Physical Therapy (PHT)

PHT 1121  Functional Anatomy and Kinesiology  
Credit Hours:   4  
Prerequisites: Admission to Physical Therapist Assistant program required  

This course covers palpation and observation skills relating to the analysis of human movement. The singular and combined functions of muscular and skeletal systems are studied. Principles of biomechanics, goniometry, and manual muscle testing procedures are reviewed.

PHT 1200  Introduction to Physical Therapy  
Credit Hours:   2  
Prerequisites: Admission to Physical Therapist Assistant program required  
Lab Fee: Yes  

This course introduces the student to the history and philosophy of physical therapy and the national organization. Emphasis is placed on team building concepts. Basic patient care skills, body mechanics, patient positioning, gait training, and wheelchair prescription are demonstrated and practiced. This course incorporates documentation skills as well as the legal/ethical issues associated with the Physical Therapist Assistant profession.

PHT 1213  Therapeutic Exercise  
Credit Hours:   2  
Prerequisites: PHT 2252 with a grade of "C" or higher  

This course provides an overview of the biomechanical, neurophysiological, and cardiovascular basis for the application of therapeutic exercise. The course introduces various types of exercise, exercise equipment, and general exercise protocols. This course will also cover advanced functional training, women’s health, pediatrics, and lymphatics.

PHT 1300  Pathology for the Physical Therapist Assistant  
Credit Hours:   3  
Prerequisites: PHT 1121 with a grade of "C" or higher  

This course is a study of systemic and organ-specific diseases and related medical terminology as they relate to the practice of physical therapy. The course explores the current literature in selected disease topics and associated pharmacological implications.

PHT 2140  Rehabilitation Procedures  
Credit Hours:   3  
Prerequisites: PHT 2804 with a grade of "S"  

This course focuses on prosthetics, orthotics, home assessments, wheelchair prescription, amputation, special equipment, functional capacity evaluations, psychosocial disorders, coordination, and sensory functioning.

PHT 2211  Therapeutic Modalities  
Credit Hours:   2  
Prerequisites: PHT 1200 with a grade of "C" or higher  

This course examines the indications and contraindications of therapeutic modalities including superficial heat and cold, hydrotherapy, ultrasound, electrical stimulation, and the use of traction. This course also discusses wound care management and techniques of postural drainage.

PHT 2252  Orthopedic Disabilities and Treatment  
Credit Hours:   4  
Prerequisites: PHT 1121 with a grade of "C" or higher  

This course focuses on the study of orthopedic diseases, syndromes, and injuries concentrating on those conditions most commonly treated with physical therapy. Emphasis is on the etiology, pathology, clinical presentation, and physical therapy intervention.

PHT 2804  Physical Therapist Assistant Clinical Practicum 1  
Credit Hours:   2  
Prerequisites: PHT 1213 with a grade of "C" or higher  
Lab Fee: Yes  

This course is the first rotation in clinical education and introduces the student to the clinical setting. Application of skills is the emphasis of this course.

PHT 2810  Physical Therapist Assistant Clinical Practicum 2  
Credit Hours:   2  
Prerequisites: PHT 2140 with a grade of "C" or higher  
Lab Fee: Yes  

This course is the second rotation in clinical education and encourages students to further develop their skills in patient assessment and treatment.

PHT 2820  Physical Therapist Assistant Clinical Practicum 3  
Credit Hours:   2  
Prerequisites: PHT 2810 with a grade of "S"  
Lab Fee: Yes  

This is the final rotation in clinical education and is a comprehensive experience to prepare students to become entry-level physical therapist assistants (PTA).

PHT 2931  Physical Therapist Assistant Seminar  
Credit Hours:   2  
Prerequisites: PHT 2804 with a grade of "S"  
Lab Fee: Yes  

This course explores legal and ethical issues, employment techniques, quality assurance, and career development. Students will present their case studies. The course also provides a comprehensive curriculum review and presents details on applying for licensure.