Physical Therapy Courses (PHT)

PHT 5020. Human Physiology (6).  This course involves the study of human physiological systems with a special emphasis placed upon the acute and chronic responses, and intercommunications of these systems, when confronted with changes in environment, activity, and age.

PHT 5030. Critical Inquiry I (2).  The focus of the course is on the practical use of research.  Commonly accepted research principles, ethics associated with research, concepts of measurement and research designs most pertinent to the clinical practice of physical therapy are addressed.  Areas of emphasis include reading and interpreting professional literature, identifying independent, dependent and control variables within research studies, conducting literature reviews, and critically analyzing new concepts and findings.

PHT 5040. Patient Care Skills (1).  A combination lecture/lab course emphasizing the development of clinical knowledge and skills necessary to plan and implement goal-oriented therapeutic exercise programs in Physical Therapy.  Basic principles and techniques of exercise for improving mobility, flexibility, strength, neuromuscular control, balance/coordination, and muscular endurance are emphasized.  Rehabilitation home exercise program design is integrated throughout the course. The course also includes instruction in basic clinical skills such as patient positioning and draping, transfer techniques, fitting and use of assistive devices, monitoring vital signs, and gait training.  The format of the course includes lecture, discussion, laboratory experiences, and patient-centered case study learning activities.

PHT 5120. Physical Therapy Foundations I (3).  This course covers the theory and application of physical agents, mechanical modalities, and electrotherapeutic modalities.  It also includes electromyography studies, massage, and an introduction to the CPT code system as it pertains to the use of modalities.

PHT 5121. Physical Therapy Foundations Lab I (0).  This is the laboratory companion course to PHT 5120.

PHT 5130. Critical Inquiry II (3).  This course deals with the study of the statistical methods most pertinent to physical therapists in clinical practice.  Management and synthesis of data are emphasized, and data interpretations are related for relevance to clinical practice.  A computer laboratory is used to provide the students with an opportunity to use both Windows-based spreadsheet and specialized statistical software.

PHT 5131. Critical Inquiry II Lab (0).  This is the laboratory companion course to PHT 5130.

PHT 5140. Professional & Clinical Issues (2).  This course provides an overview of the fundamental concepts and principles central to the development of physical therapy as a profession.  Current professional and clinical issues, the legal and legislative context of physical therapy, the Guide to Physical Therapist Practice, introduction to the health care system and rehabilitation health care professionals are included.

PHT 5200. Neuroscience (6).  The focus of this course involves a study of the development, structure and function of the human nervous system.  Emphasis is placed on applied anatomy and the clinical consequences of injury and pathology within the central, peripheral and autonomic nervous systems.  Additionally, the course makes reference to theories of motor control and motor learning, muscle tone, posture, balance, sensory perceptions, and both normal and abnormal movement.

PHT 5210. Physical Therapy Foundations II (3).  Study of medical and physical therapy management of selected patient populations including patients whose impairments or disabilities require orthoses, prostheses, or wound care.  An emphasis is placed on patient safety and dignity.

PHT 5211. Physical Therapy Foundations Lab II (0).  This is the laboratory companion course to PHT 5210.

PHT 5220. Musculoskeletal Physical Therapy I (6).   This course is the first in a sequence of two that provides an in-depth exploration of the evaluation, differential diagnosis, prognosis, and intervention of various musculoskeletal dysfunctions of the upper quarter.  An integrated model of physical therapy evaluation, assessment, intervention and prevention of soft tissue, bony, and post-surgical problems of the cervical, thoracic, and upper extremity will be discussed from the orthopedic perspective.  This course will also include planning and implementing of a physical therapy management approach of manual therapy (muscle energy techniques, mobilization, and manipulation) combined with patient education and exercise.  An emphasis of the course will be on applying evidenced-based practice in all areas of upper quarter musculoskeletal management.  Where little evidence exists, a pragmatic approach integrating basic principles of biomechanics, pathokinesiology, and pathophysiology will be used.  The format of the course includes lectures, discussions, required readings with discussion, small group laboratory experiences, and problem-based, patient-centered case study learning activities.  Clinical competence in the evaluation and treatment of upper quarter dysfunction is to be developed.

PHT 5221. Musculoskeletal Physical Therapy I Lab (0).  This is the laboratory companion course to PHT 5220.

PHT 5240. Critical Inquiry III (1).  This course applies research design and evaluation principles to answer clinical science questions.  This is the first phase of a group scholarly project in which the research question is formulated, researched, and a proposal is written for submission to the Belmont University Institutional Review Board.  Elements of this process may include pilot work, biomedical instrumentation, survey and questionnaire development, and other procedures necessary to address the variety of questions posed.  The group project is supervised and mentored by at least one full-time faculty member, with additional outside coordination when applicable.

PHT 5250. Clinical Experience I (1).  This course introduces the student to the clinical environment in order to develop professional interpersonal skills needed to successfully interact with patients, families, health care professionals and the community.  Students evaluate and treat patients under the supervision of a clinical instructor one day each week at local clinical facilities to practice skills learned in the didactic portion of the program. The development of writing skills for clear, concise and accurate medical record documentation is emphasized. Students also begin to develop an individual plan for long-term affiliations including choosing the first long-term clinical, Physical Therapy Practice 1.

PHT 5300. Musculoskeletal Physical Therapy II (6).  This course is the second in a sequence of two that provides an in-depth exploration of the evaluation, differential diagnosis, prognosis, and intervention of various musculoskeletal dysfunctions of the lower quarter.  While techniques of physical therapy evaluation and management learned in previous courses will be reviewed and expanded, the main focus will be on lower quarter dysfunction.  Physical therapy evaluation, assessment, intervention and prevention of soft tissue, bony, and post-surgical problems of the lumbar spine, pelvic girdle, and lower extremities will be discussed from the orthopedic perspective.  This course will include planning and implementing treatment programs including exercise, mobilization, and other orthopedic physical therapy concepts.  The format of the course includes lectures, discussions, laboratory experiences, and problem-based, patient-centered case study learning activities.  Clinical competence in the evaluation and treatment of lower quarter dysfunction is to be developed.

PHT 5301. Musculoskeletal Physical Therapy II Lab (0).  This is the laboratory companion course to PHT 5300.

PHT 5310. Neuromuscular Physical Therapy I (6).  This course is the first in a sequence of two courses that provides an in-depth exploration of the assessment and intervention procedures used with persons with various neurological pathologies.  The focus of this course will be on neurological problems acquired in adulthood.  Theories of motor control and motor learning will be studied and applied to assessment and treatment.  Laboratories will be used to strengthen evaluation and intervention skills, especially the analysis of movement as well as planning, practicing, and modifying treatment.  The format of this course includes lectures, discussions, laboratory experiences, problem-based learning activities, community-based experiences, and patient-centered case study learning activities.  There will also be contact with persons with neurological dysfunction as part of this course. Clinical competence in the evaluation and treatment of persons with neurological impairments is to be developed.

PHT 5311. Neuromuscular Physical Therapy I Lab (0).  This is the laboratory companion course to PHT 5310.

PHT 5320. Ethics in Health Care (3).  Preparation of physical therapy students to approach ethical dilemmas objectively with a thorough understanding of professional moral responsibility. This course assists students to: distinguish ethical issues from other issues in health care; identify the ethically relevant features of a case; identify options open to a therapist faced with an ethical problem; provide justification for the best options; consider counter arguments for one's positions; and commit to promoting the dignity of others. The format of the course includes lectures, discussions, and problem based, patient centered case study learning activities.

PHT 5340. Health & Wellness (2).  Contemporary Issues related to wellness and health promotion are the focal points of this course.

PHT 5350. Clinical Experience II (1).  This course promotes further development of interpersonal, communication, and patient care skills. Students evaluate and treat patients under the supervision of a clinical instructor one-day each week at local clinical facilities to practice skills learned in the didactic portion of the program. Students continue developing their plan for final long-term affiliations (PHT 5370, PHT 5500, PHT 5510 and PHT 5520 Physical Therapy Practice II-IV).

PHT 5360. Critical Inquiry IV (1).  This course is the second phase of a group scholarly research project that was begun in Critical Inquiry III (PHT 5240).  The primary focus of this seminar class is on data collection.  Students are responsible for all elements associated with the data collection process, to include but not limited to:  recruiting subjects, coordinating laboratory space and equipment, calibrating equipment, completing data and informed consent forms, collecting data, and entering and securing data.  The faculty mentors from PHT 5240 continue to provide mentorship and assistance with this phase of the project.

PHT 5370. Physical Therapy Practice I (8).  This course consists of an eight (8) week full-time clinical experience. The department allows students in this clinical course to carry an IP grade on-going since the clinical experience/course may not be completed at the end of the semester or may cross terms until completed. Clinical progress is monitored by the department while in-progress. See department page for full details on IPs.

PHT 5400. Neuromuscular Physical Therapy II (6).  This course is the second in a sequence of two courses that provides an in-depth exploration of the assessment and intervention procedures used with persons with various neurological pathologies.  The focus of this course will be on neurological problems present from birth or acquired in childhood.   Emphasis is placed on motor control and motor learning, motor development, and developmental disabilities.  Family and environmental contexts are stressed.  Laboratories (which will include some contact with children with neurological dysfunction) are used to strengthen evaluation and intervention skills, especially the analysis of movement as well as planning, practicing, and modifying treatment.  Clinical competence in the evaluation and treatment of children with neurological impairments is to be developed.

PHT 5401. Neuromuscular Physical Therapy II Lab (0).  This is the laboratory companion course to PHT 5400.

PHT 5410. Cardiopulmonary Physical Therapy (4).  Physical therapy evaluation, assessment, intervention, and prevention in patients with primary and secondary disorders of the cardiopulmonary systems are the focus of this course.  Principles of exercise testing and training for both healthy adults and for patients are included.  The emphasis is on designing comprehensive programs that include patient education, assistance with life-style changes, and activity prescriptions.

PHT 5411. Cardiopulmonary Physical Therapy Lab (0).  This is the laboratory companion course to PHT 5410.

PHT 5420. Pharmacotherapeutics (2).  The student is to utilize their knowledge of physiology and anatomy to develop an understanding of the effects of medication on human performance.  The course will cover the human throughout many phases of life, and will cover a number of disease states.  The course is developed to provide an understanding of substance misuse, drug interactions, drug compliance, and dosage recommendations.  The format of the course includes lectures, discussions, and problem-based, patient-centered case situation learning activities.

PHT 5430. Health Care Systems (2).  This course will cover such topics as  current health care regulations, managed care, risk-sharing (capitation), provider and payor-sponsored delivery models, market analysis and healthcare product design. Through case studies, panels, and lectures, the course will not only provide instruction in the basic strategies of managed healthcare; but will also expose the student to real-time market dynamics.

PHT 5450. First Responder (2).  The main focus of this course is related to the understanding of the role that physical therapists play in the field of sports physical therapy with an emphasis on the acute management of traumatic injuries and/or sudden illness.  The format of the course includes lectures, discussions, laboratory experiences, and problem-based, patient-centered case study learning activities.  Students who successfully complete this course will also receive American Red Cross certification in professional rescuer CPR and First Responder certification.

PHT 5460. Critical Inquiry V (1).  This is the final phase of the group scholarly projects begun in Critical Inquiry III (PHT 5240).  All elements of the research process are brought together to generate a scholarly manuscript suitable for publication in a professional, peer reviewed, physical therapy journal.  The majority of the semester will be dedicated to data analysis, interpretation and generation of the scholarly manuscript.  As has been the case with the previous courses associated with this group research requirement (PHT 5240 and PHT 5360), faculty members will assist the students in developing their project into a professional manuscript.

PHT 5470. Collaborative Teaching (1).  The intent of this class is for the student to develop accountability for integrating clinical information with classroom instruction by taking on roles as prospective faculty members addressing the pedagogy of their discipline.  The design of this class is an instructional strategy in which small groups work together toward a common goal of providing accountable instruction with plans, objectives, appropriate implementation, and outcomes assessment in terms of student learning.  This course is an introduction to the treatment of teaching as a scholarly activity, and encourages a variety of techniques that represent the transformation of ideas for particular students in particular contexts.

PHT 5500. Physical Therapy Practice II (8).  This course consists of an eight (8) week full-time clinical affiliation. The department allows students in this clinical course to carry an IP grade on-going since the clinical experience/course may not be completed at the end of the semester or may cross terms until completed. Clinical progress is monitored by the department while in-progress. See department page for full details on IPs.

PHT 5510. Physical Therapy Practice III (8).  This course consists of an eight (8) week full-time clinical affiliation. The department allows students in this clinical course to carry an IP grade on-going since the clinical experience/course may not be completed at the end of the semester or may cross terms until completed. Clinical progress is monitored by the department while in-progress. See department page for full details on IPs.

PHT 5520. Physical Therapy Practice IV (8).  This course consists of an eight (8) week full-time clinical affiliation. The department allows students in this clinical course to carry an IP grade on-going since the clinical experience/course may not be completed at the end of the semester or may cross terms until completed. Clinical progress is monitored by the department while in-progress. See department page for full details on IPs.

PHT 5550. Psychosocial Aspects of Health (2).  This course provides information on psychosocial issues encountered in clinical practice.  Human interaction and communication, strategies for understanding adaptations to disease and disability, and development of cultural sensitivity and competent skills for practice are included.  Identification of psychological signs and symptoms that require referral are also incorporated in this course.

PHT 5570. Lifespan Human Development (2).  This course examines typical human development from conception to death including physical, psychological, cognitive and social development with emphasis on physical development. Topics include the development of musculoskeletal, cardiopulmonary, sensory, and nervous system changes. Other lifespan issues include the development of posture, locomotion/movement, fine motor, speech and language, cognition, and health and fitness.   Current motor development research in relationship to development throughout the lifespan is also explored.

PHT 5580. Physical Therapy Management and Strategic Planning (3).  This course focuses on the skills and knowledge needed by the physical therapist to effectively fulfill supervisory and management roles in the health care setting.  Concepts of management theory, organizational behavior, time management, quality and outcomes, medical malpractice, resource needs analysis, financial management, risk management, strategic planning, human resource management, and supervisory skills are included.

PHT 5630. Kinesiology/Biomechanics (7).  This course provides the study of selected anatomical, structural, and functional properties of human connective, muscular and nervous tissue, and skeletal structures of the lower extremity.  Emphasis is placed on mechanical, neuroregulatory and muscular influences upon normal and pathological motion.  The integration of the lower extremity is discussed with the assessment of normal human gait sequencing.  The fundamental patient assessment skills of palpation, muscle testing and goniometry of the lower extremity are presented.

PHT 5631. Kinesiology/Biomechanics Lab (0).  This is the laboratory companion course to PHT 5630.

PHT 5640. Differential Diagnosis (2). This course is designed to help physical therapy students learn to identify signs and symptoms of common organ system disorders and develop clinical decision making processes to determine when referral to other medical professionals is warranted.  Instruction in performing a review of systems, screening procedures, and interpreting medical and laboratory tests will be included.

PHT 5670. Human Anatomy (7).  In-depth study and analysis of the regional and systemic organization of the body.  Emphasis on structure and function of human movement.  Included within the course is an overview of applied basic imaging techniques to the study of human anatomy, and an overview of the autonomic nervous system.

PHT 5671. Human Anatomy Lab (0).  This is the laboratory companion course to PHT 5670.

PHT 5700. Clinical Pathophysiology I (2).  Introduction to pathophysiologic mechanism of human diseases seen in current healthcare practice. Epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, diagnostic techniques and clinical concerns specific to Physical Therapy will be discussed.  The following systems/processes will be included in this course:  Inflammation, neoplasm, infectious diseases, endocrine, integumentary, and lymphatics.

PHT 5710. Clinical Pathophysiology II (2).  Introduction to pathophysiologic mechanism of human diseases seen in current healthcare practice.  Epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, diagnostic techniques and clinical concerns specific to Physical Therapy will be discussed.  The following systems/processes will be included in this course: gastrointestinal, renal, hepatic, and musculoskeletal.

PHT 5720. Clinical Pathophysiology III (2).   Introduction to pathophysiologic mechanism of human diseases seen in current healthcare practice.  Epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, diagnostic techniques and clinical concerns specific to Physical Therapy will be discussed. The following systems/processes will be included in this course: nervous, cardiac, pulmonary and reproductive.

PHT 5730. Advanced Clinical Cases (1).  This course presents contemporary and specialty topics in current physical therapy practice.  Presentation in an interactive format including case-based scenarios and patient instructions will assist the students to evaluate and apply new evolving techniques.  Specific topics will be based on current professional trends.

Each student must pass the comprehensive examination at the end of the first and second years with a score of 70% in order to continue with the next academic year semester.