2017-2018 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog 
    
    May 02, 2024  
2017-2018 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Course Descriptions


 

Doctor of Physical Therapy

  
  • DPT 737 Integrated Clinical Experience I


    1 credit

    Part-time placement at an affiliating clinical education site under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist

    This is a part-time clinical education experience, occurring during the first semester in the program (Spring I). The clinical experience is scheduled in conjunction with classroom time that provides the student with the knowledge and skills to perform successfully in the clinical environment. The focus of an integrated clinical experience is based on the foundation of clinical practice, with emphasis on concurrent classroom/laboratory content. Students have the opportunity to apply recently learned knowledge and skills in a clinical environment with real patients.  Facilitation from Physical Therapy Clinical Faculty will assist in the utilization of these skills in critically analyzing a variety of real patient and clinical scenarios.  This experience begins the process of professional socialization and cultivation of interpersonal communication skills; self-assessment; and proactive learning prior to the initiation of the full time clinical experience. 

  
  • DPT 747 Integrated Clinical Experience II


    1 credit

    Part-time placement at an affiliating clinical education site under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist

    This is a part-time clinical education experience, occurring during the first semester in the program (Summer I). The clinical experience is scheduled in conjunction with classroom time that provides the student with the knowledge and skills to perform successfully in the clinical environment. The focus of an integrated clinical experience is based on the foundation of clinical practice, with emphasis on concurrent classroom/laboratory content. Students have the opportunity to apply recently learned knowledge and skills in a clinical environment with real patients.  Facilitation from Physical Therapy Clinical Faculty will assist in the utilization of these skills in critically analyzing a variety of real patient and clinical scenarios.  This experience begins the process of professional socialization and cultivation of interpersonal communication skills; self-assessment; and proactive learning prior to the initiation of the full time clinical experience. 

    Prerequisite(s): DPT 837  

  
  • DPT 767 Integrated Clinical Experience III


    1 credit

    Part-time placement at an affiliating clinical education site under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist

    This is a part-time clinical education experience, occurring during the first semester in the program (Fall I). The clinical experience is scheduled in conjunction with classroom time that provides the student with the knowledge and skills to perform successfully in the clinical environment. The focus of an integrated clinical experience is based on the foundation of clinical practice, with emphasis on concurrent classroom/laboratory content. Students have the opportunity to apply recently learned knowledge and skills in a clinical environment with real patients.  Facilitation from Physical Therapy Clinical Faculty will assist in the utilization of these skills in critically analyzing a variety of real patient and clinical scenarios.  This experience begins the process of professional socialization and cultivation of interpersonal communication skills; self-assessment; and proactive learning prior to the initiation of the full time clinical experience. 

    Prerequisite(s): DPT 847  

  
  • DPT 801 Applied Physiology


    4 credits

    The study of physiological mechanisms affecting physical therapy examination, evaluation and intervention. Includes physical agents, exercise, and modifying variables as related to maintaining and restoring homeostasis. Also includes applied cardiovascular, respiratory, and exercise physiology.

    Lecture: 3 hours Laboratory: 2 hours

    Prerequisite(s): Graduate DPT status
    Spring
  
  • DPT 802 Orthotics and Prosthetics in Physical Therapy


    1 credit

    This course is designed to instruct physical therapy students in the physical therapy management of individuals with upper and lower extremity amputation, and incorporation of orthotic devices in patient/client management.

    Lecture: 2.5 hours per week for 6 weeks

    Prerequisite(s): DPT 809 , DPT 823 , DPT 839 , DPT 853 , DPT 855 , DPT 857 .
    Fall
  
  • DPT 803 Human Anatomy I


    4 credits

    The first of two courses that study human anatomy, emphasizing structure and function in relationship to human movement, inter-relationships of neuromuscular, musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, pulmonary systems, and intraabdominal structures. This course emphasizes building a foundation in human anatomy that will be built upon in the second course and integrated in clinical courses.

    Lecture: 3 hours Laboratory: 2 hours

    Prerequisite(s): Graduate DPT status.
    Spring
  
  • DPT 805 Medical Conditions I


    3 credits

    The first of three courses to study disease processes, medical management (including pharmacology), medical screening (including diagnostic imaging and lab testing), and elementary to advanced differential diagnosis.

    Lecture: 3 hours

    Prerequisite(s): Graduate DPT status.
    Summer
  
  • DPT 807 Movement Science I


    4 credits

    The analysis of human movement is taught from the developmental, kinesiological, and biomechanical perspective. The student will learn functional anatomy, kinesiology and pathokinesiology of the joints, posture, functional movement patterns of the neck, trunk and limbs as a foundation for evaluation and intervention strategies of the musculoskeletal system.

    Lecture: 3 hours Laboratory: 2 hours

    Prerequisite(s): Graduate DPT status.
    Spring
  
  • DPT 808 Complementary and Alternative PT


    2 credits

    This course will present theory and techniques related to selected complementary and alternative physical therapy.  These techniques, which are not currently considered entry-level requirements for students graduating from accredited programs, may be encountered in clinical settings.  In order to become proficient in the techniques discussed in this course, the student will need to pursue continuing education courses related to the topics covered after obtaining a physical therapy license.

    Lecture: 1 hour Laboratory: 2 hours

    Spring
  
  • DPT 809 Human Anatomy II


    2 credits

    The second of two courses that study human anatomy, emphasizing structure and function in relationship to human movement, inter-relationships of neuromuscular, musculoskeletal, vascular, and integumentary structure. This course builds upon the foundation built in Human Anatomy I and includes further exploration of structures and relationships using cadaver dissection. Evidence for the anatomical basis of examination and intervention is explored.

    Lecture: 1 hour Laboratory: 3 hours

    Prerequisite(s): DPT 813 , DPT 815 , DPT 817 , DPT 821 , DPT 829 , DPT 851 .
    Spring
  
  • DPT 810 Professional Practicum


    1 credit

    This course provides opportunities for physical therapy students to assist physical therapy faculty members with professional projects.  Projects can include scholarly activity, teaching, administration, or other professional activities.  Permission of the physical therapy faculty member who is responsible for this course is required.  This course may be taken for credit three times.

  
  • DPT 811 Physical Therapy Clinical Skills I


    2 credits

    The first of two courses introducing patient handling and physical therapy tests and measurements and intervention strategies. This may include assessment and monitoring of vital signs, goniometry, manual muscle testing, modalities of heat, cold, sound, and water and therapeutic exercise. Introduces problem solving, communication, and patient management skills.

    Laboratory: 4 hours

    Prerequisite(s): Graduate DPT students.
    Spring
  
  • DPT 813 Evidence-based Practice I


    3 credits

    The first of a four-course sequence provides an overview of quantitative and qualitative research processes. The course emphasizes the knowledge and skills necessary to read and critically evaluate professional literature.

    Lecture: ( 3 hours.)

    Prerequisite(s): Graduate DPT status
    Summer
  
  • DPT 815 Medical Conditions II


    3 credits

    The second of three courses to study disease processes, medical management (including pharmacology), medical screening (including diagnostic imaging and lab testing), and elementary to advanced differential diagnosis.

    Lecture: 3 hours

    Prerequisite(s): DPT 805  
    Fall
  
  • DPT 817 Movement Science II


    3 credits

    The study of motor control, motor learning, typical motor development, clinical application of kinesiology and biomechanics of the joints, posture, functional movement patterns of the neck, trunk, and limbs and gait will be taught as a foundation for examination and intervention strategies in the presence of movement dysfunction associated with the musculoskeletal and neuromuscular systems.

    Lecture: 2 hours Laboratory: Lab: 2 hours.

    Prerequisite(s): DPT 801 , DPT 803 DPT 807 DPT 811 , DPT 819 
    Summer
  
  • DPT 819 Professional Issues I


    1 credit

    The first of six courses to study issues related to professional practice expectations: accountability, altruism, compassion/caring, integrity, professional duty, communication, cultural competence, clinical reasoning, evidence-based practice and education.

    Lecture: 1 hour

    Prerequisite(s): Graduate DPT students.
    Spring
  
  • DPT 821 Physical Therapy Clinical Skills II


    2 credits

    The second of two courses introducing patient handling and physical therapy tests and measurements and intervention strategies. This may include goniometry, manual muscle testing, posture and gait assessment, massage, therapeutic exercise, gait training and objective tests for different neurological conditions. Encourages problem solving, communication, documentation and patient management skills.

    Laboratory: (Lab: 4 hours.)

    Prerequisite(s): DPT 801 , DPT 803 , DPT 805 , DPT 807 , DPT 811 , DPT 819 
    Fall
  
  • DPT 823 Evidence-based Practice II


    2 credits

    The second of a four-course sequence provides the knowledge and skills necessary to access and utilize best evidence in making clinical decisions. Content from Evidence-based Practice I is integrated into this course in the continued development and application of skills needed for critically evaluating literature and physical therapy practice.

    Lecture: 2 hours

    Prerequisite(s): DPT 813  
    Fall
  
  • DPT 825 Medical Conditions III


    3 credits

    The third of three courses to study disease processes, medical management (including pharmacology), medical screening (including diagnostic imaging and lab testing), and elementary to advanced differential diagnosis.

    Lecture: 3 hours/week for 6 weeks Laboratory: 2.25 hours/week for 6 weeks

    Prerequisite(s): DPT 823 , DPT 839 DPT 851   DPT 853 
    Spring
  
  • DPT 829 Professional Issues II


    2 credits

    The second of six courses to study issues related to professional practice expectations: accountability, altruism, compassion/caring, integrity, professional duty, communication, cultural competence, clinical reasoning, evidence-based practice and education.

    Lecture: 1.5 hours Laboratory: 1 hour.

    Prerequisite(s): DPT 819  
    Summer
  
  • DPT 833 Evidence-based Practice III


    2 credits

    The third of a four-course sequence emphasizes the planning and conducting of an evidence based practice project that involves developing a focused question and conducting a literature search and review, including critical evaluation and evidence based practice grading. Building upon skills presented in Evidence Based Practice I and II, the course provides opportunities for enhancing the knowledge and skills needed for critical evaluation of the literature and other forms of information.

    Lecture: 5 hours/week for 6 weeks

    Prerequisite(s): DPT 809 , DPT 823 DPT 839 , DPT 853 , DPT 855 , DPT 857  
    Fall
  
  • DPT 837 Clinical Education I


    10 credits

    This is a twelve-week, full-time clinical education experience, occurring during the fourth semester in the program (Summer II). This experience will provide the opportunity for integration of current professional competencies into direct patient care using problem solving strategies.  Facilitation from Physical Therapy Clinical Faculty will assist in the utilization of these skills in critically analyzing a variety of patient and role problems.  This experience will begin the process of professional socialization and cultivation of interpersonal communication skills; clinical decision making; self-assessment; proactive learning; and development of personal values, attitudes, and motivations in relationship to ethical, legal, and moral practice.  40 hours per week for 12 weeks.

    Prerequisite(s): DPT 808  ,DPT 809 , DPT 825  ,DPT 855 , DPT 857 ,
    Summer
  
  • DPT 839 Professional Issues III


    1 credit

    The third of six courses to study issues related to professional practice expectations: accountability, altruism, compassion/caring, integrity, professional duty, communication, cultural competence, clinical reasoning, evidence-based practice and education.

    Lecture: 1 hour

    Prerequisite(s): DPT 813 , DPT 815  , DPT 829 .
    Fall
  
  • DPT 843 Evidence Based Practice IV


    4 credits

    The fourth of a four-course sequence continues with the evidence based practice process of critical evaluation of information related to a focused question and obtaining the best evidence. The course provides opportunities for discussion and exercises in the integration of best evidence with clinical judgment and client values to determine the best care for a client. Content from Evidence Based Practice I, II, and III is integrated into this course in the continued critical evaluation of literature and physical therapy practice.

    Lecture: 2 hours Seminar: 4 hours

    Prerequisite(s): DPT 802  , DPT 825 , DPT 833  , DPT 849 .DPT 880  
    Spring
  
  • DPT 847 Clinical Education II


    8 credits

    This is a ten-week, full-time clinical education experience occurring during the fifth semester of the program (Fall II).  This experience will build upon Clinical Education I and incorporate the additional competencies attained in didactic and laboratory work. Students will continue to use problem-solving strategies in direct patient care, under the guidance of physical therapy clinical faculty.  A variety of patient populations and problems will be provided to allow for full integration of professional knowledge and skills in total patient care.  The students will be encouraged to reflect upon their knowledge and skills to identify problem areas to be addressed in Clinical Education II. Further development of interpersonal skills, clinical decision making, self-assessment, proactive learning, and professional socialization is expected.  40 hours per week for 10 weeks.

    Prerequisite(s): DPT 837  
    Fall
  
  • DPT 849 Professional Issues IV


    2 credits

    The fourth of six courses to study issues related to professional practice expectations: accountability, altruism, compassion/caring, integrity, professional duty, communication, cultural competence, clinical reasoning, evidence-based practice and education.

    Prerequisite(s): DPT 809 , DPT 823  ,  DPT 839 , DPT 853 , DPT 855 , DPT 857  
    Fall
  
  • DPT 851 Musculoskeletal Physical Therapy I


    5 credits

    This course will introduce the student to skills necessary for physical therapy examination of and intervention for problems of the musculoskeletal system primarily involving the upper and lower extremities. A number of examination and intervention principles utilized throughout the musculoskeletal system will be examined, as well as joint-specific principles. These principles will then be applied to the anatomy and biomechanics of the specific regions of the upper and lower extremities. Pathologies will be explored in light of their regional effects on the anatomy and biomechanics, as well as the effect of these changes in mechanics on the function of the body as a whole.

    Lecture: 3 hours Laboratory: 4 hours

    Prerequisite(s): DPT 801 , DPT 803 , DPT 805 , DPT 807 , DPT 811 .DPT 819 
    Fall
  
  • DPT 853 Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Physical Therapy


    4 credits

    This course explores cardiopulmonary anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology, and the effects of aging on these systems. Cardiopulmonary dysfunction as a complication of other medical conditions is stressed. Screening, examination, evaluation, differential diagnosis, intervention and modification within the scope of physical therapy practice are emphasized. Integration of medical laboratory studies, medical diagnoses, graded exercise testing with EKG analysis, and pharmacological factors with PT examination and intervention planning are analyzed. Intervention stresses environmental and lifestyle factors, health and wellness attitudes, and physical therapy as integral to patient and public education. Classroom, laboratory, group, and clinical sessions are used to facilitate integration of competencies and skills.

    Lecture: 3 hours Laboratory: 2 hours

    Prerequisite(s): DPT 813 , DPT 815 , DPT 817 ,DPT 821 .DPT 829 , DPT 851 ,
    Fall
  
  • DPT 855 Musculoskeletal Physical Therapy II


    4 credits

    This course is a continuation of Musculoskeletal PT I. The principles studied in this course are related to the examination of and intervention for dysfunction of the cervical, thoracic and lumbar spines and the TMJ. In addition principles specific to spinal pathology and mechanics will be introduced. Pathologies investigated in Musculoskeletal PT I that affect the extremities will be re-examined in regard to their effect on the spine.

    Lecture: 2 hours Laboratory: 4 hours

    Prerequisite(s): DPT 813 , DPT 815  , DPT 817 , DPT 851 , DPT 829 , DPT 821 .
    Spring
  
  • DPT 857 Neuromuscular Physical Therapy I


    5 credits

    This course will review neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, and neuropathology with expansion to neurological examination, intervention and rehabilitation. Analysis of posture and movement during the normal process of development and aging as well as in clients with neurological impairments will be emphasized. Current movement theory, postural control, and motor learning research will be applied and integrated with knowledge gained in previous coursework for clinical decision making in evaluation and selection of appropriate intervention strategies. The theoretical basis and treatment techniques for selected neuromotor techniques such as PNF, NDT and sensory integration will also be included. Laboratory sessions will emphasize the development of specific psychomotor examination and intervention skills necessary for the successful examination, evaluation and intervention of clients across the lifespan.

    Lecture: 3 hours Laboratory: 4 hours

    Prerequisite(s): DPT 813 , DPT 815 , DPT 817 , DPT 851 , DPT 829 , DPT 821 .
    Spring
  
  • DPT 858 Neuromuscular PT II


    2 credits

    A continuation of Neuromuscular Physical Therapy I and Movement Science II.  This course will focus on the examination of individuals with dysfunction of the neuromuscular system, focusing on neuromuscular control, impairments in body structure and function, activity limitations and participation restrictions.  The course will also address the selection, performance, and analysis of selected intervention strategies for patients with disorders involving the neuromuscular system. The course will examine the theoretical basis and application of selected therapeutic techniques such as PNF and NDT. Laboratory sessions will emphasize the development of specific psychomotor examination and intervention skills necessary for the successful examination, evaluation and intervention of clients across the lifespan.  Interventions and treatment progression will focus on the use of motor control research and motor learning principles to optimize patient participation and outcomes.

    Lecture: 1 hour Laboratory: 2 hours

    Prerequisite(s): DPT 808,  DPT 809,  DPT 825,  DPT 855,  DPT 857  
    Fall
  
  • DPT 859 Professional Issues V


    3 credits

    The fifth of six courses to study issues related to professional practice expectations: accountability, altruism, compassion/caring, integrity, professional duty, communication, cultural competence, clinical reasoning, evidence-based practice and education.

    Lecture: 2 hours Laboratory: 2 hours

    Prerequisite(s): DPT 833 , DPT 861 , DPT 825 , DPT 849 .
    Spring
  
  • DPT 860 Neuromuscular PT III


    2 credits

    A continuation of Neuromuscular Physical Therapy II, this course will build on skills developed in Neuromuscular PT II, including those used in examination and treatment focus on the examination of individuals with dysfunction of the neuromuscular system. As in Neuromuscular PT II, this course will focus on neuromuscular control, impairments in body structure and function, activity limitations and participation restrictions. The course will also address the selection, performance, and analysis of selected intervention strategies for patients with disorders involving the neuromuscular system that were not discussed in Neuromuscular PT II. Laboratory sessions will emphasize the refinement of examination and intervention skills necessary for the successful examination, evaluation and intervention of clients across the lifespan. This course will also address the importance of screening and consultation to prevent the development of neuromuscular dysfunction.

    Lecture: 1 hour Laboratory: 2 hours

    Prerequisite(s): DPT 802,  DPT 833,  DPT 858  
    Spring
  
  • DPT 861 Integumentary Physical Therapy


    2 credits

    This course provides the student with an opportunity to synthesize materials learned to date within the physical therapy program in the context of integumentary physical therapy. Cooperative learning, independent research, and evidence-based practice on specific topics related to Integumentary physical therapy are integral components of the class. Topics include wound healing, special tests, nutrition and oxygen for healing, modalities for wound healing, dressings, and adjunctive therapies.

    Lecture: 1 hour Laboratory: 2 hours

    Prerequisite(s): DPT 802,  DPT 833,  DPT 858  
    Spring
  
  • DPT 864 Pediatric PT


    2 credits

    This course will address evaluation, documentation, and intervention strategies of infants and children with various types of syndromes, neurologically-based disabilities, and musculoskeletal disorders.  Motor development is reviewed as a basis for examination and planning of interventions.  The approaches to physical therapy intervention are examined within problem solving, case based, integrated framework.  Management is considered in a broad context to include the appropriate interventions, coordination, communication, and consultation for each type of pediatric disability discussed.  Pediatric lectures encompass prenatal, perinatal, and genetic disorders including high-risk infant, cerebral palsy, myelodysplasia (spina bifida), Down syndrome, mitochondrial disorders, cystic fibrosis, asthma, and others.

    Differential diagnosis will be emphasized.  Goal writing and intervention strategies will be included and will emphasize family-centered approaches for younger children while the client-centered approach will be the framework for older children.  Examination and intervention will be differentiated among various practice settings, ages, and disabilities.  Individual needs of children and families will be taught as a priority for all management.

    Lecture: 1 hour Laboratory: 2 hours

    Prerequisite(s): DPT 825,  DPT 833,  DPT 849,  DPT 861  
    Spring

  
  • DPT 865 Patient Client Management


    4 credits

    Exploration of the physical therapy management of clients and patients with multiple diagnoses. Includes consultation, screening, examination, intervention and prevention, closely linked to evidence-based practice.

    Lecture: 3 hours Laboratory: 2 hours

    Prerequisite(s): DPT 802,  DPT 833 , DPT 880  , DPT 825 , DPT 849 .
    Spring
  
  • DPT 867 Clinical Education III


    10 credits

    This is a twelve-week, full-time clinical education experience occurring in the seventh semester of the program (Summer III).  This experience builds upon Clinical Education II and incorporate the additional competencies attained in didactic and laboratory work.  Students will continue to use problem-solving strategies in direct patient care, under the guidance of physical therapy clinical faculty.  A variety of patient populations and problems will be provided to allow for integration of professional knowledge and skills in total patient care.  Students will be encouraged to reflect upon their knowledge and skills to identify problem areas to be addressed in Clinical Education IV.  Further development of interpersonal skills, clinical decision making,self-assessment, proactive learning, and professional socialization is expected.  40 hours per week for 12 weeks.

    Prerequisite(s): DPT 847  
    Fall
  
  • DPT 869 Professional Issues VI


    2 credits

    The sixth of six courses to study issues related to professional practice expectations: accountability, altruism, compassion/caring, integrity, professional duty, communication, cultural competence, clinical reasoning, evidence-based practice and education.

    Lecture: 4.5 hours/week for 6 weeks + online

    Prerequisite(s): DPT 843 , DPT 859 DPT 861  DPT 858  , DPT 865  
    Fall
  
  • DPT 879 Doctoral Seminar


    2 credits

    In this course, students will present a personal project of professional significance and will provide feedback to and receive feedback from their peers.

    Seminar: 4.5 hours/week for 6 weeks + online

    Prerequisite(s): DPT 843 , DPT 859 DPT 861 , DPT 863 , DPT 865 
    Fall
  
  • DPT 880 Physical Therapy Electives


    3 credits

    This offering allows physical therapy students in their sixth semester the opportunity for study in up to three professional specialty areas. Topics vary from year to year, depending on student interest and the availability of faculty with professional expertise. Topics may include clinical specialties such as sports physical therapy, geriatrics, or pediatrics, or role specialties such as administration, teaching, or community health. Independent study or a graduate course outside the physical therapy department may be arranged with permission of program faculty.

    Lecture: variable Laboratory: variable.

    Prerequisite(s): DPT 833 , DPT 861 , DPT 825 , DPT 849 .
    Corequisite(s): DPT 843 , DPT 863 , DPT 865 , DPT 859 .
    Spring