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Return to Physical Therapy | Courses Index

[1] Graduate Courses in Physical Therapy (PTHY)

5505 GROSS ANATOMY Structured aspects of the human body. Lecture and lab of prosected cadavers. Admission to Graduate Physical Therapy Program.

6V01 SPECIAL PROBLEMS IN PHYSICAL THERAPY (Variable credit: 1-3 credit hours.) Concentrated individual study of a particular topic in a specialty area of physical therapy under supervision. Designed to supplement regularly organized courses in physical therapy. Admission to Graduate Physical Therapy Program.

6V38 DIRECTED GRADUATE STUDY IN PHYSICAL THERAPY (Variable credit: 1-3 credit hours.) Directed group in-depth study of a particular topic in physical therapy. Admission to Graduate Physical Therapy Program.

6105 RESEARCH I Study of evidence-based physical therapy practice. Emphasis will be placed on the process of identifying and using the best available evidence to support physical therapy practice. Additionally, understanding of research terminology, review and completion of institutional regulation training, and identification of research questions will be studied. Prerequisite: Admission to Graduate Physical Therapy Program or consent of instructor.

6205 RESEARCH II Study of research design and methodology in physical therapy. Emphasis will be placed on understanding of various research designs, the concept of measuring outcomes, and the reliability and validity of measurement tools used in physical therapy practice and research. Prerequisite: Admission to the DPT program.

6250 PHARMACOLOGY IN PHYSICAL THERAPY Principles and application of medical therapeutics in a rehabilitation setting, emphasizing general principles and a systems approach to drugs used in patients receiving physical therapy. Admission to Graduate Physical Therapy Program.

6303 INTRODUCTION TO CLINICAL DECISION-MAKING IN PHYSICAL THERAPY PRACTICE  An introduction to the clinical decision-making skills required for effective, evidence-based informed physical therapy practice. Emphasis is placed on the application of the Patient Client Management Model and disablement framework models, including the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF), to guide patient examination, evaluation, and plan of care. Students will develop skills in writing measurable and functional patient goals, construction of comprehensive and medically necessary plans of care, and selecting interventions aligned with patient-centered outcomes. The course also addresses documentation standards and the principles of accurate billing and coding to ensure compliance with reimbursement requirements. Through case-based learning and practical application, students will integrate theoretical knowledge and professional practice expectations to optimize patient outcomes and support ethical, efficient service delivery.

6307 PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT I An early foundation for career planning and advancement in the physical therapy profession. The course begins with skills essential for success in a doctoral level graduate program as well as the historical context of the physical therapy profession. The course emphasizes the evolving framework of professional practice and the mission and core values of both academic and professional stakeholders. Students are introduced to the importance of cultivating a professional identity and will begin to equip themselves with essential affective domain attributes, professional behaviors, and leadership capabilities necessary for success in graduate education, clinical practicums, and clinical practice.

6314 NEUROPHYSIOLOGY OF MOTOR CONTROL AND LEARNING This course examines the neurophysiological foundations of human movement with emphasis on their relevance to rehabilitation and clinical practice. The course bridges neuroscience with applied motor learning, highlighting how neural systems adapt during skill acquisition and refinement, as well as recovery and therapeutic interventions. Prerequisite: Admission to Graduate Physical Therapy Program or consent of instructor.

6401 KINESIOLOGY I Study of selected structural and functional properties of anatomical structures of the human body. Biomechanical analyses and evaluation techniques of muscle testing, goniometry, and sensory testing all applied to normal and pathological human motion. Admission to Graduate Physical Therapy Program.

6402 KINESIOLOGY II Study of selected structural and functional properties of anatomical structures of the human body. Biomechanical analyses and evaluation techniques of muscle testing, goniometry, posture and gait analysis, applied to normal and pathological human motion. Continuation of PTHY 6401 Kinesiology I. Prerequisite: PTHY 6401 Kinesiology I; Admission to Graduate Physical Therapy Program.

6404 CLINICAL FOUNDATIONS IN PHYSICAL THERAPY PRACTICE The study and practice of body mechanics, patient transfers and positioning techniques, gait, bed mobility, use of special equipment in the patient care environment, activities of daily living, the prescription, fitting, application and use of wheelchair and other assistive devices, ADA Guidelines and home accessibility and other selected topics related to patient care in physical therapy. Admission to the DPT Program.

6405 THERAPEUTIC EXERCISE Application and physiological principles of therapeutic exercise, biofeedback, and stretching in patient treatment. Emphasis is on development of and progression through an exercise intervention based on patient diagnosis, practical applications, physiological effects, indications, contraindications, and scientific evidence. Admission to Graduate Physical Therapy Program.

6406 HUMAN PATHOPHYSIOLOGY I Introductory course in a two-part series. A comprehensive survey of systems, physiology, and related pathologies. Includes general principles and a systems approach as a basis for the processes of examination, evaluation, development of diagnoses and prognoses, and intervention for neuromuscular, musculoskeletal, cardiopulmonary, and integumentary disorders. Principles, pathogenesis, and mechanisms common in disease processes are reviewed. Relevance of mechanisms and consequences of clinical manifestations of disease to physical therapy practice and the impact of disease processes across the life span are stressed. Prerequisite: Admission to the DPT program.

6407 HUMAN PATHOPHYSIOLOGY II Final course in a two-part series. A comprehensive survey of systems, physiology, and related pathologies. Includes general principles and a systems approach as a basis for the processes of examination, evaluation, development of diagnoses and prognoses, and intervention for neuromuscular, musculoskeletal, cardiopulmonary, and integumentary disorders. Principles, pathogenesis, and mechanisms common in disease processes are reviewed. Relevance of mechanisms and consequences of clinical manifestations of disease to physical therapy practice and the impact of disease processes across the life span are stressed. Prerequisite: Admission to the DPT program.

6424 CLINICAL ADMINISTRATION AND LEADERSHIP IN HEALTHCARE This course examines principles of clinical administration and business operations including advanced billing concepts, management skills, marketing strategies, and additional essentials of private practice. The course explores foundational principles of leadership and professional responsibilities of physical therapists, providing students opportunities to explore projects in their respective areas of interest related to business, education, professional advocacy, and service to the field. Students will also develop a comprehensive professional portfolio, including a curriculum vitae or resume, career goals, references, and a cover letter, to support their future professional growth and development. Prerequisite: Admission to Graduate Physical Therapy Program.

6501 NEUROSCIENCE An analysis of the structure and function of the human peripheral, central, and autonomic nervous system, including laboratory study of specimens of human brain and spinal cord. A variety of neuropathologies are analyzed as a basis for understanding nervous system functions. Prerequisite: Admission to Graduate Physical Therapy Program.

7V01 ADVANCED RESEARCH (Variable credit: 1-9 credit hours.) Instruction and guidance of the student in all facets of the investigative process up to and including development of the dissertation proposal. The student will critically evaluate experimental research, become experienced with research tools commonly used in the student’s area of focus, and develop and present the dissertation proposal. Admission to Graduate Physical Therapy Program.

7V02 DISSERTATION (Variable credit: 1-9 credit hours.) An original, substantial, and significant research project is carried out independently by the student in collaboration with the dissertation advisor and committee. The student must be able to complete a final oral examination or defense to demonstrate expertise in the research area. Admission to Doctoral Candidacy.

7003 INTRODUCTION TO PEDIATRIC PHYSICAL THERAPY RESIDENCY This graduate-level course will provide incoming Pediatric Physical Therapy residents with onboarding resources to support matriculation into the Pediatric Physical Therapy Residency Program. Emphasis will be placed on ensuring familiarity with policies and procedures, as well as orienting residents to resources available to support advanced clinical practice and success in the Pediatric Physical Therapy Residency Program. Prerequisite: Admission to the BTÌìÌÃPediatric Physical Therapy Residency Program.

7105 RESEARCH III Study of clinical research principles through results analysis, drawing of conclusions, and analysis of current literature. In addition, the student will study several methods of descriptive and inferential statistical analysis. Admission to the DPT program.

7115 RESEARCH PRACTICUM IN PHYSICAL THERAPY Study of research principles and practice including development of inquiry skills, critique of literature, data analysis, and communication of research findings. May be repeated for a total of 2 credit hours. Prerequisites: Admission to the DPT program and completion of PTHY 6205; or permission of the course coordinator.

7116 ANALYSIS AND SYNTHESIS OF PHYSICAL THERAPY PRACTICE Comprehensive review and analysis of all areas of physical therapy practice. Focus is on synthesis of acquired knowledge to make evaluative judgments in all areas of patient management. Theories of learning and strategies for test-taking are reviewed and applied to foster the student’s mastery of the scope of knowledge of the profession. Prerequisite: Admission to the DPT program.

7210 INTEGUMENTARY SYSTEM: PRINCIPLES AND PRACTICE Systemic approach to the examination of the integumentary system. Prevention, pathology and diagnosis related precautions will be examined. Analysis of wound etiology and management will be emphasized in the classroom and laboratory. Admission to Graduate Physical Therapy Program.

7212 ADVANCED MANUAL THERAPY-SPINE This graduate elective focuses on the advanced study and application of manual therapy for the assessment and treatment of spinal and related musculoskeletal conditions. Emphasizing both soft tissue and joint manual techniques, the course provides exposure to advanced examination methods, differential diagnostic reasoning, and complex intervention strategies. Students will gain proficiency in a range of evidence-based manual approaches, including scar mobilization, joint mobilization (with high-velocity low-amplitude thrust techniques), soft tissue and myofascial mobilization, muscle energy applications, and specific stretching interventions. Participants engage in case-based discussions, clinical reasoning exercises, and extensive hands-on laboratory practice. Prioritizes skill acquisition, critical analysis of patient responses, and the confident application of specialized spinal mobilization techniques within real-world patient care. This course is ideal for individuals who would like to pursue additional certifications in orthopedic manual therapy. Prerequisite: Admission to Graduate Physical Therapy Program or consent of instructor.

7214 MEDICAL SCREENING AND DIFFERENTIAL DIAGNOSIS Emphasis on selected components of professional practice in physical therapy incorporating evidence-based practice related to performance of medical screening, differential diagnosis, prognosis, and plan of care. Diagnostic imaging as a means of enhancement of the diagnosis given by the physical therapist will be included. Prerequisite: Admission to the professional DPT program or permission of the course instructor.

7216 WOMEN’S HEALTH TOPICS IN PHYSICAL THERAPY An introduction of topics within the Women’s Health specialist practice in Physical Therapy. Topics to be covered include the physical therapy patient/client management in the areas of pelvic health (pelvic pain, bladder and bowel conditions), pregnancy and postpartum, osteoporosis, breast and gynecologic cancer and lymphedema, and the female athlete triad. Special emphasis will be placed on the topics of pelvic health and pregnancy/postpartum. Contact hours will include instructional lab time. Prerequisite: Admission to DPT and Consent of Instructor.

7225 PROFESSIONAL SEMINAR IN PHYSICAL THERAPY An advanced course to prepare students for the professional activities and responsibilities of an academic faculty member. Content is most relevant to a DPT program in a Department of Physical Therapy but it applies more broadly to appointments in most academic departments. Selected topics will be introduced to students for learning and discussion by multiple, participating faculty in the Department of Physical Therapy or faculty in other relevant academic departments and offices. Students will gain knowledge and skills that are required and expected of new faculty in an academic department. To complete all of the modules described for Professional Seminar in Physical Therapy, students will take this 2 credit hour course twice, under a continuous grade enrollment, for a total of 4 credit hours. Prerequisite: Admission to the PhD program in Physical Therapy (or prior approval from instructor).

7228 PHYSICAL THERAPY CLINICAL PRACTICUM I The first full-time clinical experience in a required series of five full-time clinical education experiences providing supervised immersion in physical therapy clinical practice. Each full-time clinical experience provides opportunities for guided clinical application of previously acquired didactic knowledge and skills. Students completing Clinical Practicum I engage in closely supervised physical therapy practice while integrating professional behaviors, didactic knowledge, and clinical skills across a variety of clinical practice settings.

7234 AQUATIC THERAPY Study of the basic physical properties of water and their application in therapeutic treatment of patients in a water medium. Proper safety precautions, infection control, and pool maintenance will also be studied. Admission to Graduate Physical Therapy program or consent of instructor.

7307 PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT II This course is designed to continue facilitation of the socialization process by exploring the importance of communication and education in healthcare. Students will contemplate the psychosocial issues related to patients engaged in physical rehabilitation. In addition, students will apply ethical principles to clinical situations. Admission into the DPT Program.

7310 PROFESSIONAL LEADERSHIP IN PHYSICAL THERAPY An advanced course addressing current and future professional, legal, and ethical issues related to physical therapy practice, education, and research. Students will examine evolving roles of professional leadership as affected by such factors as changing societal demands, trends in health care, government regulations, and the expanding body of knowledge. These experiences will prepare students for leadership roles as change agents in the profession. Admission to Graduate Physical Therapy Program or consent of Instructor.

7315 COLLEGE TEACHING IN PHYSICAL THERAPY This course introduces doctoral students and residents to the principles and practices of effective teaching in higher education, with a focus on physical therapy. Students will explore pedagogy, strategies for developing clear learning objectives, and methods for creating engaging lectures and presentations. Emphasis is placed on active learning, experiential teaching approaches, and hands-on instructional techniques tailored to health professions education. Through practice and feedback, students will build skills to effectively facilitate learning in classroom, laboratory, and clinical settings. Students are expected to have completed at least one year of didactic coursework and one clinical rotation if in a dual PhD/DPT program. Prerequisite: Admission to Graduate Physical Therapy Program or consent of instructor.

7318 GRANT WRITING FOR THE NIH This graduate-level course will educate students about the NIH review process, scoring criteria, and the rationale for writing individual sections of an NIH grant. Emphasis is also placed on learning how to critique applications and how to revise applications in response to critiques. This course is required for PhD students in the Physical Therapy Program at UCA; however, it would also be appropriate for any graduate student who is interested in learning to write NIH style grants. The course requires knowledge of how to conduct literature reviews, how to design research studies and how to analyze data. Prerequisite: Admission to the PhD program in Physical Therapy or consent of the instructor.

7319 RESEARCH DESIGN An advanced course that focuses on considerations of both experimental and quasi-experimental research designs. Concepts regarding various types of validity in research, threats to validity, and the design strategies for addressing these threats will be taught via lectures, prescribed readings, discussions, and project assignments. Students will learn to analyze the strengths and weaknesses of experimental and quasi-experimental research designs. As a practical application, students will propose a research problem and appropriate study design with justification. Students will also critique the proposals of others and provide appropriate feedback. Prerequisites: An introductory level statistics or research course; and admission to the PhD program in Physical Therapy or consent of the instructor.

7324 THEORY AND PRACTICE OF EVIDENCE BASED PHYSICAL THERAPYAn advanced course which focuses on the theory and practice of clinical decision making in physical therapy practice by integrating best available evidence with clinical judgment and patient/client values in the quest for efficacious and effective physical therapy practice. Concepts related to critical appraisal of literature are reviewed and then applied to clinical practice topics of interest to the learners by the acquisition, analysis, synthesis, and discussion of information by the learners. The context of the clinical practice topics will relate to the essential elements of patient/client management. The goal of the course is for the learners to advance as clinical scholars in their ability to analyze and synthesize existing information pertinent to focused clinical questions, perform knowledge translation of synthesized research evidence, to formulate evidence-based clinical decisions, and to mentor and role model evidence based physical therapy practice.

7330 COMPREHENSIVE PHYSICAL THERAPY PRACTICE FOR THE OLDER ADULT This course explores an integrated, person-centered approach to physical therapy for older adults (aged 65 years and older), across the continuum of health, function, and participation. Emphasis will be placed on the interconnected domains of cognition, mobility, medication management, medical complexity, and individual values across diverse clinical and community-based settings.

7336 COMPLEX PATIENT MANAGEMENT IN PHYSICAL THERAPY PRACTICE Study of complex patient cases across the lifespan and the continuum of care with an emphasis on clinical decision making related to physical therapy management of patients with multisystem interactions. Prerequisite: Admission to the DPT Program.

7360 ADVANCED EVALUATION AND INTERVENTION IN PEDIATRIC PHYSICAL THERAPY Advanced-level course which addresses theories, selection, and administration of varied pediatric assessment tools, analysis of factors affecting outcomes for the pediatric population (birth to adult), and intervention strategies in varied pediatric clinical settings. Students will participate in classroom, lab, and clinical activities to enhance knowledge and skill acquisition to address the needs of diverse pediatric populations. Admission to Graduate Physical Therapy Program or consent of Instructor.

7385 TEACHING PRACTICUM IN PHYSICAL THERAPY EDUCATION Students will be involved in classroom experiences that include developing teaching strategies, selecting content, writing tests, using media, and managing student behaviors. Students will discuss the faculty issues of workloads, tenure, research, service, faculty development and assessment, and accreditation as necessary for functioning in a physical therapy educational environment. Admission to Graduate Physical Therapy Program.

7387 LIFESPAN MOVEMENT ANALYSIS Examination of various research tools designed to analyze human movement in individuals throughout the life span. Students will develop skills in three-dimensional motion analysis and the use of advanced gait and balance assessment tools. Admission to the PhD Program or consent of instructor.

7389 CLINICAL REASONING AND REFLECTION Emphasis on use and application of frameworks of clinical reasoning and decision making through evaluation of patient cases in various settings and will include student reflection of their own clinical practice through a patient case from a previous clinical rotation. Students will be able to analyze and develop clinical reasoning skills from large data sets, individual clinic data, and individual patient care data. Prerequisite: Admission to the professional DPT program or permission of the course instructor.

7403 PHYSICAL AGENTS A study of the instrumentation, application, physiological principles, and clinical uses of physical agents (thermal, mechanical, and electrical modalities and massage) in physical therapy intervention for selected impairments and conditions. Emphasis is placed on clinical decision making regarding selection and application of a physical agent in an effective and clinically acceptable manner based on patient diagnosis, knowledge of the instrumentation, indications, contraindications, physiological effects of the physical agent, goals of the patient, and scientific evidence. Admission to the DPT Program.

7404 MUSCULOSKELETAL PHYSICAL THERAPY I This graduate-level course provides lecture and laboratory instruction in the advanced management of patients and clients with extremity dysfunctions. Emphasis is placed on comprehensive examination, evaluation, differential diagnosis, prognosis, and evidence-based intervention strategies building upon previous foundational courses of Anatomy and Kinesiology. Students will have initial exposure to hands-on examination and treatment through multiple client experiences with licensed therapists. Students will develop advanced critical thinking and clinical reasoning skills to support accurate decision-making in preparation for active engagement in future clinical settings. Prerequisite: Admission to Graduate Physical Therapy Program or consent of instructor.

7405 MUSCULOSKELETAL PHYSICAL THERAPY II This graduate-level course delivers lecture and laboratory instruction in the management of patients and clients with spinal dysfunctions, emphasizing examination, evaluation, differential diagnosis, prognosis, and evidence-based interventions across the lifespan. Students will refine their clinical reasoning by learning to distinguish musculoskeletal conditions from neurological, systemic, and occupational-related contributors to spinal disorders. Instruction focuses on the planning and implementation of individualized intervention programs, incorporating manual therapy, therapeutic exercise, prevention and wellness strategies, and occupational health principles related to ergonomics, workplace safety, and industrial rehabilitation. A distinctive feature of the course is its service-learning component, where students apply classroom knowledge in real-world contexts by partnering with community members in their respective workplace settings. These experiences enhance professional competence while deepening understanding of how spinal health, occupational demands, and patient education intersect in diverse populations. Prerequisite: Admission to Graduate Physical Therapy Program or consent of instructor.

7406 MUSCULOSKELETAL PHYSICAL THERAPY III This graduate-level course provides in-depth study and application of advanced interventions for both the extremities and spine and inclusion of sports rehabilitation. Emphasis is placed on advanced manual therapy techniques (including high velocity low amplitude thrust techniques), neurodynamic mobilization, stabilization strategies, and alternative interventions to optimize musculoskeletal function. Students will enhance clinical decision-making and treatment precision highlighting advanced functional progressions and return-to-sport strategies, preparing students to design and implement individualized rehabilitation programs for athletes and active populations. Running analysis is a central component, equipping students with the skills to assess biomechanical efficiency, identify risk factors for injury, and apply targeted interventions to improve performance and safe return to activity. Laboratory sessions provide experiential learning in advanced manual techniques, sport-specific rehabilitation, and running gait retraining. Prerequisite: Admission to Graduate Physical Therapy Program or consent of instructor.

7411 INTEGRATED REHABILITATION PRACTICE This course addresses rehabilitation across a range of neuromuscular, orthopedic, and other health-related conditions. Students will integrate examination, intervention, outcome measurement, assistive technology, interprofessional collaboration, and patient-centered care into comprehensive rehabilitation practice. Prerequisite: Admission to Graduate Physical Therapy Program or consent of instructor.

7428 PHYSICAL THERAPY CLINICAL PRACTICUM II The second clinical experience in a required series of five full-time clinical education experiences providing supervised immersion in physical therapy clinical practice. Each full-time clinical experience provides opportunities for guided clinical application of previously acquired didactic knowledge and skills. Students completing Clinical Practicum II engage in supervised physical therapy practice with intermediate levels of supervision and guidance while integrating professional behaviors, didactic knowledge, and clinical skills across a variety of clinical practice settings.

7429 PHYSICAL THERAPY CLINICAL PRACTICUM III The third clinical experience in a required series of five full-time clinical education experiences providing supervised immersion in physical therapy clinical practice. Each full-time clinical experience provides opportunities for guided clinical application of previously acquired didactic knowledge and skills. Students completing Clinical Practicum III engage in supervised physical therapy practice while integrating professional behaviors, didactic knowledge, and clinical skills across a variety of clinical practice settings with expected progression to entry-level performance across terminal clinical experiences (CE III, IV, and V).

7515 NEUROLOGIC REHABILITATION IN PEDIATRICS Physical therapy management of children with birth or acquired conditions affecting motor control and function. Focus placed on motor development, conditions, patient examination, evaluation, motor diagnosis, prognosis, and interventions. Theoretical foundations are reviewed. Environmental contexts are considered. Admission to Graduate Physical Therapy Program.

7516 NEUROLOGIC REHABILITATION IN BRAIN INJURY AND MOVEMENT DISORDERS This course provides an in-depth study of neurologic and movement disorders affecting adults, with emphasis on integrating the patient/client management model across the continuum of care. Students will examine neuromuscular changes associated with common and complex diagnoses, such as stroke, brain injury, movement disorders, and neurocognitive conditions. Prerequisite: Admission to Graduate Physical Therapy Program or consent of instructor.

7520 CARDIOVASCULAR AND PULMONARY PHYSICAL THERAPYThis course addresses the physical therapy management of individuals with cardiovascular and pulmonary dysfunction. Students will develop skills in comprehensive examination techniques in order to establish an accurate physical therapy diagnosis and prognosis. These findings will inform the design of individualized exercise prescriptions and treatment plans aimed at improving body structures and function, activity, and participation for patients with cardiac, vascular, and pulmonary disorders. In addition, students will learn to select and apply appropriate outcome measures to evaluate impairments and track progress in individuals with cardiovascular and pulmonary conditions. Prerequisite: Admission to Graduate Physical Therapy Program or consent of instructor.

7529 PHYSICAL THERAPY CLINICAL PRACTICUM IV The fourth clinical experience in a required series of five full-time clinical education experiences providing supervised immersion in physical therapy clinical practice. Each full-time clinical experience provides opportunities for guided clinical application of previously acquired didactic knowledge and skills. Students completing Clinical Practicum IV build on previous experiences to engage in supervised physical therapy practice with advancing independence while integrating professional behaviors, didactic knowledge, and clinical skills across a variety of clinical practice settings with expected progression to entry-level performance across terminal clinical experiences (CE III, IV, and V).

7530 PHYSICAL THERAPY CLINICAL PRACTICUM V The fifth and final clinical experience in a required series of five full-time clinical education experiences providing supervised immersion in physical therapy clinical practice. Students completing Clinical Practicum V engage in supervised physical therapy practice while integrating professional behaviors, didactic knowledge, and clinical skills across a variety of clinical practice settings with expected progression to entry-level performance across terminal clinical experiences (CE III, IV, and V). The final full-time clinical experience provides opportunities for guided and supervised clinical application of cumulative didactic knowledge and skills with progressive independence to prepare for entry into the profession.