GDPT - Doct Physical Therapy (GDPT)

This course presents the basic concepts and principles underlying teaching and learning in the cognitive, psychomotor and affective domains. Emphasis is placed on the ability to assess the educational needs of varied audiences (patients, caregivers, students, peers, and other professionals) and apply traditional and alternative teaching strategies to facilitate learning in a professional and culturally sensitive manner. The impact of learning preference on teaching style will be addressed. Course experiences will be guided by a spectrum of teaching methods: a framework that delineates options in teaching and learning.

This course presents human physiology for the analysis of normal function and adaptive/restorative function available in the presence of health affecting the skeletal, connective tissue, muscular, integumentary, nervous, and other biological systems. Information will be presented at the tissue, organ and system level.

This course presents the application of basic principles of physics, anatomy, and physiology to understand human movement. The development and function of the musculoskeletal system (bone, muscle, and ligaments), the mechanical behavior of these biological tissues, the external/internal forces that contribute to normal motion provides the groundwork for understanding, describing and analyzing the biomechanics of human motion.

This course introduces the student to the cognitive strategies and processes utilized to (1) collect and interpret information needed to understand a patient’s problem/situation, (2) plan and implement appropriate interventions, (3) evaluate the outcomes and (4) reflect on the effectiveness of the reasoning process. Basic clinical and critical reasoning models in the context of patient centered health care and working in a healthcare team is emphasized.

The course introduces the student to the physical therapy profession. Five themes of professional practice are explored; the physical therapist as clinician, consumer of research, inter-professional care provider, lifelong learner and educator. Foundational skills in written and oral communication, professional values and behaviors, population-specific differences, utilization of healthcare informatics and evidenced-based practice are presented.

This course introduces the student to the application of physical therapy intervention skills as part of the treatment process. Emphasis is placed on developing skills in fundamental patient care. Students will be introduced to basic manual therapy techniques, therapeutic exercise, and functional training to achieve patient/client goals & outcomes that address problems resulting from evaluation of the movement system.

This course examines the concepts of pathophysiology and the mechanisms of change that contribute to the genesis of a diseased state. Common diseases and disorders are covered and clinical laboratory measurements and values used in differential diagnosis will be presented from a systems perspective. Clinical cases will be used to present standard patterns of clinical examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, intervention and communication/referral with other health care practitioners. Discussions will address changes in response to disease or trauma across the lifespan.

This course builds knowledge and skills in application of biomechanical principles relative to human motion through regional analysis of body segments. Attention is paid to synovial joints as key linkage in the human mechanical system and how their movements are created and governed. The laboratory component of this course reviews individual joint structure and its application to segmental and overall body movement.

This cadaveric-based human anatomy course is designed to develop knowledge concerning structural and functional regional gross human anatomy. The course focuses on the clinical application of anatomical concepts in both lectures and laboratory sessions. Structured laboratory sessions also incorporate the use of models, medical terminology and palpation of key anatomical structures. The course utilizes case-based vignettes to promote critical thinking and allow students to apply theory to a clinical population.

The course facilitates skills acquisition in basic elements of patient examination and professional physical therapy practice. Emphasis is placed on elementary physical therapy examination of the non- medically complex patient. This includes systems screening, selection and performance of basic tests and measures for function, the integumentary, cardiovascular – pulmonary and musculoskeletal systems, interpretation and evaluation of examination findings, differential diagnosis, development of an individualized plan of care, appropriate referrals and effective communication of patient/client information.

This course is designed to provide students with a working knowledge of the evidence-based research process and its importance in the practice of physical therapy. Students will learn about the variety of research publications and apply the critical appraisal process to the literature.

This course will cover the basic structure, organization, and function of the central nervous system (CNS). Learning experiences focus on understanding the localization of function within specific structures and pathways of the brain and spinal cord, and typical syndromes associated with vascular accidents, trauma or diseases of the various parts of the CNS.

This course promotes the development of clinical skills related to functional mobility and movement in the home and community including transfers, ambulation, and use of wheelchairs and assistive devices for locomotion and various other activities of daily living (ADL). Therapeutic exercise interventions will be utilized to achieve patient/client goals & outcomes that address problems resulting from evaluation of the movement system.

This course presents both the normal and pathological human body responses to physiological conditions and processes in relationship to their influence on human movement including the nutritional and metabolic mechanisms in relation to movement & functional activities. Included are the study of muscle physiology, metabolism, cardiovascular and respiratory adaptations, aging, thermoregulation, aerobic and anaerobic training exercise prescription, and use of ergogenic aides. Topics will focus on evaluation and management for a healthy population as well as for those with chronic diseases and disabilities.

This course provides continued instruction in the study of human movement with regards to posture, balance and gait. The neuromuscular and musculoskeletal mechanisms involved in the development, maintenance and adaptions of posture, balance, and walking will be presented. Students will participate in the assessment of normal and deviated walking, balance and posture including identification of compensatory mechanisms.

This course offers experiential learning in community Health and Wellness outreach while increasing students’ awareness of practice settings and offers opportunities for interprofessional collaboration. The course will focus on community assessment utilizing Health/Wellness screening tools appropriate for target populations

This course promotes skill acquisition in elements of physical therapy services and professional practice with an emphasis on physical therapy examination, including systems screening of the medically complex, but hemodynamically stable, patient, with a focus on the neurological and musculoskeletal systems including the extremities, trunk and spine and their relationship to posture, balance and gait. Included are the selection and performance of appropriate tests and measures, interpretation and evaluation of examination findings including differential diagnosis, clinical decision making in the establishment of an individualized plan of care to restore normal movement and functional mobility, referrals and effective communication of patient/client information.

This course is a continuation of Critical Inquiry I and includes experimental and non-experimental research designs, methodology and statistical concepts. Students will continue to search for evidence and critically appraise it specifically for application to clinical diagnosis, prognosis and treatment effectiveness. Students develop the skills needed to ask and answer clinical questions using best evidence and practice using sample data and statistical software.

A full-time clinical practical internship in an outpatient orthopedic clinical setting. Emphasis is on refinement of professional practice and attainment of skills in physical therapy practice and patient management with progression to an intermediate level of performance in the given orthopedic setting.

This course will include the following: analysis of mechanisms of motor dysfunction arising from neurological disorders, basic and functional evaluation of neurological disorders and the use of manual and technological methods of intervention to address neuromuscular dysfunction.

GDPT 7140 Therapeutic Interventions III: Motor Learning and Exercise This course integrates the principles of motor control and learning into practice for the advancement of motor skill acquisition. Learning theory is explored as it relates to human movement system. Additionally, this course provides knowledge and skills when developing interventions with therapeutic exercise to achieve patient/client goals &outcomes that address problems resulting from evaluation of the movement system. 3 credits

Survey of major classes of problems or diagnoses involving the peripheral and central nervous system. Presentation of patterns of practice in the specialties of neurology and neurosurgery.

This is a survey course of primary and secondary cardiovascular and pulmonary conditions and dysfunctions. The focus of this course will be on standard procedures used including evaluative and diagnostic procedures as well as pharmacological and physical interventions for problems involving the cardiovascular and pulmonary systems.

GDPT 7150 Movement Development Across the Life Span Overview of human development across the life span from conception to oldest age. Changes in physical, cognitive, and psychosocial development are explored using a framework that highlights the contribution of multiple interacting systems on behavior, performance and movement. Emphasis is placed on the application of tests and measures to discriminate typical from atypical performance, movement and function. 3 credits

The main focus of this course is data collection related to the research proposal that was developed during Research Project I. Students will work closely with mentors to collect data using the proposed methods and written protocol from the research proposal. In-class topics will include data collection, authorship, plagiarism, presentation skills and data analysis. Out-of-class, students will collect and record data, and begin data analysis.

GDPT 7170 Clinical Diagnosis and Management I: Cardiovascular & Pulmonary Conditions . Analysis of common pathologies, clinical tests & measures, and interventions used to diagnose and manage movement dysfunction related to the evidence based practice cardiovascular and pulmonary physical therapy. Clinical skills in differential diagnosis include the interpretation of ECG, monitoring, palpation and auscultation of the chest and abdomen, lab values, imaging studies, and exercise tests is developed. Practice guidelines are presented for the application of selected pharmacological, surgical, and psychological and physical therapy interventions with an emphasis on a team approach to patient care and outcome assessment across practice settings. 4 credits

GDPT 7180 Clinical Assessment & Diagnostic Skills III : Diagnostic Imaging and Electrodiagnostics This course presents the theory and utilization of diagnostic imaging and electro-diagnostics in the management of patients commonly seen in physical therapy. Emphasis is placed on the integration of information garnered from diagnostic imaging and electrodiagnostics for multiple systems and organs of the human body to guide clinical decision making and the establishment of an individualized plan of care, referrals and effective communication of patient/client information. 2 credits

Problem-oriented approach to examining the most commonly used pharmacologic agents seen in clinical practice. Basic principles of pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics, along with pertinent physiology are presented. Practical aspects of dosing schedules, therapeutic effects, interactions and adverse reactions is emphasized, especially as they apply to physical performance, movement, functional activities and safety. 2 credits

A faculty mentored research experience involving the collection and analysis of data needed to answer one or more questions related to the practice of physical therapy. Various research options may include experimental studies, surveys, case reports, systematic reviews, and qualitative studies

This is a third-year second semester course, which sets a foundation for the pediatric neurological clinical education coursework and clinical practices to follow. This course will include the following: analysis of mechanisms of motor dysfunction arising from pediatric neurological disorders; basic and functional evaluation of pediatric neurological disorders; and the use of manual and technological methods of intervention to address pediatric neuromuscular dysfunction.

Analysis of the developmental and social/economic factors unique to the resolution of problems occurring in maturity and aging. Development of integrated resource plans involving physical therapy, other healthcare providers, and the financial resources of the health and social systems.

This is a physical therapy clinical management course, in the series of hands-on skills courses taken by entry-level students. The focus is on skill acquisition in both basic and advanced elements of cardiovascular and pulmonary examination and evaluation with emphasis on therapeutic interventions, physical handling skills, health care record information collection and documentation, and screening for cardiovascular and pulmonary systems. This course integrates material presented in the clinical medicine course. Communication skills, professional behavior, critical inquiry, clinical decision-making, cultural sensitivity and patient education are advanced.

This course focus on the application of modern technology in interventions utilized to achieve patient/client goals & outcomes that address problems resulting from evaluation of the movement system. Topics will include prescription, application and evaluation of orthotics as well as biophysical agent as a component of the plan of care.

An exploration of the psychosocial factors that may influence a patient’s response to illness or disability. Topics include coping with stress, loss, chronic pain, depression, altered body image, addiction, abuse, caregiving, and grief. Additionally, principles of ethical decision making are applied to selected health care scenarios along with mechanisms for preventing and reporting fraud, abuse, and unethical conduct. An in-depth review of the physical therapy licensure regulations (state practice act), APTA practice policies, and accreditation standards are also addressed.

Analysis of common pathologies, clinical tests & measures, and interventions used to diagnose and manage movement dysfunction related to evidence based practice in pediatric physical therapy. Emphasis will be placed on congenital and developmental conditions encountered in pediatrics. The administration, application, and interpretation of common pediatric assessments will be presented to assist in the development of comprehensive plans of care to address the needs of families and children with these conditions.

This elective course will allow the student to participate in the analysis and dissemination of information to a professional audience. The selected presentation format may include a journal article, poster presentation or a platform presentation that is ready for submission to a peer-reviewed venue.

This clinical experiential learning experience will facilitate skill acquisition in basic elements of patient service provision for the adult/pediatric population with increasing complexity in neurological and/or cardiopulmonary conditions. There will be an emphasis on professional practice development and patient/client management skills including basic observational skills, movement analysis, physical handling skills, health care record information collection and documentation, general screening for all systems, elementary physical therapy examination and treatment and essentials of patient-practitioner interaction. This practicum serves as the clinical foundation for preparation of Internship II.

A full-time clinical practice internship in the pediatric or rehabilitative clinical setting. Emphasis on the practice of skills in physical therapy with refinement to professional entry level competence in these settings.

Design of physical therapy intervention for management of special problems otherwise not addressed in the physical therapy professional entry curriculum including: oncology, women's health, mental health, wound care, immune function, etc. Includes discussion of medical/health team management of these special problems.

This course is an introduction to the theory and application of leadership and management principles. The course evaluates the changing healthcare environment and the role of the physical therapist as an autonomous practitioner/ manager/business owner/healthcare leader and advocate within this environment. Fundamental concepts of leadership, management, strategic and operational planning/forecasting, legal structures, business development, networking, marketing, business communication, accounting, finance management, human resource management, information management, third party reimbursement, risk management and third party regulation are introduced within the professional milieu. The content is explored through lecture, discussion facilitation, and team projects leading to a Business Plan and Presentation.

A full-time clinical practice internsnip in an acute/sub-acute/home care, pediatric, orthopedic or rehabilitation clinical site. Emphasis is on the practice of skills in physical therapy with refinemen tto the professional entry level in these settings.

This capstone course synthesizes the entire curriculum and serves to refine the student¿s final preparation to become an autonomous practitioner, accepting full ownership of his or her practice. The course will focus on curriculum integration, professional development, licensure, career preparation and first employment, ethical/legal issues governing practice, leadership, social responsibility and advocacy. Emphasis is on the role of the Physical Therapist as contributor to society and the profession through practice, lifelong learning, teaching, leadership and scholarly endeavors. In a comprehensive framework, case studies will be utilized incorporating a systems review approach for cardiovascular/pulmonary, integumentary, musculoskeletal, and neuromuscular systems. Topics such as licensure exam preparation, test taking strategies, mock test taking, professional development, fiscal management, program analysis, contemporary autonomous practice, interview skill development, and legal/ethical issues governing practice will be addressed.

Full-time clinical practice internship in an acute/sub-acute/homecare, pediatric, orthopedic or rehabilitation clinical site. Emphasis is on the practice of skills in physical therapy with refinement to the professional entry level in these settings.

Designed to promote experiential learning while advancing the mission and goals of the doctor of physical therapy program and the profession of physical therapy. Students will participate in a semester-long service project in cooperation with community partners. Students will implement a service project to meet a community need and will critically reflect on the experience through discussion, journaling, and portfolio development.

This international innovation project course incorporates didactic and experiential learning through transdisciplinary collaboration with international healthcare professionals including physical therapists to address issues in global health. Students will participate in a concentrated semester of learning to promote skills in management, strategic planning, leadership, innovation and entrepreneurship within the healthcare sector. In cooperation with community partners, students design proposals for innovative solutions to meet client needs while exploring the global role of the physical therapist. The content is explored through lecture, discussion, community partner engagement, reflection, portfolio development, and team projects leading to an innovation project plan and presentation. Prerequisite: permission of the physical therapy department.

This online course, concurrent with Clinical Internship I, allows the student to practice application of clinical reasoning and critical thinking processes in assignments and case studies related to the concurrent clinical experiences. 1 credit

Analysis of common pathologies, clinical tests and measures, and interventions used to examine, evaluate, diagnose and manage movement dysfunction related to progressive and/or degenerative neuro-musculoskeletal disorders with multisystem dysfunction across the lifespan such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinsonism, ALS, rheumatic diseases, myelomeningocele and Alzheimer’s disease will be discussed. Practice guidelines based on practice-based evidence are presented for physical therapy treatments with attention to interventions that optimize functional capacity and performance to achieve individual goals and outcomes. 4 credits

Analysis of common pathologies, physical therapy examination, tests and measures, and intervention used to diagnose and manage movement dysfunction following urogenital conditions across the life span. This includes differential diagnosis, interpretation of the imaging studies, pelvic exam, urinary stress testing, pelvic floor muscle strength, posture, and movement patterns. Practice guidelines based on practice-based evidence are presented including application of selected pharmacological, surgical, psychological, with attention to physical therapy interventions that optimize functional capacity and performance to achieve individual goals and outcomes related to the urogenital system. 1 credit

The course is the first full-time clinical practice internship. Emphasis is on development of professional practice and attainment of skills in physical therapy practice and patient management incorporating evidence-based practice guidelines with progression to an intermediate level performance. 4 credits

This online course, concurrent with Clinical Internship III, allws the student to practice advanced application of clinical reasoning and critical thinking processes in assignments and case studies related to the concyrrent clinical experiences.

This capstone course synthesizes curricular threads and serves as the students' final preparation as autonomous practitioners of physical therapy. Students will develop professional goals and a structured plan that prepares them to obtain licensure, develop a professional resume, seek employment as a physical therapist, pursure leadership opportunities within the physical therapy profession and become lifelong learners. Meets final 3 weeks.

This is the final full-time clinical internship. Emphasis is on the practice of skills in physical therapy with refinement to entry level performance.