PT 710 Foundations of Physical Therapy Practice (3 units)
Introduces fundatmental skills used throughout physical therapy practice and among practice settings. Theoretical concepts of enablement/disablement, disease, and management of the patient/client in physical therapy will serve as the basis of the course, including an introduction to clinical reasoning strategies. Basic patient history, physical examination, and interventions will be introduced, including therapeutic exercise, functional mobility and gait, thermal and hydrotherapeutic modalities, with an emphasis on patient and therapist safety. Introduction to patient/client management in an inpatient setting will be used to synthesize information over the course. A framework for documentation will be incorporated throughout the course. (2 units lecture, 1 unit lab)
PT 711 Patient & Client Management Musculoskeletal I (5 units)
Focuses on physical therapist patient/client management of simple musculoskeletal movement impairments and functional limitations in the lower extremities and lumbar spine in persons across the life span. Procedural interventions of lower extremity orthotics and taping will be included. (3 units lecture, 2 units lab)
PT 712 Patient & Client Management Musculoskeletal II (6 units)
Focuses on physical therapist patient/client management of simple musculoskeletal impairments and functional limitations in the upper extremities and cervical/thoracic spine in persons across the life span. Students will learn the scientific and theoretical bases and the practical application of electrotherapeutics. (4 units lecture, 2 units lab)
PT 713 Patient & Client Management Neuromuscular I (5 units)
Focuses on physical therapist management of patients/clients with neuromuscular impairments and functional limitations. Patient problems that include musculoskeletal dysfunction and special problems of some representative neurological disorders of adults will be included. Student run, faculty supervised Neuro Clinic is part of this course. (3 units lecture, 2 units lab)
PT 714 Patient & Client Management Pediatrics (3 units)
Focuses on the study of normal growth and development of humans from birth to adolescence, and the common pathological conditions encountered by physical therapists, whether in a pediatric or general PT practice, when managing the pediatric patient population. The Physical Therapist Patient Client Management Model is applied to the pediatric patient population. Specialized skills and knowledge relative to equipment, funding issues, and delivery systems pertinent to pediatrics are reviewed. Interwoven throughout the course is the impact of childhood disability on the family unit. (2 units lecture, 1 unit lab)
PT 715 Patient & Client Management Special Populations (3 units)
Focuses on the physical therapist patient/client management for patients with complex, inter-related impairments and functional limitations associated with geriatrics, oncological diagnoses, immunosuppression, chronic pain, integumentary system, diabetes mellitus, amputation and gender-related health issues including pregnancy, incontinence and pelvic pain. In addition, the principles of case management of special populations will be explored. (2 units lecture, 1 unit lab)
PT 716 Patient & Client Management Musculoskeletal III (3 units)
Focuses on physical therapist patient/client management of musculoskeletal impairments and functional limitations involving complex, multi-regional, multisystem involvement in persons across the life span. Refinement and development of the entry-level student's clinical reasoning, critical thinking, and clinical decision-making applied to these patients and populations are central themes. Includes physical therapy management of patients with impairments and functional limitations from ribs, TMJ, pelvic girdle/SIJ, altered neural dynamics, and thoracic outlet syndrome/neurovascular dysfunctions and chronic pain. (2 units lecture, 1 unit lab)
PT 717 Patient & Client Management Cardiopulmonary (3 units)
Focuses on physical therapist management of patients/clients with complex impairments and functional limitations associated with the cardiopulmonary system across the life span. Students will use evidence-based decision making throughout this course. (2 units lecture, 1 unit lab)
PT 718 Patient & Client Management Neuromuscular II (3 units)
Focuses on physical therapist patient/client management of neuromuscular impairments and functional limitations involving complex, multi-regional, and multisystem involvement in persons across the life span. Learning activities emphasize the refinement and development of the entry-level student's clinical reasoning, critical thinking, and clinical decision-making applied to these patients and populations. Student run, faculty supervised Neuro Clinic is part of this course. (2 units lecture, 1 unit lab)
PT 721 Biomechanics (1 unit)
The foundational course for the structure and function series. It includes 1) observation and identification of components of normal movement, 2) biomechanical principles, 3) an introduction to histology and 3) an introduction to embryology. The skills and knowledge gained in the analysis of normal movement will be integrated into the Basic Skills and Patient/Client Management series.
PT 722 Clinical Exercise Physiology (3 units)
In depth study of physiology of the musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, pulmonary, renal, hepatic and metabolic systems and application of principles of exercise physiology and exercise training in the design of exercise prescription for individuals, groups, and communities. Emphasis is also placed on health promotion and wellness for individuals and populations.
PT 723 Gross Anatomy I (4 units)
The first of two semesters devoted to regional gross structure and function of the human body, this course covers the lower extremity, spine, thorax, abdomen and pelvis. Emphasis is on the relationship between structure and function of the neuromusculo-skeletal system and the clinical implications of dysfunction. The student is also introduced to clinical problem identification through discussion of the anatomical bases for somatic dysfunction. (3 units lecture, 2 units lab)
PT 724 Functional Anatomy, Biomechanics and Kinesology I (3 unit)
Students will apply biomechanical and anatomical concepts learned in previous courses to the lower quarter.
PT 725 Gross Anatomy II (4 units)
The second part of a series devoted to the study of regional gross structure and function of the human body, this course covers the superficial back, upper extremity, head and neck. The emphasis is on the relationship between structure and function of the neuromusculoskeletal system and the clinical implications of dysfunction. The student continues to develop skills in clinical problem identification through discussion of the anatomical bases for somatic dysfunction. (3 units lecture, 2 units lab)
PT 726 Functional Anatomy, Biomechanics and Kinesiology II (2 unit)
Students will apply biomechanical and anatomical concepts learned in previous courses to the upper quarter. This course applies the knowledge gained in Structure & Function I and Dysfunction & Disease I to the upper quarter.
PT 727 Neuroscience I (3 units)
Course devoted to the study of the structure and function of the nervous system. Emphasizing structure and function of the central nervous system, this course includes the physiology of synapses, basic reflexes, introductory content on the sensory system structure and basic function of the spinal cord, brainstem, cerebellum, di- and telencephalon. The student is introduced to neuropathology and clinical signs and symptoms are covered.
PT 728 Neuroscience II (3 units)
In-depth study of the components of the nervous system that control human movement. Students will apply this information to understand physical therapy evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, plan of care, and intervention for people impairments and functional limitation of the nervous system.
PT 731 Pharmacology and Medical Imaging for Physical Therapists (2 units)
Concepts of radiology, pharmacology and pathology as a foundation for understanding the medical management and rehabilitation of patients with disease and dysfunction. Pathological processes of inflammation and repair, and infection will also be explored. Disorders and dysfunctions of the immune, endocrine, metabolic, cardiovascular, and pulmonary systems will be discussed with an emphasis placed on the etiology, epidemiology, clinical presentation, and medical management of patients with these disorders.
PT 732 Pathology and Medical Management in Orthopedics I (2 units)
An-depth study of diseases and dysfunctions of the musculoskeletal, genitourinary, gastrointestinal, integumentary, hematological, hepatic, and biliary systems. Epidemiology, etiology, pathology, diagnostic process, clinical presentation, medical management and rehabilitation for each disease will be discussed. Special emphasis will be placed on the physician's perspective of dysfunction associated with musculoskeletal conditions affecting the lower extremities and lumbar spine.
PT 733 Pathology and Medical Management in Orthopedics II (1 unit)
In-depth study of various musculoskeletal problems affecting the upper extremity and cervical spine. Epidemiology, etiology, pathology, clinical presentation, diagnostic process and appropriate treatment strategies will be discussed. A special emphasis will be placed on the physician's perspective of dysfunction of the upper extremity and cervical spine.
PT 734 Pathology and Medical Management in Neurology (2 units)
Focusing on the etiology, pathology, diagnosis, medical management, clinical presentation and prognosis of diseases and disorders of the peripheral and central nervous system and neuromuscular diseases, this course explores medical management including pharmacology, surgical interventions and referral to other health care professionals. Students will also learn the roles and functions of members of the health care team.
PT 741 Professional Issues in Physical Therapy (1 unit)
This course covers the professional, legal, and ethical foundations of physical therapy practice, including an historic perspective on the development of the profession and current and future trends in practice. (1 unit seminar)
PT 742 Teaching and Learning (2 units)
Explores the role of physical therapists as learners and educators with a focus on patient education; emphasis on learning and motivational theories and their applicability in the clinical, professional, and academic environments; includes content on critical thinking and problem solving as related to being both a student and a provider of services.
PT 743 Communication in Health Care I (2 units)
Enhances the students' effectiveness in professional roles through the improvement of communication skills. Active participation in individual and group interactions mirroring treatment team partnerships is integral to the course. Students examine various aspects of professional relationships and client interactions with an emphasis on cultural sensitivity. (1 unit lecture, 1 unit lab)
PT 744 Health Care System (2 units)
Covers the history and current structure of the American health care industry with focus on changing environments, politics, economics, role and function of health professions, and issues in the delivery of services.
PT 745 Communication in Health Care II (2 units)
Application of communication skills learned in Interpersonal and Interprofessional Communication I to clients who are experiencing psychological distress in addition to their physical illness or injury. Interpersonal issues will be addressed in the form of recognizing the signs of physical or emotional abuse, mood or anxiety disorders, substance abuse, and suicidal ideation. Negotiation expertise and stress management within the context of management and delivery of physical therapy services will be covered. (1 unit lecture, 1 unit lab)
PT 746 Management of Physical Therapy Services (3 units)
Students study leadership and management of physical therapy service delivery. Principles of management as applied to physical therapy, including organizational behavior, resource planning and management, program planning, financial planning, marketing, personnel direction and management, quality management, risk management, and legal and ethical issues are explored. Units on contracting, consulting, health maintenance organizations, and Medicare and Medicaid requirements are included.
PT 751 Physical Therapy Case Studies I (1 unit)
Students apply scientific and theoretic evidence from their basic and clinical science courses when presented with patient cases in which there are musculoskeletal-related movement dysfunctions. Topics in this semester may include: wellness and prevention, joint replacement, sprains and strains, sports injuries, joint dysfunction, lumbar spine dysfunctions, amputations of the lower extremity, and unlawful practice with patients in a variety of clinical environments. (1 unit seminar)
PT 752 Physical Therapy Case Studies II (1 unit)
Students apply scientific and theoretical evidence from their basic and clinical science courses when presented with patient cases in which there are musculoskeletal-related movement dysfunctions. Topics in this semester may include: joint replacement, sprains and strains, sports injuries, and joint dysfunction of the upper extremity and cervical/thoracic spine. Patient cases will also include ergonomics, working with difficult patients, group treatment, and referral to and interaction with other health care practitioners. (1 unit seminar)
PT 753 Physical Therapy Case Studies III (1 unit)
Students apply scientific and theoretical evidence from their basic and clinical science courses when presented with patient cases in which there are neuromuscular or musculoskeletal-related movement dysfunctions. Topics in this semester may include: patients with neuromuscular movement dysfunctions that are acute, chronic, or progressive in nature across the lifespan and in a variety of settings in the health care delivery system. (1 unit seminar)
PT 754 Physical Therapy Case Studies IV (1 unit)
Students study various cases representing a large variety of diagnoses, issues, settings, and populations. Critical thinking and clinical decision-making will be emphasized as students prepare material about the cases for presentation and discussion, and then select and defend a choice of action in various aspects of the case. Topics in this semester may include: complex and multiple diagnoses, intensive care, consultation, geriatrics, abusive situations, ethical dilemmas, screening, health risks, and emergency situations. (1 unit seminar)
PT 755 Research I (2 units)
Part of a three course sequence designed to prepare students to be competent consumers of research and knowledgeable participants in clinical research, this course introduces students to the principles of the scientific method and prepares them to analyze research studies critically. Focus will be on the role of research, methodologies, sampling, levels of measurement, probability, hypothesis testing, reliability and validity, and standard error. Students will develop hypotheses and research questions, and critique articles in the literature.
PT 756 Research II (2 units)
Students have practical experience with data collection, input, analysis, and documentation. Focus will be on how to design a research project, ethical conduct in science, and tests of significance such as ANOVA, correlation, and regression. Students will continue to critique literature. They will be given data sets to analyze and write up.
PT 757 Research III (2 units)
The three semester research sequnce is designed to prepare the student to be a competent consumer of research and a knowledgeable participant in clinical research. This third course is designed to give students practical experience with data collection, input, analysis, and documentation in single subject design studies. Students will critique literature and will write a case report based on a patient case prior clinical experiences. Students are enrolled in this course continuously through the six-month internship while working on their case reports.
PT 761 PT Field Experience I (0.5 unit)
Provides the student with the opportunity to observe competent physical therapists engaged in physical therapy patient management, including examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, intervention and outcomes. Opportunity to develop skill in conducting a subjective examination of a patient with a single or simple movement dysfunction. Patient and family education and interprofessional communication are also major considerations. (.5 unit clinical)
PT 762 PT Field Experience II (0.5 unit)
Opportunity to observe physical therapists engaged in physical therapy patient management, including examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, intervention and outcomes for patients with musculoskeletal dysfunctions; and to explore the role of physical therapy in the health care delivery, legal and ethical considerations, and age, socioeconomic, and cultural considerations affecting treatment outcomes and utilization of services. Students have the opportunity to develop skill in conducting subjective and objective examinations and diagnosis of movement dysfunctions with musculoskeletal etiology. Patient and family education and interprofessional communication are also major considerations. (.5 unit clinical)
PT 763 PT Clinical Experience I (5 units)
Experiential learning in clinical settings with the primary emphasis on the physical therapy patient/client management process for persons with musculoskeletal dysfunctions. This is a full-time, eight-week-long clinical experience. (5 units clinical)
PT 764 PT Field Experience III (0.5 unit)
Third in a series of three semesters of half-day per week supervised clinical learning experiences. Provides students with the opportunity to examine, evaluate, determine appropriate interventions, and assess the outcomes of physical therapy patient management for adults and/or children with neurological movement dysfunctions. (0.5 unit clinical)
PT 765 PT Clinical Experience II (5 units)
Experiential learning in clinical settings with the primary emphasis on the physical therapy patient/client management process for persons with neuromuscular dysfunctions with the adult and/or pediatric population. This is a full-time, eight-week-long clinical experience. (5 units clinical)
PT 766 PT Internship (no credit assigned, six months)
During the internship the intern should be able to demonstrate an acceptable level of competence in the areas of patient care, the physical therapy delivery system, and the health care system.
Physical Therapy Electives
PT 771 Individual Independent Study (1-3 units)
PT 772 Group Independent Study (1-3 units)
PT 700 Interdisciplinary Teams: Improving the Care of Our Elders (1.5 units, DPT II or III students only, spring)
The need and benefit of interdisciplinary healthcare teams is vital to integrated geriatric care. This course will help the student understand the work style and contributions of a variety of healthcare team members to the geriatric team. Overviews of the roles of interdisciplinary teams in geriatric healthcare will lead to exposure to the variety of disciplines and interdisciplinary teams in practice.
PT 781 Advanced Pediatrics (2 units, DPT III students only, fall)
Focuses on physical therapist patient/client management of complex multisystem involvement in the pediatric population. The use of standardized pediatric tests, measurements and evidence-based practice to guide decision making is emphasized throughout the course.
PT 782 Physical Therapy in Sports Medicine (2 units, DPT III students only, fall)
This course focuses on physical therapist management of patients/clients with sports-related musculoskeletal impairments and functional limitations. Knowledge of anatomy, biomechanics, exercise and rehabilitation principles is applied along with clinical reasoning processes to this patient population.
PT 783 Spanish for Physical Therapists (2 units, DPT III students only, fall)
Students in this course learn basic Spanish language and conversational skills and common medical terminology and physical therapy terminology. Students also learn common myths and beliefs about health among members of the Latino community.