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 2010; 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
First-Year Seminar for Health Science
Physical Therapy Orientation I
Humanities
Second Year
General Biology I, II
Intellectual Heritage I, II
Introduction to Communication
Introduction to Psychology
Introduction to Sociology
Physical Therapy Orientation II
General Education and Unrestricted Electives
Third Year
Anatomy and Physiology I, II
Introductory Physics I, II
Psychology of Human Development
Intelligence, Creativity, and Problem Solving
Scientific Writing
Introduction to Biostatistics
Service-Learning and General Education Electives
Physical Therapy Orientation III
Summer
Human Anatomy
Fourth Year
Kinesiology and Biomechanics I, II
Physical Therapy Examination
Physical Therapy Interventions I, II
Pathophysiology I, II
Neuroscience
Exercise Physiology
Research Methods I
Human Anatomy
Medical Ethics< br/>
Documentation and Communication
Health Promotion and Wellness
Fifth Year
Cardiopulmonary Physical Therapy I, II
Examination and Intervention of Integument I, II
Musculoskeletal Physical Therapy I, II
Neuromuscular Physical Therapy I, II
Clinical Decision Making I, II
Physical Therapy Examination & Intervention of Specific Systems
Clinical Education I
Differential Diagnosis
Evidence-Based Practice
Psychosocial Aspects of Physical Therapy
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
Management of the Complex Patient
Research Practicum (optional)
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.