Course Descriptions

Doctor Of Physical Therapy

YEAR 1 

Fall Semester, Year 1:

PHYT 600 ADVANCED HUMAN PHYSIOLOGY (3 CREDITS)
This course focuses on the major physiological systems of the human body. Topics in this course will cover function of the cardiovascular, respiratory, musculoskeletal, renal, gastrointestinal, genitourinary, neurological, lymphatic, endocrine, and immune systems at the cellular, organ, and systemic levels. Graded

PHYT 601 ADVANCED HUMAN ANATOMY (4 CREDITS)
This course focuses on the structure and function of the human body with emphasis on the neuromusculoskeletal, cardiovascular and pulmonary systems. Clinical correlations to the anatomical structures will be presented.  Graded     

PHYT 605 LIFE SPAN DEVELOPMENT AND EMBRYOLOGY (3 CREDITS)
This course emphasizes a holistic study of normal human growth and development from conception to maturity including embryological development of the major body systems. Emphasis will be placed on the components of sensory and motor development and the development of mature motor patterns. Study will include the four aspects of human behavior and development including biophysical, cognitive, affective, and social. Students will also examine physiological and psychosocial issues involved in the normal aging process. Graded

PHYT 607 ADVANCED HUMAN ANATOMY-LAB (2 CREDITS)
The course focuses on the structure and function of the human body with emphasis on the neuromusculoskeletal, cardiovascular and pulmonary systems. The students’ understanding of the human body in three dimensions will be facilitated through cadaver dissection. Graded

PHYT 670 INTRODUCTION TO HEALTH CARE SYSTEMS AND PATIENT CARE (2 CREDITS)
Students are introduced to the role and function of the physical therapist in contemporary health care with an awareness of ethical principles, historical foundations of the profession, current health care issues, and health care economics. The patient management model in physical therapy will also be introduced, including patient examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, intervention and outcomes.  The course will emphasize the team approach to health care in both urban and rural areas and will present strategies to promote cultural competency within the health care system. Graded

 Winter Semester, Year 1:

PHYT 608   VISCERAL ANATOMY LECTURE AND LAB ( 1 CREDIT) 

This course focuses on the structure and function of the human body with emphasis on the gastrointestinal and genitourinary systems. Clinical correlations to the anatomical structures will be presented. Graded

Spring Semester, Year 1:

PHYT 602 NEUROSCIENCE (4 CREDITS)
This course explores the structure and function of the central, peripheral and autonomic nervous systems on an anatomical, physiological and neurological basis. Three lecture hours and three laboratory hours per week. Graded

PHYT 603 EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGY (3 CREDITS)
This course provides an overview of exercise physiology theory and principles and an examination of the physiological responses to both acute and chronic physical activity. The role of exercise physiology in the treatment and rehabilitation of various populations is highlighted. Graded

PHYT 604 ANALYSIS OF HUMAN MOVEMENT (4 CREDITS)
This course analyzes normal and abnormal motor function based upon principles of biomechanics, and musculoskeletal anatomy. The student will be able to perform movement analyses of functional activities with regards to kinematics and kinetics. The student’s anatomical knowledge will be reinforced and palpation skills will be taught through hands‐on laboratory experiences. Graded     

 PHYT 612 CLINICAL MEDICINE I – PATHOPHYSIOLOGY (3 CREDITS)
This course provides an introduction to general pathology and the physiological and anatomical changes accompanying disease, injury or abnormal development. Pathophysiology of the following systems are covered: cardiovascular, respiratory, musculoskeletal, renal, gastrointestinal, genitourinary, lymphatic, endocrine, and immune systems. Current concepts and trends in diagnosis and medical management will be presented throughout the course. Mechanisms of disease processes will be examined. Graded

PHYT 681 RESEARCH METHODS I (3 CREDITS)
This course is designed to be a comprehensive review of basic experimental and non-experimental methods for research using the scientific method.  Inductive and deductive approaches will be discussed with emphases on casual ordering, theoretical framework development, hypothesis testing and critical analysis of current literature. Graded

Summer Semester, Year 1:

PHYT 620 INTRODUCTION TO CLINICAL EXAMINATION, EVALUATION, AND DIFFERENTIAL DIAGNOSIS (2 CREDITS)
This course will consist of the principles of the patient management model including clinical examination, evaluation, diagnosis, and prognosis.  Emphasis will be placed on the process of obtaining a history, performing a systems review, and selecting and administering tests and measures to gather data.  The principles of differential diagnosis will be introduced with an emphasis on distinguishing between neuromusculoskeletal and systemic conditions. The course will also cover differential diagnosis of upper and lower extremity conditions of musculoskeletal and non-musculoskeletal origin with the use of upper and lower quarter scanning exams.

PHYT 621 PHYSICAL THERAPY IN THE ACUTE CARE SETTING (3 CREDITS)
Students will be introduced to basic physical therapy examination, evaluation and intervention skills to ensure safe patient interactions including: gross assessment skills, patient communication, safe and effective patient positioning and movement, monitoring of vital signs, use of assistive ambulatory devices, universal precautions and sterile procedures. An emphasis is placed on psychomotor performance of the above examination and intervention skills and will also include safe procedures in transfers, gait training, positioning, and basic patient handling skills. Equipment and procedures utilized in the acute care setting will be introduced including IVs, cardiac monitoring devices, catheters, and respiratory support apparatus.

PHYT 622 TESTS AND MEASURES (3 CREDITS)
This course presents examination/evaluation skills pertinent to physical therapy including: postural assessment, goniometry, specific and group manual muscle testing, sensation testing, limb length and girth measurements, and reflex testing. Students will apply techniques to specific patient case situations.

PHYT 651 INTEGRATED CLINICAL EXPERIENCE I (1 CREDIT)
Students are involved in a practical part-time clinical experience in the application of physical therapy procedures while under direct supervision of a Clinical Instructor. Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory                  

PHYT 671 INTERPERSONAL COMMUNICATION AND PSYCHOSOCIAL ASPECTS OF DISABILITY (3 CREDITS)
This course focuses on the psychological, social, and cultural contexts of patient care emphasizing those variables identified as important for managing clients with disabilities. Emphasis will be placed on both verbal and non-verbal communication skills. Students develop initial skills in patient interviewing and in establishing a therapeutic therapist-patient relationship. Psychosocial characteristics of various patient populations are discussed. Emphasis is placed on how personal adjustment to disability influences the rehabilitation process. Students explore the various factors affecting the patient, the family, and the patient-therapist relationship in situations of chronic illness, disability, and loss.

PHYT 789 RESEARCH PROJECT-SELECTION OF RESEARCH TOPIC (1 CREDIT)
This course emphasizes problem formulation suitable for the completion of a doctoral project. Data collection, hypotheses testing, argumentation from data, and completion of the doctoral project by the end of the professional training is expected. All research undertaken is supervised by the student’s research advisor.

YEAR 2

Fall Semester, Year 2:

PHYT 615 CLINICAL MEDICINE III – ORTHOPEDICS (3 CREDITS)
In this course, emphasis is placed on the pathology of the musculoskeletal system, and the physiological and anatomic changes accompanying disease, injury, and/or abnormal development along with current concepts and trends in differential diagnosis and medical and surgical management and rehabilitation.

PHYT 616 THE INTEGUMENTARY SYSTEM AND WOUND MANAGEMENT (2 CREDITS)
This course will include an overview of the structure and function of the integumentary system, common dermatologic conditions, and the physiology of the normal wound healing process. The etiology and pathophysiology of various types of chronic wounds will be presented including pressure ulcers, arterial and venous insufficiency ulcers, neuropathic ulcers, and burns. The examination, evaluation, and intervention for each type of pathologic condition will be discussed. Students will engage in problem-solving activities through a variety of case study applications.

PHYT 623 PHYSICAL THERAPY PROCEDURES I – PHYSICAL AGENTS (2 CREDITS)
The course addresses: 1) The physical principles and physiological effects of physical agents/modalities; 2) The ethical use and application of physical agents in the management of pain, soft tissue trauma, and edema; 3) The role of physical agents/modalities in prevention of secondary complications and their adjunct use to therapeutic exercise and movement therapy; 4) The relationship of physical agents/modalities, temperature regulation and vascular supply, indications and contraindications; 5) Modification in the application of physical agents/modalities in unique patient populations.

PHYT 624 THERAPEUTIC EXERCISE I- BASICS AND ESSENTIALS (3 CREDITS)
This course serves as an introduction to the modality of therapeutic exercise.  It includes principles of aerobic conditioning and the use of various types of resistance, range of motion, postural, and breathing exercises along with their therapeutic application to specific regions of the body.  Emphasis will be centered on providing a foundation of knowledge and skills that can be used to manage a large number of patient problems seen in clinical practice.  Students will be able to design safe and effective therapeutic exercise programs for a variety of patient diagnoses.  

PHYT 627 PHYSICAL THERAPY PROCEDURES II- SOFT TISSUE TECHNIQUES (2 CREDITS)
This course encompasses practical and theoretical aspects of soft tissue techniques used in the physical therapy management of musculoskeletal impairments. Emphasis is placed on examination skills, specific tissue examination, and intervention techniques. The potential influence of soft tissue on movement and pain in mechanical and neurological impairments is discussed.

PHYT 630 PT PROCEDURES III – MUSCULOSKELETAL (3 CREDITS)
This course will consist of the principles of upper and lower extremity examination including the special testing of the upper and lower extremity joints and assessment of accessory motion.  The principles of joint mobilization as a therapeutic intervention will be included with a discussion of the history, various philosophies, grading systems, and techniques.  Joint mobilization techniques specific to the upper and lower extremities will be emphasized.         

PHYT 652 INTEGRATED CLINICAL EXPERIENCE II (1 CREDIT)
Students are involved in a practical part-time clinical experience in the application of physical therapy procedures while under direct supervision of a Clinical Instructor. Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory     

PHYT 658 CLINICAL JUDGMENT AND INTEGRATION SEMINAR (1 CREDIT)
This course combines instruction in clinical problem solving through problem synthesis, critical thinking, clinical reasoning, and decision-making. Case studies presented by students are used to facilitate the development of reasoning and decision-making skills that are applicable to current health care issues as well as to clinical practice. Students integrate didactic knowledge with clinical applications through the presentation and discussion of actual patient case studies.

PHYT 789 RESEARCH PROJECT-LITERATURE REVIEW & PROJECT DESIGN (1 CREDIT)
This course emphasizes problem formulation suitable for the completion of a doctoral project. Data collection, hypotheses testing, argumentation from data, and completion of the doctoral project by the end of the professional training is expected. All research undertaken is supervised by the student’s research advisor.

Winter Semester, Year 2:

PHYT 660 FULL TIME CLINICAL EXPERIENCE I* (3 CREDITS)
This clinical session will consist of six weeks of full-time clinical experience. Students will incorporate examination, evaluative and therapeutic procedures presented in the classroom and laboratory in direct patient care under the supervision of a Clinical Instructor. This experience is 40 hours per week for 6 weeks. Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory

Spring Semester, Year 2:

PHYT 625 THERAPEUTIC EXERCISE II (2 CREDITS)
This course is a continuation of Therapeutic Exercise I and includes advanced therapeutic techniques for special patient populations in rehabilitation.  Special topics techniques such as bariatric rehabilitation, pre-prosthetic training, post-surgical protocols, oncology rehabilitation, and selected topics in neurologic physical therapy will be covered.  Therapeutic exercise interventions will also target comprehensive management of the medically complex patient, including lab value and comorbidity analyses.   Exercise will be approached from an evidence-based perspective, with appropriate attention to those contributions from the basic and clinical sciences.  Students will gain exposure to more advanced rehabilitation equipment management such as complex seating systems, NeuroCom training, and treadmill unweighting.  In addition, web-based activities will give students the opportunity to discuss patient case studies and to analyze current evidence for specific interventions.  Problem-based activities in both the laboratory and physical setting will focus on stimulating effective clinical decision-making.    

PHYT 626 PHYSICAL THERAPY PROCEDURES IV- ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY (3 CREDITS)
Analysis of the physical and physiological principles underlying the application of therapeutic electricity in patient/client management is provided.  Basic principles underlying electrodiagnostic procedures are covered.

PHYT 631 PROSTHETICS AND ORTHOTICS (2 CREDITS)
The course focuses on patient management for individuals requiring the use of prostheses and orthoses. Emphasis is placed on the skills of examination of limb impairments and evaluation of the factors that influence the normalization of function. Students will develop plans and intervention strategies to maximize the health care of individuals with various amputations and limb impairments. In addition, students will learn to proficiently measure appropriate changes in function and communicate the findings to the prosthetist/orthotist and other members of the health care team.

PHYT 632 THERAPEUTIC EXERCISE III – EXERCISE TESTING AND PRESCRIPTION FOR SPECIAL POPULATIONS (2 CREDITS)
This course is designed to introduce basic exercise testing procedures and precautions, as well as exercise prescription for selected patient populations. An emphasis is placed on monitoring patients for normal and abnormal responses to activity, and specific indications and contraindications to exercise. Populations to be addressed will include individuals desiring to return to work or sport activities.

PHYT 653 INTEGRATED CLINICAL EXPERIENCE III (1 CREDIT)
Students are involved in a practical part-time clinical experience in the application of physical therapy procedures while under direct supervision of a Clinical Instructor.  Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory      

PHYT 658 CLINICAL JUDGMENT AND INTEGRATION SEMINAR (1 CREDIT)
This course combines instruction in clinical problem solving through problem synthesis, critical thinking, clinical reasoning, and decision-making. Case studies presented by students are used to facilitate the development of reasoning and decision-making skills that are applicable to current health care issues as well as to clinical practice. Students integrate didactic knowledge with clinical applications through the presentation and discussion of actual patient case studies.

PHYT 672 PATIENT AND COMMUNITY HEALTH EDUCATION AND PROMOTION (2 CREDITS)
This course will explore the basic principles and theories of health care delivery and epidemiology in community based settings. The impact of demographic, cultural, economic and other factors that may affect delivery of health care will also be discussed. The course is designed to promote wellness and prevention through the development of patient and community education programs. Health belief models and adult learning theories and principles will be incorporated in the development and implementation of health education programs for individual patients and local community groups.

PHYT 675 PHYSICAL THERAPY ADMINISTRATION (3 CREDITS)
This course addresses the principles of organization, management, and reimbursement in health care settings.  Legal and ethical issues will be discussed including those pertaining to health care personnel administration.                       

PHYT 789 RESEARCH PROJECT-DATA COLLECTION I (1 CREDIT)
This course emphasizes problem formulation suitable for the completion of a doctoral project. Data collection, hypotheses testing, argumentation from data, and completion of the doctoral project by the end of the professional training is expected. All research undertaken is supervised by the student’s research advisor.

Summer Semester, Year 2:

PHYT 611  PHARMACOLOGY AND LABORATORY VALUES FOR THE PHYSICAL THERAPIST (2 CREDITS)
The first part of the course will be an overview of the basic components of pharmacology with emphasis on pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. A review of common disease states encountered in clinical practice and their pharmacological interventions will be presented.  Students will be engaged in clinical reasoning and application of pharmacological concepts. Emphasis will be placed on exploring the relationship between pharmacology and physical therapy practice, including communication with other health care professionals and decision-making in physical therapy management of patients. The second part of this course will introduce the student to critical laboratory tests and the interpretation of laboratory values. Basic hematology will be reviewed focusing on normal and pathological blood levels.  An importance will be placed on the interpretation of laboratory data and its impact on safe and effective patient care. Emphasis will be placed on exploring the relationship between patients’ laboratory values and physical therapy practice, including communication with other health care professionals and decision-making in physical therapy management of patients.                            

PHYT 613    MEDICAL IMAGING FOR THE PHYSICAL THERAPIST (2 CREDITS)
This course will cover the principles, procedures and interpretation of diagnostic imaging techniques. Emphasis is on plain film radiography, CT scans, magnetic resonance imaging, ultrasound and current imaging technology of all extremity joints, the spine, temporomandibular joint, and the central nervous system. Emphasis will be placed on exploring the relationship between medical imaging and physical therapy practice, including communication with other health care professionals and decision-making in physical therapy management of patients.

 PHYT 789 RESEARCH PROJECT-DATA COLLECTION II (1 CREDIT)
This course emphasizes problem formulation suitable for the completion of a doctoral project. Data collection, hypotheses testing, argumentation from data, and completion of the doctoral project by the end of the professional training is expected. All research undertaken is supervised by the student’s research advisor.

Year 3

Fall Semester, Year 3:

PHYT 634 PATIENT MANAGEMENT- MUSCULOSKELETAL I (2 CREDITS)
The course is the first part in a series of physical therapy management and treatment interventions for the musculoskeletal system.  Patient examination, differential considerations, treatment interventions, and re-assessment procedures will be emphasized throughout the course.  Musculoskeletal dysfunctions, with and without surgical intervention, of the extremities and evidenced based treatment strategies will be integrated into clinically relevant scenarios.    Anatomy, biomechanics, and special tests will be reviewed and applied via classroom education and advanced dissections.

PHYT 637 PATIENT MANAGEMENT – PULMONARY (2 CREDITS)
Emphasis during lecture and laboratory experiences will be placed on recognition of pulmonary structure, physiology, function, and pathological conditions.  The role of physical therapy in the integration of various examination, evaluation and intervention procedures in order to provide acute care, rehabilitation, and prevention programs are also highlighted.

PHYT 640 PATIENT MANAGEMENT-PEDIATRICS I (2 CREDITS)
This course will cover examination, evaluation, and intervention procedures for common pediatric conditions including primary and secondary neurological, musculoskeletal, developmental, neuromuscular and cardiopulmonary disorders.  Influences of psychosocial, cultural, and environmental factors will be addressed for children with special needs and their families/caregivers.  Students will be introduced to current principles and legal issues in the provision of pediatric services in community-based and educational programs including family-centered care, practice models, and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).    

PHYT 642 PATIENT MANAGEMENT- NEUROMUSCULAR I (2 CREDITS)
The course is the first part in the sequence of management and treatment of the neurologically impaired adult. The course explores the theoretical basis of traditional and current approaches for the management of persons with CNS, PNS, ANS and congenital disorders of traumatic and/or vascular etiology. The primary concerns are: (a) brief review of traditional methods, their historical perspectives, strengths and weaknesses; (b) in-depth analysis of evidenced-based evaluation and treatment of patients post-CVA and post- selected vascular disorders of cortical etiology, strengths and weaknesses; (c) introduction to theories of motor control, motor learning and skill acquisition and their potential application in skill learning and rehabilitation; (d) current issues in “functional” interventions, strategies and outcome expectations.

PHYT 659 ADVANCED CLINICAL JUDGMENT AND INTEGRATION SEMINAR (1 CREDIT)
This course will focus on advanced clinical problem solving and analysis with an emphasis on the application of differential diagnostic skills. Students will develop skills in critical analysis of complex medical conditions and in formulating appropriate plans for intervention. The course is designed to enhance students’ critical thinking abilities that are particularly pertinent to the autonomous practitioner who practices in states with direct access to physical therapy services.

PHYT 661 FULL TIME CLINICAL EXPERIENCE II* (4 CREDITS)
This clinical session will consist of eight weeks of full-time clinical experience. Students will incorporate examination, evaluative and therapeutic procedures presented in the classroom and laboratory in direct patient care under the supervision of a Clinical Instructor. This experience is 40 hours per week for 8 weeks. Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory

PHYT 789 RESEARCH PROJECT-DATA ANALYSIS & RESEARCH PAPER (1 CREDIT)
This course emphasizes problem formulation suitable for the completion of a doctoral project. Data collection, hypotheses testing, argumentation from data, and completion of the doctoral project by the end of the professional training is expected. All research undertaken is supervised by the student’s research advisor.

Winter Semester, Year 3:

PHYT 635 PATIENT MANAGEMENT- MUSCULOSKELETAL II (1 CREDIT)
This course is the second part in the series of physical therapy management and treatment interventions for the musculoskeletal system.  Patient examination, differential considerations, treatment interventions, and re-assessment procedures will be emphasized throughout the course.  Musculoskeletal dysfunctions, with and without surgical intervention, of the extremities and evidenced based treatment strategies will be integrated into clinically relevant scenarios.  Anatomy, biomechanics, and special tests will be reviewed and applied via classroom education and advanced dissections.  

PHYT 641 PATIENT MANAGEMENT-PEDIATRICS II (1 CREDIT)
This course will focus on screening, examination, and evaluation and planning methods used for pediatric patients. A variety of standardized developmental assessment instruments will be examined. Students will learn to select, apply, and analyze developmentally appropriate procedures for pediatric screening, examination, and evaluation. Students will gain experience in the formulation of appropriate plans of care including Individualized Family Service Plans (IFSPs) and Individualized Education Plans (IEPs).

PHYT 643 PATIENT MANAGEMENT-NEUROMUSCULAR II (1 CREDIT)
The course is the second in a sequence of courses that explore the theoretical basis of traditional and current approaches of managing persons with CNS, PNS, ANS disorders of progressive and non-progressive, acquired and/or congenital etiologies. The course focuses on the examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, and intervention of the adult with impaired motor function and sensory integrity. This course will cover the management of patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) in the acute and chronic phases of rehabilitation. The role of the physical therapist as a direct caregiver and team member will be discussed.

Spring Semester, Year 3:

PHYT 633 PATIENT MANAGEMENT – CARDIAC (2 CREDITS)
Emphasis during lecture and laboratory experiences will be placed on cardiovascular structure, physiology, function, and the response to acute and chronic exercise. Interventions such as medications, surgical procedures, and exercise will be highlighted, along with the nature of cardiovascular pathology, cardiovascular rehabilitation, prevention strategies, and the role of the physical therapist.

PHYT 636 PATIENT MANAGEMENT – MUSCULOSKELETAL III (3 CREDITS)
This course is the third part in the series of physical therapy management and treatment interventions for the musculoskeletal system.  Patient examination, differential considerations, treatment interventions, and re-assessment procedures will be emphasized throughout the course.  Musculoskeletal dysfunctions of the spine, pelvis and TMJ will be emphasized.  Evidenced based treatment strategies, with consideration of surgical procedures, will be integrated into clinically relevant scenarios. Anatomy, biomechanics, and special tests will be reviewed and applied via classroom education and advanced dissections.   

PHYT 644 PATIENT MANAGEMENT – NEUROMUSCULAR III (3 CREDITS)
This course is the third in a sequence of courses that explore the theoretical basis of traditional and current approaches of managing persons with CNS, PNS, ANS disorders of progressive and non-progressive, acquired and/or congenital etiologies (e.g. Parkinson’s disease).  The skills of examination, evaluation, program planning and intervention for the patient with neurological impairments will be emphasized.  Attention will also be directed to the environment into which the patient is being discharged, re-evaluation of status, health care regulation changes and their implication of care for patients with dysfunctions of the neurological system.           

PHYT 645 PATIENT MANAGEMENT – SELECTED TOPICS (2 CREDITS)This course will present examination and intervention skills for management of patients with unique problems such as the rheumatoid diseases, HIV-AIDS, arterial insufficiency, and vestibular dysfunction.  This course will also present issues pertinent to the health, function, and physical therapy management of the geriatric client.  Normal and abnormal changes in cognition and mobility will be addressed, along with the implications of psychosocial, legal, ethical, and nutritional concerns.  Course material will include examination, data collection, and intervention activities geared towards optimizing functional outcomes with geriatric clients.  Students will have the opportunity to perform community balance screening activities. Graded 

PHYT 659 ADVANCED CLINICAL JUDGMENT AND INTEGRATION SEMINAR (1 CREDIT)
This course will focus on advanced clinical problem solving and analysis with an emphasis on the application of differential diagnostic skills. Students will develop skills in critical analysis of complex medical conditions and in formulating appropriate plans for intervention. The course is designed to enhance students’ critical thinking abilities that are particularly pertinent to the autonomous practitioner who practices in states with direct access to physical therapy services.

PHYT 674 PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND PRACTICE ISSUES IN PHYSICAL THERAPY (1 CREDIT)
An introduction to job searching skills including resume writing and interviewing skills, preparing for the National Physical Therapy Examination and state licensure procedures are the focus of this course.  The course will also include discussion of current and relevant issues facing the physical therapy profession.                                                

PHYT 789 RESEARCH PROJECT-FINAL ORAL PRESENTATION (1 CREDIT)
This course emphasizes problem formulation suitable for the completion of a doctoral project. Data collection, hypotheses testing, argumentation from data, and completion of the doctoral project by the end of the professional training is expected. All research undertaken is supervised by the student’s research advisor.

Summer Semester, Year 3:

PHYT 662 FULL TIME CLINICAL EXPERIENCE III* (4 CREDITS)
This clinical session will consist of 8 weeks of full-time clinical experience in preparation for competency as an entry-level practitioner. Students will incorporate examination, evaluative and therapeutic procedures presented in the classroom and laboratory in direct patient care under the supervision of a Clinical Instructor. The experience is 40 hours per week for 8 weeks. Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory

PHYT 663 FULL TIME CLINICAL EXPERIENCE IV* (4 CREDITS)
This clinical session will consist of 8 weeks of full-time clinical experience in preparation for competency as an entry-level practitioner. Students will incorporate examination, evaluative and therapeutic procedures presented in the classroom and laboratory in direct patient care under the supervision of a Clinical Instructor. This experience is 40 hours per week for 8 weeks. Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory

PHYT 649 INDEPENDENT STUDY (1-3 Credits)

The independent study option provides a means for students to pursue academic interests beyond the scope of course work in the program under the direction of a faculty advisor. The content and methods of study for this course will vary and are arranged by the student and advisor. Areas of study may include cardiopulmonary, orthopedics, neurology, pediatrics, women’s health, or other fields of study. This is a repeatable credit course.  Each student is required to complete 3 credits of Independent Study or Electives.

In lieu of Independent Study, the student may take electives offered by a graduate school of the University of Maryland System and approved by the faculty advisor.

Click here for examples of Independent Studies .

Scroll to Top