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Physical Therapy Department
302 Davenport Hall
Dept 3253
615 McCallie Avenue
Chattanooga, TN 37403

(423) 425-4747
(423) 425-2215 fax
PT-Program@utc.edu

Home / Physical Therapy / Curriculum...

Curriculum

The curriculum combines classroom and laboratory training with independent study and clinical experiences in a variety of health care settings. Students who have been admitted into the program must be enrolled on a full-time basis for each of the eight semesters of the program. The coursework is arranged on a set schedule.

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

502 Introduction to Patient/Client Management (2)
Basic patient care skills. Topics to be included are critical observation, universal precautions, medical chart review, methods of measuring and recording vital signs, basic wheelchair features, basic crutch gaits and transfer techniques, and emergency care. Fall semester; year 1.
503 Therapeutic Exercise and Health Promotion (4)
Basic foundation of the knowledge and skills needed to prescribe and apply therapeutic exercise in the practice of physical therapy. The role of the physical therapists in prevention and the promotion of health, wellness and fitness is emphasized. Normal physiology and exercise physiology as it relates to the topics presented will be reviewed. The focus of this course will be on how to perform basic cardiovasculat, muscular, and flexibility excersises and programming. This course will provide the foundation for therapeutic exercise units within the applied courses (orthopaedics, neurology, acute care) of the curriculum. Fall semester; year 1.
504 Professional Communication and Education (2)
Principles of clinical teaching including the establishment of objectives, instructional methods, assessment of learning, and strategies for improving motivation and compliance. An additional
purpose of this course is to develop effective professional communication skills. Fall semester; year 1.
505 Evidence in Practice (2)
Introduction to the acquisition, utilization and presentation of information by physical therapists with emphasis on technology and the use of computers. Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to develop focused clinical questions, conduct systematic evidenced-based literature searches, identify levels of evidence, and develop creative means of communication using a variety of active learning techniques. Fall semester; year 1.facility design, marketing principles, outcome management, private practice, risk management and efficient and effective use of available time, personnel and equipment. Students have the opportunity to discuss and present reform issues affecting physical therapy. Fall semester; year 3.

506 Musculoskeletal Examination (2)
Essential steps in the evaluation of function in a patient with musculoskeletal dysfunction. Examination skills for the measurement of joint motion, muscle strength, and posture are demonstrated and practiced. Fall semester; year 1.

510 Human Gross Anatomy (6)
Combined lecture-laboratory program designed to present to the student an understanding of basic and clinical, human gross anatomy. Normal diagnostic imaging techniques will be introduced.
Detailed regional analysis of the buttock, lower extremity, and upper extremity will be performed. Structure and function of the head, neck, and trunk regions will be studied. Major joints will be discussed. Normal diagnostic imaging (x-ray, CT Scan, and MRI) will be introduced. Anatomy of the thoracic and abdominal cavities will be introduced. Fall semester; year 1.
512 Patient/Client Management of Musculoskeletal Disorders of the Spine (4)
Provides the student with the didactic and clinical applications of evaluative measures, therapeutic interventions, and treatment rationale for select musculoskeletal dysfunctions of the spine.
Summer semester; year 1.
513 Kinesiology and Biomechanics (2)
An introduction to kinesiology through the study of biomechanics, including statics and dynamics, joint kinematics, and related aspects of muscle mechanics and physiology. Emphasis is on the
importance of mechanical principles in relation to analysis of the human body at rest and in motion, both in normal and selected pathological conditions. Spring semester; year 1.
515 Neuroscience (5)
This course presents an understanding of peripheral and central nervous system human anatomy, embryology, histopathology and physiology. Correlation of neurological lesions with resultant clinical
signs and symptoms is emphasized in patient/clinical case study format. Spring semester; year 1.
517 Physical Agents (2)
Didactic and clinical applications of selected physical agents used in physical therapy practice. The following physical agents will be covered: superficial heating and cooling agents including hydrotherapy, deep heating modalities, infrared, and ultraviolet. Critical thinking skills will be applied by the student in the determination of the frequency and protocol development of the prescription
for each physical agent. Spring semester; year 1.
518 Electrotherapeutic Modalities (2)
Provides the student with the didactic and clinical applications of electrotherapy. Critical thinking skills will be applied by the student in the determination of the frequency and protocol development of the prescription for each physical agent. Summer semester; year 1.
519 Pathology (3)
With the aid of case studies, audio-visual support and handouts, this course will survey the clinical correlation of signs and symptoms of dysfunction of the musculoskeletal system. The fundamental
concepts of histology, and disease-producing mechanisms and pathologic processes of the musculoskeletal system will be presented. Histopathology of body tissues and other organ systems
will be reviewed. Principles of cellular immunology, inflammation and wound headling will be introduced.
523 PT Management of Musculoskeletal Disorders of the Lower Extremity (3)
Provides the student with the didactic and clinical applications of examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, therapeutic interventions, and treatment rationale for the most common musculoskeletal
dysfunctions of the lower extremity. Students will also spend two hours each week in an orthopedic clinical setting. (1lecture hour and 4 lab hours per week) Prerequisite:

506 Musculoskeletal Examination (2)

Essential steps in the evaluation of function in a patient with musculoskeletal dysfunction. Examination skills for the measurement of joint motion, muscle strength, and posture are demonstrated and practiced. Fall semester; year 1.
527 Clinical Education I (4)
This is an introductory clinical experience following successful completion of the first three semesters of didactic work. The student performs the elements of patient/client management with an emphasis on musculoskeletal dysfunction in an outpatient/ambulatory care setting under the direct supervision
of a physical therapist. Summer semester, year 1. 280 clinical hours.
529 PT Management of Musculoskeletal Disorders of the Upper Extremity (3)
Provides the student with the didactic and clinical applications of examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, therapeutic interventions, and treatment rationale for common musculoskeletal
dysfunctions of the upper extremity. Students will also spend two hours each week in an orthopaedic clinical setting. (1 lecture hour and 4 lab hours per week). Spring semester; year 1
711 Physical Therapy Management of Cardiopulmonary Dysfunction (4)
Provides the student with the didactic and clinical applications of pathology, examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, intervention and expected outcomes in the management of clients with dysfunction of the cardiopulmonary system. Renal system dysfunction, cardiovascular complications of diabetes, and exercise considerations in special populations will also be addressed. Fall semester; year 2.
720 Psychosocial Aspects of Disability (2)
Includes the study of basic concepts and principles essential to the understanding of therapist/patient/family reactions to disability and disease. Issues regarding non-health factors, physical, psychological and social functions are discussed as related to the impact on quality of life. Specific topics include employment and architectural barriers and regulations, various reactions to specific diseases and disabilities, and death and dying. Roles of other professions, agencies and support groups facilitating adjustment to functional limitations and disability are included. Spring
semester; year 2.
722 Administration in Physical Therapy (3)
Introduces the health care delivery system, organizational structures, financial management, reimbursement, strategic planning, facility design, marketing principles, outcome management, private
practice, risk management and efficient and effective use of available time, personnel and equipment. Students have the opportunity to discuss and present reform issues affecting physical therapy. Fall semester; year 3.
725 Critical Inquiry (3)
Teaches the importance of the scientific method in physical therapy, both to understand disease processes and to evaluate the efficacy of different methods of treatment. The student will examine
the evidence for accepted methods of treatment, and evaluate published research studies, with reference to hypothesis, methodology, conclusions and relevance to physical therapy practice.
The student will acquire the skills necessary to develop a research projectincluding scientific writing, oral presentation, literature search and review, research design and methodology, computer data analysis, and preparing scientific text and illustrations for publication. Summer/Fall semester; year 2.
726 Movement Disorders (2)
The didactic and clinical skills needed to analyze normal and pathological human movement. Students will be able to identify abnormal movement patterns, obtain objective measurements of the movements, including gait parameters, and describe the options available for treatment intervention for patients with movement disorders. Fall semester; year 3
728 Physical Therapy Management of Medical/Surgical Conditions I (2)
The physiological, didactic and clinical applications of physical therapy examinations, evaluation, therapeutic interventions, and management for a variety of medical and surgical conditions.
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be familiar with the pathophysiology, etiology, incidence, signs and symptoms, impairments, functional limitations, disabilities, and
medical, surgical and physical therapy management in the following areas: immune system disorders, blood disorders, cancer, lymphedema, women's health issues, rheumatic disease and chronic pain. Fall semester; year 2.
732 Clinical Education II (4)
This acute care clinical experience follows successful completion of all didactic work of the spring semester of the second year. The student performs the elements of patient/client management
with an emphasis on the musculoskeletal, cardiopulmonary and integumentary systems and begins application of basic neuroscience principles. Summer semester; year 2. 240 clinical hours.
734 Clinical Education III (5)
This clinical experience occurs during the eighth (final) semester. The student performs the elements of patient/client management with an emphasis on the neuromuscular, musculoskeletal, cardiopulmonary and integumentary systems working predominantly with patients with neurologic dysfunction. Summer semester; year 2. 320 clinical hours.
735 Clinical Applications Across the Lifespan (2)
An in-depth study of clinical applications across the lifespan. Students enrolled in this course will have the opportunity to participate in the following clinical experiences: a neonatal intensive care unit, a home health visit, an Alzheimer's care program, a nursing home, and an assisted living center. Student generated case reports will be utilized throughout the course to emphasize evidence-based practice. Fall semester; year 2.
736 Physical Therapy Management of Patients with Neurological Dysfunction I (4)
The physiologic, didactic and clinical applications of physical therapy examinations, evaluation, therapeutic interventions and management for neurological conditions related to spinal cord injury, neuromuscular diseases and peripheral neuropathies. Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be familiar with the pathophysiology, etiology, incidence, signs and symptoms, impairments, functional limitations, disabilities prognosis and medical, surgical and physical therapy management of common disorders associated with spinal cord injury, neuromuscular disease and peripheral neuropathies. Fall semester; year 2.
738 Physical Therapy Management of Medical/Surgical Conditions II (3)
Provides the student with the didactic and clinical applications of pathology, examinations, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, intervention and expected outcomes in the management of clients with integumentary system disorders and for management of the clients before and after amputation. The holistic approach to management will be emphasized. Spring semester; year 2.
740 Differential Diagnosis in Physical Therapy (3)
Designed to provide physical therapy students with the tools necessary to screen patients for the presence of disease processes that are beyond the scope of practice for physical therapists. This
information, combined with their knowledge and skills for the management of musculoskeletal, neurological, and cardiopulmonary system dysfunction will provide the student with a more
comprehensive examination scheme. The information provided should also facilitate professional communication between the physical therapy student and other health care providers. Fall
semester; year 3.
742 Physical Therapy Management of Adults and Elders with Neurological Dysfunction II (4)
Provides the student with the physiologic, didactic and clinical applications of physical therapy examination, evaluation, therapeutic interventions, and management for neurological conditions
such as cerebral vascular accident, infectious disorders and tumors of the central nervous system, traumatic brain injury, vestibular dysfunction, cerebellar dysfunction, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, and Alzheimer's disease. Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be familiar with the pathophysiology, etiology, incidence, signs and symptoms, impairments,
functional limitations, disabilities, prognosis and medical, surgical and physical therapy management of common disorders associated with central nervous system dysfunction. Spring semester; year 2.
744 Physical Therapy Management of Infants, Children and Adolescents with Neurological

Dysfunction III (4)
Introduces the student to the basic principles of physical therapy management for infants, children, and adolescents with central nervous system dysfunction. Content includes a review of pathophysiology, examination techniques, and intervention rationale for common pediatric disorders such as cerebral palsy, traumatic brain injury, sensory-motor impairments, developmental coordination
disorder, genetic disorders, mental retardation, and neuromotor complications of prematurity and environmental risk exposure. Spring semester; year 2.
748 Physical Therapy Management of Medical Surgical Conditions III (3)
Provides the student with the didactic and clinical applications of pathology, examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, intervention, and expected outcomes in the management of patients/clients with acute and chronic conditions and multiple system impairment. Prioritization of impairments and intervention strategies for patients/clients across the lifespan and across practice settings will be emphasized. Spring semester; year 2.
750 Research Investigation I (2)
The students will work with research advisors assigned from among the faculty of the program to design a research project. Three types of projects have been approved for this course: a) case study, b) an evidence-based systematic review of literature and c) an applied research project. The project developed for this course will be conducted during fall semester, year 3, under the ongoing direction of the faculty advisor. The specific grading criteria for the components of the assigned project will be determined by written contract between the students and faculty advisor at the beginning of the semester. A timeline will be required to measure progress toward the goals throughout the semester. A formal written research prospectus and oral report will be required at the end of the semester to report on the criteria achieved. Spring semester; year 2.
752 Research Investigation II (2)
Students will work this semester to complete the research projects in process from spring semester, year 2. Students will continue to work with the same faculty advisor that initiated the research project. The three types of projects that have been approved for this course are case study, an evidence-based review of literature and a research project. The expectation of this course is that students will complete the established criteria for the specific type of project that is in process as approved by the faculty advisor by the end of fall semester. A formal presentation of the results of the project is required. Fall semester; year 3.
753 Human Growth and Development Across the Life Span (3)
Investigates the human life cycle from the early embryo to senescence on the human movement system. Emphasis will be placed on the study of the principles, processes and phases of physical growth and development, as well as the strengths and limitations imposed on the individual with advancing age. Fall semester; year 2.
755 Applied Patient/Client Management (2)
Physical therapy concepts and skills gained throughout the curriculum will be integrated in a formal presentation of a patient case study. Emphasis will be placed on evaluating the physical therapy plan of care in the context of the total patient as he or she exists in society. Management plan selected will be validated through the use of professional literature. Case presentations will involve interactions between students and clinical faculty. Fall semester; year 3.
760 Advanced Clinical Orthopedics (3)
This clinically-based course will explore factors that influence principles of orthopaedic management for clients/patients with musculoskeletal dysfunction. Learning activities will focus on improving the students’ understanding of factors relating to clinical decision-making. Students will be challenged to apply evidence- based clinical decision-making models to evaluate interventions. The clinical context will foster an expanded appreciation of the professional roles of the orthopaedic physical therapist.
Course instructors will directly supervise groups of students during all interaction with patients. Fall semester; year 3.
762 Advanced Neurorehabilitation Management Priciples for Children with Movement Disorders (3)
This lab-based course will explore factors that influence principles of neurorehabilitation management for children with movement system disorders. Learning activities will focus on improving the students’ understanding of factors that affect motor function and influence a child’s ability to participate in developmentally appropriate activities. Students will be challenged to apply evidence-based clinical decision-making models to evaluate interventions for children with disabilities and their families.
Hands-on experiential learning will strenthen clinical reasoning skills and handling abilities. The clinical context will foster an expanded appreciation of the professional roles of the pediatric physical therapist. Fall semester; year 3.
764 Advanced Manual Therapy (3)
Emphazises a study of patient classification systems for low back pain, the examination process for spinal dysfunction, and an opportunity to work in a clinical setting. Fall semester; year 3.

679/797r Individual Studies Offerings (1-3) This repeatable independent study course is designed to permit entry-level DPT students to pursue an in depth study of elective clinical interests. The subject material will vary according to student demand and qualified instructor availability.
785 Licensure Preparation (2)
Involves a student-driven comprehensive review of the physical therapy curriculum requiring evaluation, integration and synthesis of didactic content across the program, in preparation for the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE). Test taking strategies and practical licensure preparation are included. Spring semester; year 3.
790 Clinical Internship (9)
This clinical internship is the final course of the curriculum. Students will work under the direct supervision of a physical therapist focusing on a particular patient/client population selected by the student. The desired outcome is for the student to reach entry-level performance in patient/client management. Spring semester, year 3. 600 clinical hours.

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