BSC 6001 - Foundations of Clinical Orthopaedics
Hours: 2

This is an online course discussing the foundations of orthopaedics and manipulative therapy. The history and development of orthopaedics and specifically manual therapy are explored. Arthrology and biomechanics are discussed, with special attention to tissue biomechanics and arthrokinematics. Emphasis is placed on spinal anatomy and movement. The University’s philosophy of examination, treatment, and pain management is introduced. Classifications and indications for manipulation are reviewed.

BSC 6101 - Application of Motor Control and Motor Learning Theory to Neurologic Intervention
Hours: 2

In this online course the student will examine current research and theories in motor control and motor learning and their relationship to examination and intervention in patients with neurologic dysfunction. Students will examine neuroanatomical structures, functions, and neuroplasticity of the nervous system as they relate to motor control tasks. Specific motor control issues in balance, gait, and upper extremity are examined and discussed. Students will identify and explain the influence of impairments on motor dysfunction and a patient’s motor control.

BSC 6102 - Interventions for the Older Adult with a Neurological Impairment
Hours: 3

This course will provide students with the advanced knowledge and skills to adapt therapeutic examinations and interventions to the special needs of the older adult with a neurological impairment. Special emphasis will be on considering individuals with stroke, Parkinson’s disease, vestibular problems, subcortical and cortical dementia, and other neurological pathologies that impact on function.

BSC 6103 -The Pediatric Client with a Neurological Impairment
Hours: 3

The goal of the seminar is to provide participants with advanced knowledge and application of skilled observation and intervention for the special needs of the pediatric client with a neurological impairment. The lecture component will include updates on treatment approaches used in pediatric intervention (motor learning and control theory, neurodevelopmental principles (NDT), myofascial release treatment principles, oral motor treatment, positioning, strengthening, and other treatment techniques) with an emphasis on evidenced based practice. During the lab component, participants will apply NDT, myofascial release, strengthening, and other techniques to facilitate functional skills in infants and children with congenital and acquired movement disorders.

BSC 6200 - Evidence Based Research for the Health Professional
Hours: 2

The amount of research available to the physical and occupational therapist upon which to base clinical decision-making with regard to diagnosis, prognosis, and management has multiplied tremendously over the last 20 years. Within the currently predominant paradigm of evidence-based practice, every therapist needs to be able to critically evaluate the evidence available prior to application into clinical practice. The Scientific Inquiry course is an introduction to research methods, psychometric properties of tests and measures as used in the clinical situation for diagnosis, prognosis, and outcome assessment, sampling experimental design, statistics, literature review, evidence-based practice, and conducting article critiques.

The purpose of this course is to enhance inquiry skills from both multicultural and multi-professional viewpoints. The main emphasis of this course is to allow the students to become critical consumers of the scientific literature needed to guide evidence-based OT and PT clinical practice and perhaps set some on the way to producing such scientific literature themselves.

BSC 6301 ONL - Ergonomics
Hours: 2

This online self-study course examines a variety of aspects of work related ergonomics. Participants will review the history of ergonomics, ergonomic statistics, client centered framework of practice, the Americans with disabilities act, universal design, posture, standing, sitting and computer work station evaluation, occupational risks, cumulative trauma disorders/repetitive strain injuries/tendonitis, and low back pain. Worker assessment and work hardening are reviewed before carrying out a worksite assessment. Injury prevention, ergonomic equipment, ergonomic resources, and documentation are also discussed. The course requires students to complete three projects: a posture evaluation, a computer workstation evaluation and a work site evaluation. Bulletin board (BB) interaction is used to address subjects and respond to other students comments. Questions are addressed, papers written and projects written up including a work site evaluation report letter.

COM 6100 – Professional Communications
Hours: 2

This online course examines professional communications as it relates to the professions of physical therapy and occupational therapy. Students develop skill in: therapeutic communication; documentation according to professional standards; professional writing; case presentations; facilitating meetings; analyzing and presenting research; producing audiovisual presentations; resolving conflicts; and advocating for therapy services.

EDF 6201 – Educational Theory for Clinicians
Hours: 3

Physical therapists utilize the skills of teaching on an every day basis with their patients/clients and staff. Increasingly, physical therapists are extending their clinical skills to the classroom teaching. To enhance the physical therapist's educational framework, this course will over several components of education learning. This course identifies selected educational methods and adult learning theories. To apply these theories and methods, the learner will analyze and write behavioral objectives. Teaching methodologies and self-assessments skills will prepare the learner to analyze his/her own performance.

HSA 6101 – Health Service Administration
Hours: 3

This online course examines the functions of a rehabilitation manager. Content includes staff resource management, strategic planning, marketing, and fiscal resources management. Emphasis is placed on decision-making, change implementation, and quality control processes in health care organizations. Students have the opportunity to analyze problems and develop strategies for change in a variety of hypothetical rehabilitation settings.

HSC 6100 - Electrotherapy
Hours: 2

This online course provides the clinician with a conceptual understanding of the physiological basis and rationale for modern techniques in utilizing electrotherapy for improved function and pain modulation. Selection of appropriate electrotherapy equipment, wave form characteristics, and the latest treatment techniques used for muscle and nerve stimulation are presented. This course is delivered online and utilizes the interactive video demonstrations, interactive discussions and recent literature to support use of electrotherapeutic modalities in your practice.

HSC 6210 - Extremity Evaluation and Manipulation (E1)
Hours: 2

Based on the E-1 Extremity Evaluation and Manipuation Seminar, this online course for the DPT Program extends the content of the seminar to the application and analysis level of learning of peripheral joint examination and treatment. Clinical decision making strategies or peripheral joint examination and treatment are strengthened through the use of selected readings required for this course. A prerequisite is completion of the CPE Seminar “Extremity Evaluation and Manipulation (E1)” offered by the University.

HSC 6360 - Spinal Instability
Hour: 2

This is a 2 credit hour online course presenting concepts of whole spine stabilization. Topics covered include: clinical findings indicating the presence of instability, stabilization instructions for patient education and utilization of stabilization through the process of rehabilitation. Special attention is given to clinical decision-making regarding the selection of manipulation and exercises for patients with instability.

HSC 6400 - Differential Diagnosis for the Therapist
Hours: 2

This course is designed to provide physical therapists with the background necessary to screen patients for the presence of disease. This information, combined with the therapist’s knowledge and skills for management of neuromusculoskeletal dysfunction, will provide you with a comprehensive examination scheme. The information provided in the course should facilitate professional communication between the physical therapist and other health care professionals, as well as communication between the physical therapist and patient.

HSC 6402 - Pharmacology
Hours: 2

This online course covers the basis of drug action as it relates to physical and occupational therapy. Drugs used in the treatment of muscle spasms and spasticity, cardiac drugs, centrally acting drugs, psychotropics, and drugs used in the treatment of pain and inflammation are covered. Interactions between therapy and medications are emphasized.

IDS 6455 - Directed Study
Hours: 1-4

Directed study is provided to enable the student to pursue special interests beyond those available in course offerings. The directed study is planned, implemented, and evaluated by the student with an approved advisor. Students are encouraged to study in related disciplines and to develop affiliations with other organizations, especially those whose work could benefit our profession. This course is offered through a distance education format. Registration for this course must be approved by the Program Director.

IDS 6460 - Directed Readings
Hours 1-4

This course is an independent study tailored for a student’s specific interest in a specialty area. Areas of concentration and topics are negotiated with the student and a faculty advisor is assigned. The student studies and analyzes the literature on agreed advanced topics in a content area, reviews the research methods used, and statistical analysis relevant to the topic of interest. This course is offered through a distance education format. Registration for this course must be approved by the Program Director.

PHT 6000 - Foundations/Competencies in Sports Physical Therapy
Hours: 3

This course is designed to provide an overview of the advanced competencies required for the physical therapist to practice in the athletic setting. Emphasis will be placed on defining the role of the sports physical therapist in planning and administering pre-participation physical examinations, medical intervention, and assessing and managing common medical emergencies. Preventative taping skills will be presented and practiced. The students have the opportunity to master new skills required by the practicing sports physical therapist. A prerequisite is completion of the seminar "Foundations/Competencies in Sports Physical Therapy" offered by the North American Sports Medicine Institute.

PHT 6001 - Orthopaedic Management of Upper Quarter Injuries
Hours: 2

This course is designed to provide both the clinical and scientific rationale for the current trends and new research in the examination, surgery and rehabilitation of common injuries/conditions found in the upper extremity. Students will enhance their understanding and clinical effectiveness in the treatment of shoulder, elbow, wrist and hand disorders. A review of surgical procedures will be provided, as well as information in the area of functional testing. Rehabilitation protocols that incorporate innovative techniques will also be presented, as recent research studies and patient clinical outcome studies. A prerequisite is attendance in the seminar, "Orthopaedics Management of Upper Quarter Injuries", offered by the North American Sports Medicine Institute.

PHT 6002 - Orthopaedic Management of Lower Quarter Injuries
Hours: 2

This course is designed to provide both the clinical and scientific rationale for the current trends and new research in the examination, surgery, and rehabilitation of common injuries/conditions found in the lower extremity. Effective intervention of clients with lower quarter impairments will be enhanced through a review of the current literature, a syndromes approach, case presentations, and application of clinical decision making. A review of surgical procedures will be provided, as well as rehabilitation protocols that incorporate innovative techniques based upon recent research studies and patient clinical outcome studies. In addition, information in the area of functional testing and brace selection will also be presented. Through didactic presentations and hand-on sessions, the course participants will have an opportunity to master new and effective treatment techniques. Prerequisite is completion of the seminar, "Orthopaedic Management of Lower Quarter Injuries," offered by the North American Sports Medicine Institute.

PHT 6050 - Preparation/Certification in Sports Physical Therapy
Hours: 3

Students review course material covering each area in the prerequisite courses. The instructors also present any updated information where appropriate. Students will receive preparation and testing on the St. Augustine campus for basic science and spinal and extremity joint manipulation. Review and testing of seminar content taught by North American Sports Medicine Institute will occur at a date and time established by this organization. Written, oral, and practical examinations are given to test retention, comprehension, and applications of the teaching in each of the required courses. Prerequisites are BSC 6001, PHT 6201, HSC 6210, PHT 6000, PHT 6001, PHT 6002 and IDS 6455 Functional Exercise.

PHT 6201 - Introduction to Spinal Evaluation and Manipulation (S1)
Hours: 3

This course discusses basic science principles and develops clinical skills needed to complete a differential evaluation and proceed to effective treatment of spinal dysfunction. General principles of functional anatomy, tissue and joint biomechanics, and pathology are presented. Online discussions will encompass relevant research and clinical application. A prerequisite is completion of the CPE Seminar "Introduction to Spinal Evaluation and Manipulation (S1)" offered by the University.

PHT 6202 - Advanced Evaluation and Manipulation of the Pelvis, Lumbar and Thoracic Spine (S2)
Hours: 2

Anatomy and biomechanics of the pelvis, lumbar and thoracic spine are discussed in the online coursework associated with the live version of this seminar. Review and modification of techniques from S1, along with the instruction of additional techniques are provided. An in-depth presentation on the syndromes of the lumbar spine and their treatment is instructed. The utilization of biomechanical and anatomical principles for the enhancement of patient care through manipulation and exercise is emphasized, as is the patient's role in his/her own welfare. Prerequisites are completion of PHT 6201 and the CPE seminar "Advanced Evaluation and Manipulation of the Pelvis, Lumbar and Thoracic Spine (S2)" offered by the University.

PHT 6203 - Advanced Evaluation and Manipulation of the Cranio Facial, Cervical and Upper Thoracic Spine (S3)
Hours: 2

This course discusses basic science principles and develops clinical skills needed to complete a differential examination and proceed to effective intervention of cranial, cervical and upper thoracic spinal impairments. General principles of functional anatomy, tissue and joint biomechanics, and pathology/syndromes are presented. Online discussions will encompass relevant research and clinical application. Prerequisites are completion of PHT 6201 and the CPE seminar "Advanced Evaluation and Manipulation of the Craniofacial, Cervical and Upper Thoracic Spine (S3)," offered by the University.

PHT 6204 - Functional Analysis and Management of the Lumbo-Pelvic-Hip Complex (S4)
Hour: 1

This is an online course that explores the physical therapist's role in the evaluation and treatment of the lumbo-pelvic-hip system. A biomechanical and neurophysiological approach to the lumbo-pelvic-hip complex is presented. Topic areas include: functional anatomy, biomechanics of the sacroiliac pubic joints, selected pathologies and dysfunctions. Clinical evaluation and treatment methods are demonstrated through the use of video clips. Prerequisites are completion of PHT 6201 and the CPE seminar "Functional Analysis and Management of the Lumbo-Pelvic-Hip Complex (S4)" offered by the University.

PHT 6211 - Extremity Integration (E2)
Hours: 2

Based on the E-2 Extremity Integration Seminar, this online course for the DPT program extends the content of the seminar to the application and analysis level of learning of peripheral and spinal joint and soft tissue integration for examination, evaluation and intervention. Clinical decision making strategies and tactics, based on principles of clinical management, are strengthened through the use of selected readings required for this course and application to patient cases. Prerequisites are completion of HSC 6210 and the CPE seminar "Extremity Integration (E2)" offered by the University.

PHT 6220 - Myofascial Manipulation (MF1)
Hours: 2

Based on the MF1 Myofascial Manipulation Seminar, this online course further discussed the history, principles and clinical application of soft tissue manipulation. The affects of soft tissue immobilization, re-mobilization and clinical decision-making are emphasized. Online discussions are used to help improve student's ability to communicate such topics. Required readings and video are used to enhance the learning process. Completion of the MF1: Myofascial Manipulation Seminar is a course prerequisite.

PHT 6250 - Preparation/Certification in Manual Therapy
Hours: 3

A six-day lecture and lab review course is conducted on the St. Augustine campus covering each of the prerequisite courses of basic sciences, spinal and extremity joint evaluation and treatment, and soft tissue manipulation. The instructors also present an update on information as needed. On the fifth day, a three-hour multiple-choice examination is conducted. On the sixth day each student receives four to five twenty-minute oral/practical examinations to test retention, comprehension, and applied skills. A seventh day may be added for those late registrants the University could not examine on the sixth day. Prerequisites are BSC 6001, PHT 6201, HSC 6210, PHT 6202, PHT 6203, PHT 6204 and PHT 6220, PHT 6211.

PHT 6331 - Evaluation and Treatment of the Craniomandibular System (TMJ)
Hours: 2

This is an online course that explores the physical therapist's role in the evaluation and treatment of the craniomandibular system. Normal cranial and cervical postural functions contribute significantly to the function of the temporomandibular articulations and to dental occlusal contacts. The emphasis of the course is on the relationships of these various components of the craniomandibular system and their related impairments.

PHT 6332 - Intermediate Craniofacial
Hours: 3

This is an online course that focuses on the etiology of craniofacial pain and pathology affecting the TMJ and related structures. Furthermore, since this is the first of three advanced courses on craniofacial pain, we will review and expand on the anatomy of the craniomandibular system, as well as exploring conventional radiography and advanced imaging for this area. The emphasis of the course is on understanding the etiological complexities of craniofacial pain and the place of the physical therapist in its treatment. Prerequisities are PHT 6331 and attendance at the Intermediate Craniofacial Seminar, offered by the University.

PHT 6333 - Advanced Craniofacial
Hours: 3

This is an online course that focuses on the examination and treatment of craniofacial pain. The examination process, interview, observation, and physical examination, is discussed in detail, with emphasis on reliability and validity of its various parts. Treatment is discussed, with a focus on the craniocervical junction and on patient management. Additional topics in this course include an in-depth coverage of headaches and diagnostic classifications. The prerequisites for this course are PHT 6332 and attendance at the Advanced Craniofacial (CF3) seminar.

PHT 6402 - Clinical Triage
Hour: 1

Clinical Triage offers a 40-hour experience to develop screening and management skills for the neuro-musculoskeletal patient in a primary care setting. This is an opportunity for physical therapists to shadow the health care practitioner while observing the integration of history and physical, lab results, radiographs, and medications in the typical primary care practice. This experience would allow the physical therapist to practice screening and history taking under the supervision of a physician. It provides the opportunity to improve communication between physicians, physical therapists, and staff (i.e. physicians assistants, RN’s, LPN’s, and nurse practitioners). Prerequisites are PHT 6201, HSC 6210, HSC 6400, HSC 6402, PHT 6403, and University approval of clinical setting.

PHT 6403 - Imaging for Physical and Occupational Therapists
Hours: 2

This course provides a broad background reading plain film radiographs and in the radiographic presentation of commonly occurring dysfunctions of the spine, pelvis and extremities. The basics of MRI, CT and ultrasound scanning will be covered. Special emphasis is placed on the clinical application of diagnostic imaging findings to orthopaedic physical therapy.

PHT 6404 - Application of Managed Care - Success and Survival
Hour: 1

This course examines the impact of three types of third-party payment methodologies on rehabilitation profitability. Students have the opportunity to distinguish between reibursement schemes such as 1) flat fee-for services, 2) per member per month, and 3) discounted fee for service with incentives. This course also introduces students to the importance of determining "best practice" and how this influences insurance reimbursement decisions. A prerequisite is completion of the CPE seminar "Managed Care - Success and Survival" offered by the University.

PHT 6450 - Preparation/Certification in Primary Care
Hours: 3

This is a six-day lab and lecture review course conducted on the St. Augustine Campus. Students complete pre-course self-directed review of prerequisite material along with attendance of five days of instructor led review of didactic and laboratory material. On the fifth and sixth days there is a three-hour written examination and individual oral/practical examinations conducted by faculty members from each prerequisite course. These exams are a test of retention, comprehension, and application to clinical practice. When all areas of the examination are passed, the student receives a certificate of competency in the clinical areas tested. Prerequisites are BSC 6001, PHT 6201, HSC 6210, HSC 6400, HSC 6402, PHT 6403 and PHT 6404.

PHT 6460 - Clinical Integration
Hours: 3

This course is an integration of the knowledge and skills appropriate to orthopaedic/manual physical therapy practice. By applying theory and practice, students have the opportunity to perform and observe examination, evaluation and intervention of various orthopaedic conditions in a clinical setting. Students will participate in discussions with faculty supervisors and fellow students regarding findings, impressions and management of orthopaedic cases seen in the student clinic, document their experiences in chart and journal format and demonstrate appropriate clinical behavior/performances as outlined in the Generic Abilities Criteria. Students will also demonstrate appropriate mastery of psychomotor learning/skills based upon completion of the Basic Competency Checklist. Under advisement of a faculty member, the student will identify unique and significant problems in clinical treatment and present a case orally to peers. Available only to on campus accelerated students.

PHT 6480 - Clinical Pratice I
Hours: 6

The equivalent of one year of employment as a physical therapist demonstrating practical application of physical therapist knowledge and skills in a clinical setting. Pre-requisite: This course is available only to students whose highest earned degree is a baccalaureate level.

PHT 6481 - Clinical Pratice II
Hours: 8

The equivalent of one year of employment as a physical therapist demonstrating practical application of physical therapist knowledge and skills in a clinical setting. Pre-requisite: PHT 6480.

PHT 6482 - Clinical Pratice III
Hours: 8

The equivalent of one year of employment as a physical therapist demonstrating practical application of physical therapist knowledge and skills in a clinical setting. Pre-requisite: PHT 6481.

PHT 6483 - Clinical Pratice IV
Hours: 8

The equivalent of one year of employment as a physical therapist demonstrating practical application of physical therapist knowledge and skills in a clinical setting. Pre-requisite: PHT 6482.

PHT 6484 - Clinical Pratice V
Hours: 8

The equivalent of one year of employment as a physical therapist demonstrating practical application of physical therapist knowledge and skills in a clinical setting. Pre-requisite: PHT 6483.

PHT 6485 - Clinical Pratice VI
Hours: 2

The equivalent of one year of employment as a physical therapist demonstrating practical application of physical therapist knowledge and skills in a clinical setting. Pre-requisite: This course is available only to students whose highest earned degree is at the master's level.

PHT 6496 - Capstone Project I
Hour: 1

This is an integration of the knowledge and skills appropriate to a student’s specialty area. By developing a short proposal, students have an opportunity to reflect on learning achieved in the DPT program and the clinical education experiences related to his/her content learning in the program. The student is expected to summarize the topic and content of the Capstone Project. The students will review and apply professional writing skills in the proposal. Based on the suggested Capstone topic, the student will be assigned a faculty advisor. This course is offered through a distance education format. Capstone Project I is a pre-requisite for Capstone II. Prerequisites are completion of all required and elective DPT coursework (but not including completion of Preparation/Certification).

PHT 6497 - Capstone Project II
Hour: 4

This is an integration of the knowledge and skills appropriate to a student’s specialty area. By applying theory and practice, students have the opportunity to explore various approaches in the delivery of rehabilitation services. Under advisement of a faculty member, the student has two options in completing this project. One option is to identify unique and significant problems in clinical treatment and develop one publishable patient case report. The second option is to develop one publishable article related to critical issues in the delivery of health care today. This course is offered through a distance education format. A Prerequisite is completion of PHT 6496.

PHT 6498 - Clinical Residency
Hours: 5

The Clinical Residency is a 1500-hour direct patient care, 9-month patient care experience under the immediate supervision of an approved Mentor at a University approved clinical residency site. Clinical Residency provides an opportunity for intimate sharing of knowledge and refinement of the application of clinical skill and decision-making. It serves as an invaluable step in the process of professional development in the student’s area of specialty. The student develops residency objectives prior to the experience, attends the residency, and completes 200 hours of defined educational activities. As a prerequisite, the student are recommended to attend at least two required seminars toward the selected certification track. Exact requirements are further described the DPT Student Handbook.

PSY 6102 - Psychology of Health and Exercise
Hours: 2

This on-line course examines the psychological knowledge and skills necessary to develop and facilitate optimal health and fitness. The course requires the student to demonstrate comprehension of the basic psychological principles that impact health and exercise, apply the knowledge to case scenarios, and, to a lesser extent, analyze specific topics and peer-reviewed articles.

PSY 6103 - Applied Performance Psychology
Hours: 3

This on-line course examines the psychological knowledge and skills necessary to develop and facilitate peak performance in athletics, sport, and even business. The course requires the student to demonstrate comprehension of basic sport psychology principles, apply the knowledge to case scenarios, and, to a lesser extent, analyze specific topics and peer-reviewed articles.