Physical Therapy Studies (PTS) - Graduate Courses

Courses

PTS/BIO/PAS 509 Cr.3

Human Gross Anatomy

This comprehensive course provides an in-depth examination of human gross anatomy for graduate students in Physical Therapy (PT), Physician Assistant (PA), and Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) Programs. It covers the musculoskeletal, neurological, urogenital, gastrointestinal, and cardiopulmonary systems, emphasizing functional anatomy, development, and topographic correlations. The course integrates biomechanical principles and clinical applications relevant to each discipline, focusing on physical assessment techniques, surgical considerations, anesthesia management, and therapeutic interventions as appropriate. By bridging anatomical knowledge with practical skills, this course aims to enhance students' clinical reasoning, diagnostic capabilities, and treatment planning across these allied health professions, providing a robust foundation for their respective fields of practice. Prerequisite: admission to the Biology CRNA Program, PAS Program, or DPT Professional Program; concurrent enrollment in BIO/PAS/PTS 510 under same department. (Cross-listed with BIO/PAS/PTS; may only earn credit in one department.) Offered Summer.

PTS/BIO/PAS 510 Cr.3

Applied Human Gross Anatomy

This comprehensive course provides an in-depth examination of human gross anatomy for graduate students in Physical Therapy (PT), Physician Assistant (PA), and Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) Programs. The course covers the musculoskeletal, neurological, urogenital, gastrointestinal, and cardiopulmonary systems; emphasizing functional anatomy, development, and topographic correlations. The course integrates biomechanical principles and clinical applications relevant to each discipline focusing on physical assessment techniques, surgical considerations, anesthesia management, and therapeutic interventions as appropriate. By bridging anatomical knowledge with practical skills, this course aims to enhance students' clinical reasoning, diagnostic capabilities, and treatment planning across these allied health professions, providing a robust foundation for their respective fields of practice. Prerequisite: admission to the Biology CRNA Program, PAS Program, or DPT Professional Program; concurrent enrollment in BIO/PAS/PTS 509 under same department. (Cross-listed with BIO/PAS/PTS; may only earn credit in one department.) Offered Summer.

PTS 512 Cr.4

Medical Physiology

The course examines the physiological function and regulation of major organ systems and their components in the human body and after injury or disease. The course covers normal physiology and interaction of body systems as well as selected diseases or injury. Concepts are organized by systems: endocrine, cardiovascular, respiratory, renal, gastrointestinal, nervous, hematologic, hepatic, reproductive, vascular, and genetics. Prerequisite: admission to DPT Professional Program. Offered Summer.

PTS 516 Cr.1

Physiological Regulation of Exertion and Disease

This course is designed to provide the student with an overview of the physiological basis of activity. The course emphasizes the various changes brought on by exercise to the normal and abnormal physiological systems. Prerequisite: admission to DPT Professional Program; satisfactory progression through all didactic coursework in summer 1 courses; concurrent enrollment in PTS 517. Offered Fall.

PTS 517 Cr.1

Applied Physiological Regulation of Exertion and Disease

This applied course is designed to provide the student with an opportunity to apply the physiological principles in the evaluation of health and performance related fitness. Methods and protocols appropriate for screening for physical activity, health appraisal, assessment, and exercise prescription for apparently healthy individuals or those with controlled disease. Prerequisite: admission to DPT Professional Program; satisfactory progression through all didactic coursework in summer 1 courses; concurrent enrollment in PTS 516. Offered Fall.

PTS 518 Cr.1

Motor Control, Learning and Development

This course will provide a theoretical and research evidence basis for normal movement via motor control, motor learning, and motor development literature. Students will formulate a basic understanding of what is known about typical control, learning and development of movement and how available knowledge applies to motor re-learning and control after a lesion or injury. These concepts will be discussed with respect to multiple patient populations and atypical movement will be introduced. Prerequisite: admission to DPT Professional Program; satisfactory progression through all didactic coursework in fall 1 courses; concurrent enrollment in PTS 519. Offered Spring.

PTS 519 Cr.1

Applied Motor Control, Learning, and Development

This course will explore principles of motor behavior within the context of interactive labs. Principles of motor behavior (motor control, motor learning, and motor development) will be applied to both typical and atypical populations. Students will practice applying what is known about control, learning and development of movement to motor re-learning and control after lesion or injury. These concepts will be discussed with respect to multiple patient populations and atypical movement will be introduced. Prerequisite: admission to DPT Professional Program; satisfactory progression through all didactic coursework in fall 1 courses; concurrent enrollment in PTS 518. Offered Spring.

PTS 520 Cr.1

Introduction to Physical Therapy Practice and Evaluation Techniques

This course is designed to expose the student to the multiple roles and professional behavior expectations of the physical therapist and gain insight into the importance of these roles in the context of today's health care system. This course will also introduce the student to the role of patient examination with emphasis on tests and measures related to palpation, goniometry and muscle strength testing. This course is concurrently taught with anatomy so students may apply knowledge of human anatomy to a clinical environment. Prerequisite: concurrent enrollment in PTS 521; admission to DPT Professional Program. Offered Summer.

PTS 521 Cr.2

Applied Introduction to Physical Therapy Practice and Evaluation Techniques

This course is taken concurrently with "Introduction to Physical Therapy Practice & Evaluation Techniques" (PTS 520). The applied experiences are designed to provide an opportunity to practice physical therapy examination with emphasis on tests and measures related to palpation, goniometry, and muscle strength testing. Prerequisite: concurrent enrollment in PTS 520; admission to DPT Professional Program. Offered Summer.

PTS 523 Cr.1

Physical Agents

This course provides an understanding of the physiological basis, scientific rationale for, and clinical application of: thermal, electrophysiology/electrotherapy, and electromagnetic physical agents. Prerequisite: admission to DPT Professional Program; satisfactory progression through all didactic coursework in summer 1 courses; concurrent enrollment in PTS 524. Offered Fall.

PTS 524 Cr.1

Applied Physical Agents

This course is taken concurrently with "Physical Agents" (PTS 523). The applied experiences are designed to provide an opportunity to practice the clinical application and clinical decision making of: thermal, electrophysiology/ electrotherapy and electromagnetic physical agents. Strategies and techniques to manage pain, edema, soft tissue dysfunction, loss of motion and weakness through direct interventions will be covered. Prerequisite: admission to DPT Professional Program; satisfactory progression through all didactic coursework in summer 1 courses; concurrent enrollment in PTS 523. Offered Fall.

PTS 525 Cr.2

Kinesiology and Biomechanics of Normal and Abnormal Movement

The principles and theories of the biomechanics of human motion will be presented to develop analytical skills needed to assess normal and abnormal movement. Prerequisite: admission to DPT Professional Program; satisfactory progression through all didactic coursework in summer 1 courses; concurrent enrollment in PTS 526. Offered Fall.

PTS 526 Cr.1

Applied Biomechanics and Kinesiology of Movement

This course provides introductory activities used in the development of student analytical skills to enable the assessment of normal and abnormal movement from a biomechanical perspective. Prerequisite: admission to DPT Professional Program; satisfactory progression through all didactic coursework in summer 1 courses; concurrent enrollment in PTS 525. Offered Fall.

PTS 527 Cr.2

Clinical Foundations of the Physical Therapy Examination

This course is designed to instruct future clinicians on how to implement the examination/evaluation component of the Patient/Client Management Model of Physical Therapy. Prerequisite: admission to DPT Professional Program; satisfactory progression through all didactic coursework in summer 1 courses; concurrent enrollment in PTS 528. Offered Fall.

PTS 528 Cr.2

Applied Clinical Foundations of the Physical Therapy Examination

This course will emphasize the skills of obtaining a client history, performing a systems review and selecting and administering appropriate tests and measures that have been presented in "Clinical Foundations of the Physical Therapy Examination" (PTS 527). Prerequisite: admission to DPT Professional Program; satisfactory progression through all didactic coursework in summer 1 courses; concurrent enrollment in PTS 527. Offered Fall.

PTS 535 Cr.2

Functional Neuroanatomy

This course will provide a detailed examination of the gross components associated with the central nervous system. This examination will be correlated with a review of the peripheral nervous system. Together, this information will be used to provide functional considerations of the nervous system that will then be used to explore the foundational basis for clinical applications in neurologic evaluation and interpretation. Prerequisite: admission to DPT Professional Program; satisfactory progression through all didactic coursework in fall 1 courses; concurrent enrollment in PTS 536. Offered Spring.

PTS 536 Cr.1

Applied Functional Neuroanatomy

This course will focus on the physical identification of structures associated with the central nervous system. This identification will occur through dissection, examination of stained sections and models, and through an overview of clinical imaging studies. These structures will be correlated with functional understandings to provide a basis for solving clinical relevant problem sets. Prerequisite: admission to DPT Professional Program; satisfactory progression through all didactic coursework in fall 1 courses; concurrent enrollment in PTS 535. Offered Spring.

PTS 542 Cr.3

Research and Applied Statistics

Research design and statistics with an emphasis on clinical research is the focus of this course. The course will discuss statistical methods used in critically evaluating the literature, the impact of research design on statistical analysis, the practical use of statistics and their application to clinical practice. Students will build on course content developed in "Foundations of Clinical Research" (PTS 545). Prerequisite: admission to DPT Professional Program; satisfactory progression through all didactic coursework in spring 1 courses. Offered Summer.

PTS 543 Cr.1

Instrumentation for Human Movement

Development of knowledge and skills necessary for interpretation of human movement data pervasive in contemporary physical therapy literature. Topics will include methods of data acquisition using a force platform, pressure platform, pressure insoles and mats, video based motion analysis, posturography, and electromyography (EMG) as well as methods of processing, analyzing, and interpreting data. Prerequisite: admission to DPT Professional Program; satisfactory progression through all didactic coursework in spring 1 courses; concurrent enrollment in PTS 544. Offered Summer.

PTS 544 Cr.1

Applied Instrumentation for Human Movement

Development of practical skills and experience in collecting human movement data with instrumentation. Data analysis and written reports associated with the analysis of movement will be required. Prerequisite: admission to DPT Professional Program; satisfactory progression through all didactic coursework in spring 1 courses; concurrent enrollment in PTS 543. Offered Summer.

PTS 545 Cr.2

Foundations of Clinical Research

Research methodology with an emphasis on clinical research is the focus of this course. Methods for critically evaluating the literature, literature search strategies, ethics in research, issues of control, measurement, and basic elements of research design will be discussed. Prerequisite: admission to DPT Professional Program; satisfactory progression through all didactic coursework in fall 1 courses; concurrent enrollment in PTS 546. Offered Spring.

PTS 546 Cr.1

Applied Foundations of Clinical Research

Students will identify a gap in our knowledge base using primary literature and formulate a specific research question that could be answered using available resources. Students will develop a research proposal and oral defense of their research question, proposed methods, and expected clinical relevance. Prerequisite: admission to DPT Professional Program; satisfactory progression through all didactic coursework in fall 1 courses; concurrent enrollment in PTS 545. Offered Spring.

PTS 611 Cr.3

Pathophysiology and Differential Diagnosis

This course is designed to empower students with a deep understanding of organ system pathophysiology and its relevance to physical therapy. It focuses on enhancing students' skills in precise differential diagnosis, determining when further diagnostics are needed, and applying evidence-based approaches for effective physical therapy management. Prerequisite: admission to DPT Professional Program; satisfactory progression through all didactic coursework in summer 1 courses. Offered Fall.

PTS 619 Cr.2

Early Intervention and Acute Care Physical Therapy

This course instructs in the principles of basic functional mobility and early interventions used to treat patients in the acute care setting. These principles are introduced as measures for assessment, plan of care development, and selection of interventions. Students are introduced to the use of assistive devices to facilitate safe functional mobility and documentation of mobility activities in patient care. Prerequisite: admission to DPT Professional Program; satisfactory progression through all didactic coursework in fall 1 courses; concurrent enrollment in PTS 620. Offered Spring.

PTS 620 Cr.1

Applied Early Intervention and Acute Care Physical Therapy

This course emphasizes the use of basic mobility skills as a tool for assessment, plan of care development, and intervention selection. Students practice facilitation of basic mobility tasks, prescription of assistive devices, and therapeutic techniques to support rehabilitation of functional mobility. These skills are further applied to the Acute Care setting through simulated practice. Prerequisite: admission to DPT Professional Program; satisfactory progression through all didactic coursework in fall 1 courses; concurrent enrollment in PTS 619. Offered Spring.

PTS 623 Cr.1

Integument System

In this course, the student will build on basic skin anatomy, physiologic basis of skin nourishment and repair, and biomechanical stresses that can impact on the skin. Factors predisposing the skin to breakdown will be presented as will preventive measures where appropriate. The student will learn specific examination and intervention techniques utilized in treating specific integumentary conditions including burns, wound care, and amputations. Prerequisite: admission to DPT Professional Program; satisfactory progression through all didactic coursework in spring 1 courses; concurrent enrollment in PTS 624. Offered Summer.

PTS 624 Cr.1

Applied Integument System

PTS 625 Cr.3

Physical Therapy Management of the Cardiovascular/Pulmonary System

This course focuses on normal and abnormal structure and function of the cardiovascular, pulmonary and lymphatic systems with emphasis on medical and other therapeutic strategies. Emphasis is placed on preventative measures and interventions for cardiac and pulmonary patients. Students evaluate current literature to support evidence-based practice and use a problem-solving approach to evaluate and manage patients. Prerequisite: admission to DPT Professional Program; satisfactory progression through all didactic coursework in fall 1 courses; concurrent enrollment in PTS 626. Offered Spring.

PTS 626 Cr.1

Applied Physical Therapy Management of the Cardiovascular/Pulmonary System

This course is taken concurrently with "Physical Therapy Management of the Cardiovascular/Pulmonary System" (PTS 625). The applied experiences are designed to provide an opportunity to practice examinations, evaluations, and interventions from cardiovascular, pulmonary and lymphatic cases and demonstrate psychomotor proficiency in each procedure. In addition, during this applied laboratory course the students are expected to integrate and synthesize information from a variety of problem-solving experiences. Prerequisite: admission to DPT Professional Program; satisfactory progression through all didactic coursework in fall 1 courses; concurrent enrollment in PTS 625. Offered Spring.

PTS 627 Cr.1

Therapeutic Exercise and Manual Therapy

This course teaches principles of intervention techniques used to treat patients following injury or illness. Content will focus on techniques of manual therapy, flexibility, strength and power training and functional recovery. Prerequisite: admission to DPT Professional Program; satisfactory progression through all didactic coursework in fall 1 courses; concurrent enrollment in PTS 628. Offered Spring.

PTS 628 Cr.1

Applied Therapeutic Exercise and Manual Therapy

This course will emphasize the psychomotor skills utilized to perform the material presented in "Therapeutic Exercise and Manual Therapy" (PTS 627). Prerequisite: admission to DPT Professional Program; satisfactory progression through all didactic coursework in fall 1 courses; concurrent enrollment in PTS 627. Offered Spring.

PTS 651 Cr.1

Fieldwork: Introduction to Clinical Learning

A clinically based learning experience with an emphasis on practicing recently learned clinical skills on a patient population. Students gain experience with medical chart reviews, taking subjective patient histories, practicing early assessment and intervention skills, performing basic patient handling techniques and exploring the role of a physical therapist within the health care team. Patient population will vary according to clinical setting where student is assigned. Prerequisite: admission to DPT Program; in good standing in program (academic & professional behaviors); successful progression through all preceding didactic coursework; completion of all clinical education preparatory material described in course syllabus. Pass/Fail grading. Offered Winter.

PTS 661 Cr.1

Professional Series 1 - Physical Therapy Foundations

This course serves as a foundational stepping stone for students embarking on their journey in the field of physical therapy, fostering academic excellence, personal well-being, and leadership. The course is an essential introduction to the profession of physical therapy tailored for incoming physical therapy students. In addition to foundational knowledge, the course familiarizes students with campus resources available to support their academic and professional journey. Students engage in discussions about effective study strategies tailored to the rigors of a graduate curriculum including time management, active learning techniques, and collaborative study practices. Students also explore the role of clinical education within the graduate curriculum. Prerequisite: admission to DPT Professional Program. Pass/Fail grading. Offered Summer.

PTS 662 Cr.1

Professional Series 2 - Communication Strategies in Physical Therapy

This course is designed to equip physical therapy students with advanced communication skills essential for effective patient care and interdisciplinary collaboration. Building on foundational communication principles, the course delves into the complexities of verbal and non-verbal communication, Bloom's Taxonomy, cultural competence, and the psychosocial aspects of patient interactions. Preparation for beginning level fieldwork clinical rotations is also addressed in this course. Prerequisite: admission to the DPT Professional Program; satisfactory completion of all didactic coursework in Summer I courses. Pass/Fail grading. Offered Fall.

PTS 663 Cr.1

Professional Series 3 - Ethics and Legal Aspects in Physical Therapy Practice

This course provides an in-depth exploration of the ethical and legal frameworks that govern the practice of physical therapy. The course is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate complex ethical dilemmas and legal issues that arise in clinical settings. Prerequisite: admission to the DPT Professional program; satisfactory of all didactic coursework in Fall I courses. Pass/Fail grading. Offered Spring.

PTS 700 Cr.1-3

Selected Topics in Physical Therapy

This course offers in-depth study of particular concepts, clinical specialties, and/or non-traditional practice areas in physical therapy. Topics are selected by the instructor and/or as developed by student/faculty dialogue to meet special interests and needs. Topics are relevant to physical therapy education, and are not found elsewhere in the university curriculum. Repeatable for credit - maximum six. Prerequisite: admission to DPT Professional Program. Pass/Fail grading. Offered Fall, Spring.

PTS 701 Cr.1

Applied Adult Clinical Practice

This course provides the students with supervised hands-on experience working with adults with impairments and movement dysfunctions in a clinic type setting (health promotion/wellness). Students will incorporate theory, evidence, foundational science, and clinical skills under the general supervision of a physical therapist. Repeatable for credit - maximum two. Prerequisite: admission to DPT Professional Program; satisfactory progression through all didactic coursework in summer 2 courses; PTS 751. Pass/Fail grading. Offered Fall, Spring.

PTS 702 Cr.1

Contemporary Practice in Neuromusculoskeletal Physical Therapy

This course will emphasize the implementation of the patient client management model that reflects contemporary practice in neuromusculoskeletal physical therapy. The focus will be on content that is not covered in the standard neuromusculoskeletal content of the physical therapy curriculum. This course will also emphasize the instruction and implementation of the psychomotor skills needed to perform evidence-based hands on skills that reflect contemporary practice. The topics of this class will build upon the foundation of material already presented in the other neuromusculoskeletal courses sequenced in the curriculum. Prerequisite: admission to DPT Professional Program; satisfactory progression through all didactic coursework in fall 2 courses. Pass/Fail grading. Offered Spring.

PTS 703 Cr.1

Clinical Anatomy Review

This course will provide a review of neuromusculoskeletal anatomy that would be useful to the new or practicing clinician. Specific attention will be paid to an anatomical examination of diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. The topics of this class will build upon the foundation of anatomical and clinical courses from discipline specific curriculum. Prerequisite: admission to DPT, OT, or PAS Program; or health career professional. Pass/Fail grading. Offered Spring.

PTS 709 Cr.1

Health and Wellness in Physical Therapy Practice

In this course, students will focus on the role of the physical therapist in promoting principles of health and wellness for the purpose of risk identification and fitness promotion for individuals, groups, and communities throughout the lifespan by utilizing educational and prevention programs. Issues of health behavior, community access, efficacy of individual and group programs, and the development of health promotion programs will be explored. Prerequisite: admission to DPT Professional Program; satisfactory progression through all didactic coursework in summer 2 courses. Offered Fall.

PTS 710 Cr.1

Applied Health and Wellness in Physical Therapy Practice

In this course, students will implement a community service-learning project to promote health and wellness for the purpose of risk identification and/or fitness promotion for individuals, groups, and/or communities. Outcomes of the program will be assessed and presented. Prerequisite: admission to DPT Professional Program; satisfactory progression through all didactic coursework in fall 2 courses; PTS 709. Offered Spring.

PTS 711 Cr.2

Pharmacology

This course is designed to provide coverage of typical pharmacologic agents encountered in both inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation settings. Content includes pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, and biotransformation of drugs. 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. Prerequisite: admission to DPT Professional Program; satisfactory progression through all didactic coursework in fall 2 courses. Offered Spring.

PTS 712 Cr.1

Clinical Radiology

This course presents an overview of medical diagnostics emphasizing indications and implications for imaging studies used to augment information obtained from the physical therapy examination. Topics include plain film x-ray, ultrasound, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and nuclear imaging. Prerequisite: admission to DPT Professional Program; satisfactory progression through all didactic coursework in summer 2 courses. Offered Fall.

PTS 715 Cr.2

Musculoskeletal Examination and Intervention: Lower Extremity

This course will emphasize the implementation of the patient/client management model in the realm of musculoskeletal physical therapy of the lower extremity. Prerequisite: admission to DPT Professional Program; satisfactory progression through all didactic coursework in summer 2 courses; concurrent enrollment in PTS 716. Offered Fall.

PTS 716 Cr.1

Applied Musculoskeletal Examination and Interventions: Lower Extremity

This course will emphasize the psychomotor skills included in the patient/client management model and utilization of material presented in "Musculoskeletal Examination and Intervention: Lower Extremity" (PTS 715). Prerequisite: admission to DPT Professional Program; satisfactory progression through all didactic coursework in summer 2 courses; concurrent enrollment in PTS 715. Offered Fall.

PTS 728 Cr.2

Musculoskeletal Evaluation and Treatment: Spine

This course will emphasize the implementation of the patient/client management model in the realm of musculoskeletal physical therapy of the spine. Prerequisite: admission to DPT Professional Program; satisfactory progression through all didactic coursework in spring 1 courses; concurrent enrollment in PTS 729. Offered Summer.

PTS 729 Cr.1

Applied Musculoskeletal Evaluation and Treatment: Spine

This course will emphasize the psychomotor skills included in the patient/client management model and utilization of material presented in "Musculoskeletal Evaluation and Treatment: Spine" (PTS 728). Prerequisite: admission to DPT Professional Program; satisfactory progression through all didactic coursework in spring 1 courses; concurrent enrollment in PTS 728. Offered Summer.

PTS 730 Cr.3

Physical Therapy for Children

In this lecture-based course, students will gain and apply knowledge in screening, examination, evaluation and diagnosis, prognosis, plan of care, and interventions for children with disabilities. Students will learn how to modify examination and interventions to match a child's age and developmental level. Student knowledge from previous courses will be applied. Prerequisite: admission to DPT Professional Program; satisfactory progression through all didactic coursework in fall 2 courses; concurrent enrollment in PTS 731. Offered Spring.

PTS 731 Cr.1

Applied Physical Therapy for Children

In this lab-based course, students will gain psychomotor and affective skills in screening, examination, evaluation and diagnosis, prognosis, plan of care and interventions for children with disabilities. Students will learn how to modify examination and interventions to match a child's age and developmental level. Prerequisite: admission to DPT Professional Program; satisfactory progression through all didactic coursework in fall 2 courses; concurrent enrollment in PTS 730. Offered Spring.

PTS 733 Cr.2

Health Administration

Primary emphasis for the joint portion of this course is to provide entry-level health care professionals with clinical administration and patient management skills in the context of the current health care system and an ethical practice environment. Topics of study include characteristics of the global and US health care systems, reimbursement and insurance models, legal considerations, compliance with healthcare and reimbursement regulations, and practice management. Prerequisite: admission to DPT Professional Program; satisfactory progression through all didactic coursework in fall 2 courses. Offered Spring.

PTS 735 Cr.2

Adult Neurorehabilitative Physical Therapy I

The course emphasizes the integration of neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, motor control, motor learning, and the physical therapy management of adults with neuromuscular disorders. Students assess and integrate recommendations and evidence for the principles and practices of neurorehabilitation physical therapy. Prerequisite: admission to DPT Professional Program; satisfactory progression through all didactic coursework in summer 2 courses; concurrent enrollment in PTS 736. Offered Fall.

PTS 736 Cr.1

Applied Adult Neurorehabilitative Physical Therapy I

The course emphasizes procedures to support physical therapy management of adults with neuromuscular disorders. Students practice the selection and application of tests and measures, treatment techniques, equipment prescription, and outcome assessment and recommendations. Prerequisite: admission to DPT Professional Program; satisfactory progression through all didactic coursework in summer 2 courses; concurrent enrollment in PTS 735. Offered Fall.

PTS 737 Cr.2

Musculoskeletal Examination and Intervention: Upper Extremity

This course will emphasize the implementation of the patient/client management model in the realm of musculoskeletal physical therapy of the upper extremity. Prerequisite: admission to DPT Professional Program; satisfactory progression through all didactic coursework in fall 2 courses; concurrent enrollment in PTS 738. Offered Spring.

PTS 738 Cr.1

Applied Musculoskeletal Examination and Interventions: Upper Extremity

This course will emphasize the psychomotor skills included in the patient/client management model and utilization of material presented in "Musculoskeletal Examination and Intervention: Upper Extremity" (PTS 737). Prerequisite: admission to DPT Professional Program; satisfactory progression through all didactic coursework in fall 2 courses; concurrent enrollment in PTS 737. Offered Spring.

PTS 739 Cr.1

Adult Neurorehabilitative Physical Therapy II

The course will emphasize the integration of neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, motor control, motor learning, differential diagnosis and the physical therapy management of adults presenting with symptoms of dizziness and/or imbalance (e.g. concussion, stroke, cerebellar disorders, vestibular disorders) and spinal cord injuries (SCI). Students will learn and practice targeted assessment (including the selection and application of tests and measures), examination, intervention, principles and practices as they relate to the rehabilitation of a person presenting with symptoms of dizziness and/or imbalance or SCI. Prerequisite: admission to DPT Professional Program; satisfactory progression through all didactic coursework in fall 2 courses, concurrent enrollment in PTS 740. Offered Spring.

PTS 740 Cr.1

Applied Adult Neurorehabilitative Physical Therapy II

The course will emphasize procedures to support physical therapy management of adults presenting with symptoms of dizziness and/or imbalance (e.g. concussion, stroke, cerebellar disorders, vestibular disorders) and spinal cord injuries (SCI). Students will practice the selection and application of tests and measures, treatment techniques, equipment prescription, and outcome assessment and recommendations. Prerequisite: admission to DPT Professional Program; satisfactory progression through all didactic coursework in fall 2 courses; concurrent enrollment in PTS 739. Offered Spring.

PTS 741 Cr.2

Evidenced Based Practice in Physical Therapy

This course provides students with strategies for evaluating the evidence underlying physical therapy practice. Students will examine various levels of evidence ranging from systematic reviews to case studies in an effort to recognize opportunities to utilize evidence as a framework for determining best practice. Contemporary physical therapy research concepts will also be emphasized including selection, analysis, and incorporation of outcome measures into physical therapy practice, use of clinical prediction rules, and intention to treat analysis in prospective study designs. Finally, this course will provide students an opportunity to retrieve and assess information from the research literature that substantiates or challenges the use of physical therapy interventions for the treatment of movement disorders. Prerequisite: admission to DPT Professional Program; satisfactory progression through all didactic coursework in summer 2 courses. Offered Fall.

PTS 742 Cr.1

Research Practicum

This course provides practical experience carrying out a research project under the guidance of the principal investigator(s). Students may be asked to participate in some of the following activities: search and critique the literature concerning the research problem, collect data, process, analyze and/or manage data, assist with statistical analysis, and/or interpret results. Repeatable for credit - maximum two. Prerequisite: admission to DPT Professional Program; satisfactory progression through all didactic coursework in summer 2 courses. Pass/Fail grading. Offered Fall, Spring.

PTS 751 Cr.2

Fieldwork: General Practice

Students are assigned to a clinically based learning experience where they practice basic skill acquisition in real time. Fieldwork placements are with a general practitioner/clinical instructor (CI). Consistent with the services that may be provided in a general practice, students may be expected to provide supervised therapy for less complicated patients in any supervised setting including, but not limited to, acute care, extended care facility, home care, outpatient orthopedic, and pediatrics. Prerequisite: admission to DPT Professional Program; in good standing in program (academic and professional behaviors); successful progression through all preceding didactic coursework; completion of all clinical education preparatory material described in the course syllabus; successful completion of PTS 651. Pass/Fail grading. Offered Summer.

PTS 761 Cr.1

Professional Series 4 - Interactions in Physical Therapy

This course is designed to equip physical therapy students with the knowledge, skills, and cultural competencies necessary to effectively engage with clients in their practice, particularly when serving vulnerable populations. Through a combination of theoretical frameworks, case studies, and practical applications, students explore the social determinants of health, systemic barriers to care, and the unique needs of diverse communities. Preparation for the Level II fieldwork clinicals is also included in this course. Prerequisite: admission to the DPT professional program; satisfactory of all didactic coursework in Spring I courses. Pass/Fail grading. Offered Summer.

PTS 762 Cr.1

Professional Series 5 - Applied Clinical Teaching in Physical Therapy

This course is designed to enhance knowledge and apply skills required by physical therapists to effectively educate patients, family members, other health care providers, colleagues, and future students. The course explores the theoretical foundations and practical applications of clinical education, focusing on the development of effective teaching strategies, assessment methods, and mentorship practices within the context of physical therapy. Throughout the course, students discuss adult learning principles/theories and integrate evidence-based practice into teaching. Prerequisite: admission to the DPT professional program; satisfactory of all didactic coursework in Summer II courses. Pass/Fail grading. Offered Fall.

PTS 763 Cr.1

Professional Series 6 - Clinical Decision Making in Physical Therapy

This course is designed to equip physical therapy students with the essential skills and knowledge required for effective clinical decision making in diverse healthcare settings. Emphasizing evidence-based practice, the course explores the integration of clinical reasoning, patient values, and best available evidence to formulate and implement individualized treatment plans. Preparation for entry-level clinical rotations is also included in this course. Prerequisite: admission to the DPT professional program; satisfactory of all didactic coursework in Fall II courses. Pass/Fail grading. Offered Spring.

PTS 798 Cr.1-3

Independent Study

Independent study of a special topic or problem related to physical therapy examination, intervention, diagnosis, prognosis, outcome assessment or professional practice. Physical therapy elective. Open to students after discussion with instructor. Repeatable for credit - maximum six. Prerequisite: admission to DPT Professional Program. Consent of instructor. Offered Occasionally.

PTS 831 Cr.1

Clinical Decision Making

This course introduces learners to clinical reasoning as a systematic process to assist practitioners in inferring or drawing conclusions about patient care. Prerequisite: admission to DPT Professional Program; successful progression through all prior DPT curriculum. Offered Fall.

PTS 851 Cr.6

Clinical Education Experience I

This course is the first in a series of three required physical therapy clinical education experiences whereby the student is assigned to a clinical facility under the direction and supervision of a physical therapist clinical instructor. Clinical experiences will be representative of settings where physical therapy is routinely practiced. Examples of settings include, but are not limited to, acute care hospitals, rehabilitation centers, home-care, outpatient clinics, schools, skilled nursing facilities, wellness centers, etc. The collective outcome of all three 12-week clinical education experiences will encompass patient care that ensures students are competent with management of patients across the lifespan and continuum of care. The patient management model will be applied to individuals with musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, cardiovascular, pulmonary, and integumentary problems. Prerequisite: admission to the DPT Program; in good standing in program (academic and professional behaviors); successful progression through all preceding didactic coursework; completion of all clinical education preparatory material described in the course syllabus; successful completion of PTS 651 and PTS 751. Pass/Fail grading. Offered Summer.

PTS 852 Cr.6

Clinical Education Experience II

This course is the second in a series of three required physical therapy clinical education experiences whereby the student is assigned to a clinical facility under the direction and supervision of a physical therapist clinical instructor. Clinical experiences will be representative of settings where physical therapy is routinely practiced. Examples of settings include, but are not limited to, acute care hospitals, rehabilitation centers, home-care, outpatient clinics, schools, skilled nursing facilities, wellness centers, etc. The collective outcome of all three 12-week clinical education experiences will encompass patient care that ensures students are competent with management of patients across the lifespan and continuum of care. The patient management model will be applied to individuals with musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, cardiovascular, pulmonary, and integumentary problems. Prerequisite: admission to the DPT Program; in good standing in program (academic and professional behaviors); successful progression through all preceding didactic coursework; completion of all clinical education preparatory material described in the course syllabus; successful completion of PTS 651 and PTS 751. Pass/Fail grading. Offered Fall.

PTS 853 Cr.6

Clinical Education Experience III

This course is the third in a series of three required physical therapy clinical education experiences whereby the student is assigned to a clinical facility under the direction and supervision of a physical therapist clinical instructor. Clinical experiences will be representative of settings where physical therapy is routinely practiced. Examples of settings include, but are not limited to, acute care hospitals, rehabilitation centers, home-care, outpatient clinics, schools, skilled nursing facilities, wellness centers, etc. The collective outcome of all three 12-week clinical education experiences will encompass patient care that ensures students are competent with management of patients across the lifespan and continuum of care. The patient management model will be applied to individuals with musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, cardiovascular, pulmonary, and integumentary problems. Prerequisite: admission to the DPT Program; in good standing in program (academic and professional behaviors); successful progression through all preceding didactic coursework; completion of all clinical education preparatory material described in the course syllabus; successful completion of PTS 651 and PTS 751. Pass/Fail grading. Offered Spring.

PTS 854 Cr.1

Capstone Project

Hybrid course with online and campus-based classes focusing on development of a written manuscript (case report, systematic literature review, or research manuscript) with faculty mentoring and oversight. Scholarly writing consistent with journal submission guidelines is required. Prerequisite: admission to the DPT Professional Program; good academic standing; satisfactory completion of all didactic coursework. Consent of instructor. Pass/Fail grading. Offered Fall, Spring, Summer.