PTED - Physical Therapy

Provides a comprehensive regional exploration of gross human anatomy, specifically on the musculoskeletal system, blood vessels, and nervous system of the lower extremities. Emphasis is also placed on the structural-functional relationships in the lower extremity including genetics, histology, and the cardiovascular, pulmonary, integumentary, and lymphatic systems. The course features lectures complemented by laboratory sessions using 3D anatomy software, mixed reality, and synthetic anatomical models. 

Utilizes a blend of dry models, virtual 3D simulations, and mixed reality to delve into the anatomy of the lower extremities, emphasizing the musculoskeletal system, blood vessels, and nervous system. Through detailed anatomical studies, students gain a profound understanding of how structure complements function, enriched by insights into genetics, histology, and various body systems including cardiovascular, pulmonary, integumentary, and lymphatic.

Explores basic physiological principles necessary for understanding the function and dysfunction of various body systems, establishing a foundation for comprehending diseases and their impact on health and wellness across the lifespan. The course includes clinical applications of genetics, cellular function and metabolism, nutrition, immunity, inflammation, and the function of integumentary, cardiovascular, pulmonary, lymphatic, musculoskeletal, urinary, gastrointestinal and reproductive systems. Additionally, students are introduced to pain science including human growth and development and aging processes of the body. 

Introduces students to basic clinical skills, problem-solving, and clinical decision-making abilities as a clinician within the Patient/Client Management and International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) models. Students are also introduced to patient care activities including physical therapy examination, assessment and therapeutic interventions. Students  develop their communication skills as a clinician specifically for interacting with patients, families, and other health care professionals and appropriate documentation of these interactions. 

The lab component of this course immerses students in hands-on learning of fundamental clinical skills, fostering their ability to problem-solve and make clinical decisions within the frameworks of Patient/Client Management and the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) models. Through practical exercises in patient care, including physical therapy examination, assessment, and therapeutic interventions, students will also refine their communication skills for effective interaction with patients, families, and healthcare professionals, alongside refining the documentation of these interactions.

Introduces the fundamental concepts of biomechanics and kinesiology as they relate to human motion analysis. Focuses on the osteokinematic and arthrokinematic aspects of human movement and gait, highlighting the impact of injuries and pathologies on movement patterns. Through direct observation and video analysis of diverse age groups, including children, adults, and older adults, students learn to assess and interpret various movement dynamics. 

Students engage in clinical applications of biomechanics and kinesiology, focusing on the intricacies of human movement and gait across different age groups. This hands-on experience enables students to examine the effects of injuries and pathologies on movement patterns, enhancing their skills in assessing and interpreting osteokinematic and arthrokinematic aspects of human motion.

Examination of the history, practice, and evolving profession of physical therapy within the healthcare system with an emphasis on the professional behaviors, cultural competence, effective communication, and interpersonal skills. Topics include the role of the physical therapist in a dynamic healthcare environment, ethical and moral conduct, and the professional standards including the American Physical Therapy Association and World Physiotherapy standards. The course introduces billing, coding, documentation, patient-centered care, diverse communication strategies, and the exploration of teaching and learning styles. Students learn the importance of professionalism, patient advocacy, and ethical decision-making in patient care. 

Provides an integrated approach to developing evidence-informed practice skills in clinical problem-solving and critical thinking with a focus on key competencies such as logical reasoning, problem synthesis, hypothesis generation, reflective practice, and decision-making. Additionally, the course includes a thorough analysis of research evidence and an exploration of various research designs. This foundation prepares students for advanced practice in the clinical settings. 

Provides a comprehensive regional exploration of gross human anatomy, specifically on the musculoskeletal system, blood vessels, and nervous system of the head, neck, upper extremities, and trunk. This course also emphasizes the structural-functional relationships in the head, neck, upper extremities, and trunk including the abdomino-pelvic cavity. The course features lectures complemented by laboratory sessions with 3D anatomy software, mixed reality, and synthetic anatomical models. 

Laboratory sessions that enrich students' understanding of gross human anatomy, focusing on the musculoskeletal system, blood vessels, and nervous system of the head, neck, upper extremities, and trunk, through the use of 3D anatomy software, mixed reality experiences, and synthetic anatomical models. These interactive lab experiences are designed to highlight the intricate structural-functional relationships within these regions, including detailed exploration of the abdomino-pelvic cavity.

The first of a three-course series of physical therapy management of patients with musculoskeletal dysfunctions with an emphasis on knee, ankle, and foot conditions. The patient/client management model, the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) framework, and specific clinical reasoning tools utilized in musculoskeletal physical therapy practice will be introduced. Clinical applications and cases are used to emphasize the process of patient management including examination, assessment, diagnosis, prognosis, treatment, analysis of functional outcomes, and re-assessment. General and specific examination and treatment techniques are included stressing the integration of knowledge, skills, clinical reasoning, and analysis. 

Laboratory sessions offering hands-on experience, reinforcing the theoretical knowledge covered in lectures through the application of examination, assessment, diagnosis, prognosis, treatment, and re-assessment techniques specific to musculoskeletal dysfunctions of the knee, ankle, and foot. Students practice general and specific examination and treatment strategies, integrating clinical reasoning and analysis skills within the framework of patient/client management and the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) models. 

Provides an in-depth understanding of the nervous system within the patient/client management and the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) models, which is essential for treating neurological dysfunctions. The course covers important aspects of the neuromuscular system with an emphasis on neuroplasticity and its relationship with human movement, posture, coordination, balance, cognition, and sensory integration. Students integrate these concepts with patient functioning and disability. Students also learn to perform neurological screening, examination, and assessment, focusing on the whole patient as a crucial component for creating a personalized and effective plan of care. 

Laboratory sessions engage students in hands-on practice of neurological screening, examination, and assessment techniques, emphasizing a holistic patient-centered approach. These interactive labs allow for the application of theoretical concepts learned in lectures, such as neuroplasticity, human movement, and sensory integration, within the framework of patient/client management and the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) models. 

Examination of the foundational principles of disease mechanisms within the human body, elucidating the intricate connection between pathological processes and their impact on system impairments, functional limitations, and disablement across cellular, tissue, organ, and whole-body levels. The course encompasses a broad spectrum of content, including epidemiology, etiology, pathophysiology, diagnostic methodologies, medical management strategies, and prognosis for various pathological conditions. A significant focus is placed on the implications for physical therapy interventions, fostering an understanding of normal interactions among multiple systems and the complexities of co-morbidity. 

Explores the physiological effects of exercise on the cardiovascular, pulmonary, and musculoskeletal systems. Students delve into the role of exercise in developing strength, power, muscular and cardiovascular endurance, examining these concepts in both normal and physically impaired individuals across all age groups. Students also examine the impact of nutrition and personal and environmental factors on human movement. 

Laboratory sessions provide students with a practical understanding of the physiological impacts of exercise through assessments of cardiovascular, pulmonary, and musculoskeletal function/performance. Through direct assessment and analysis, students explore the effects of exercise on strength, power, endurance, and the role of nutrition and environmental factors in optimizing human movement for individuals of varying abilities and ages.

Introduces the physiologic and metabolic responses of the human body to commonly used medications. Course content has been organized to provide a theoretical knowledge base that can be used as a framework for understanding the effects of various medications on a variety of normal and pathologic conditions. The focus of the course includes concepts, principles, and applications of pharmacotherapeutics in the management of persons with physical disabilities, movement dysfunction, and pain resulting from injury, disease, disability, and other acute or chronic health-related conditions. 

The second of a three-course series of physical therapy management in patients with musculoskeletal dysfunctions with emphasis on the thoracic spine, lumbar spine, sacroiliac joint, pelvis, and hip conditions. Clinical applications and cases are used to emphasize the process of patient management including examination, assessment, diagnosis, prognosis, treatment, analysis of functional outcomes, and re-assessment. General and specific examination and treatment techniques are included stressing the integration of knowledge, skills, clinical reasoning, and analysis. Differential diagnoses related to disorders of the thoracic spine, lumbar spine, SIJ, pelvis, and hip conditions, which occur throughout the lifespan, are topically addressed with an emphasis on adolescent and mature adult individuals. Also emphasized are diagnostic studies, functional outcome measures, documentation and communication skills into the management of patients with a primary diagnosis of orthopedic dysfunction of the thoracic spine, lumbar spine, sacroiliac joint, pelvis, and hip conditions. 

Lab sessions offer an immersive experience in the examination, assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and re-assessment of musculoskeletal dysfunctions focusing on the thoracic spine, lumbar spine, sacroiliac joint, pelvis, and hip. Through practical application of clinical cases, students refine their skills in general and specific examination and treatment strategies, integrating theoretical knowledge with clinical reasoning and analysis. 

Concentrates on the examination, assessment, and therapeutic interventions for neurological conditions, framed within the patient/client management and International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) models. Students gain proficiency in conducting neurological examinations, employing assessment techniques, and implementing evidence-based therapeutic interventions specifically designed for individuals with brain-related neurological disorders frequently encountered in physical therapy practice. 

Laboratory sessions engage students in conducting neurological examinations and applying assessment techniques, focusing on the development of evidence-based therapeutic interventions tailored for individuals with neurological disorders related to brain function. 

Focuses on the safe and effective application of thermal, electrical, and mechanical modalities used in physical therapy practice. Students are expected to apply information from other coursework in a clinically relevant manner to analyze problems in a variety of cases and clinical problems that involve the application of thermal agents, mechanical modalities, and massage in a safe and effective manner to address the treatment of clinical symptoms including inflammation, muscle re-education, pain, and other dysfunctions. 

Laboratory sessions provide students with practical experience in the application of thermal, electrical, and mechanical modalities, integrating knowledge from previous coursework to address clinical symptoms such as inflammation, muscle re-education, and pain. Through hands-on practice, students learn to safely and effectively use these modalities in treating a variety of clinical problems, enhancing their skill set for physical therapy practice.

Emphasizes skills development in documentation, professionalism, and critical thinking. The course covers patient-centered care, supervision of support personnel, teaching techniques, self-reflection, conflict management, and interprofessional collaboration; it also addresses risk management, reimbursement, advocacy, and preparation for clinical experiences. In addition, the course explores psychosocial issues related to physical disabilities, government roles in healthcare, and strategies for positive adaptation and coping. Students also learn about social determinants of health including health disparities, HIPAA, healthcare systems, credentialing, licensure, and ongoing personal and professional development to transform society. 

An examination of basic principles and interpretation of diagnostic imaging modalities for conditions commonly treated by a physical therapist. Emphasis is on plain film radiography, including basic physics of imaging techniques, viewing and interpreting films, radiographic anatomy, and clinical correlation with patient cases. Other types of imaging, including magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, sonography, and DEXA scans are also covered. Images and case studies are used to show correlations between structure, function, and effect on functional activity. Normal images are compared to abnormal images and correlated with a variety of signs and symptoms including movement abnormalities and functional limitations.    

Offers an in-depth exploration of wellness within the context of physical therapy, highlighting the importance of health promotion at the individual, community, and societal levels. The course incorporates a comprehensive understanding of the social determinants of health, examining how socioeconomic status, education, and the environment influence health outcomes. Students  delve into a variety of wellness-related topics from a physical therapy standpoint, addressing the physical, mental, and social aspects of wellness. The course underscores the significance of these determinants in crafting effective health promotion strategies for physical therapy practice. Additionally, it provides practical experience through client/patient interactions in the community under the guidance of a faculty. 

Lab sessions engage students in practical activities that extend wellness concepts into the realm of physical therapy, focusing on health promotion at personal, community, and societal levels. Through guided interactions with clients/patients in the community under the supervision of a faculty, students apply a holistic approach to wellness, considering the physical, mental, and social determinants of health to develop comprehensive health promotion strategies for diverse populations.

The third of a three-course series of managing patients with musculoskeletal dysfunction with emphasis on the cervical spine, temporomandibular joint (TMJ,) headaches, and upper extremity conditions. Clinical applications and cases are used to emphasize the process of patient management including examination, assessment, diagnosis, prognosis, treatment, analysis of functional outcomes, and re-assessment. General and specific examination and treatment techniques are included stressing the integration of knowledge, skills, clinical reasoning, and analysis. Differential diagnoses related to disorders of the cervical spine, TMJ, headaches, and upper extremity, which occur throughout the life span, are topically addressed with an emphasis on adolescent and mature adult individuals. Also emphasized are diagnostic studies, functional outcome measures, and documentation and communication skills into the management of patients with a primary diagnosis of orthopedic dysfunction of the cervical spine, TMJ, headaches, and upper extremity. 

Laboratory sessions offer students hands-on experience in managing musculoskeletal dysfunctions related to the cervical spine, TMJ, headaches, and upper extremities. Through clinical case applications, students practice examination, assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and re-assessment, applying general and specific techniques that emphasize the integration of knowledge, skills, clinical reasoning, and analysis. 

Focuses on the in-depth examination, assessment, and therapeutic intervention strategies for neurological conditions within the patient/client management and International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) frameworks. Course is tailored for individuals with spinal cord-related and other neurological disorders beyond those of the brain, which are frequently managed in physical therapy settings. Students acquire advanced competencies in conducting neurological evaluations, utilizing targeted assessment techniques, and implementing evidence-based interventions specific to the needs of this patient population. 

Laboratory sessions provide students hands-on experience with advanced techniques for evaluating, assessing, and treating individuals with spinal cord injuries and other neurological conditions. Utilizing the patient/client management and International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) frameworks, this practical training emphasizes the application of targeted assessment techniques and evidence-based therapeutic interventions tailored to the unique needs of patients frequently encountered in physical therapy settings.

Provides a detailed examination, assessment, and therapeutic intervention strategies of the integumentary system within the patient/client management and International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) models, addressing prevention and management techniques for wounds, burns, and a variety of skin disorders. The course takes a lifespan perspective, delving into the assessment and treatment of prevalent integumentary issues while acknowledging the varied requirements of diverse age groups, races, and genders. Additionally, the course broadens its scope to include oncologic physical therapy, focusing on the management of patients with different types of cancer within the patient/client management and ICF models. 

Lab sessions immerses students in practical skills for examining, assessing, and treating conditions of the integumentary system, including wound care, burns, and various skin disorders, within the frameworks of patient/client management and the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) models. Students also engage in oncologic physical therapy, practicing practical approaches to managing patients with cancer; enhancing students' competency in providing holistic and tailored care.

Provides theoretical and practical instruction for the examination, assessment, and therapeutic intervention strategies within the patient/client management and International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) models for patients with cardiovascular and pulmonary disorders. Students learn to create a physical therapy plan of care for selected cardiovascular and pulmonary dysfunctions using clinical reasoning based on diagnostic, ECG, pharmacologic, and clinical laboratory data. 

Laboratory sessions equip students with hands-on experience in the examination, assessment, and development of therapeutic interventions for cardiovascular and pulmonary disorders within the patient/client management and International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) frameworks. Utilizing scenarios, students apply clinical reasoning to design comprehensive physical therapy care plans, incorporating diagnostic, ECG, pharmacological, and clinical laboratory data to address specific cardiovascular and pulmonary dysfunctions.

Equips students with advanced skills in applying the best available research evidence to clinical practice in physical therapy. The course places a strong emphasis on the critical appraisal of research quality and delves deeper into how this research informs and influences clinical decision-making. The goal is to refine students' ability to integrate evidence-based principles seamlessly into their clinical reasoning and practice. 

Offers students a unique blend of community and clinical experiences, designed to enhance practical learning in diverse settings, including community environments and a pro bono clinic. Throughout the semester, students participate in clinical or community-based educational experiences. These experiences are supervised by faculty who provide opportunities for students to deepen their knowledge and skills in physical therapy. A key aspect of the course is the emphasis on applying theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, promoting a comprehensive understanding of physical therapy practice while providing service in the community. The course culminates in a final practical assessment, where students demonstrate their proficiency and readiness to advance in the DPT program. 

Provides students with the essential skills and knowledge necessary for successful collaboration within diverse healthcare environments. Highlighting the critical role of interprofessional teamwork, the course delves into the distinct roles, responsibilities, and contributions of various healthcare professionals. Through interactive learning experiences, students gain insights into the workings of multidisciplinary teams and their significant influence on patient/client care outcomes. This course is designed to prepare future physical therapists to become vital contributors to interprofessional teams, offering comprehensive, patient-centered care that enhances the quality of healthcare outcomes. 

Designed to sharpen clinical reasoning and decision-making skills within the framework of the Patient/Client Management and International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) models, specifically tailored to address congenital abnormalities and pathologies that occur in infancy, childhood, and adolescence commonly seen in physical therapy practice. Through detailed study and practical application, students learn to effectively assess and manage a wide range of pediatric conditions, preparing them to deliver targeted, compassionate care to this unique patient population and their caregivers. 

Laboratory sessions engage students in detailed study and hands-on application to hone their clinical reasoning and decision-making skills for managing congenital abnormalities and pathologies in infancy, childhood, and adolescence, as commonly encountered in physical therapy. This practical experience, framed within the Patient/Client Management and International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) models, prepares students to assess and manage a broad spectrum of pediatric conditions, equipping them to provide specialized, empathetic care to young patients and their caregivers.

Equips students with the critical skills necessary to accurately identify and differentiate between various clinical conditions that are commonly seen in physical therapy practice. Emphasizing a comprehensive, evidence-based approach, the course covers the processes of clinical reasoning and the application of diagnostic decision-making strategies. Students will explore the principles of screening for medical conditions, recognizing when to refer patients to other healthcare professionals, and determining the most appropriate physical therapy interventions. This course is designed to prepare physical therapists to act as autonomous practitioners, capable of making informed decisions in complex clinical scenarios to ensure optimal patient care and safety. 

Provides students with hands-on opportunities to practice identifying and differentiating clinical conditions frequently encountered in physical therapy. Through exercises emphasizing evidence-based clinical reasoning and diagnostic decision-making, students will learn to effectively screen for medical conditions, recognize when referrals are necessary, and select suitable physical therapy interventions. 

Covers physical therapy management for medically complex patients in acute, subacute, and post-acute care settings within the patient/client management and International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) models. It emphasizes an interprofessional approach, integrating physical therapists into a broader healthcare team. Students will engage with various medical and surgical conditions, applying evidence-based strategies and contemporary practices in patient care. The course aims to equip students with the skills necessary for effective management of complex medical conditions, focusing on comprehensive assessment, therapeutic intervention planning, and collaborative care strategies. 

Laboratory sessions provide students with practical experience managing medically complex patients in acute, subacute, and post-acute care settings, applying the patient/client management and International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) models. Through hands-on activities, students work with a range of medical and surgical conditions, utilizing evidence-based practices and an interprofessional approach to patient care. 

Provides an in-depth understanding of the biomechanical principles underlying the design and function of orthotics and prosthetics, as well as a range of adaptive and assistive technologies. Students engage in the examination, evaluation, and treatment of individuals requiring upper and/or lower-extremity prosthetics, orthotics, and other assistive devices. A significant aspect of the course is managing patients with functional limitations, emphasizing the use of assistive technology to enhance functional capacity. Special attention is given to both normal and pathological gait analysis in the context of assistive and adaptive technology use. Through case studies, students explore comprehensive physical therapy management strategies for individuals with limb loss, enhancing their skills in applying these technologies effectively in clinical practice. 

Students engage in practical exercises that emphasize the examination, evaluation, and application of both orthotic and prosthetic devices, as well as a wide array of adaptive and assistive technologies for individuals with upper and lower extremity needs. By focusing on gait analysis and the strategic use of these technologies, students learn to address and manage functional limitations effectively. Through interactive case studies, the course aims to enhance students' capabilities in crafting comprehensive physical therapy strategies, integrating assistive and adaptive technologies to improve functional capacity and quality of life for patients experiencing limb loss or other mobility challenges.

The beginning of a series of four full-time clinical education experiences, during which students practice under the guidance of licensed physical therapists. Students are placed in a variety of clinical settings, such as acute care, outpatient clinics, inpatient rehabilitation, and specialized areas, to ensure they have sufficient opportunities to apply the skills learned in didactic and laboratory settings. These clinical placements are designed to cover a broad spectrum of physical therapy practice, including but not limited to the management of musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, cardiopulmonary, and integumentary system dysfunctions. Additionally, these experiences introduce students to a wide range of patient ages and care levels. For this initial clinical experience, students are required to perform at a level 4 on the global rating scale, demonstrating "Most of the time" proficiency in Professional Behaviors and "At that level for familiar patients" in Patient Management. This framework ensures that students progressively develop their clinical skills and professional behaviors throughout their clinical education. 

Covers management, supervision, and entrepreneurship tailored to physical therapy practice. Topics include human resource management, billing, business development, risk management, mentorship, legal and ethical considerations (ADA and HIPAA), financial management, marketing, documentation, and accreditation standards (OSHA, JCAHO and CARF). The course also emphasizes personal career development, networking, negotiation skills, and a detailed examination of physical therapy regulations in Illinois. Aimed at preparing students for leadership roles, it equips them with the skills needed for effective advocacy, management, and professional growth in the physical therapy profession. 

Addresses the physical therapy examination, evaluation, intervention, and management of clinical problems associated with aging, especially for those who are sixty-five years and older. Students are provided with the knowledge base for understanding the demographics of aging, as well as the physical, psychological, and emotional aspects of healthy human aging including the effects of age-related physical changes as well as chronic conditions commonly found in older adults. Students formulate plans for the treatment of the older adult patient including assessment, education, and application of therapeutic interventions. Interdisciplinary, team care, care planning, advocacy, and coordination across the care spectrum are addressed. Barriers to the quality of longevity represented by attitudes, policies, and practices, related to cultural differences, including wellness and nutrition are discussed. 

Laboratory sessions provide students hands-on experience with the physical therapy examination, evaluation, intervention, and management tailored to the older adult population. Through practical application, students learn to develop comprehensive treatment plans that encompass assessment, education, and therapeutic interventions, while also engaging in interdisciplinary team care and advocacy. This lab experience emphasizes the importance of understanding the unique physical, psychological, and emotional aspects of aging, including addressing barriers to quality longevity and integrating wellness and nutrition strategies tailored to older adults.

Designed to synthesize and apply all previous coursework to simulated clinical scenarios, encompassing acute, subacute, and chronic cases. The course emphasizes contemporary physical therapy practices, focusing on critical patient/client management decisions. Students are challenged to analyze examination findings, formulate accurate diagnoses, and execute evidence-based physical therapy management strategies. This integrative approach prepares students for their terminal clinical experiences, ensuring they are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to handle a wide range of patient conditions. 

Laboratory sessions engage students in simulated clinical scenarios that span acute, subacute, and chronic cases, applying the comprehensive knowledge and skills acquired from previous coursework. Through hands-on practice, students focus on making critical patient/client management decisions, analyzing examination findings, formulating diagnoses, and implementing evidence-based physical therapy management strategies. 

Designed to equip students for the role of physical therapists in primary care. The course emphasizes the importance of early intervention, prevention, and wellness, while also incorporating medical screening, clinical diagnosis, and the use of diagnostic imaging. Throughout the course, students further refine their abilities in evidence-based differential diagnosis and the interpretation of clinical data, alongside the application of contemporary technologies to refine clinical reasoning and decision-making skills. A strong focus is placed on comprehensive patient management throughout the healthcare continuum, underscoring the physical therapist's role in community health promotion and advocacy. 

Lab sessions actively engage students in refining their skills in medical screening, clinical diagnosis, and the interpretation of diagnostic imaging, through practical, hands-on exercises. Emphasizing early intervention, prevention, and wellness, the laboratory sessions provide a critical platform for students to apply evidence-based differential diagnosis techniques, utilize contemporary technologies for enhanced clinical reasoning, and practice comprehensive patient management strategies. This experiential learning emphasizes the evolving role of physical therapists in primary care, community health promotion, and advocacy, preparing students to effectively contribute across the healthcare continuum.

The second of a series of four full-time clinical education experiences, during which students practice under the guidance of licensed physical therapists. Students are placed in a variety of clinical settings, such as acute care, outpatient clinics, inpatient rehabilitation, and specialized areas, to ensure they have sufficient opportunities to apply the skills learned in didactic and laboratory settings. These clinical placements are designed to cover a broad spectrum of physical therapy practice, including but not limited to the management of musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, cardiopulmonary, and integumentary system dysfunctions. Additionally, these experiences will introduce students to a wide range of patient ages and care levels. For this clinical experience, students are expected to practice at the level of 5 using the global rating scale, “Most of the time” for Professional Behaviors and “At that level for familiar patients” for Patient Management.  

The third of a series of four full-time clinical education experiences, during which students practice under the guidance of licensed physical therapists. Students are placed in a variety of clinical settings, such as acute care, outpatient clinics, inpatient rehabilitation, and specialized areas, to ensure they have sufficient opportunities to apply the skills learned in didactic and laboratory settings. These clinical placements are designed to cover a broad spectrum of physical therapy practice, including but not limited to the management of musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, cardiopulmonary, and integumentary system dysfunctions. Additionally, these experiences introduce students to a wide range of patient ages and care levels. Students are expected to practice at the level of 6 using the global rating scale, “Always” for Professional Behaviors and “At that level for familiar patients” for Patient Management. 

The highlight of this course is completing a board review course and several practice exams to meet the comprehensive examination requirement for the Doctor of Physical Therapy degree. The format of the test is similar to the licensure exam that students are required to pass to practice physical therapy in any state. Organized by the course coordinator, students engage in an interactive discussion session and practice exams every week with various scheduled lecturers where specific physical therapy practice issues and curricular elements are addressed. 

The last of a series of four full-time clinical education experiences, during which students practice under the guidance of licensed physical therapists. Students are placed in a variety of clinical settings, such as acute care, outpatient clinics, inpatient rehabilitation, and specialized areas, to ensure they have sufficient opportunities to apply the skills learned in didactic and laboratory settings. These clinical placements are designed to cover a broad spectrum of physical therapy practice, including but not limited to the management of musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, cardiopulmonary, and integumentary system dysfunctions. Additionally, these experiences will introduce students to a wide range of patient ages and care levels. Students are expected to practice at the level of 7 using the global rating scale, “Always” for Professional Behaviors and “At that level for all patients” for Patient Management. 

This capstone course represents the culmination of the foundational knowledge and skills acquired in Evidence-Informed Practice I and II. It focuses on the comprehensive application and synthesis of both academic and clinical learning. Students are tasked with developing and presenting a professional project that epitomizes the principles of scholarly inquiry. This pivotal project will integrate and showcase their mastery of evidence-based practices, critical analysis, and clinical insights, solidifying their readiness for professional practice in physical therapy.