53 courses with the subject DPT, each shown exactly as we captured it from the college's catalog, with every element we hold. Where the wording looks broken, that is our reading of the catalog, not the college's text.
DPT 500Gross Anatomy and Histology5
A comprehensive and in-depth study of the form and function of the human body at macroscopic, microscopic, and molecular levels. Virtual dissection tables aid a regional approach to the study of gross anatomical structures and histological sections. The course consists of lectures, virtual dissection, and laboratory experiences focused on medical imaging and surface anatomy. 4 hours of lecture weekly. Corequisites DPT 500L
A comprehensive and in-depth study of the form and function of the human body at macroscopic, microscopic, and molecular levels. Virtual dissection tables aid a regional approach to the study of gross anatomical structures and histological sections. The course consists of lectures, virtual dissection, and laboratory experiences focused on medical imaging and surface anatomy. 2 hours of lab weekly. Corequisites DPT 500
This course is an in-depth study of the interaction between the muscular and skeletal systems to produce human movement. The student reviews the anatomy and physiology of the muscular system and learns the mechanical influence it has on the skeletal systems to produce joint movement. A study of posture and gait and functional activity is also included as well as an analysis of human posture and movement in normal and abnormal stDates. The course includes palpation of anatomical structures and study of the principles of biomechanics including arthrokinematics, osteokinematics, and kinetics. 2 hours of lecture weekly. Prerequisites DPT 502L
This course is an in-depth study of the interaction between the muscular and skeletal systems to produce human movement. The student reviews the anatomy and physiology of the muscular system and learns the mechanical influence it has on the skeletal systems to produce joint movement. A study of posture and gait and functional activity is also included as well as an analysis of human posture and movement in normal and abnormal states. The course includes palpation of anatomical structures and study of the principles of biomechanics including arthrokinematics, osteokinematics, and kinetics. 4 hours of lab weekly. Corequisites DPT 502
This course covers the study of basic human physiology addressing normal function and characteristics of the major body systems, with primary focus on the nervous, musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, and respiratory systems. Other systems will be covered through integration within the three major systems. Topics include, but are not limited to, the physiology of excitable tissues, reflexes, muscle contraction, hemodynamics, micro and macro circulation, respiratory mechanics, the cardiac cycle, bone remodeling, and the autonomic nervous system. This foundational science course serves as preparatory content for the study of pathophysiology, the introduction to health conditions, and integration within the practice pattern courses.
DPT 504 is the first of three Practice Management courses that address topics within non-clinical physical therapy practice that spans all clinical/non-clinical settings and continuum of care. Topics include ethical, legal, and professional aspects of physical therapy practice. The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the profession of physical therapy and the role of the professional in physical therapist practice as well as in today’s evolving healthcare environment. Students will learn about the APTA, vision of APTA, core values, and legal and ethical responsibilities as healthcare professionals to clients, families, colleagues, the profession, and the community. The concept of evidence-based practice and its significance to physical therapist practice will be emphasized. Further, basic knowledge and skills to become critical consumers of rehabilitation literature will be introduced. A discussion regarding the interprofessional nature of clinical practice including a review of the responsibilities of every member of the clinical team will be emphasized. This course will also introduce patient rights, education and communication, teaching and learning, cultural competency, professional development. Current issues, such as physician-owned physical therapy practices, direct access, and delegation and supervision will be discussed.
DPT 505 is the second of three Practice Management courses that address topics within in physical therapy practice that spans all practice settings and continuum of care. Topics covered in this course include communication and education, health informatics, patients’/clients culture differences, values, preferences, including cultural competency and psychosocial aspects of health and disability. Physical therapy services to promote health, wellness and fitness will be covered in this course. Concepts from Practice Management I including professional ethics, values and responsibilities and delegation will be reinforced through case-based, simulated learning experiences.
This course consists of basic physical therapy interventions administered by a physical therapist in a clinical setting. Students will be taught and practice basic interventions, which can be applied to all patient populations, from three major components that comprise all physical therapy interventions. These components include: 1) coordination, communication, and documentation, 2) patient/client-related instruction, and 3) procedural interventions. Specific interventions covered in this course are divided into 3 units and include; Unit One: Functional Training(Self-care, Home Management Prescription and Application of Devices and Equipment), Manual Therapy (including therapeutic exercise) and Physical Agents. Communication/collaboration (verbal and nonverbal) across disciplines and settings and documentation including electronic documentation will be covered throughout each unit. Physical agents include Cryotherapy (cold packs, ice massage, vapocoolant spray), Hydrotherapy (contrast bath, pools, whirlpool tanks), Thermotherapy (dry heat, hot packs, paraffin baths) and, gravity assisted devices (tilt table) and CPM. Manual Therapy includes PROM, therapeutic massage and an introduction to therapeutic exercise. Functional training includes activities of daily living training, device and equipment use and training, injury prevention, wheel chairs, and prescription and application of assistive devices. The application of these interventions will be explored through patient case examples. Lecture and laboratory components prepare students for direct patient care. 2 hours of lecture weekly. Corequisites DPT 508L
This course consists of basic physical therapy interventions administered by a physical therapist in a clinical setting. Students will be taught and practice basic interventions, which can be applied to all patient populations, from three major components that comprise all physical therapy interventions. These components include: 1) coordination, communication, and documentation, 2) patient/client- related instruction, and 3) procedural interventions. Specific interventions covered in this course are divided into 3 units and include Unit One: Functional Training (Self-care, Home Management Prescription and Application of Devices and Equipment), Manual Therapy (including therapeutic 272 exercise) and Physical Agents. Communication/collaboration (verbal and nonverbal) across disciplines and settings and documentation including electronic documentation will be covered throughout each unit. Physical agents include Cryotherapy (cold packs, ice massage, vapocoolant spray), Hydrotherapy (contrast bath, pools, whirlpool tanks), Thermotherapy (dry heat, hot packs, paraffin baths) and gravity assisted devices (tilt table) and CPM. Manual Therapy includes PROM, therapeutic massage, and an introduction to therapeutic exercise. Functional training includes activities of daily living training, device and equipment use and training, injury prevention, wheelchairs, and prescription and application of assistive devices. The application of these interventions will be explored through patient case examples. Lecture and laboratory components prepare students for direct patient care. 4 hours of lab weekly. Corequisites DPT 508
DPT 509Foundations of Clinical Examination and Evaluation4
This course introduces the student to the physical therapy examination, evaluation, and collection of clinical data. The course focuses on introducing psychomotor performance and interpretation of examination procedures that are applicable to all practice settings and across the lifespan. Performing and interpreting systems review, and review of systems will be emphasized. Examination procedures include test and measures and outcome measures including assessment of general health status and functional capacity. The International Classification of Function (ICF) will be introduced as a data collection and clinical decision-making tool. Specific content and skills to be introduced include: observation, subjective interview and history taking, systems review, screening for risk, cardiovascular and pulmonary screening (vital signs), postural alignment, joint range of motion, motor function (strength, muscle tone, reflexes), cranial nerve, sensory integrity, anthropometrics (edema, atrophy, etc.), and pain. Concepts such as enhancing the therapist- patient therapeutic alliance will be reinforced along with skills in documentation of the patient encounter. Expectations for professional behavior and skills performance will be commensurate with course objectives. 2 hours of lecture weekly. Corequisites DPT 509L
DPT 509LFoundations of Clinical Examination and Evaluation Laboratory0
This course introduces the student to the physical therapy examination, evaluation, and collection of clinical data. The course focuses on introducing psychomotor performance and interpretation of examination procedures that are applicable to all practice settings and across the lifespan. Performing and interpreting systems review, and review of systems will be emphasized. Examination procedures include test and measures and outcome measures including assessment of general health status and functional capacity. The International Classification of Function (ICF) will be introduced as a data collection and clinical decision-making tool. Specific content and skills to be introduced include: observation, subjective interview and history taking, systems review, screening for risk, cardiovascular and pulmonary screening (vital signs), postural alignment, joint range of motion, motor function (strength, muscle tone, reflexes), cranial nerve, sensory integrity, anthropometrics (edema, atrophy, etc.), and pain. Concepts such as enhancing the therapist- patient therapeutic alliance will be reinforced along with skills in documentation of the patient encounter. Expectations for professional behavior and skills performance will be commensurate with course objectives. 4 hours of lab weekly. Corequisites DPT 509
This course provides the knowledge and skills necessary to critically appraise research designs and research findings relevant to physical therapy practice. This course will introduce both quantitative and qualitative research designs. In the quantitative research design, statistical analyses including the concepts of measurement, research design, analysis and communication of research findings will be introduced. In the qualitative research design, foundational concepts related to qualitative research will be introduced with an emphasis on the role that qualitative research fills in the evidence-based practice of physical therapy. Topics include: descriptive statistics, measures of variability, single subject designs, parametric and non-parametric statistics, inference, correlation and regression, reliability and validity, sensitivity and specificity, sampling, comparisons between research designs, and a discussion of multimodal research designs. The course also focuses on critically examining the psychometric properties of tests and measures of health status, body function and structure, activity, and participation. These topics will be presented with a focus on the application of clinical research principles to physical therapy practice. At the end of the course, students are expected to become proficient in the interpretation of published research by demonstrating knowledge of the application of statistics and different methods of research. Students will have opportunities to critically appraise the quantitative and qualitative literature and interpret statistical evidence in a manner that informs the practice of physical therapy.
DPT 516Musculoskeletal Physical Therapy Practice I3
This course begins with a review of normal functioning physiological systems that are most relevant to the practice of musculoskeletal physical therapy as the foundation for a discussion of pathophysiology. The course progresses into discussion regarding selected syndromes impacting the musculoskeletal system that range across the lifespan. Content will cover the incidence/prevalence, etiology, clinical signs and symptoms, differential diagnosis, diagnostic imaging procedures, medical/surgical/pharmacologic management, as well as prognosis and potential for recovery of selected musculoskeletal conditions. The implications of each syndrome on Physical Therapy practice and evidence-based guidelines used in the management of these conditions will be reviewed. Using a regional approach, students will learn important features of selected conditions that will serve as the basis for future courses (DPT-616, DPT-617). Students will also be introduced to the concepts of exercise physiology that will be revisited within other courses throughout the curriculum.
This first course within the neuromuscular track, DPT 520 Neuromuscular Physical Therapy Practice I, is designed to reinforce and apply foundational knowledge in neuroanatomy and neurophysiology, as requisite knowledge for the discussion of neuroscience and normal versus pathological neurophysiologic systems across the lifespan. Content will introduce the pathophysiology, structural imaging and medical diagnostics, clinical presentation and incidence/prevalence of common neuromuscular health conditions, and finally, an introduction to medical and rehabilitation management. The clinical implications of each disease, disorder or syndrome on Physical Therapy examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, and intervention will be introduced through diagnostic clinical reasoning activities and case application. Principles of neuroplasticity, motor learning and motor control will be reinforced and applied as related to pathological neuromuscular systems. This knowledge will serve as the basis for future neuromuscular practice pattern courses (DPT 620, DPT 621, DPT 710). Content will parallel and support student understanding of the clinical and diagnostic relevance of examination skills learned in DPT 509, relating them to central and peripheral nervous system structures and functions.
This course will embrace the regulatory and clinical procedures directly related to clinical practice. The intention of this preparatory course is to enhance each student’s ability to engage in patient management and evidence-based practice. The course includes an introduction to professional behavior expectations for clinical practice, compliance with HIPAA and OSHA regulations, medical terminology, documentation requirements, and reimbursement/ coding and billing procedures, emergency preparedness, and recognizing abuse. Students will further explore inter-professional interactions specific to patient related cases. This course serves as a foundation for the multiple clinical practice learning experiences the students will engage in as a requirement for graduation.
This course is comprised of part-time patient care and community wellness experiences. This course is intended to enhance students’ abilities to engage in patient care and evidence-based practice. During this part-time clinical experience, students participate in clinical observation and the supervised application of discrete examination and intervention skills/procedures. Expectations for professional behaviors and clinical skill performance are commensurate with the course objectives and concurrent clinical skills courses. This course is concurrent with didactic courses in the musculoskeletal, cardiopulmonary, and neuromuscular practice pattern series. The goal of these part-time clinical experiences is to expose each student to a variety of patient care experiences which encompass multiple systems diagnoses and impairments across the lifespan and continuum of care. These learning experiences are designed to enhance students’ ability to interact with patients, clients, family, and other members of the interprofessional healthcare team.
The purpose of this clinical practice course is to foster students’ development of entry-level physical therapy skills. This is the first of four full-time clinical practice courses occurring in the third semester of the curriculum and lasting 6 weeks. This course is designed to support the translation of didactic learning experiences to clinical practice. Under the direct supervision of a Clinical Instructor, each student will further develop and demonstrate competence in clinical skills, critical thinking, professional behaviors, and administrative aspects of physical therapy practice against established benchmarks. Students will perform physical therapy examination, evaluation, PT diagnosis, prognosis, and intervention skills for individuals with impairments and/or movement limitations in one or more body systems. Development of professional behaviors is an important component throughout the clinical practice series and students will have opportunities for self-assessment, self-reflection, and opportunities to receive feedback provided by their Clinical Instructors. Students will be exposed to a variety of patient care experiences which incorporate multiple system diagnoses and impairments across the lifespan and the continuum of care. In addition, students will be critically assessed by their Clinical Instructors against benchmarks commensurate with their learning within the didactic curriculum and will assess their own performance of clinical skills and professional behaviors. By the conclusion of this full-time clinical experience, students are expected to perform at the “Advanced Beginner Performance Level” as delineated by the APTA Physical Therapist Clinical Performance Instrument.
DPT 528Cardiopulmonary Physical Therapy Practice I3
This course introduces mechanisms of pathophysiology that contribute to changes in the body structures and functions of the cardiovascular and pulmonary systems. These changes can result in specific conditions, diseases, and disorders that physical therapists encounter across the lifespan. Diseases and disorders of the cardiovascular and pulmonary systems are highly prevalent worldwide, and some are considered noncommunicable diseases associated with key psychosocial risk factors and sedentary behaviors. Dysfunction of the cardiopulmonary system can also result from injuries to other body systems and/or systemic conditions. Selected disorders of the cardiopulmonary system will be introduced, including incidence and prevalence, etiology (including modifiable and nonmodifiable risk factors), clinical signs and symptoms, differential diagnosis, diagnostic testing and imaging, medical/surgical/pharmacologic management, and prognosis for recovery at the levels of body structures and function. Students will build a knowledge foundation for courses later in the curriculum, which will advance the development of clinical skills related to the examination, evaluation, and intervention for patients with primary or secondary cardiovascular and pulmonary system involvement.
DPT 530Pharmacological Management for Physical Therapy Practice2
This course covers basic pharmacology and its relevance to the practice of physical therapy. This course will present the primary drug classes, their pharmacokinetic effects and their physiologic effects across the lifespan. Major classes of drugs are covered, including those to treat autonomic, cardiovascular, central nervous system, musculoskeletal, and endocrine disorders. Special emphasis will be placed on drugs that are commonly used in individuals receiving physical therapy. Case examples are used to illustrate the interactions of medications and therapy, and students will learn and investigate the implications of pharmacology regimens on physical therapy practice. This course will address: 1) the interaction between drug therapy and physical therapy interventions, 2) the therapeutic and adverse/side effects of medications and 3) their impact on rehabilitation. This course will also emphasize the integration of drug effects with the clinical decision making that each physical therapist must perform in order to determine if physical therapy is appropriate and if a medical consult is necessary. This course prepares students to be able to integrate comprehensive patient care across diverse health care settings.
DPT 605Health Care Policy and Advocacy for the Physical Therapist1
DPT 605 addresses topics within non-clinical physical therapy practice that spans all practice settings and continuum of care. Topics covered in this course include health care policies that impact the local and global health care environment and those specific to the practice of physical therapy. Students will collaborate with professional and community organizations in advocacy efforts for the profession and broader healthcare needs of society.
This course provides an investigation into the use of electrotherapy as a diagnostic and treatment agent and explores the principles and practices of physical agents in physical therapy. The principles of electro-diagnostics and electrical stimulation will be covered in depth. The electrotherapy unit includes a discussion of electrophysiology, the instrumentation and application of various types of electrical stimulation modalities, as well as low-level laser, and biofeedback. Topics include electrical muscle stimulation, electrical stimulation for tissue repair, functional electrical stimulation, high voltage pulsed current, neuromuscular electrical stimulation, and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation. This unit is competency based, with ample practice time devoted to the appropriate utilization of electrotherapy as a treatment choice. As a continuation from DPT 508, the second half of this course includes instruction in the principles and practice of physical agents and modalities including such topics as: ultrasound, phonophoresis, infrared, laser, ultraviolet, compression bandages, garments, and taping, total contact casting, vasopneumatic compression devices, manual lymph drainage, diathermy, as well as intermittent, positional, and sustained mechanical traction. 2 hours of lecture weekly. Corequisites DPT 608L
DPT 608LPhysical Therapy Procedures II Laboratory0
This course provides an investigation into the use of electrotherapy as a diagnostic and treatment agent and explores the principles and practices of biophysical agents in physical therapy. The principles of electrodiagnostics and electrical stimulation will be covered in depth. The electrotherapy unit includes a discussion of electrophysiology, the instrumentation and application of various types of electrical stimulation modalities, as well as low/high level laser, diathermy and biofeedback. Topics include electrical muscle stimulation, electrical stimulation for tissue repair, functional electrical stimulation, high voltage pulsed current, neuromuscular electrical stimulation, and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation. This unit is competency based, with ample practice time devoted to the appropriate utilization of electrotherapy as a treatment choice. As a continuation from DPT-508, this course includes instruction in the principles and practice of biophysical agents and modalities including such topics as: ultrasound, instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization, infrared, ultraviolet, taping, total contact casting, upper extremity splinting, neuroscience of pain, spinal orthotics, vasopneumatic compression devices, as well as intermittent and sustained mechanical traction and positional traction. 4 hours of lab weekly. Corequisites DPT 608
DPT 613 is the second course within a series of Critical Inquiry courses that culminate in an original research project completed and presented prior to graduation. Throughout the Critical Inquiry thread, students are engaged in a small-group research project that is developed within the Faculty Research Advisor’s line of scholarly inquiry, which could include experimental studies, systematic reviews, meta-analyses or critically appraised topics. The purpose of this course is to introduce students to basic research skills pertinent to scientific research and as a requisite for evidence- based practice. In this course, students will develop the methodology through literature review designed to introduce students to the topic associated with their research question as established with the faculty advisor. As they develop an appropriate methodology, students will be required to write the method section of their research manuscript and further advance their scholarly writing skills. The learning experiences are designed to enhance each student’s ability to critically appraise the literature and engage in the process of designing, conducting, and presenting scientific research.
DPT 614 is the third course within a series of Critical Inquiry courses. Throughout the Critical Inquiry thread, students are engaged in a small-group research project that is developed within the Faculty Research Advisor’s line of scholarly inquiry and completed under the guidance of the advisor. Such projects may include experimental studies, systematic reviews, meta-analyses or critical appraised topics. The purpose of this course is to advance the students’ research skills as a requisite for evidence-based practice. In this course, students will carry out approved recruitment protocols and data collection, or systematic search of the various databases, as established and approved through IRB. The learning experiences are designed to enhance each student’s ability to engage in the process of conducting scientific research.
DPT 615 is the fourth course within a series of Critical Inquiry courses that culminate in an original research project completed and presented prior to graduation. Throughout the Critical Inquiry thread, students are engaged in a small-group research project that is developed within the Faculty Research Advisor’s line of scholarly inquiry. The research projects are designed to enhance each student’s ability to critically appraise the literature and engage in the process of designing, conducting, and presenting scientific research as a requisite for evidence-based practice. Guided by their faculty advisor, students will conduct the data collection either through experiments or systematic literature review and data analysis as guided by the faculty advisor. As they conduct the data analysis and organize their findings, students will continue writing the different sections of their research manuscript and further advance their scholarly writing skills.
DPT 616Musculoskeletal P.T. Practice II: Extremities4
This course includes a regional approach to musculoskeletal examination, evaluation, diagnosis, and prognosis of musculoskeletal conditions of the upper and lower extremity. Students will utilize evidence-based examination procedures to establish a differential diagnosis that informs intervention. The intervention aspect of the course includes the theory and practical application of therapeutic exercise and manual interventions. The principles of range of motion, proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation, mobilization, stretching and progressive resistance activities are included, in addition to a review of adjunctive interventions. A review of common syndromes impacting the extremities throughout the lifespan will be reviewed with a discussion and practical application of a variety of proposed evidence-based physical therapy interventions. 2 hours of lecture weekly. Corequisites DPT 616L
DPT 616LMusculoskeletal P.T. Practice II: Extremities Laboratory0
This course includes a regional approach to musculoskeletal examination, evaluation, diagnosis, and prognosis of musculoskeletal conditions of the upper and lower extremity. Students will utilize evidence-based examination procedures to establish a differential diagnosis that informs intervention. The intervention aspect of the course includes the theory and practical application of therapeutic exercise and manual interventions. The principles of range of motion, proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation, mobilization, stretching and progressive resistance activities are included, in addition to a review of adjunctive interventions. A review of common syndromes impacting the extremities throughout the lifespan will be reviewed with a discussion and practical application of a variety of proposed evidence-based physical therapy interventions. 4 4 hours of lab weekly. Corequisites DPT 616
This course includes a regional approach to musculoskeletal examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, and intervention of musculoskeletal spinal conditions. Students will utilize evidence-based examination procedures to establish a differential diagnosis that informs intervention. This course includes a review of common health conditions impacting the spine throughout the lifespan that includes evidence-based concepts and the application of therapeutic exercise, manual interventions, and alternate/adjunctive intervention strategies. Additional topics that are pertinent to musculoskeletal physical therapy practice of spinal health conditions will also be included. Throughout the course, an emphasis will be placed on evidence-based, clinical decision making that leads to optimal outcomes in the care of individual patients/clients. 2 hours of lecture weekly. Corequisites DPT 617L
DPT 617LMusculoskeletal P.T. Practice III: Spine Laboratory0
This course includes a regional approach to musculoskeletal examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, and intervention of musculoskeletal spinal conditions. Students will utilize evidence-based examination procedures to establish a differential diagnosis that informs intervention. This course includes a review of common health conditions impacting the spine throughout the lifespan that includes evidence-based concepts and the application of therapeutic exercise, manual interventions, and alternate/adjunctive intervention strategies. Additional topics that are pertinent to musculoskeletal 278 physical therapy practice of spinal health conditions will also be included. Throughout the course, an emphasis will be placed on evidence-based, clinical decision making that leads to optimal outcomes in the care of individual patients/clients. 4 hours of lab weekly. Corequisites DPT 617
This is the introductory course in the examination and management of movement disorders and health conditions stemming from the central nervous system pathology, with emphasis on stroke, spinal cord, and traumatic brain injury. The course is designed to introduce the foundational knowledge and psychomotor skills required for examination, therapeutic handling and neuromuscular re-education which will be reinforced and advanced within the course and within DPT-621 and DPT-710. Lab experiences apply neuroplasticity and motor learning principles to recovery-based treatment techniques and develop patient management skills for patients with neurologic dysfunction. The principles of movement and gait analysis will be reinforced and concepts of materials, design, fabrication and wearing/fitting of lower extremity orthotics introduced. This course builds on the student’s critical thinking and reasoning strategies through clinical case applications and real-world learning that can be applied across acute care, post-acute rehabilitation, skilled nursing, transitional care unit, and home health care practice settings. The integration of structured movement analyses of activities performed in daily life, and the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) model will be reinforced to inform clinical decision making in physical therapist practice. The second course within the neuromuscular practice pattern, DPT 620 introduces the foundations of examination and treatment of movement disorders resulting from pathology and/or impairments within the neuromuscular system. Students gain the foundational knowledge and psychomotor skills required for examination, evaluation, therapeutic handling, and neuromuscular re-education as applied to persons with stroke, traumatic brain injury, and other cerebrovascular disorders. In addition, they address the management of persons with balance and vestibular disorders. Lab learning activities apply knowledge of pathophysiology, neuroplasticity, and motor learning principles to clinical decision-making in evaluation, differential diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment planning. The principles of movement and gait analysis will be reinforced, and foundational concepts of lower extremity orthotics will be introduced. This course begins to develop students’ critical thinking and reasoning strategies through clinical case applications and real-world learning that can be applied across acute care, post-acute rehabilitation, skilled nursing, transitional care units, and home health care practice settings. The integration of structured movement analyses of activities performed in daily life and the use of the WHO International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) will be reinforced to guide and inform clinical decision-making in physical therapist practice. Foundational knowledge and skills are reinforced and advanced within the course and throughout the practice pattern courses, within DPT 621 and DPT 710. 2 hours of lecture weekly. Corequisites DPT 620L
DPT 620LNeuromuscular P.T. Practice II Laboratory0
This is the introductory course in the examination and management of movement disorders and health conditions stemming from the central nervous system pathology, with emphasis on stroke, spinal cord, and traumatic brain injury. The course is designed to introduce the foundational knowledge and psychomotor skills required for examination, therapeutic handling and neuromuscular re-education which will be reinforced and advanced within the course and within DPT-621 and DPT-710. Lab experiences apply neuroplasticity and motor learning principles to recovery-based treatment techniques and develop patient management skills for patients with neurologic dysfunction. The principles of movement and gait analysis will be reinforced and concepts of materials, design, fabrication and wearing/fitting of lower extremity orthotics introduced. This course builds on the student’s critical thinking and reasoning strategies through clinical case applications and real-world learning that can be applied across acute care, post-acute rehabilitation, skilled nursing, transitional care unit, and home health care practice settings. The integration of structured movement analyses of activities performed in daily life, and the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) model will be reinforced to inform clinical decision making in physical therapist practice. The second course within the neuromuscular practice pattern, DPT 620 introduces the foundations of examination and treatment of movement disorders resulting from pathology and/or impairments within the neuromuscular system. Students gain the foundational knowledge and psychomotor skills required for examination, evaluation, therapeutic handling, and neuromuscular re-education as applied to persons with stroke, traumatic brain injury, and other cerebrovascular disorders. In addition, they address the management of persons with balance and vestibular disorders. Lab learning activities apply knowledge of pathophysiology, neuroplasticity, and motor learning principles to clinical decision-making in evaluation, differential diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment planning. The principles of movement and gait analysis will be reinforced, and foundational concepts of lower extremity orthotics will be introduced. This course begins to develop students’ critical thinking and reasoning strategies through clinical case applications and real-world learning that can be applied across acute care, post-acute rehabilitation, skilled nursing, transitional care units, and home health care practice settings. The integration of structured movement analyses of activities performed in daily life and the use of the WHO International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) will be reinforced to guide and inform clinical decision-making in physical therapist practice. Foundational knowledge and skills are reinforced and advanced within the course and throughout the practice pattern courses, within DPT 621 and DPT 710. 4 hours of lab weekly. Corequisites DPT 620
PT 621 is the third course within the neuromuscular practice pattern, which reinforces and advances student knowledge and skills in the examination and treatment of movement disorders resulting from pathology and/or impairments within the neuromuscular system. Lab experiences apply knowledge of pathophysiology, neuroplasticity, and motor learning principles and advance student skill in clinical decision-making in the areas of evaluation, differential diagnosis, prognosis, treatment planning, and inter-professional management of individuals with disorders of the spinal cord, cerebellum, basal ganglia, and progressive and degenerative disorders. The principles of movement and gait analysis, as well as wheelchair prescription, will be reinforced and advanced. The course will also include the examination and management of individuals with amputation, introducing concepts of materials, design, and technology of prosthetic devices. The course will emphasize the principles of limb amputation, wearing/fitting of prosthetics, gait analysis, the importance of therapeutic alliance and interprofessional collaboration, and the psychological considerations of the patient with prosthetic devices. DPT 621 is designed to advance the student’s critical thinking and reasoning strategies through clinical case applications and real-world learning experiences applied across acute care, post-acute rehabilitation, skilled nursing, transitional care unit, and home health care practice settings, using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) as a framework. Students are prepared with entry level skill that enables their final integration within DPT 710 Comprehensive Physical Therapy Practice and clinical experiences. 2 hours of lecture weekly. Corequisites DPT 621L
PT 621 is the third course within the neuromuscular practice pattern, which reinforces and advances student knowledge and skills in the examination and treatment of movement disorders resulting from pathology and/or impairments within the neuromuscular system. Lab experiences apply knowledge of pathophysiology, neuroplasticity, and motor learning principles and advance student skill in clinical decision-making in the areas of evaluation, differential diagnosis, prognosis, treatment planning, and inter-professional management of individuals with disorders of the spinal cord, cerebellum, basal ganglia, and progressive and degenerative disorders. The principles of movement and gait analysis, as well as wheelchair prescription, will be reinforced and advanced. The course will also include the examination and management of individuals with amputation, introducing concepts of materials, design, and technology of prosthetic devices. The course will emphasize the principles of limb amputation, wearing/fitting of prosthetics, gait analysis, the importance of therapeutic alliance and interprofessional collaboration, and the psychological considerations of the patient with prosthetic devices. DPT 621 is designed to advance the student’s critical thinking and reasoning strategies through clinical case applications and real-world learning experiences applied across acute care, post-acute rehabilitation, skilled nursing, transitional care unit, and home health care practice settings, using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) as a framework. Students are prepared with entry level skill that enables their final integration within DPT 710 Comprehensive Physical Therapy Practice and clinical experiences. 4 hours of lab weekly. Corequisites DPT 620
This course is comprised of part-time patient care, community wellness experiences and advocacy. This course is intended to enhance students’ abilities to engage in patient care and evidence-based practice. During part-time clinical and community wellness experiences, students participate in clinical observation and the supervised application of discrete examination and intervention skills/procedures. These experiences will be within clinical environments and virtually. Expectations for professional behaviors and clinical skill performance are commensurate with the course objectives and concurrent clinical skills courses. This course is concurrent with didactic courses in the musculoskeletal, cardiopulmonary, and neuromuscular practice pattern series. The goal of these part-time clinical experiences is to expose each student to a variety of health conditions and patient care scenarios across the lifespan and continuum of care. Students will learn to advocate for the health of society and the advancement of the profession of physical therapy through analysis of current issues within the regulatory agencies, the legislature and commercial payers. These learning experiences are designed to enhance students’ interactions with the patient, family, other healthcare professionals, payers and regulatory agencies, as well as the state and national legislative bodies.
The purpose of this course is to foster the development of entry-level physical therapy skills in a non-specialized inpatient OR outpatient setting (which ever was not completed in DPT524). This is the second of four full time clinical internships and will occur in the sixth semester of the curriculum for 6 weeks. Under the supervision of a clinical instructor, students will practice physical therapy examination, evaluation, PT diagnosis, prognosis, and intervention procedures for individuals with musculoskeletal and neuromuscular disorders. Development of professional behaviors is an important component throughout the clinical practice series and students will have opportunities for self-assessment, self-reflection, peer, and supervisory assessment. Students will be expected to perform at the Intermediate Performance and/or Advanced Intermediate Performance as assessed by APTA’s Clinical Performance Instrument.
Cardiopulmonary examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, and intervention. This course includes a regional approach to the physical therapy management of the cardiopulmonary system in a variety of practice settings ranging from acute care to outpatient that builds on DPT 628. This course will focus on developing and refining examination and intervention skills in patients with acute pathologies. The course will include a didactic and lab component intended to develop the students’ hands on ability in performing skills such as strength, ROM assessment, auscultation of the heart and lungs, chest wall excursion and breathing pattern. In addition, students will gain exposure to intervention skills, such as airway clearance and chest wall mobility techniques. Cases encountered in this class will encompass the musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, integumentary, and cardiopulmonary systems. A portion of the course will be devoted to the principles of exercise physiology and students will be exposed to principles and practices designed to evaluate the body’s response to exercise and implement interventions designed to improve cardiorespiratory and metabolic function through exercise. Critical thinking skills will be evaluated during a variety of learning experiences, including an interprofessional experience in the Alvernia University Nursing Simulation Lab, during which students will analyze a medical chart, utilize clinical skills developed in this course and others, collaborate with other allied health students on a simulated medical team, and competently evaluate a complex patient case with multiple body system involvement. 2 hours of lecture weekly. Corequisites DPT 629L
DPT 629LCardiopulmonary P.T. Practice II Laboratory0
Cardiopulmonary examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, and intervention. This course includes a regional approach to the physical therapy management of the cardiopulmonary system in a variety of practice settings ranging from acute care to outpatient that builds on DPT 628. This course will focus on developing and refining examination and intervention skills in patients with acute pathologies. The course will include a didactic and lab component intended to develop the students’ hands on ability in performing skills such as strength, ROM assessment, auscultation of the heart and lungs, chest wall excursion and breathing pattern. In addition, students will gain exposure to intervention skills, such as airway clearance and chest wall mobility techniques. Cases encountered in this class will encompass the musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, integumentary, and cardiopulmonary systems. A portion of the course will be devoted to the principles of exercise physiology and students will be exposed to principles and practices designed to evaluate the body’s response to exercise and implement interventions designed to improve cardiorespiratory and metabolic function through exercise. Critical thinking skills will be evaluated during a variety of learning experiences, including an interprofessional experience in the Alvernia University Nursing Simulation Lab, during which students will analyze a medical chart, utilize clinical skills developed in this course and others, collaborate with other allied health students on a simulated medical team, and competently evaluate a complex patient case with multiple body system involvement. 4 hours of lab weekly. Corequisites DPT 629
DPT 631Multiple Systems Influence within PT Practice4
This course introduces mechanisms of pathophysiology that contribute to changes in the body structures and functions of ‘other’ systems including the endocrine and metabolic, gastrointestinal, genital and reproductive, hematologic, hepatic and biliary, immune, integumentary, lymphatic, and renal and urologic systems. These changes can result in specific conditions, diseases, and disorders that physical therapists encounter across the lifespan. Dysfunction within the ‘other’ systems can also result from injuries to other body systems and/or systemic conditions. Selected disorders within these systems will be introduced, including incidence and prevalence, etiology (including modifiable and nonmodifiable risk factors), clinical signs and symptoms, differential diagnosis, diagnostic testing and imaging, medical/surgical/pharmacologic management, and prognosis for recovery at the levels of body structures and function. Students will investigate the processes of medical systems screening for differential diagnosis, interpret basic medical imaging, analyze the effects of selected medical and surgical interventions, and evaluate implications of pharmacology regimens on physical therapy practice. Medical systems screening and analysis of diagnostic imaging will be expected as a component of patient examination, evaluation, and differential diagnosis, in order to identify concerning yellow and red flags, appropriateness for and degree of physical therapy participation, and referral to the most appropriate medical provider when indicated. Special emphasis will be placed on the Integumentary and Lymphatic examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, and intervention. The course will include a didactic and lab component intended to develop the students’ hands on ability in performing skills such as wound assessment, debridement and interventions for lymphedema. Three hours of lecture/week. Corequisites DPT 631L
DPT 631LMultiple Systems Influence within PT Practice Laboratory0
This course introduces mechanisms of pathophysiology that contribute to changes in the body structures and functions of ‘other’ systems including the endocrine and metabolic, gastrointestinal, genital, and reproductive, hematologic, hepatic and biliary, immune, integumentary, lymphatic, and renal and urologic systems. These changes can result in specific conditions, diseases, and disorders that physical therapists encounter across the lifespan. Dysfunction within the ‘other’ systems can also result from injuries to other body systems and/or systemic conditions. Selected disorders within these systems will be introduced, including incidence and prevalence, etiology (including modifiable and nonmodifiable risk factors), clinical signs and symptoms, differential diagnosis, diagnostic testing and imaging, medical/surgical/pharmacologic management, and prognosis for recovery at the levels of body structures and function. Students will investigate the processes of medical systems screening for differential diagnosis, interpret basic medical imaging, analyze the effects of selected medical and surgical interventions, and evaluate implications of pharmacology regimens on physical therapy practice. Medical systems screening and analysis of diagnostic imaging will be expected as a component of patient examination, evaluation, and differential diagnosis, in order to identify concerning yellow and red flags, appropriateness for and degree of physical therapy participation, and referral to the most appropriate medical provider when indicated. Special emphasis will be placed on the Integumentary and Lymphatic examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, and intervention. The course will include a didactic and lab component intended to develop the students’ hands on ability in performing skills such as wound assessment, debridement, and interventions for lymphedema. Corequisites DPT 631
DPT 632Physical Therapy Practice Through the Lifespan4
This course will integrate knowledge of human development, movement control, and functional activities and participation in the pediatric and geriatric segments of the lifespan. Designed in modules, the course will be focused on essential areas of knowledge and skill, including 1) all domains of development, emphasizing motor development, control and function at key transition points throughout the lifespan; 2) evaluation and assessment across developing, delayed, and aging physiologic systems; 3) intervention planning and coordination of age-appropriate patient/client management, family/caregiver-centered care and education, including end-of-life. Students will focus on introduction and reinforcement of skills in the physical therapy examination, evaluation, and intervention of individuals with congenital and acquired health conditions. Students will apply knowledge of psychosocial, cognitive, communication and developmental levels to effectively interact with individuals across the lifespan. 2 hours of lecture weekly. Corequisites DPT 632L
DPT 632LPhysical Therapy Practice Through the Lifespan Laboratory0
This course will integrate knowledge of human development, movement control, and functional activities and participation in the pediatric and geriatric segments of the lifespan. Designed in modules, the course will be focused on essential areas of knowledge and skill, including 1) all domains of development, emphasizing motor development, control, and function at key transition points throughout the lifespan; 2) evaluation and assessment across developing, delayed, and aging physiologic systems; 3) intervention planning and coordination of age-appropriate patient/client management, family/caregiver-centered care, and education, including end-of-life. Students will focus on introduction and reinforcement of skills in the physical therapy examination, evaluation, and intervention of individuals with congenital and acquired health conditions. Students will apply knowledge of psychosocial, cognitive, communication and developmental levels to effectively interact with individuals across the lifespan. 4 hours of lab weekly. Corequisites DPT 632
DPT 700Physical Therapy Practice in a Global Environment (Elective)1
This course is designed to advance the application and analysis of the physical therapist’s role in an interprofessional collaborative team and design innovative health promotion and disease prevention programs in a global health care environment, This course will focus on the advancement of knowledge, attitudes and skills necessary to become a culturally competent physical therapy practitioner. This includes understanding the diversity dimensions that impact health care environments outside of the United States. In addition, this course will emphasize the advancement of interprofessional competencies, defined as “integrated enactment of knowledge, skills, values/attitudes that define working together across the professions, with other health care workers and with patients, along with families and communities, as appropriate to improve health outcomes in specific care contexts.” This course will include an international experience in collaboration with Occupational Therapy students.
This clinically based, interprofessional service-learning course will reinforce, integrate, and advance knowledge and skills from all previous didactic course content through the case management of individuals with complex, multi-system health conditions. Students will provide pro-bono interventions for under-served and under-insured individuals in our community while learning to engage with other members of the health care team. To guide their examination, evaluation, and diagnostic/prognostic processes, and to select interventions, students will apply the principles of Evidence-based Practice (EBP), integrating clinical expertise, patient values, and best available evidence. Further, students will analyze, appraise, apply, and reevaluate the use of the best available evidence, while engaging in clinical decision making to address each patient’s unique and complex presentation. The course will advance and reinforce the practice of physical therapy through direct application of health care policies that impact the local and global health care environment. Students will use these policies to guide patient documentation supporting reimbursement for physical therapy services provided to the pro-bono patients. Individualized intervention programs may include service, advocacy, prevention, family education, as well as recommendation and use of basic and advanced assistive technologies. Consultation with other members of the health care team, effective co-treatment strategies, and teamwork play an integral role in successful completion of this course. Students will reflect on critical aspects of an individual’s needs to maintain health, wellness, and participation across the lifespan as a foundational component of true service learning. 2 hours of lecture weekly. Corequisites DPT 710L
DPT 710LComprehensive Physical Therapy Practice Laboratory0
This clinically based, interprofessional service-learning course will reinforce, integrate, and advance knowledge and skills from all previous didactic course content through the case management of individuals with complex, multi-system health conditions. Students will provide pro-bono interventions for under-served and under-insured individuals in our community while learning to engage with other members of the health care team. To guide their examination, evaluation, and diagnostic/prognostic processes, and to select interventions, students will apply the principles of Evidence-based Practice (EBP), integrating clinical expertise, patient values, and best available evidence. Further, students will analyze, appraise, apply, and reevaluate the use of the best available evidence, while engaging in clinical decision making to address each patient’s unique and complex presentation. The course will advance and reinforce the practice of physical therapy through direct application of health care policies that impact the local and global health care environment. Students will use these policies to guide patient documentation supporting reimbursement for physical therapy services provided to the pro-bono patients. Individualized intervention programs may include service, advocacy, prevention, family education, as well as recommendation and use of basic and advanced assistive technologies. Consultation with other members of the health care team, effective co-treatment strategies, and teamwork play an integral role in successful completion of this course. Students will reflect on critical aspects of an individual’s needs to maintain health, wellness, and participation across the lifespan as a foundational component of true service learning. 4 hours of lab weekly. Corequisites DPT 710
DPT 714 is the final course within the series of Critical Inquiry courses that culminate in an original research project completed and presented prior to graduation. Throughout the Critical Inquiry thread, students are engaged in a small-group research project that is developed within the Faculty Research Advisor’s line of scholarly inquiry. The research projects are designed to enhance each student’s ability to critically appraise the literature and engage in the process of designing, conducting, and presenting scientific research as a requisite for evidence-based practice. In this course, students will conclude their projects and disseminate their work through a written manuscript and formal presentation of their findings.
The purpose of this clinical internship is to foster the development of the entry-level physical therapist in the outpatient/inpatient orthopedic or neuromuscular settings. This 12-week internship occurs following the completion of all didactic course work. Under the supervision of a clinical instructor, students will practice advanced physical therapy examination, evaluation, PT diagnosis, prognosis, and intervention procedures for individuals with musculoskeletal and neuromuscular disorders. Students will be expected to perform at the Advanced Intermediate or Entry-level performance as assessed by the APTA Clinical Performance Instrument.
The purpose of this clinical internship is to foster the development of the entry-level physical therapist in the outpatient/inpatient orthopedic or neuromuscular settings. This 12-week internship occurs following the completion of all didactic course work. Under the supervision of a clinical instructor, students will practice advanced physical therapy examination, evaluation, PT diagnosis, prognosis, and intervention procedures for individuals with musculoskeletal and neuromuscular disorders. Students will be expected to perform at Entry-level performance as assessed by the APTA Clinical Performance Instrument.
This course will investigate the application of physical therapy evaluation and treatment to the athletic population. Management and rehabilitation of surgical and non-surgical injuries and health conditions of the upper extremity and lower extremity common among athletes and the active population will be studied. Topics will also include special examination and intervention strategies often used in the athletic population as well as rehabilitation programs for injuries common in particular sports. There will be a focus on functional recovery with sports performance related exercises. A study of pre-season performance evaluation and screening will also be a part of this course. This class will be taught both in lecture and lab in a seminar format. 1 hour of lecture weekly. Corequisites DPT 806L
This course will investigate the application of physical therapy evaluation and treatment to the athletic population. Management and rehabilitation of surgical and non-surgical injuries and health conditions of the upper extremity and lower extremity common among athletes and the active population will be studied. Topics will also include special examination and intervention strategies often used in the athletic population as well as rehabilitation programs for injuries common in particular sports. There will be a focus on functional recovery with sports performance related exercises. A study of pre-season performance evaluation and screening will also be a part of this course. This class will be taught both in lecture and lab in a seminar format. 1 hour of lab weekly. Corequisites DPT 806
DPT 807Advanced Clinical Decision Making in Pediatric Physical Therapy Elective2
This course will build upon the foundational pediatric concepts and diagnoses discussed in DPT632. Students will be provided an opportunity to investigate and gain more in-depth knowledge of some of the more common pediatric diagnoses and expand on more complex diagnosis through lecture, lab/clinic, group discussion and self-directed learning. It will enhance the student’s ability to access community resources and challenge their creativity while refining manual skills when working with the pediatric population. Students will have an opportunity to utilize evidence-based practice and expand clinical reasoning skills in order to conduct a pediatric evaluation, implement a plan of care and support with the appropriate documentation in order to treat live patients in a pro bono pediatric clinic. 1 hour of lecture weekly. Corequisites DPT 807L
DPT 807LAdvanced Clinical Decision Making in Pediatric Physical Therapy Elective Laboratory0
This course will build upon the foundational pediatric concepts and diagnoses discussed in DPT632. Students will be provided an opportunity to investigate and gain more in-depth knowledge of some of the more common pediatric diagnoses and expand on more complex diagnosis through lecture, lab/clinic, group discussion and self-directed learning. It will enhance the student’s ability to access community resources and challenge their creativity while refining manual skills when working with the pediatric population. Students will have an opportunity to utilize evidence-based practice and expand clinical reasoning skills in order to conduct a pediatric evaluation, implement a plan of care and support with the appropriate documentation in order to treat live patients in a pro bono pediatric clinic. 1 hour of lab weekly. Corequisites DPT 807
This course is composed of the preparation and administration of a comprehensive examination. This examination is the culminating experience of the program, which reflects mastery of the didactic component of the physical therapy curriculum. The examination is 4 hours and 15 minutes in duration and is comprised of 200 multiple choice questions. Passage of this exam is required for graduation.
