entry level Curriculum

The curriculum design incorporates an approach to learning moving from the general to the specific, normal to abnormal function, and simple to complex in problem solving with clients over the life span. Course work progressively expands the range of information and the complexity of interrelationships of prior and new knowledge.

Integrated supervised clinical observations offer students an opportunity to devise an expanding base of solutions and treatment plans based on realistic case models. The integration of clinical observation, extensive classroom experiential learning and discovery learning offer opportunities to strengthen analysis and understanding of information.

Regularly Scheduled Clinical Internships 

Regularly scheduled clinical internships provide additional options to gain insight, practice skills, and verify independently drawn conclusions. All students complete a series of clinical education assignments at a variety of clinical centers throughout the United States.

Physical therapists practice in community health settings, hospitals, rehabilitation hospitals, school and private practice settings. In each setting the therapists may specialize - treating the neonate to the geriatric client with a variety of disabilities and injuries. Students are expected to sample this range of specialty aspects of the profession as they conduct themselves through the clinical education program.

Modern Physical Therapy Practice with Elective Tracks

The curriculum is organized around a conceptual framework that encompasses five major themes reflecting modern physical therapy practice. These themes include coursework that is organized around the following areas:

• Foundation Sciences
• Examination, Evaluation
• Diagnosis, and Prognosis
• Interventions;
• Critical Inquiry; and
• Administration, Consultation, and Education.

In addition, the curriculum affords the student with an opportunity to pursue specific coursework in one of several elective tracks. The Specialty Focus track allows students to mentor with faculty members in their area of clinical practice and research. 

Three Certificate Programs

As an alternative to the Specialty Focus track, students can pursue one of three certificate programs: 

• Health Management
• Special Education/Pediatrics
• Health Wellness and Promotion