Curriculum Plan

PHTH 500 Foundations of Clinical Practice I (3.5 cr hrs) The first in a series of three courses focuses on clinical skills and patient management processes in the physical therapy setting. Foundational knowledge and skills related to the medical interview, motivational interviewing, and basic examination procedures are developed and form the basis for systems-based patient management throughout the curriculum. Laboratory sessions focus on foundational psychomotor skills including, but not limited to infection control, application of personal protective equipment, body mechanics, safety, proper draping, vital signs, neuromuscular screen, patient handling, and anthropometric measures. Outcome measures and their application to clinical practice are applied. The inclusion of defensible documentation utilizing the patient/client management model with appropriate medical terminology reflects the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) model.  A combination of lecture, laboratory, small group discussion, and case-based learning will enhance student learning. Formative assessment experiences in the form of clinical communication such as SBAR (situation, background, assessment, recommendation) and the Communication Assessment Tool (CAT) are reinforced. (2 hr lect/3 hr lab) 

PHTH 505 Gross Anatomy (4 cr hrs) This lecture and dissection/pro-section-based course integrates Doctoral Physical Therapy and Osteopathic Medicine students. The content is divided into three units, based on regional anatomy: back, upper limb, and lower limb. Lectures on fundamental radiological anatomy related to the area under study occur near the end of each unit. Basic neuroanatomy is integrated throughout the course as a precursor to PHTH 506 Applied Neuroscience.  This course provides the student with a solid knowledge base in gross, neurologic, and radiologic anatomy. The regional anatomic presentations are essential for preparing healthcare professions to integrate patient presentation for application of clinical differential diagnosis and treatment imperative as an effective doctoral physical therapist practitioner. (2 hr lect/4 hr lab) 

PHTH 510 Lifespan Development (2 cr hrs) This course explores the dynamic interplay between normal and abnormal human embryonic development, laying the foundation for understanding the acquisition of movement, cognition, language, and psychosocial behaviors across the lifespan. Grounded in motor learning theories, students will analyze how neuromotor development evolves from infancy through older adulthood, shaping functional movement and rehabilitation strategies. Through a case-study lens, students will develop critical skills for patient-centered rural healthcare in physical therapy practice. (2 hr lect) 

PHTH 512 Movement Science I (5 cr hrs) Principles, theories, and applications of static and dynamic biomechanics are presented as it applies to human movement and the study of specific structures involved in the achievement of movement.  Emphasis is on the integration of theory and structured movement analysis of activities of daily living, through the application of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) model informing clinical decision making within physical therapy practice.  Foundational knowledge and skills related to observation, functional movement assessment and basic examination procedures are developed and form the basis for systems-based patient management. Laboratory sessions will include observation and analysis of human movement and function, palpation, joint mobility assessment, muscle length testing, manual muscle testing, and the application of goniometry for the assessment of range of motion. (3 hr lect/4 hr lab) 

PHTH 521 Professional and Interprofessional Practice I (3 cr hrs) The first course in a series of two that prepares students to manage professional and ethical responsibilities of physical therapy practice in the delivery of health care services. Students will learn the application of core values, the Physical Therapist Practice Act, APTA code of ethics and interprofessional perspectives to prepare students for effective practice as collaborative team members. The Interprofessional Education Collaborative (IPEC) core competencies will be reinforced to foster team-based and patient-centered practice, patient safety and interprofessional communication. Emphasis will be on professional behavior standards in relation to patient care interaction and effective communication in addition to collegial relationships including roles and responsibilities of physical therapist and physical therapist assistant teams. This course incorporates leadership, cultural humility and implicit bias for addressing diversity, patient learning styles, patient education, patient health behavior models, conflict resolution, and issues of professional advocacy. Other topics will focus on healthcare in the United States in addition to rural and community health considerations. The course reviews community health services, prevention, wellness, health policy, insurance implications, fraud, and the profession’s obligation as a mandated reporter. (3 hr lect) 

PHTH 501 Foundations of Clinical Practice II (3.5 cr hrs) This course is a continuation of PHTH 500 with further application of physical therapy examination, evaluation, and treatment skills commonly used in physical therapy practice. Instruction will include the integumentary screen, advanced transfer techniques, gait training with assistive devices, functional balance testing, and soft tissue mobilization. Additionally, students will be introduced to components and prescriptions of therapeutic exercise, movement-based intervention, and inpatient management. This course will build on defensible documentation taught in PHTH 500 utilizing the patient/client management model with appropriate medical terminology reflecting the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) model.   A combination of lecture, laboratory, small group discussion, and case-based learning will enhance student learning.   Students will encounter acute and chronic problems in diverse patient-centered cases and apply their movement science knowledge to promote readiness for clinical education. Concepts of empathic communication and cultural humility will be reinforced. (2 hr lect/3 hr lab) 

PHTH 506 Applied Neuroscience (3.5 cr hrs) This course provides a study of the structure, organization, and function of the nervous system, with an emphasis on the neuroanatomical and neurophysiological mechanisms that regulate movement and function. Students will explore the intricate integration of motor, sensory, autonomic, and cognitive systems, gaining a deeper understanding of how these components contribute to typical and impaired movement. Additionally, students will examine the clinical manifestations of common neurological disorders, highlighting their impact on functional mobility and guiding evidence-based physical therapy examination. Laboratory experiences will reinforce lecture material through interactive learning, including neuroanatomical models and specimens, hands-on neurological assessment techniques, and the application of standardized core outcome measures. Students will develop clinical reasoning skills through case-based discussions and practical application of neurologic examination principles in preparation for management of individuals with neurological dysfunction in diverse rehabilitation settings. (2 hr lect/3 hr lab) 

PHTH 513 Movement Science II (4 cr hrs) This course is a continuation of PHTH 512 with further application of principles of human movement in physical therapy practice. Advanced study of normal and abnormal gait, principles of ergonomics, biomechanics of posture and interpretation of functional capacity evaluations. Students will learn to assess normal and abnormal gait of selected pathologies which are commonly presented in physical therapy practice. Conditions and impairments requiring lower quarter orthotic intervention will be presented, including pre/post op care, examination/evaluation, device design and prescription, proper device fitting and training. Outcome measures commonly administered in patients with gait deficits will be highlighted. Lab activities emphasize advanced analysis of movement and rehabilitation interventions of a diverse population. (2 hr lect/4 hr lab) 

PHTH 515 Applied Pathophysiology I (4) The foundation of basic histology and cell function will be used to promote the study of pathophysiology’s disruption of homeostasis and the impact on movement systems, the cornerstone of physical therapy practice. In the first course of the pathophysiology sequence, students will discern the impact of pathophysiologic conditions related to the following systems: musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, pulmonary, lymphatic, endocrine, gastrointestinal, genital and reproductive, renal and urologic, hematologic, immune, and integumentary. Various diseases and their incidence, etiology, pathogenesis, and clinical manifestations will be covered specific to each system. Discussions will include genetic factors and their influence on risk, progression, outcomes, and response to rehabilitation interventions. Medical, surgical, and rehabilitation management of specific conditions are also explored.  (4 hr lect) 

PHTH 543 Rural Integrated Clinical Experience I (1.5 cr hrs) This experiential service-learning course is designed to engage students in analyzing healthcare access through community needs assessment, health literacy instruction, social determinants of health, and interprofessional clinical practice in rural and medically underserved areas. Students will develop an understanding of the demographics, economics, and structure of the rural healthcare delivery system in America, with a concentration on the diverse population found in the Northwest. Additionally, current Federal and state health policy will be examined with special attention on reports from the Center for Rural Affairs and reform legislations addressed by the U.S. Congress and the White House. Primary, secondary, and tertiary care models will be discussed with emphasis on medical screening, referrals, interprofessional collaborative practice, and physical therapist scope of practice. Students will work under the direction of licensed physical therapy faculty at various community rural health care facilities. (0.5 hr lect/2 hr lab/ clinic) 

PHTH 545 Evidence Informed Practice I (2cr hr) The first in a series, this course introduces students to the core principles of informed clinical decision making. Students will learn to formulate relevant clinical questions, effectively search and critically appraise scientific literature, and gain a foundational understanding of research design, ethics, and proper citation. 

Through interactive learning and practical application, students will develop the skills needed to support evidence-based clinical decision making, empowering them to integrate current research into real-world patient care scenarios. (2 hr lect) 

PHTH 600 Clinical Experience I (2.5 cr hrs) This five-week full-time clinical experience (FTCE) during the second half of summer semester following completion of Year 1 and part of summer semester didactic knowledge is the first of four FTCE courses.  Emphasis is on foundational professional and clinical skills, clinical reasoning, and the development of cognitive, affective, and psychomotor skills in a clinical setting. Examination, evaluation, and intervention will be used to manage the physical therapy patient. By the end of the clinical experience, students are expected to demonstrate beginning performance to advanced beginner levels on the Physical Therapist Clinical Performance Instrument (PT CPI). CR/NC grading only 

PHTH 616 Applied Pathophysiology II (2) The second course of the pathophysiology sequence will build upon the foundations taught in PHTH 515. Students will understand the role of physical therapy in screening to assist in the differentiation of pathological etiologies underlying disease and injury. Emphasis will be on the incidence, etiology, pathogenesis, and clinical manifestations necessary to identify critical information related to “red flags” that may contraindicate physical therapy treatment and/or indicate referral to another health care professional. Medical, surgical, and rehabilitation management of specific conditions are also explored.  (2 hr lect) 

PHTH 650 Competence in Clinical Practice I (0.5 cr hrs) Clinical laboratory simulation methods will be used to assess students’ ability to formulate a plan of care based on the patient/client management model. Students’ knowledge, clinical reasoning, and clinical practice skills will be assessed emphasizing the first year of coursework. The student must pass this exam to enroll in PHTH 600 Clinical Experience I. (CR/ NC) (1 hr lab) 

PHTH 660 Integrated Health Sciences for Physical Therapy (2) In this course, students will be introduced to the foundational concepts of pharmacology including pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, methods of administration, and major drug classifications. Students will also be introduced to diagnostic imaging components including radiographic principles, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, ultrasound, and nuclear medicine, with a focus on referral guidelines. Students will learn foundational concepts of nutrition including macro and micronutrients, dietary guidelines, and their importance related to exercise, health, and physical therapy. (2 hr lect)

PHTH 607 Neurological Physical Therapy I (4.5 cr hrs) This course is the first in a two-part series on neurological physical therapy, providing a foundation for the management of individuals with neurological health conditions. Emphasis is placed on understanding neurophysiological and pathokinesiological mechanisms that contribute to movement system impairments, activity limitations, and participation restrictions. Students will develop skills in screening, examination, evaluation, and outcome measure selection, as well as in designing comprehensive, evidence-based plans of care that address patient needs across the continuum of rehabilitation. The course integrates principles of motor control, motor learning, and the developmental sequence as a framework for treatment, emphasizing clinical decision making grounded in current research. Laboratory sessions focus on hands-on neurologic assessment, treatment planning, and intervention strategies to optimize function and improve patient outcomes. (3 hr lect/3 hr lab) 

PHTH 620 Musculoskeletal Physical Therapy I (5 cr hrs) The first in a series of two courses building on first-year content within the movement sciences. Analysis of musculoskeletal movement system impairments in body structure/function, activity limitations, and participation restrictions of the extremities will be highlighted. Emphasis on physical assessment, interpretation/evaluating of examination findings including outcome measures, application of therapeutic intervention methods such as joint mobilization/manipulation, soft tissue mobilization, therapeutic exercise, with focus on clinical decision making, and establishment of the physical therapy plan of care. Students will examine the literature and apply evidence to facilitate the application of current relevant clinical knowledge to clinical cases. Selected lectures will enhance student knowledge of imaging and medical-surgical management of orthopedic conditions. (3 hr lect/4 hr lab) 

PHTH 622 Professional and Interprofessional Practice II (2 cr hrs) The final course in a series of three courses that integrates diverse interprofessional perspective to prepare students for effective practice as collaborative team members. This course presents topics relative to health disparities especially for the rural population, health status indicators, health policy, social determinants of health, cultural competency, ethical dilemma resolution including a simulated abuse case utilizing the Realm-Individual Process-Situation (RIPS) model of ethical decision making, global health, and access to health services. This course will also encompass in-depth perspective of compassionate care as it relates to cultural competencies, therapeutic alliance, patient education and rights, including issues of death and dying. (2 hr lect) 

PHTH 625 Cardiopulmonary Physical Therapy (4.5 cr hrs) Clinical assessment and management of patients with movement-related cardiovascular and/or pulmonary conditions. A focus on the development of advanced knowledge and application of skill during patient/ client screening, examination, evaluation, outcome measures appropriate for this population, development of a comprehensive plan of care, and clinical decision making using the best evidence for application of treatment procedures across the continuum of care. EKG interpretation, understanding impact of stress testing, heart and lung auscultation, pulmonary function testing, principles of cardiac rehabilitation, lines and lead management, respiratory airway clearance techniques/chest physical therapy will be integrated during lab activities. Treatment techniques will include patient education including nutrition, administration and dosing of therapeutic exercise and conditioning, breathing techniques, airway clearance, percussion and postural drainage, medical and surgical management, and the potential for recovery for selected acute and chronic conditions across the lifespan. Interpretation of laboratory tests, imaging, and pharmacology will prepare students to safely work with high acuity patients. Nutrition education within the physical therapist’s scope of practice will help to promote healthy lifestyle for those living with cardiac and pulmonary disease. Case-based discussion, psychomotor practice, and high-fidelity manikin simulation in a multidisciplinary approach will provide students with real-world exposure to acute and critical care scenarios. Students will conduct a search of the literature and apply evidence to facilitate application of current relevant clinical knowledge to clinical cases. (3 hr lect/3 hr lab) 

PHTH 644 Rural Integrated Clinical Experience II (2 cr hrs) This is the first of two rural integrated clinical experiences conducted in PNWU’s Haney Family Center for Applied Movement Science (CAMS), a community-based teaching and research lab. This experiential service-learning course aims to develop students’ clinical competencies, preparing them to become independent physical therapy practitioners in an outpatient setting, with a focus on clients with neurological conditions. Students will first examine local healthcare informatics reports to understand the healthcare needs of the surrounding community.  Under the supervision of faculty clinical instructors, students will apply clinical decision making and skills acquired from concurrent physical therapy practice courses, particularly PHTH 607 Neurological Physical Therapy I. Students will utilize state-of-the-art rehabilitation equipment for the assessment and treatment of clients and engage in evidence-informed practice to create effective care plans. The course emphasizes the integration of academic knowledge to assess, evaluate, and apply outcome measures for participants with neurological, gait, and/or balance impairments at an advanced beginner to intermediate level, ultimately equipping students to manage complex patient cases in a clinical environment. (1.0 hr lect/2 hr lab/clinic) 

PHTH 646 Evidence Informed Practice II (1 cr hr) This course builds on PHTH 545. Statistical analysis will assist students with the ability to draw research conclusions, assure the validity of research evidence for clinical practice application and learn specific statistical tests utilized for descriptive and inferential analysis of experimental research data. Understanding of research design, methods, and statistical assessment will be captured through a critical analysis of the literature (CAT) assignment to inform the process for the application of a systematic review of the literature as a precursor for the community-based research project.  (1 hr lect) 

PHTH 602 Foundations of Clinical Practice III (2 cr hrs) This course is the last in the Foundations of Clinical Practice course series with further application of physical therapy examination, evaluation, and treatment skills commonly used in clinical practice. Application of theories and principles related to pain science, treatment of chronic pain, tissue healing, biophysical agents for motor performance, nerve function, pain management and tissue repair will be presented. Critical appraisal of current evidence examines the physical and physiological effects of these biophysical agents, with emphasis on pain, inflammation, tissue healing, and muscle reeducation. Clinical decision making emphasizes the appropriate selection of biophysical agents and treatment parameters based on patient indications and contraindications/precautions with focus on desired treatment effects. Laboratory sessions will develop skills for the safe and effective clinical application of physical and therapeutic agents. A combination of lecture, laboratory, small group discussion, and case-based learning will enhance student learning.  (1 hr lect/2 hr lab) 

PHTH 608 Neurological Physical Therapy II (3.5 cr hrs) This course builds upon the foundational principles introduced in Neurological Physical Therapy I, focusing on the management of individuals with complex neurological health conditions. Emphasis is placed on understanding neurophysiological and pathokinesiological mechanisms that contribute to movement system impairments, activity limitations, and participation restrictions. Students will advance their skills in screening, examination, evaluation, and outcome measure selection, as well as in developing comprehensive, evidence-based plans of care for individuals with progressive and acquired neurological disorders. The course reinforces clinical decision making through the integration of motor control, motor learning, and theoretical constructs, with a strong emphasis on best practices in rehabilitation. Laboratory sessions focus on refining neurologic assessment techniques, treatment progression, and intervention strategies to optimize function and quality of life. Case-based learning and hands-on application will further enhance students’ ability to implement individualized, patient-centered approaches to neurologic rehabilitation. (2 hr lect/3 hr lab) 

PHTH 621 Musculoskeletal Physical Therapy II (5 cr hrs) Continuation of PHTH 620 with focus on movement system impairments involving the spine, TMJ, and pelvic girdle. Analysis of musculoskeletal movement system impairments in body structure/function, activity limitations, and participation restrictions. Emphasis on physical assessment, interpretation/ evaluating of examination findings including outcome measures, application of therapeutic intervention methods such as joint mobilization/manipulation, soft tissue mobilization, therapeutic exercise, with focus on clinical decision making, and establishment of the physical therapy plan of care. Students will examine the literature and apply evidence to facilitate the application of current relevant clinical knowledge to clinical cases. Selected lectures will enhance student knowledge of imaging and medical-surgical management of orthopedic conditions. (3 hr lect/4 hr lab) 

PHTH 626 Management of Select Populations I (3 cr hrs) Clinical assessment and evaluation of patients with integumentary pathology sets the stage for this course. Normal tissue anatomy, wound healing, nutrition, vascularization, and factors that adversely affect healing are discussed as a foundation for wound management. Examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, interventions, and outcomes for persons with various types of wounds will be covered using video demonstration and clinical cases. Specific integumentary disorders are discussed including arterial and venous insufficiency ulcers, pressure ulcers, neuropathic ulcers, lymphedema, and burns. Application of specific tests and measures, their reliability and validity, and efficacy of and skill development for treatment interventions such as pulsed lavage, sharp debridement, wound vac application will be covered. A focus on the development of advanced knowledge and application of skill during patient/client examinations, evaluation, development of a comprehensive plan of care, and clinical decision making using the best evidence for application of treatment procedures in the treatment of the integumentary system. (2 hr lect/2 hr lab) 

PHTH 635 Clinical Reasoning I (1.5 cr hrs) This course builds on early skills developed in the first half of the physical therapy curriculum leading to the ability to make informed clinical decisions. Problem-based and case-based learning activities will be incorporated to further develop critical thinking and reasoning skills for the establishment of the physical therapy diagnosis and plan of care which incorporates the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) model. The course will include introduction to telehealth history, regulation, reimbursement, and HIPAA protection. Additionally, students will examine literature and apply evidence to facilitate the application of current relevant clinical knowledge to clinical cases across all parts of patient/client management. (1.5 hr lect) 

PHTH 645 Rural Integrated Clinical Experience III (1.5 cr hrs) This is the second of two rural integrated clinical experiences conducted in PNWU’s Haney Family Center for Applied Movement Science (CAMS), a community-based teaching and research lab. This experiential service-learning course aims to advance students’ clinical competencies, preparing them to become independent physical therapy practitioners in an outpatient setting, with a focus on clients with neurological conditions. Under the supervision of faculty clinical instructors, students will apply clinical decision making and skills acquired from physical therapy practice courses, particularly PHTH 608 Neurological Physical Therapy II. Students will utilize state-of-the-art rehabilitation equipment for the assessment and treatment of clients and engage in evidence-informed practice to create effective care plans. The course emphasizes the integration of academic knowledge to assess, evaluate, and apply outcome measures for clients with neurological, gait, and/or balance impairments at an intermediate to advanced intermediate level, ultimately equipping students to manage complex patient cases in a clinical environment.  (0.5 hr lect/2 hr lab/clinic) 

PHTH 647 Community Wellness (1.5 cr hrs) This course explores the intersection of wellness, physical therapy, and community-based participatory research to enhance health promotion. Students examine the role of wellness in physical therapy, including strategies for integrating direct access, marketing, and risk stratification into practice. 

Additionally, the course emphasizes quality improvement in health promotion, guiding students through a needs assessment and strategic planning process. Students will develop intervention design, implementation, evaluation, and dissemination skills, promoting community engagement and collaborative decision making. Learners will promote wellness initiatives and contribute to community health through evidence-based strategies.  (1.5 hr lect) 

PHTH 651 Competence in Clinical Practice II (1 cr hr) Simulated patient encounters will be utilized to assess students’ ability to formulate a plan of care based on the patient/client management model. Students’ knowledge, clinical reasoning, and clinical practice skills will be assessed emphasizing the first two years of coursework. The student must pass this exam to enroll in PHTH 700 Clinical Experience II. (CR/NC) (2 hr lab) 

PHTH 700 Clinical Experience II (4.5 cr hrs) This 9-week full-time clinical experience during summer semester following completion of Year 2 allows the student to apply academic knowledge in a clinical setting. Comprehensive examination, evaluation, and intervention will be used to manage the physical therapy patient. By the end of the clinical experience, students are expected to demonstrate intermediate to advanced intermediate performance levels on the Physical Therapist Clinical Performance Instrument (PT CPI). CR/NC grading only. 

PHTH 709 Pediatric Physical Therapy (3.5 cr hrs) Advanced study of diagnoses and physical therapy management of infants and children with musculoskeletal, neurological, and/or cardiopulmonary impairments. A framework of normal development and aging from birth to young adult is presented and serves as a course foundation. Students will apply motor learning principles to the elements of patient/client management in physical therapy practice, including screening, examination, appropriate outcome measures for the population, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, plan of care, intervention, and outcomes related to the pediatric patient. Pediatric imaging examples will be presented. The importance of nutrition, exercise, activities to prevent childhood obesity will be discussed. Students will conduct a search of the literature and apply evidence to facilitate application of current relevant clinical knowledge to clinical cases. Topics include but are not limited to developmental delay and disability, family-centered care, legislation related to provision of pediatric physical therapy services, orthotics, prosthetics, and assistive technologies. (2 hr lect/3 hr lab)  

PHTH 722 Geriatric Physical Therapy (3 cr hrs) Students will explore the systemic, clinical, and psychosocial effects of aging. The course integrates current scientific and clinical knowledge to develop competent, reflective geriatric physical therapy professionals. Students will examine key topics in aging, including physiological changes, psychosocial aspects, exercise effects and prescription, functional performance measures, patient education, and the management of frail older adults and those with multiple comorbidities. Additionally, students will investigate special issues such as older athletes, caregiving, cognitive impairment, end-of-life, and practice settings. Students will interact with older adults from the community, utilize age-appropriate assessments, and provide recommendations to enhance or facilitate the continuance of physical function, independence, and quality of life. (2 hr lect/2 hr lab) 

PHTH 723 Administration and Leadership (2 cr hrs) Study of the management of physical therapy practice and leadership development. This course presents an in-depth discussion of administrative issues overarching physical therapy practice, including economic trends, operational policy, budgeting, reimbursement, staffing, business structure, performance improvement, public relations, employment law, quality improvement, and entrepreneurship. In addition, this course will discuss such topics as leadership styles, effective team leadership techniques, application of compliance and motivation principles, peer teaching, consultation skills, decision-making strategies for conflict resolution, and communicating to improve outcomes as a framework for students to develop skills for leadership in daily practice. Students will prepare résumés and begin career planning. (2 hr lect) 

PHTH 727 Management of Select Populations II (3 cr hrs) This course examines physical therapy assessment and intervention of specialty diagnosis including amputees, cancer, lymphedema, and pelvic/reproductive dysfunction. Conditions and impairments requiring lower quarter prosthetic intervention will be presented, including pre/post op care, examination/evaluation, device design and prescription, proper device fitting and training. Cancer components include screening, understanding medical staging and treatment modalities, pharmacology, imaging, and the physical therapist role in facilitating safe and effective movement and exercise in this population. Pelvic health content will include entry level assessment and treatment of sexual dysfunction, incontinence, pelvic floor laxity, pelvic pain, and pregnancy musculoskeletal dysfunction. Lymphedema assessment and treatment including entry level manual decongestive therapies and compression wrapping. Students will conduct a search of the literature and apply evidence to facilitate application of current relevant clinical knowledge to clinical cases. (2 hr lect/2 hr lab) 

PHTH 736 Clinical Reasoning II (2 cr hrs) This is the second course in a two-course series which further builds on the ability to make informed clinical decisions. Emphasis on developing an independent physical therapy practitioner that has the knowledge base and clinical decision-making skills to effectively screen the patient for medical referral and if referral is indicated provide effective communication for transition. Focus is on integrating all parts of patient/client management: examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, and intervention with emphasis in the practice of screening for medical referral and being able to predict realistic levels of improvement in patients with complex clinical presentations, atypical signs and symptoms, and/or comorbidities. This course will prepare the student to recognize serious pathology, interpret test results, generate a diagnosis, refer to other practitioners, and recognize the indications for physical therapy interventions. Additionally, as part of this course, students will present a complex patient case from their summer full-time clinical experience with emphasis on applying the Guide to Physical Therapy Practice as a framework for clinical decision-making skills. (2 hr lect) 

PHTH 746 Rural Integrated Clinical Experience IV (1.5 cr hrs) This experiential service-learning (SL) course immerses students in the management of medically underserved patients/clients in rural settings with limited resources. Working as interdependent practitioners within a collaborative medical model, students actively engage in patient care at a community-based health center or clinic under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist faculty clinical instructor. 

Students take responsibility for conducting examinations, performing tests and measures, making evaluations, and formulating differential diagnoses. They develop and implement comprehensive plans of care that include progressive interventions, coordination of care, and client education. Throughout the course, students collaborate closely with faculty clinical instructors and health center staff to refine their clinical decision making and problem-solving skills in real-world healthcare environments. (0.5 hr lect/2 hr lab) 

PHTH 748 Community Wellness Project II (1.5 cr hrs) Building on the foundations of community health promotion, this second phase focuses on the implementation, evaluation, and dissemination of a Community-Based Wellness Project (CBWP). Students will apply their knowledge by executing a wellness initiative designed to address community health needs. 

Through hands-on experience, students will oversee the implementation of their CBWP, track progress, and assess outcomes. They will conduct a statistical analysis to evaluate program effectiveness and refine interventions based on data-driven insights. Finally, students will present their findings and impact during the SOPT Evening of Service Event, engaging with stakeholders and the broader community to promote continued wellness efforts. 

By the end of the course, students will have gained practical experience in leading health initiatives, using evidence-based evaluation methods, and effectively communicating results to drive sustainable community change. (0.5 hr. lect/30 hr service learning) 

PHTH 750 Competence in Clinical Practice III (1 cr hr) Simulated standardized patient encounters will be used to assess students’ ability to formulate a plan of care based on the patient/client management model. Students’ knowledge, clinical reasoning, and clinical practice skills will be assessed utilizing a simulated standardized patient emphasizing the entire curricular model. The student must pass this exam to enroll in PHTH 790 9-week Clinical Experience III in the spring semester. (CR/NC) (2 hr lab) 

PHTH 790 Clinical Experience III (4.5 cr hrs) This 9-week full-time clinical experience during spring semester of the final year allows the student to apply academic knowledge in a clinical setting. By the end of the clinical experience, students are expected to demonstrate advanced intermediate to entry-level performance on the Physical Therapist Clinical Performance Instrument (PT CPI). CR/NC grading only. 

PHTH 795 Clinical Experience IV (4.5 cr hrs) This 9-week full-time, terminal clinical experience during spring semester of the final year allows the student to apply academic knowledge in a clinical setting. Upon completion of this course, the student must demonstrate mastery of physical therapy skills considered appropriate for entry-level practice on the Physical Therapist Clinical Performance Instrument (PT CPI). CR/NC grading only.