community and Societal Health.
DPT 5800 GERIATRICS AND AGING (2 credits)
This course is an overview of adult development, including physical and psychological issues related to the geriatric population. This course will focus on theories of aging, attitudes toward aging, older adult health care needs, long term care, and family/caregiver issues. Cognitive impairments, biological alterations, and common pathologies related the aging process will also be discussed. Community-based activities will enhance the integration of this material.
DPT 5850 PHARMACOLOGY FOR PHYSICAL THERAPY (2 credits)
To present the primary drug classes and the physiologic basis of their action. Drugs will be grouped according to their general effects and the type of disorders they are routinely used to treat. Special emphasis will be placed on drugs that are commonly used to treat people receiving physical therapy. This course will likewise address how drug therapy interacts with physical therapy, and how drugs can exert beneficial effects as well as adverse side effects that impact on rehabilitation.
DPT 5900 MUSCULOSKELETAL PHYSICAL THERAPY I (2 credits)
This course is the first of three courses which introduce and emphasize management of patients with musculoskeletal dysfunction. Additionally, this course incorporates the study of physical therapy, musculoskeletal examination and evaluation within orthopedic manual physical therapy. Students will learn to integrate concepts of various approaches to physical therapy management, along with an overview of the evaluation, diagnosis, and physical management of musculoskeletal dysfunction. Clinical applications and case-based learning is used to emphasize the process of patient management across the biopsychosocial spectrum. Students will learn an integrated clinical reasoning model by which to develop reflection on, reflection in, and reflection for action within the clinic and their interactions in musculoskeletal physical therapy. Upon completion of this course students will be prepared to utilize the World Health Organization International Classification of Function model to identify, assess, and apply appropriate concepts of musculoskeletal physical therapy within clinical scenarios and case-based learning.
DPT 6010 MUSCULOSKELETAL PHYSICAL THERAPY II (4 credits)
This course provides an in-depth study of the evaluation, diagnosis, and physical management of musculoskeletal impairments and limitations of the cervical and thoracic spine, temporomandibular joint, and upper extremities of the human body. Students will learn to integrate concepts of various approaches to physical therapy management with specific examination and intervention techniques to address both surgical and nonsurgical musculoskeletal conditions of these regions. Various orthopedic manual physical therapy approaches including special tests, thrust and non-thrust joint mobilization techniques, will be introduced. The student will also learn to incorporate appropriate therapeutic exercise and activity regimens for various musculoskeletal conditions of these upper quarter and spine regions.
DPT 6030 MUSCULOSKELETAL PHYSICAL THERAPY III (4 credits)
This course provides an in-depth study of the evaluation, diagnosis and physical management of musculoskeletal dysfunction of the lumbar spine, pelvis and lower extremities of the human body. Students will learn to integrate concepts of various approaches to physical therapy management with specific examination and intervention techniques to address both surgical and non-surgical musculoskeletal conditions of these regions. Various orthopedic manual physical therapy approaches including thrust and non-thrust techniques, are introduced. The student will also learn to design appropriate therapeutic exercises for various musculoskeletal conditions of these lower quarter regions.
DPT 6110 ADULT NEUROLOGICAL PHYSICAL THERAPY I (3 credits)
This is the first of two courses exploring the intervention for individuals with neurological dysfunction based upon neurophysiological and pathokinesiological mechanisms resulting in pathology, impairments, functional limitations, and disabilities. Emphasis is placed on three content areas: 1) theoretical models of how human movement is controlled under normal and pathological conditions, 2) knowledge of the etiology, clinical presentation, and natural history of recovery, and 3) techniques to examine and intervene in the most common movement impairments and functional limitations due to neurologic damage.
DPT 6120 PEDIATRIC PHYSICAL THERAPY (4 credits)
This course is designed to provide learning opportunities in the area of early growth and development and pediatric physical therapy. An emphasis on clinical decision-making from a biopsychosocial and evidence-based perspective underlies the course. It covers primarily development and neurologic problems of childhood that are addressed by physical therapy. Students develop a working knowledge of diagnostic categories, PT problems, evaluation tools, and intervention strategies and techniques that are common to pediatric practice.
DPT 6130 ADULT NEUROLOGICAL PHYSICAL THERAPY II (3 credits)
This is the second course of adult neurological rehabilitation that continues to explore the intervention for individuals with neurological dysfunction based upon neurophysiological and pathokinesiological mechanisms resulting in pathology, impairments, functional limitations, and disabilities. Emphasis is placed on three content areas: 1) theoretical models of how human movement is controlled under normal and pathological conditions, 2) knowledge of the etiology, clinical presentation, and natural history of recovery, and 3) techniques to examine and intervene in the most common movement impairments and functional limitations due to neurologic damage.
DPT 6300 RESEARCH DESIGN I (1 credit)
This course is the first of a three-course sequence for the culminating research experience in the DPT Program. In this course, students will develop a research proposal and successfully complete all appropriate applications for the Institutional Review Board (IRB). This endeavor is the first component of the process that will be continued in DPT 6420 and DPT 7400 in which the project is formally completed and presented. This proposal will be done under the advisement of faculty with expertise in the research and content areas.
DPT 6320 RESEARCH DESIGN II (1 credit)
This course is the second of a three-course sequence for the culminating research experience in the DPT Program. In this course, students will collect data for proposed research projects, perform appropriate literature search for primary and secondary analyses, obtain relevant literature, and complete the initial portions of a written manuscript through an iterative process with peers, the instructor, and any clinical or faculty advisors involved in the project. This endeavor is the continuation of the process begun in DPT 6300 in which the project was formally developed and the IRB process successfully completed.
DPT 6410 DIAGNOSTIC IMAGING AND MEDICAL SCREENING FOR THE UPPER EXTREMITY (2 credits)
This course is designed to introduce students to the foundations and principles of diagnostic imaging and medical screening procedures for the cervical spine, thoracic spine, and the upper extremity as used in clinical management. This course will emphasize plain film radiography, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, ultrasound, nuclear medicine and electrophysiological studies. Rationales and guidelines for examination selection of each modality are discussed. Basic interpretation of diagnostic imaging and interpretation of EMG and nerve conduction studies is included. Medical Screening is addressed through comparison of systematic signs and symptomatic presentation of pathology. Appropriate screening tests which may indicate involvement of a problem outside the scope of PT practice are addressed. Emphasis will be placed on the clinical decision making role of a primary care practitioner by performing a thorough patient interview and systems review to differentiate dysfunction within the scope of PT practice from those that indicate referral to other practitioners.
DPT 6420 DIAGNOSTIC IMAGING AND MEDICAL SCREENING FOR THE LOWER EXTREMITY (2 credits)
This course is designed to introduce students to the foundations and principles of diagnostic imaging and medical screening procedures for the lumbar spine, pelvis, and the lower extremity as used in clinical management. This course will emphasize plain film radiography, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, ultrasound, nuclear medicine and electrophysiological studies. Rationales and guidelines for examination selection of each modality are discussed. Basic interpretation of diagnostic imaging and interpretation of EMG and nerve conduction studies is included. Medical Screening is addressed through comparison of systematic signs and symptomatic presentation of pathology. Appropriate screening tests which may indicate involvement of a problem outside the scope of PT practice are addressed. Emphasis will be placed on the clinical decision making role of a primary care practitioner by performing a thorough patient interview and systems review to differentiate dysfunction within the scope of PT practice from those that indicate referral to other practitioners.
DPT 6500 GAIT AND MOVEMENT ANALYSIS (2 credits)
This course will provide an overview of observational and motion capture techniques for the analysis of human motion. This course is intended to advance student analysis of the kinematics and kinetics of human movement in two and three dimensions with an emphasis on methods used in motion capture, including joint and segment position, acceleration, velocity, force, torque, work, and power. Major topics will include measurement and analysis of kinematic and kinetic biomechanical signals during gait, running, and other sport-related activities. Basic biomechanical modeling and introduction to data analysis techniques for biomechanical data will be discussed. Gait analysis applications covered in the course include the description of able-bodied gait, an examination of gait abnormalities, and pathologies.
DPT 6600 WOUND CARE (2 credits)
This course is designed to introduce students to the clinical practice of wound care. Emphasis will be placed on examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, interventions, and outcomes for persons with integumentary disorders most frequently encountered in physical therapy practice. Wound risk factors, wound healing, reliability, and validity of wound assessment tools, and the efficacy of dressings and treatment approaches, will also be addressed.
DPT 6700 CARDIOPULMONARY PHYSICAL THERAPY (3 credits)
This course is designed to provide the student with a general foundation in examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, interventions, and outcomes for persons with cardiovascular and pulmonary disorders. Using an evidence-based approach, application of specific tests and measures, their reliability and validity, and efficacy of treatment interventions will be covered.
DPT 6840 NUTRITION FOR PHYSICAL THERAPY (2 credits)
This course is an introduction to the principles of nutrition and their influence on health. Also discussed are the principles of nutrition and exercise, with emphasis on counseling, patients, energy, fluid balance, and evaluating nutrition in literature.
DPT 6900 CLINICAL EDUCATION EXPERIENCE I (1 credit)
This is the first of two part-time clinical education experiences. The focus of this course is to facilitate the application and integration of didactic information from the classroom into clinical practice through clinical problem solving and psychomotor skills application, and to help students develop appropriate affective behaviors. This course consists of one day per week clinical experiences for a period of 10 weeks (minimum of 8 hours/day). The two clinical education experiences (I and II) should be varied among IP, OP, Rehab, (and others), as clinical contracts allow.
DPT 6920 CLINICAL EDUCATION EXPERIENCE II (1 credit)
This is the second part-time clinical education experience. The focus of this course is to continue to facilitate the application and integration of didactic information from the classroom into clinical practice by progressing further clinical problem solving and psychomotor skills, and to help students further develop appropriate affective behaviors. This course consists of one day per week clinical experience for a period of 10 weeks (minimum of 8 hours/day). The two clinical education experiences (I and II) should be varied among IP, OP, Rehab, (and others), as clinical contracts allow.
DPT 6940 CLINICAL EDUCATION PRACTICUM I (5 credits)
This is the first of three, full-time clinical education experiences. The focus of this course is to continue to foster the application and integration of didactic information from the classroom into clinical practice by expanding clinical problem solving and psychomotor skills application, and to train students to integrate appropriate affective behaviors. New concepts and skills specific to the clinical experience will be incorporated. The amount of assistance required from the clinical instructor will gradually decrease as the student progresses within this Clinical Practicum. This course consists of 40 hours per week of clinical experience for a period of 10 weeks. The three clinical education experiences should be varied among IP, OP, Rehab, (and others), as clinical contracts allow. It is expected that students achieve intermediate-level of performance in professional practice and patient management criteria on the clinical performance instrument (CPI), and an in-service or service in kind is required.
DPT 6950 CLINICAL SCIENCES REVIEW (1-6 credits)
This course is designed to provide DPT program students the opportunity to continue to progress within the DPT curriculum. The DPT student completes planned learning opportunities to continue to advance in the DPT Program. The course provides the progressing DPT student an individual and customized plan to maximize available learning opportunities within the DPT curriculum. Through the individual learning plan students maintain contemporary knowledge, apply more in-depth learning in identified key areas of concentration, and enhance professional formation. In consultation and collaboration with DPT Program faculty and the academic advisor, students gain further professional and practice abilities in individual clinical skills and abilities as a developing DPT professional. Credit to be determined by the Clinical Sciences Review Course Individualized Education Learning Plan Agreement. Prerequisite: Successful matriculation into the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program.
DPT 7100 LEADERSHIP FOR HEALTH PROFESSIONALS (1 credit)
This course is designed to provide a foundation in leadership practice and theory to foster leadership in health organizations and across interconnected disciplines. This course will address leadership through a study of the individual and the values that create the basis for all decisions made by leaders. Emphasis will be placed on the study and exploration of the values, conditions, and organizational factors that a healthcare manager needs to have and to understand in order to lead effectively.
DPT 7130 BUSINESS MANAGEMENT FOR PHYSICAL THERAPY (2 credits)
This course is designed to introduce students to the business principles necessary for organizing, planning, directing, and managing a physical therapy practice or specialty service. This course provides an overview of a health care business management model from a fiscal, personnel, and administrative perspective. The impact of a changing healthcare system on reimbursement, program cost effectiveness, outcome management, cultural diversity, and ethical decision-making is also addressed.
DPT 7200 PROSTHETICS AND ORTHOTICS (3 credits)
This course includes a review of the prescription, fabrication, and training of various types of adaptive equipment used in the physical therapy management of patients with neurological, musculoskeletal, and cardiovascular dysfunction. Topics will include spinal, hip, knee, ankle, and foot orthoses and braces, lower extremity prosthetics, wheelchair design, custom seating, mobility devices, recreational devices, and home modifications.
DPT 7240 PHYSICAL THERAPY FOR SELECT POPULATIONS (2 credits)
This course provides a study of specialty topics within the profession of physical therapy, such as Women’s Health and Pelvic Health, Industrial Rehabilitation, and Oncology. Students will learn evaluation, diagnosis, and physical therapy interventions related to noted select populations. Students will also be introduced to the study of ergonomics and performance of job analysis.
DPT 7300 RESEARCH DESIGN III (1 credit)
This course is the third of a three-course sequence and is the culminating research experience in the DPT program. In this course, students will complete a written manuscript through an iterative process with peers, the instructor and any clinical or faculty advisors involved in the project. This endeavor is the continuation of the endeavor begun in DPT6300 and DPT 6320 in which the project, either a primary analysis or a secondary analysis (Systematic review) was formally developed, initiated and the initial portions of the manuscript were completed.
DPT 7600 COMPREHENSIVE EXAMINATION (1 credit)
This is a preparatory course designed to encourage student review and integration of curricular content areas in preparation for clinical practice. The students will be provided with clinical cases that incorporate neurological, cardiopulmonary, and musculoskeletal dysfunctions across the life span and in a variety of clinical settings. These cases serve as the foundation for review of content areas and focused discussions. This course concludes with comprehensive oral and written examinations. These examinations are intended to demonstrate competency in all content areas and safe clinical decision-making skills to identify students’ readiness to enter the final two full-time clinical Practicums. Both portions of the comprehensive examination must be passed to proceed with the final two full-time clinical Practicums.
DPT 7700 CLINICAL EDUCATION PRACTICUM II (6 credits)
This is the second of three, full-time clinical education experiences. The focus of this course is to continue to foster the application and integration of didactic information from the classroom into clinical practice by expanding clinical problem solving and psychomotor skills application, and to continue the training of students in the integration of appropriate affective behaviors to prepare for entry level clinical practice. New concepts and skills specific to the clinical experience will be incorporated. The amount of assistance required from the clinical instructor will gradually decrease as the student progresses within this Clinical Practicum. This course consists of 40 hours per week of clinical experience for a period of 12 weeks. The three clinical education experiences should be varied among IP, OP, Rehab, (and others), as clinical contracts allow. It is expected that students achieve advanced intermediate level of performance in professional practice and patient management criteria on the clinical performance instrument (CPI), and an in-service (or service-in-kind) is required. (note: this course is split across 2 semesters)
DPT 7720 CLINICAL EDUCATION PRACTICUM III (6 credits)
This is the third and final of three, full-time clinical education experiences. The focus of this course is to continue to foster the application and integration of didactic information from the classroom into clinical practice by expanding clinical problem solving and psychomotor skills application, and integration of appropriate affective behaviors to prepare for entry-level clinical practice. New concepts and skills specific to the clinical experience will be incorporated. The amount of assistance required from the clinical instructor will gradually decrease as the student progresses within this Clinical Practicum. This course consists of 40 hours per week of clinical experience for a period of 12 weeks. The three clinical education experiences should be varied among IP, OP, Rehab, (and others), as clinical contracts allow. It is expected that students achieve entry-level of performance in professional practice and patient management criteria on the clinical performance instrument (CPI), and an in-service (or service-in-kind) is required.
DPT 7950 CLINICAL SCIENCES REVIEW (1-6 credits)
This course is designed to provide DPT program students the opportunity to continue to progress within the DPT curriculum. The DPT student completes planned learning opportunities to continue to advance in the DPT Program. The course provides the progressing DPT student an individual and customized plan to maximize available learning opportunities within the DPT curriculum. Through the individual learning plan students maintain contemporary knowledge, apply more in-depth learning in identified key areas of concentration, and enhance professional formation. In consultation and collaboration with DPT Program faculty and the academic advisor, students gain further professional and practice abilities in individual clinical skills and abilities as a developing DPT professional. Credit to be determined by the Clinical Sciences Review Course Individualized Education Learning Plan Agreement. Prerequisite: Successful matriculation into the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program.