Mission Statement
Students in the Whitworth University Doctor of Physical Therapy program integrate mind, heart and hands as movement system experts. Their professional roles embody reflective servant leadership, global citizenship, and the integration of learning with faith or worldview to challenge societal injustices and health system inequities. Graduates join the faculty as an inclusive community of scholars, engaged in critical inquiry to empower innovation and clinical reasoning that optimize human experience throughout the lifespan and advance the profession of physical therapy.
Graduate Learning Outcomes
- Embrace servant leadership identities through social responsibility, social justice, cultural responsiveness, global citizenship, and the integration of learning with faith or worldview.
- Internalize professional formation commensurate with the expectations of the physical therapist.
- Develop as primary care providers recognized as movement system experts who consider the physical, emotional, social and spiritual components of health in the design of patient-centered plans of care.
- Collaborate as providers and healthcare consultants with patients and families, professional colleagues, and communities to optimize quality of life.
- Prioritize quality, cost-efficient, patient-centered care that integrates sound ethical, legal and business practices, as valued members of the healthcare team.
- Educate others with consideration of the context of the individual, the task and the environment.
- Engage in self-directed learning and scholarship that prepare graduates to be lifelong learners who advance health and wellness in society.
- Adapt personal resilience to meet the needs of one's professional role and global community.
Admission Requirements
- Successful completion of a bachelor's degree (prior to admission).
- Academic requirements include overall GPA and prerequisite GPA equal to or greater than 3.0.
- Completion of, or enrollment in, prerequisite courses.
- Evidence of leadership skills, service and community engagement activities.
- Fifty hours of observation in physical therapy practice; two or more settings preferred.
- Completion of the GRE is strongly encouraged but not required. For applicants with a 3.4 prerequisite GPA or below, a GRE score is highly recommended for consideration for an interview.
Prerequisite Courses
The following prerequisite coursework is to be completed prior to enrollment:
- One course in anatomy with lab
- One course in physiology with lab (or a two-course sequence in anatomy & physiology with lab)
- One course in biological sciences with lab (not botany)
- Two courses in general chemistry with lab
- Two courses in general physics with lab
- One course in psychology
- One course in statistics (research design and statistics, typically with ANOVAs)
General Policies
- Students should be familiar with Whitworth's graduate program policies, including specific academic standards, class attendance, suspension, appeals and graduation procedures. The DPT student handbook, updated annually, includes additional policies and procedures related to the DPT program.
- The DPT program does not accept any transfer courses to apply toward the completion of graduate course requirements.
- Students must maintain full-time status and follow the required course sequence each term. This is an intensive, full-time program with day and evening requirements. As such, outside employment is discouraged and may not be possible while a student is completing this degree.
Criteria for DPT Program Progression and Advancement
Students in the DPT program must take courses in the order prescribed by the plan of study. Students must enroll as full-time and progress through the curricular sequence to meet requirements for graduation in the time frame stipulated in the curriculum. The plan of study is designed to follow a prescribed sequence of courses.
The inability of a student to fulfill required minimum academic standards, maintain academic integrity, exhibit appropriate professional behavior, or adhere to safety standards constitutes violations and will result in actions that impact student progression in the program.
Students are notified of a change in academic status by a letter from the program chair either as email or through a student portal notice, but failure to provide or receive the notice does not invalidate the action taken or the determined outcome. Probation, suspension with possibility of reinstatement, and suspension without possibility of reinstatement designations are recorded on the permanent academic record (transcript) of the student.
The program chair reviews the academic status of students and makes decisions about progression according to the recommendation of the Progression Committee and the criteria in the Student Handbook. The program chair may employ other faculty and committees as appropriate to assist in making recommendations and related decisions.
Progression of Students in the DPT Program
For progression through the curriculum from Year 1 to Year 2 and Year 2 to Year 3, a student must remain in good academic standing that includes no more than two C grades or six credits of grades of C in all didactic courses, pass all practical examinations, and receive a passing grade in clinical education courses of the preceding year while also maintaining a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. Students who do not meet the requirements are placed on academic probation and must meet requirements of the academic remediation for progression. Students must have a cumulative 3.0 GPA to progress to final clinical internships unless an individual adjusted degree plan is approved by the chair. These are rare circumstances involving extenuating factors and are considered on a case-by-case basis.
Accreditation Status
The Doctor of Physical Therapy Program at Whitworth University is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), 3030 Potomac Ave, Suite 100, Alexandria, Virginia 22305-3085; telephone: 703-706-3245; email: accreditation@apta.org; website: http://www.capteonline.org. If needing to contact the program/institution directly, please call 509-777-3377 or email the Program Director at chawkins@whitworth.edu.
Upon completion of the program, the student is eligible to sit for the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) and apply for licensure in any state.
Complaints to the Commission on Accreditation of Physical Therapy Education
The Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education is a nationally recognized accrediting agency by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. CAPTE grants specialized accreditation status to qualified entry-level education programs for physical therapists and physical therapist assistants. The only mechanism through which CAPTE can act on an individual’s concerns is through a formal complaint process. For more information please visit the CAPTE website.
The process for filing a complaint with CAPTE is available here or at: The Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), 3030 Potomac Ave., Suite 100, Alexandria, VA 22305-3085; phone 703.706.3245; accreditation@apta.org.
Courses
| DPT 701 Human Anatomy | 6 |
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Examines anatomy, histology and embryological origins of human systems taught through a regional approach with student-performed dissection of human cadavers. Emphasis is on the relationships between the musculoskeletal, neurological, and vascular systems and the anatomical features relevant to graduate health professions. Lab included. |
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| DPT 702 Clinical Medicine I | 4 |
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Foundational knowledge and application of pathophysiology as it pertains to general health, systemic disease and medical management. Includes pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and classifications of drugs used in the treatment of disease across the lifespan. Students will examine the relationship between medical management and their role as a movement system expert and a primary care practitioner. Lab included. |
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| DPT 703 Neuroscience for Doctor of Physical Therapy Students | 3 |
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Studies basic structure and function of the nervous system that includes cellular, systemic, motor and sensory pathology of peripheral and central neural components. Examines sensations, perceptions, cognition, and muscle control. Relates neuroscience to cognition, perception and the movement system across the lifespan. Lab included. |
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| DPT 704 Exercise Science and Prescription | 3 |
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Uses principles and applications of exercise as a means to promote health and physical activity to enhance movement, adapt to movement dysfunction and/or foster disease prevention/management. Assesses capacity, develops exercise prescription and progression that considers nutrition, goals, tolerance and responses to exercise. Applies ACSM guidelines for exercise testing and prescription for individuals across the lifespan. Lab included. |
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| DPT 705 Health Systems I: Global Health | 2 |
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Examines global health from a societal perspective as an aspiring health professional. Initiates development of transformational and servant leadership skills to reduce global health disparities of different health systems. Explores concepts of global burden of disease, globalization of healthcare, political and institutional impact on health, social determinants of health, health and human rights, and World Health Organization priorities. Engages in interprofessional collaboration opportunities for meaningful solutions to disparities. Includes community engagement activities. |
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| DPT 706 Health Systems II: Population, Public And Community Health | 2 |
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Explores health promotion and disease prevention theories as an integral component of the role of the physical therapist in promoting health and wellness. Issues of health behavior, public policy, community access and efficacy of health programs will be explored from a primary and secondary prevention perspective. Assesses the needs of a community within a participatory research model to design community interventions for health promotion. Includes community engagement activities. |
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| DPT 710 Movement System I | 3 |
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Application of biomechanical and kinesiological principles of human movement that translate into fundamental skills for patient/client management to identify, quantify and assess joint mobility, muscle length, muscle strength, functional mobility, sensation and soft tissue integrity. Examination techniques include interview skills and clinical documentation. Introduces The Clinical Decision Making Framework (CDMF) that guides clinical reasoning throughout the program. Lab included. |
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| DPT 711 Movement System II | 3 |
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This course will apply the principles of kinesiology, motor control and motor learning in the analysis and performance of the movement system. Analysis of movement will be informed through observational assessments of patient movement during gait and a functional continuum of movement. Interventions for patient transfers and use of assistive devices will be used to apply these principles for movement. Lab included. |
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| DPT 712 Movement System III | 3 |
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Integrates motor control/learning and development across the lifespan into the clinical decision making framework that informs movement system examination, evaluation and intervention strategies. Details observational analysis of complex dynamic movements of posture, gait, reach and grasp, transitional, vocational and recreational activities that sets the foundation of intervention strategies as movement system experts. Lab included. |
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| DPT 713 Psychosocial Aspects of Health and Well- Being | 3 |
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Integrates the biopsychosocial model of care considering the mental, emotional, social, and spiritual dimensions of health. Includes theories such as spirituality, grief-loss-mourning, behavioral change, mental health disorders, depression and anxiety, addiction, and sexuality in rehabilitation. Explores motivational interviewing and targeted applications of pain science education. Includes community engagement hours. |
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| DPT 714 Nutrition and Health Promotion | 1 |
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Investigates current principles of nutrition across the lifespan that pertain to disease prevention and health promotion. Develops an understanding of nutritional needs for health, wellness and optimal movement while considering risk factors of chronic diseases. Interprets contemporary research findings and develops strategies to promote healthy lifestyles. |
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| DPT 720 Musculoskeletal Management I | 4 |
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Introduces the clinical decision-making framework of musculoskeletal examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, intervention and outcomes for individuals with pathologies of the lower quarter. Applies patient-centered examination techniques, diagnostic testing, pharmacology and interventions for the movement system emphasizing education, manual therapy, and exercise while incorporating the social determinants of health. Lab included. |
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| DPT 721 Musculoskeletal Management II | 4 |
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This course is the second of four on examination, evaluation, and intervention of the musculoskeletal system. It continues the use of clinical decision-making framework of musculoskeletal examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, intervention and outcomes for individuals with pathologies of the spine across the lifespan while incorporating social determinants of health. Content includes intervention for musculoskeletal conditions of lumbar spine, sacroiliac spine, thoracic spine, cervical spine, fundamental spinal manipulation, neurodynamics, cranio-vertebral, temporomandibular joint, and fractures. Emphasis is on patient-centered differential diagnosis, clinical decision-making, and interventions for the movement system emphasizing education, function, manual therapy (e.g., mobilization, manipulation, muscle-energy technique), therapeutic exercise, therapeutic modalities. Lab included. |
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| DPT 740 Professional Formation I | 2 |
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Introduces professional formation of a doctor of physical therapy as a master adaptive learner, clinician, educator, researcher, advocate and global citizen who serves humanity with humility to optimize the human experience. Embraces their role as a vocation to promote movement and support others in their pursuit to improve quality of life. Explores competencies in spirituality and worldview, leadership, professionalism, ethics/legal, interprofessional competencies (IPEC), teaching and learning, cultural awareness, and wellbeing for health professionals considering therapeutic alliance, societal context, contemporary practice and the healthcare environment. Identifies clinical role through guided participation in grand rounds, interprofessional education and Integrated Clinical Experiences (ICE). |
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| DPT 741 Professional Formation II | 2 |
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Establish goals of professional formation competencies commensurate with the role of a doctoring professional. Focuses on self-assessment to guide development in spirituality and worldview, leadership, professionalism, ethics/legal, interprofessional competencies (IPEC), teaching and learning, cultural awareness, and wellbeing for health professionals considering therapeutic alliance, delegation/supervision, societal context, contemporary practice and the healthcare environment. Continues application of clinical role through guided participation in grand rounds, interprofessional education and Integrated Clinical Experiences (ICE). |
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| DPT 742 Professional Formation III | 2 |
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Classifies level of achievement in professional formation competencies with learning through the mind, heart and hands. Continues development in spirituality and worldview, leadership, professionalism, ethics/legal, interprofessional competencies (IPEC), teaching and learning, cultural awareness, and wellbeing for health professionals considering therapeutic alliance, societal context, contemporary practice and the healthcare environment. Focuses on interpersonal relationships, communication, adaptability, and reflection. Begins application of clinical role through community engagement, guided participation in grand rounds, interprofessional education and Integrated Clinical Experiences (ICE). |
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| DPT 750 Fundamentals of Critical Inquiry | 3 |
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Introduces scientific inquiry used in healthcare research that includes theory, design, methods, critical appraisal, and measurement. Course examines qualitative and quantitative approaches, descriptive and inferential statistics, formulation of clinical questions, search appropriate literature sources, and critical appraisal of the evidence to foster the foundations of clinical reasoning. |
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| DPT 807 Health Systems III - Health Policy | 2 |
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Provides foundations to understand healthcare policies and organizational structures pertinent to professional practice and interprofessional healthcare services, while promoting civic engagement. Analyzes the current socio-political and economic impacts to healthcare policy decisions at regional, national and international levels. Evaluates financial, regulatory and legal policies on delivery of health services. Includes community engagement activities. |
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| DPT 808 Health Systems Management IV - Business Management, Ethics and Law | 4 |
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Integrates legal and ethical guidelines with principles of strategic planning, market analysis, human resource management, fiscal management, and total quality improvement for health service provision. Expands on concepts of entrepreneurial practice management and leadership within the business of healthcare. Facilitates adaptive interprofessional collaboration opportunities within an evolving healthcare system. |
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| DPT 815 Rehab Technology | 3 |
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Emphasis is placed on applying theoretical principles underlying the clinical decision making of prescription and integration of rehab technology for individuals with a range of system dysfunctions. Content focuses on mobility assistive technologies such as orthoses, prostheses, biophysical agents, robotics, AI, VR/AR, and other advanced technologies that supplement movement interventions. Lab included. |
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| DPT 822 Musculoskeletal Management III | 4 |
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Continues the use of clinical decision-making framework of musculoskeletal examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, intervention and outcomes for individuals with pathologies of the upper quarter across the lifespan. Applies patient-centered examination techniques, diagnostic testing, pharmacology and interventions for the movement system emphasizing education, manual therapy, and exercise while incorporating the social determinants of health. Lab included. |
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| DPT 823 Musculoskeletal Management IV | 2 |
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Integrates the clinical decision-making framework for management of individuals with complex musculoskeletal dysfunction across the lifespan that requires advanced differential diagnostic skills. Emphasizes patient centered care, diagnostic imaging, pharmacology, comprehensive case management, prevention management, risk reduction strategies, and the continuum of care. Integrates interventions of the movement system incorporating pain science, motor control and motor learning, technology, education and activity-based exercises while adjusting for social determinants of health. Lab included. |
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| DPT 824 Neurological Management I | 3 |
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Introduces the clinical decision-making framework of examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, intervention and outcomes for individuals with neurologic health conditions, with emphasis on Cerebrovascular Accident (CVA) and Cerebral Palsy (CP). Relates neurophysiological, patho-kinesiological, neuroplasticity, relevance and recovery of movement system impairments to function and participation. Emphasizes application of patient-centered care, diagnostic imaging, pharmacology and movement system interventions that integrates motor control/motor learning, technology, education and activity-based exercises while adjusting for social determinants of health. Lab included. |
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| DPT 825 Neurological Management II | 4 |
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Continues the clinical decision-making framework for individuals with neurological health conditions, with emphasis on vestibular system dysfunction, brain injury, multiple sclerosis, CNS tumors, movement disorders and spectrum disorders. Formulates a patient-centered care plan that considers diagnostic imaging, pharmacology and movement system interventions. Integrates motor control/motor learning, technology, education and activity-based exercises while adjusting for social determinants of health. Lab included. |
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| DPT 826 Neurological Management III | 3 |
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Synthesizes advanced clinical decision making in the management of individuals with complex neurological health conditions, such as spinal cord injuries, progressive neuromuscular diseases and congenital and genetic neurological conditions across the lifespan. Emphasizes patient centered care, diagnostic imaging, pharmacology, comprehensive case management, prevention management, risk reduction strategies, and the continuum of care. Integrates movement system interventions with motor control/motor learning, technology, education and activity-based exercises while adjusting for social determinants of health. Lab included. |
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| DPT 827 Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Management | 3 |
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Applies the clinical decision-making framework of examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, intervention and outcomes for individuals across the lifespan with cardiovascular and pulmonary causes of movement dysfunction. Emphasizes application of patient-centered care, diagnostic imaging, pharmacology and movement system interventions, comprehensive case management, prevention, risk reduction strategies and continuum of care. Lab included. |
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| DPT 828 Clinical Medicine II Systems | 3 |
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Applies the clinical decision-making framework of examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, intervention and outcomes for individuals across the lifespan with integumentary, endocrine, lymphatic, oncological, autoimmune, metabolic and other multisystem conditions with movement dysfunctions. Emphasizes application of patient-centered care, diagnostic imaging, pharmacology, movement system interventions, comprehensive case management, prevention, risk reduction strategies and continuum of care. Lab included. |
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| DPT 829 Movement Across the Lifespan | 3 |
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Integrates the clinical decision-making framework using a movement system approach in the management of the pediatric and geriatric population not included in previous coursework. Focuses on changes in static and dynamic movements as a result of developmental and aging processes. Incorporates biopsychosocial considerations and social determinants of health in interprofessional comprehensive case management. Emphasizes application of family-centered care, diagnostic imaging, pharmacology, prevention, risk reduction strategies and continuum of care. Lab included. |
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| DPT 843 Professional Formation IV | 1 |
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Implements professional formation competencies with integration of faith and learning to lead and influence change within teams as students practice servant and transformational leadership. Assumes roles to advocate for reducing inequities and injustices in health systems and our societies. Emphasizes integrity, trustworthiness, social responsibility, social justice, and cultural sensitivity. Continues application of clinical role as evidenced by leading discussions in grand rounds and interprofessional education activities in preparation for intermediate clinical experience. |
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| DPT 844 Professional Formation V | 2 |
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Demonstrates advances in professional formation and cultural responsiveness while engaging with interprofessional colleagues within organizations, systems or communities in preparation to participate in fostering diversity, reducing inequities and injustices in health systems and our societies. Examines concepts of initiative, integrity, trustworthiness and other-centeredness with professional roles and responsibilities. Continues application of clinical role as evidenced by leading discussions in grand rounds, interprofessional education activities and teaching/advocacy roles and Integrated Clinical Experiences (ICE). |
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| DPT 845 Professional Formation VI | 2 |
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Creates opportunities to internalize professional formation that integrates leadership, professionalism, cultural responsiveness, spirituality and world views, and innovation to foster change for positive outcomes within organizations, communities and society. Distinguishes between cultural awareness, sensitivity and responsiveness to participate in correcting inequities and social injustices. Emphases an entrepreneurial spirit while assuming professional roles and responsibilities. Justifies ethical/legal decisions and actively engages in advocacy that demonstrates voice and assertive communication in personal and professional interactions. Continues to lead in grand rounds, interprofessional education activities and Integrated Clinical Experiences (ICE). |
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| DPT 851 Research I | 1 |
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Applies the scientific inquiry process to develop a research question, research design, proposal and IRB submission. Develops projects that might include systematic reviews, intervention, diagnostic, prognostic studies, or community-based projects and may use qualitative, quantitate, or mixed-methods design. This project fulfills a component of the Doctoral Capstone project. |
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| DPT 852 Research II | 1 |
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Implements the scientific inquiry process of a previously developed project through data collection and analysis. This project fulfills a component of the Doctoral Capstone project. |
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| DPT 853 Research III | 1 |
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Completes the scientific inquiry process of a previously developed project through comprehensive analysis, synthesis of findings and implications to practice. Disseminates findings via manuscript and presentations. This project fulfills a component of the Doctoral Capstone project. |
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| DPT 860 Clinical Education I | 4 |
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First of three full-time clinical education experiences. Students will integrate didactic content related to examination, evaluation, and intervention skills during an 8-week mentored clinical experience. Applies clinical decision-making framework to demonstrate clinical reasoning, practices communication and develops socialization skills to optimize health outcomes. |
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| DPT 916 Movement System IV | 3 |
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Integrates the clinical decision-making framework using the movement system approach in the management of individuals with primary and secondary system involvement and complex movement system dysfunctions across the lifespan. Incorporates interprofessional collaboration to address health and wellness needs as a primary care provider. Emphasizes application of patient/family-centered care, differential diagnosis, diagnostic imaging, pharmacology, comprehensive case management, emergency medical management, prevention, risk reduction. Lab included. |
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| DPT 946 Professional Formation VII | 1 |
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Embraces role as a servant leader with transformational leadership skills. Engages with the community to confirm social responsibility, social justice and global citizenship within education, practice, research, consultation and advocacy efforts. Fosters resilience through reflection while assuming responsibilities of their vocation. |
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| DPT 961 Clinical Education II | 6 |
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The first of two terminal clinical education experiences. Emphasizes on the development as a primary care movement system expert. Illustrates growth in formation commensurate with the expectations of the profession. This clinical experience is inclusive of mentorship across various roles of professional practice. |
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| DPT 962 Clinical Education III | 6 |
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The second of two terminal clinical education experiences that confirms entry-level performance as a primary care movement system expert. Affirms their multiple roles as a Doctor of Physical Therapy. Internalizes formation commensurate with the expectations of the profession. This clinical experience is inclusive of mentorship across various roles of professional practice. |
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| DPT 970 Capstone Portfolio | 1 |
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Produces evidence of achievement of expected graduate outcomes as a result of accumulated knowledge, skills and behaviors from previous didactic and clinical coursework. Presents written and oral defense to justify readiness to graduate into the professional community of scholars of physical therapists. |
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| DPT 971 Elective | 1-2 |
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Advances specialty practice topics with elective courses that vary annually to support future specialization interests of Doctor of Physical Therapy students. |
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| DPT 972 Global Perspectives in Physical Therapy | 2 |
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Advances specialty practice topics with elective courses that vary annually to support future specialization interests of Doctor of Physical Therapy students. |
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| DPT 973 Advanced Topics in Musculoskeletal Management | 2 |
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The Advanced Topics in Musculoskeletal Management elective course, offered in the third year, is designed to equip students with advanced knowledge and skills in the assessment and treatment of musculoskeletal conditions. This course delves into the intricacies of musculoskeletal anatomy, biomechanics, and pathophysiology, enabling students to develop a comprehensive understanding of complex musculoskeletal disorders. Through interactive lectures, case studies, and hands-on practical sessions, students will learn advanced techniques in manual therapy and evidence-based practice. The course also explores emerging trends and innovative approaches in musculoskeletal management, preparing students to excel in their clinical practice and contribute to the advancement of the field. Lab included. |
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| DPT 974 Advanced Topics in Neurological Management | 2 |
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The Advanced Topics in Neurological Management elective course, held in the third year, provides students with an in-depth understanding of advanced concepts and strategies in the assessment and treatment of neurological conditions. This course explores the complexities of the nervous system and its impact on the movement system. Through a combination of lectures, case studies, and hands-on practical sessions, students will develop advanced clinical reasoning skills and learn evidence-based interventions for optimizing neurological function. This course equips students with the knowledge and skills to excel in their future practice, making a positive impact on the lives of individuals with neurological conditions. |
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| DPT 975 Advanced Topics in Assessment of the Movement Systems Across the Lifetime | 2 |
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The Advanced Topics in Assessment of the Movement System Across the Lifespan elective course, held in the third year, provides students with an in-depth exploration of advanced assessment techniques for evaluating the movement system at a specific stage of life. This course focuses on understanding the unique considerations and challenges associated with that population at the stage of life. Through interactive lectures, case studies, and practical sessions, students will develop advanced clinical assessment skills, including observational analysis, specialized tests and measures, and interpretation of assessment findings. Students will gain the confidence and proficiency needed to provide comprehensive and individualized care to patients across the lifespan. |
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| DPT 976 Advanced Topics for Physical Therapists as Primary Care Providers in Specialty Settings | 2 |
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The Advanced Topics in Physical Therapists as Primary Care Providers in Special Settings elective course, held in the third year, is designed to prepare students for the evolving role of physical therapists as primary care providers in specialized healthcare settings. This course explores the unique challenges and opportunities faced by physical therapists in varied. Through a combination of lectures, case studies, and hands-on experiences, students will develop advanced clinical skills, including differential diagnosis, imaging or other diagnostic result assessments, and appropriate intervention provision. The course also emphasizes collaborative practice, communication skills, and ethical considerations. Students will gain the knowledge and confidence needed to excel as primary care providers in specialized settings, contributing to improved patient outcomes and expanded healthcare access. |
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| DPT 977 Advanced Topics for Physical Therapists as Providers for the Athlete | 2 |
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The Advanced Topics in Physical Therapists as Providers for the Athlete elective course, offered in the third year, is designed to equip students with advanced knowledge and skills required to excel as physical therapists in sport-related healthcare settings. This course explores the unique challenges and demands of working with athletes across various levels and sports disciplines. Through a combination of lectures, practical sessions, and real-life case studies, students will develop expertise in sports injury prevention, assessment, and rehabilitation. Topics covered include sport-specific biomechanics, exercise prescription, return-to-play protocols, and performance enhancement strategies. Students will also gain insights into interdisciplinary collaboration, sports psychology, and ethical considerations. This course prepares students to optimize athletic performance and promote injury recovery in athletes. |
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The Doctor of Physical Therapy Program prepares the student for entry-level licensure and practice in physical therapy. The American Physical Therapy Association defines physical therapists (PTs) as movement system experts who improve quality of life of individuals through prescribed exercise, hands-on care, and patient education. The Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) is responsible for accrediting Doctor of Physical Therapy Programs.
Doctor of Physical Therapy Requirements (115) |
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| DPT 701 | Human Anatomy | 6 |
| DPT 710 | Movement System I | 3 |
| DPT 702 | Clinical Medicine | 4 |
| DPT 705 | Health Systems I: Global Health | 2 |
| DPT 740 | Professional Formation I | 2 |
| DPT 750 | Fundamentals of Critical Inquiry | 3 |
| DPT 711 | Movement System II | 3 |
| DPT 720 | Musculoskeletal Management I | 4 |
| DPT 704 | Exercise Science and Prescription | 3 |
| DPT 741 | Professional Formation II | 2 |
| DPT 703 | Neuroscience for Doctor of Physical Therapy Students | 3 |
| DPT 713 | Psychosocial Aspects of Health and Well-being | 3 |
| DPT 742 | Professional Formation III | 2 |
| DPT 706 | Health Systems II: Population, Public and Community Health | 2 |
| DPT 721 | Musculoskeletal Management II | 4 |
| DPT 712 | Movement System III | 3 |
| DPT 714 | Nutrition and Health Promotion | 1 |
| DPT 824 | Neurological Management I | 3 |
| DPT 822 | Musculoskeletal Management III | 4 |
| DPT 827 | Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Management | 3 |
| DPT 843 | Professional Formation IV | 1 |
| DPT 851 | Research I | 1 |
| DPT 860 | Clinical Education I | 4 |
| DPT 815 | Rehab Technology | 3 |
| DPT 828 | Clinical Medicine II | 3 |
| DPT 825 | Neurological Management II | 4 |
| DPT 807 | Health Systems III – Health Policy | 2 |
| DPT 852 | Research II | 1 |
| DPT 844 | Professional Formation V | 2 |
| DPT 808 | Health Systems Management IV - Business management, ethics and law | 4 |
| DPT 823 | Musculoskeletal Management IV | 2 |
| DPT 826 | Neurological Management III | 3 |
| DPT 845 | Professional Formation VI | 2 |
| DPT 829 | Movement Across the Lifespan | 3 |
| DPT 853 | Research III | 1 |
| DPT 916 | Movement System IV | 3 |
| DPT 946 | Professional Formation VII | 1 |
| DPT 961 | Clinical Education II | 6 |
| DPT 962 | Clinical Education III | 6 |
| DPT 970 | Capstone Portfolio | 1 |
| 2 |
| Global Perspectives in Physical Therapy | |
| Advanced Topics in Musculoskeletal Management | |
| Advanced Topics in Neurological Management | |
| Advanced Topics in Assessment of the Movement Systems Across the Lifetime | |
| Advanced Topics for Physical Therapists as Primary Care Providers in Specialty Settings | |
| Advanced Topics for Physical Therapists as Providers for the Athlete | |