Physical Therapy Curriculum
During your first three years, you complete coursework in the natural and physical sciences, humanities and social sciences. Your physical therapy experience starts early, with participation in the weekly Physical Therapy Orientation sequence that introduces you to the profession.
Post-baccalaureate students begin in the First Professional Year.
The following is a typical curriculum for students entering University of the Sciences in Fall 2011; current students should refer to their adviser for their curricula.
First Year
General Chemistry I, II
General Chemistry Lab I, II
Writing and Rhetoric I, II
Mathematical Analysis I, II
Physical Education I, II
Seminar for Health Science
Health Sciences Orientation II
Introduction to Sociology
Humanities Discipline Requirement
Second Year
General Biology I, II
Intellectual Heritage I, II
Introduction to Communication
Introduction to Psychology
General Education Elective
Humanities Discipline Requirement
Third Year
Anatomy and Physiology I, II
Introductory Physics I, II
Psychology of Human Development
Cognitive Psychology
Scientific Writing
Introduction to Biostatistics
Basic Nutrition
Medical Terminology for Physical Therapy I, II
Summer
Human Anatomy
Fourth Year
Kinesiology and Biomechanics I, II
Physical Therapy Examination
Physical Therapy Interventions I, II
Pathophysiology I, II
Neuroscience
Exercise Physiology
Medical Ethics
Physical Therapy Issues I: Documentation and Communication
Physical Therapy Issues II: Health Promotion and Wellness Across the Life Span
Physical Therapy Issues III: Psychosocial Aspects of Disability and Illness
Introducation to Applied Research Methods
Fifth Year
Cardiopulmonary Physical Therapy I, II
Examination and Intervention of Integument
Musculoskeletal Physical Therapy I, II
Neuromuscular Physical Therapy I, II
Clinical Decision Making I
Clinical Education I
Differential Diagnosis
Issues in Physical Therapy IV: Using Evidence-Based Practice
Qualitative Research Methods
Independent Study in Physical Therapy (optional)
Research Practicum (optional)
Sixth Year
Clinical Education II, III, IV A&B
Musculoskeletal Physical Therapy III
Neuromuscular Physical Therapy III
Health and Business Policy
Seminar in Contemporary Physical Therapy Practice
Leadership in Physical Therapy
Issues in Physical Therapy V: Management of the Complex Patient
Independent Study in Physical Therapy or Research Practicum
Physical Therapy Examination and Intervention of Specific Systems
Additional general education courses will be required as part of the program.
Students have the opportunity to take independent study courses throughout the curriculum which enable them to participate in faculty research.
For detailed course descriptions and other information about the DPT curriculum, see the University Catalog.