Student Resources
The UND Department of Physical Therapy offers the resources below to help students throughout their education.
Spring Semester 2025
Year 01 Schedule Overview
Year 02 Schedule Overview
Fall Semester 2024
Midterm Exam Schedule - Year 01
Final Exam Schedules - Years 01 & 02
Year 01 Fall Schedule Overview
- PT602 Communication and Professional Practice Syllabus & Schedule
- PT603 Applied Anatomy and Biomechanics I Syllabus & Schedule
- PT607 Pathophysiology for Physical Therapists Syllabus & Schedule
- PT609 Neuroscience for Clinical Practice I Syllabus & Schedule
- PT611 Movement System Examination & Evaluation I Syllabus & Schedule
- PT615 Movement System Intervention I Syllabus & Schedule
- PT617 Physical Therapy Case Application I Syllabus & Schedule
Year 02 Fall Schedule Overview
- PT623 Management of the Pediatric Patient Syllabus & Schedule
- PT626 Management of the Musculoskeletal System I
- PT630 Foundations of Clinical Research
- PT631 Management of Neuromuscular Health Conditions Syllabus & Schedule
- PT 632 Leadership in Physical Therapy Syllabus & Schedule
- PT640 Mgmt of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Systems Syllabus & Schedule
- PT691 Current Concepts PT - Spine
Overview of Professional Courses
PT 101. Orientation Physical Therapy. 1 Credit.
Overview of the educational requirements, practice issues, and opportunities in the profession of physical therapy. Course content includes multimedia presentations, lectures, and observation in clinical settings.
PT 409. Clinical Pathology I. 3 Credits.
Selected pathological conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system. Associated orthopedic diagnoses, surgical interventions, the influences of co-morbidities and pharmaceutical interventions, and safety concerns are discussed with an application to physical therapy patient/client management during orthopedic rehabilitation. Laboratory. Prerequisite: Registered in Professional Physical Therapy Curriculum. S.
PT 410. Clinical Pathology II. 3 Credits.
Selected pathological conditions of body systems, associated surgical interventions, the influence of co-morbidities, pharmaceutical interventions, and safety concerns are discussed with application to physical therapy patient/client management. Laboratory. Prerequisite: Registered in Professional Physical Therapy Curriculum. SS.
PT 412. Biomechanics and Kinesiology. 4 Credits.
Biomechanics and kinesiology of musculature acting on the extremities and trunk. Clinical applications and evaluation of joint integrity and mobility, gait, range of motion and muscle performance. Laboratory. Prerequisite: Registered in Professional Physical Therapy Curriculum. S.
PT 413. Exercise in Health and Disease. 3 Credits.
Basic foundation for theoretical and practical application of exercise science principles for physical therapists. Exercise science principles are applied to healthy individuals and individuals with disease, impairments, and/or functional limitations. Examination and intervention procedures incorporate aerobic capacity/endurance, anthropometric characteristics, and muscle performance activities. Laboratory. Prerequisite: Registered in Professional Physical Therapy Curriculum. S.
PT 415. Motor Control. 3 Credits.
Lecture and laboratory work in therapeutic exercise to establish and maintain muscular control and coordination, including muscle re-education, facilitation, and relaxation. Laboratory. Prerequisite: Registered in Professional Physical Therapy Curriculum.
PT 417. Clinical Exam and Evaluation I. 4 Credits.
Emphasizes patient/client management elements of examination and evaluation. Emphasis is given to the musculoskeletal and neurological systems. Laboratory. Prerequisite: Registered in Professional Physical Therapy Curriculum.
PT 420. Musculoskeletal System Examination. 2 Credits.
Principles of musculoskeletal examination and evaluation including identification and palpation of surface anatomy, range of motion (ROM), measurement of joint ROM, and evaluation of muscle performance. Laboratory. Prerequisite: Registered in Professional Physical Therapy Curriculum. F.
PT 422. Anatomy for Physical Therapy. 5 Credits.
Detailed lectures and demonstrations on musculoskeletal anatomy and neuroanatomy. Laboratory. Prerequisite: Registered in Professional Physical Therapy Curriculum.
PT 423. Neuroscience for Physical Therapy. 4 Credits.
Structure and function of the human nervous system including pathophysiology and clinical applications relevant to physical therapy practice. Prerequisite: Registered in Professional Physical Therapy Curriculum. F.
PT 426. Manual Therapy I. 2 Credits.
Introduction to joint mobilization/manipulation techniques. Emphasis is on mobilization/manipulation as it relates to peripheral joints and soft tissues of the human body. Basic examination, evaluation, and intervention techniques for the spine are also presented. Laboratory. Prerequisite: Registered in Professional Physical Therapy Curriculum. S.
PT 435. Introduction to Patient/Client Care and Interventions. 4 Credits.
Basic physical therapy patient care skills addressing multiple areas of physical therapy practice. A sample of topics address injury to the integument, select interventions for all patients, positioning of patients, vital signs, aseptic technique, and basic wheelchair techniques. Laboratory. Prerequisite: Registered in professional physical therapy curriculum. F.
PT 490. Special Topics:Physical Therapy. 1-4 Credits.
Introduction and investigation of advanced clinical procedures and topics. Topics discussed will be dictated by student and faculty interests. Prerequisite: Registered in Professional Physical Therapy Curriculum. Repeatable to 4.00 credits.
PT 512. Therapeutic Agents. 3 Credits.
Theory and application of various hydrotherapy, phototherapy, and thermotherapy modalities in Physical Therapy, including heat, light, sound, and water. Laboratory. Prerequisite: Registered in Professional Physical Therapy Curriculum.
PT 514. Case Management I. 2 Credits.
Integrates multiple aspects of case management, including examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, plan(s) of care, and intervention strategies. Evidence based clinical decision making and verbal and written communications relative to case management will be emphasized. Prerequisite: Registered in Professional Physical Therapy Curriculum. SS.
PT 519. Electrotherapy and Electrodiagnosis. 2 Credits.
Theory and application of therapeutic electrical currents, biofeedback, electromyography, and nerve conduction velocity in physical therapy. Laboratory. Prerequisite: Registered in Professional Physical Therapy Curriculum.
PT 521. Critical Inquiry I. 1 Credit.
Introduction to the collection of clinical data leading to a case study report. Prerequisite: Registered in Professional Physical Therapy Curriculum.
PT 524. Psychological Aspects of Disability. 2 Credits.
Readings and discussion course. Study of psychological coping mechanisms, reactions, and motivational factors pertinent to people with disabilities. Review of adjustment problems unique to specific disabilities and/or disease processes, including terminal illness. Prerequisite: Registered in Professional Physical Therapy Curriculum.
PT 527. Critical Inquiry II. 2 Credits.
Application, analysis, and evaluation of clinical decision-making components, strategies, and skills. Preparation and presentation of a clinical case study. Prerequisite: Registered in Professional Physical Therapy Curriculum. S.
PT 537. Strategies Early Intervention. 2 Credits.
This course is designed to review current practices in early intervention. Course materials will focus on characteristics of disabling conditions that influence growth and development of motor skills, cognition, and educational development. Emphasis will be on collaborative service provision with an interdisciplinary approach. Topics also covered include: current issues, assessment of the child/family unit, and legislative guidelines for service provision. Prerequisite: Registered in Professional Physical Therapy Curriculum.
PT 544. Pharmacology for Physical Therapists. 1 Credit.
Pharmacological principles and implications for the clinical treatment of patients referred to physical therapy. Fundamentals of drug classification, actions of drugs, physiological mechanisms, and drug therapeutic and adverse effects. Prerequisite: Registered in Professional Physical Therapy Curriculum. SS.
PT 552. Clinical Education III. 9 Credits.
The third in a sequence of four full-time clinical experiences in selected physical therapy provider centers throughout the United States. Prerequisite: Registered in Professional Physical Therapy Curriculum.
PT 553. Clinical Education IV. 9 Credits.
The fourth in a sequence of four full-time clinical experiences in selected physical therapy provider centers throughout the United States. Prerequisite: Registered in Professional Physical Therapy Curriculum.
PT 562. Readings:Physical Therapy. 1-4 Credits.
Review of current literature pertinent to Physical Therapy; critical examination of design, content, and validity of conclusions. Prerequisite: Registered in Professional Physical Therapy Curriculum. Repeatable to 4.00 credits.
PT 583. Critical Inquiry III. 1 Credit.
Introduction to research instruments including surveys, electrical and mechanical instrumentation critical to research methods. Includes discussion of validation, calibration, and reliability of instruments used in physical therapy research. Students develop a proposal for their scholarly projects and complete IRB use of human subject forms. Prerequisite: Registered in Professional Physical Therapy Curriculum.
PT 591. Research in Physical Therapy. 2 Credits.
Students develop the ability to effectively and accurately interpret and communicate results/clinical outcomes as a component of the written Scholarly Project. Frequent group and/or individual meetings with the advisor incorporate peer review discussion to facilitate student development of professional written and oral communication skills. Prerequisite: Registered in Professional Physical Therapy Curriculum. SS.
PT 592. Case Management II. 2 Credits.
Case management, with emphasis on the teaching and learning process and techniques targeted to promote and optimize physical therapy services, including advocacy. Strategies appropriate for conflict resolution are introduced. Professional development as a practitioner of physical therapy is emphasized through introduction and preliminary development of a portfolio. Prerequisite: Registered in Professional Physical Therapy Curriculum.
PT 602. Communication and Professionalism in Practice. 2 Credits.
Introduction and practice for students in their role as professionals in the health care setting. Emphasis is placed on professional core values, professional behaviors, ethics and interpersonal and interprofessional communication skills in the health care environment. Prerequisite: Registered in Professional Physical Therapy Curriculum. F.
PT 603. Applied Anatomy and Biomechanics I. 4 Credits.
This course will provide the anatomical and biomechanical knowledge to understand the human movement system and apply these concepts to the practice of physical therapy which includes the dissection of human cadavers. Anatomy and Biomechanics of the spine, pelvis, and lower extremity will be covered along with the basic structural and functional relationships of the musculoskeletal, integumentary, neuromuscular, and cardiovascular/pulmonary systems. Prerequisite: Registered in professional physical therapy curriculum. F.
PT 604. Gross Anatomy Lab I. 2 Credits.
Foundational science course that includes dissection of human cadavers. Basic structural and functional relationships of the musculoskeletal, integumentary, neuromuscular and cardiovascular/pulmonary systems are emphasized. Topographical and radiological correlations are utilized in combination with clinical correlations to enhance student learning. Prerequisite: Registered in professional physical therapy curriculum. F.
PT 605. Applied Anatomy and Biomechanics II. 4 Credits.
This course will provide the anatomical and biomechanical knowledge to understand the human movement system and apply these concepts to the practice of physical therapy which includes the dissection of human cadavers. Anatomy and Biomechanics of the back, neck, scapulothoracic, and upper extremities will be covered along with the basic structural and functional relationships of the musculoskeletal, integumentary, neuromuscular, and cardiovascular/pulmonary systems. Prerequisite: Registered in professional physical therapy curriculum. S.
PT 606. Gross Anatomy Lab II. 2 Credits.
Detailed dissections of musculoskeletal anatomy and peripheral neuroanatomy. This course is designed to provide the physical therapy student with an adequate foundation in the gross anatomy of the human body which will help them to: Understand the basic structural and functional relationships between the musculoskeletal, integumentary, neuromuscular, and the cardiovascular/pulmonary systems of the body. Prerequisite: Registered in professional physical therapy curriculum. S.
PT 607. Pathophysiology for Physical Therapists I. 3 Credits.
This course provides an overview of physiology and pathophysiology of systems for physical therapists. Associated health conditions, surgical interventions, the influences of co-morbidities and pharmaceutical interventions, and safety concerns are discussed with an application to physical therapy patient/client management. Prerequisite: Registered in professional physical therapy curriculum. F.
PT 608. Pathophysiology for Physical Therapists II. 3 Credits.
This course provides an overview of physiology and pathophysiology of systems for physical therapists. Associated health conditions, surgical interventions, the influences of co-morbidities and pharmaceutical interventions, and safety concerns are discussed with an application to physical therapy patient/client management. Prerequisite: Registered in professional physical therapy curriculum. On demand.
PT 609. Neuroscience for Clinical Practice I. 3 Credits.
Human neuroanatomy and neurophysiology with emphasis on motor theory and the sensory and motor systems involved in the acquisition and control of movement. Discussion of normal functions as well as the clinical signs and symptoms of pathological lesions affecting the nervous system. Applicable health conditions, impairments, and activity limitations of the nervous system relevant to current practice are introduced. Prerequisite: Registered in professional physical therapy curriculum. F.
PT 610. Neuroscience for Clinical Practice II. 3 Credits.
Human neuroanatomy and neurophysiology with emphasis on motor theory and the sensory and motor systems involved in the acquisition and control of movement. Discussion of normal functions as well as the clinical signs and symptoms of pathological lesions affecting the nervous system. Applicable health conditions, impairments, and activity limitations of the nervous system relevant to current practice are introduced. Prerequisite: Registered in professional physical therapy curriculum. S.
PT 611. Movement System Examination & Evaluation I. 3 Credits.
Integration of examination and evaluation techniques for diagnosis and prognosis of impairments and activity limitations of the human movement system. Emphasis is given to musculoskeletal and neurological examination and evaluation components. Prerequisite: Registered in professional physical therapy curriculum. F.
PT 612. Movement System Examination and Evaluation II. 3 Credits.
Integration of examination and evaluation techniques for diagnosis and prognosis of impairments and activity limitations of the human movement system. Emphasis is given to musculoskeletal and neurological examination and evaluation components. Prerequisite: Registered in professional physical therapy curriculum. S.
PT 615. Movement System Intervention I. 3 Credits.
This course integrates components of the movement system as it relates to human motor performance across the lifespan. This includes principles and applications of therapeutic intervention with integration of current evidence and clinical decision making to emphasize appropriate selection, instruction, and progression of physical therapy interventions. Prerequisite: Registered in professional physical therapy curriculum. F.
PT 616. Movement System Intervention II. 3 Credits.
This course integrates components of the movement system as it relates to human motor performance across the lifespan. This includes principles and applications of therapeutic intervention with integration of current evidence and clinical decision making to emphasize appropriate selection, instruction, and progression of physical therapy interventions. Prerequisite: Registered in professional physical therapy curriculum. S.
PT 617. Physical Therapy Case Application I. 2 Credits.
Application of information and clinical skills learned in concurrent and prior DPT coursework in small group discussion and pseudo-clinical setting. Prerequisite: Registered in professional physical therapy curriculum. F.
PT 618. Physical Therapy Case Application II. 2 Credits.
Application of information and clinical skills learned in concurrent and prior DPT coursework in small group discussion and pseudo-clinical setting. Prerequisite: Registered in professional physical therapy curriculum. S.
PT 620. Evidence Based Practice I. 2 Credits.
This course provides students with the foundational concepts related to critical thinking, logic of inquiry, applied statistics, and appropriate clinical research methodologies. Elements of the Patient/Client Management Model are introduced as they relate to diagnosis, prognosis, intervention, and outcomes. Prerequisite: Registered in professional physical therapy curriculum. S.
PT 622. Biophysical Agents. 2 Credits.
Theory and practice in the use of biophysical agents in rehabilitation. Prerequisite: Registered in professional physical therapy curriculum. SS.
PT 623. Management of the Pediatric Patient. 3 Credits.
This course is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills they need to provide care to pediatric populations. This course refines and allows for the theoretical understanding and clinical application of pediatric physical therapy examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, intervention, and outcomes. Prerequisite: Registered in Professional Physical Therapy Curriculum. F.
PT 625. Evidence Based Practice II. 2 Credits.
This course encourages the use of the principles of evidence-based practice components, strategies, and skills, integrating clinical expertise, patients' preference/values, and research evidence to produce a therapeutic alliance during the first clinical experience. Students will apply the EBP process, and clinical decision making to a clinical case that will culminate into a formal presentation. Prerequisite: Registered in professional physical therapy curriculum. SS.
PT 626. Management of the Musculoskeletal System I. 2 Credits.
This course builds upon knowledge of anatomy, physiology, pathology, biomechanics, and therapeutic exercise to enhance the skills of examination, evaluation, and treatment of the human movement system. Emphasis will be given to movement system screening, physical therapy diagnoses, and clinical reasoning resulting in referral and/or modified physical therapy practice. Prerequisite: Registered in Professional Physical Therapy Curriculum. F.
PT 627. Integrated Clinical Experience. 1-4 Credits.
Short-term clinical experience to provide hands-on experience for students to apply knowledge learned during the first year of the professional program. Experiences will be set up in acute care, sub-acute care, long-term care, out-patient orthopedic, or a rural site. Prerequisite: Registered in Professional Physical Therapy Curriculum. Repeatable to 6.00 credits. SS.
PT 630. Foundations of Clinical Research. 1-2 Credits.
This course will explore various methods of physical therapy clinical research. Students will work with faculty through study coordination, data collection, data analysis, and scientific writing. Credits are variable and are negotiated with faculty. Prerequisite: Registered in professional physical therapy curriculum. Repeatable to 4.00 credits. F,S.
PT 631. Management of Neuromuscular Health Conditions. 4 Credits.
Integration of clinical evaluation, functional goals, and treatment planning for individuals with neurological and multiple musculoskeletal dysfunction. The primary focus is on rehabilitation skills including assessment, exercise, handling techniques, functional activities, equipment prescription, patient education, and ADLs, also incorporates community mobility and governmental services. Prerequisite: Registered in Professional Physical Therapy Curriculum. F.
PT 632. Leadership in Physical Therapy. 2 Credits.
Leadership is an integral skill in the development and success of personal and professional physical therapy practice. This course provides a roadmap to achieving excellence in leadership. Emphasis will be placed on exploring leadership of oneself, leadership of others, and leadership to the profession and society. Prerequisite: Registered in professional physical therapy curriculum. F.
PT 634. Acute Care Physical Therapy. 1 Credit.
Acute care physical therapy encompasses the knowledge and skills suitable to thoroughly examine and appropriately intervene with patients in medically compromised situations. Students will learn to provide safe, efficient and effective care for their patients in an acute care environment through the use of simulated patients and clinical scenarios. Prerequisite: Registered in professional physical therapy curriculum. SS.
PT 635. Management of the Older Adult Patient. 2 Credits.
Examine the factors and forces that affect quality of life in later years. The physiological, psychological, and sociological aspects of aging will be considered, including those influences in the cultural context that enhance and impede continued growth of the person. Laboratory. Prerequisite: Registered in Professional Physical Therapy Curriculum. S.
PT 638. Advanced Topics in Pediatrics. 3 Credits.
This course is designed to provide students with sequential and integrated learning experiences that prepare them to provide care to pediatric populations. This course is intended to provide a level of greater expertise and a more in-depth understanding of pediatric physical therapy practice. Prerequisite: Registered in Professional Physical Therapy Curriculum. S.
PT 640. Management of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Systems. 3 Credits.
This course is designed to expand the theoretical understanding and clinical application of cardiopulmonary physical therapy examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, intervention and outcomes. Laboratory. Prerequisite: Registered in Professional Physical Therapy Curriculum. F.
PT 641. Management of the Complex Patient. 3 Credits.
Facilitates the physical therapist's role as an interdependent practitioner working within a collaborative medical model. Utilizes case studies across a variety of clinical settings to examine the management of patient populations with one or more systems involvement including illness, injury, impairment, activity limitations and participation restrictions. Activities will focus on body systems screening for medical disease, selecting appropriate tests and measures, evaluation and prognosis, psycho-social considerations, and a comprehensive plan of care. Laboratory. Prerequisite: Registered in professional physical therapy curriculum. S.
PT 642. Practice Management in Physical Therapy. 3 Credits.
This course provides an overview of physical therapy practice management fundamentals. This includes the study of organizations, strategic planning, human resources, fiscal management, communications, and medical, legal, and ethical issues, as they relate to physical therapy practice and improved healthcare outcomes. Prerequisite: Registered in Professional Physical Therapy Curriculum. S.
PT 645. Medical Imaging for Physical Therapists. 2 Credits.
An introduction to medical imaging and an overview of its role in the health care delivery system. Topics include principles of medical imaging, imaging equipment, diagnostic imaging, and application of imaging principles to inform physical therapy care. Prerequisite: Registered in Professional Physical Therapy Curriculum. SS.
PT 646. Management of the Musculoskeletal System II. 2 Credits.
Theory and application of manual therapy skills for examination and intervention techniques, including thrust and nonthrust mobilizations/manipulations of the spine, pelvis, and associated areas. Laboratory. Prerequisite: Registered in Professional Physical Therapy Curriculum. S.
PT 649. Advanced Applied Anatomy/Clinical Kinesiology. 1 Credit.
Study of applied anatomy and its importance to research and clinical application, particularly as related to Physical Therapy. Prerequisite: Registered in Professional Physical Therapy Curriculum. F,S.
PT 650. Evidence Based Practice III. 2 Credits.
The purpose of this course is to provide students with the skills necessary to critically appraise research designs and research findings related to physical therapy practice. Prerequisite: Registered in Professional Physical Therapy Curriculum. SS.
PT 651. Clinical Immersion and Community Health. 4 Credits.
This course integrates effective communication strategies, fostering students' clinical skills by developing physical examination, critical thinking and reasoning skills, intervention design and clinical teaching for clients in a clinic/classroom setting. In addition, students are immersed in health prevention, promotion and wellness in community-based settings. Prerequisite: Registered in professional physical therapy curriculum. S.
PT 652. Clinical Experience I. 9 Credits.
Full-time, 9-week clinical experience in a selected physical therapy center throughout the United States. Prerequisite: Registered in Professional Physical Therapy Curriculum. F.
PT 653. Clinical Experience II. 9 Credits.
Full-time, 9-week clinical experience in a selected physical therapy center throughout the United States. Prerequisite: Registered in Professional Physical Therapy Curriculum. F.
PT 654. Clinical Experience III. 12 Credits.
Full-time, 12-week clinical experience in a selected physical therapy center throughout the United States. Prerequisite: Registered in professional physical therapy curriculum. S.
PT 655. Interprofessional Health Care. 1 Credit.
Students will gain knowledge of competency-based interprofessional team behaviors and clinical judgment through collaboration, creating an environment that promotes quality healthcare outcomes, diversity, and health equity. Prerequisite: Registered in Professional Physical Therapy Curriculum. F,S.
PT 659. Prevention, Wellness, and Health Promotion. 2 Credits.
The theory and practice of prevention of injury, maintenance and improvement of wellness, and promotion of health and healthy behaviors across the lifespan. Concepts are applied to the general, athletic, and industrial populations, with a view to interprofessional involvement in wellness optimization. Prerequisite: Registered in Professional Physical Therapy Curriculum. S.
PT 660. Teaching in Physical Therapy Practice. 1 Credit.
Principles and strategies for effective teaching in academic and clinical environments. Patient/client, peer, and professional presentations. Students will develop educational programming for a community audience. Prerequisite: Registered in professional physical therapy curriculum. SS.
PT 661. Professional Development. 1 Credit.
Targeted techniques will be employed to promote and optimize physical therapy services related to legislative and advocacy efforts. Professional development as a practitioner of physical therapy is emphasized through introduction and development of a professional portfolio. Prerequisite: Registered in professional physical therapy curriculum. SS.
PT 672. Teaching Experience in Physical Therapy. 1-4 Credits.
Supervised experience in University teaching in Physical Therapy. Projects in curriculum development, formulation of teaching/learning objectives, teaching materials, evaluation tools, and experience in competency-based learning environment. Prerequisite: Registered in Professional Physical Therapy Curriculum. Repeatable to 4.00 credits. F,S,SS.
PT 690. Directed Studies: Clinical Concepts in Physical Therapy. 1-12 Credits.
Individualized study of a particular area of interest for the student approved by his/her major advisor and supervised by preceptors with specialty and/or recognized expertise in the area of interest. Study may include library research, clinical research, discussion/seminars, projects, and directed clinical experience. Prerequisite: Registered in Professional Physical Therapy Curriculum. Repeatable to 12.00 credits. F,S,SS.
PT 691. Current Concepts in Physical Therapy. 1-4 Credits.
Research and independent study in a specialized area of Physical Therapy. Prerequisite: Registered in Professional Physical Therapy Curriculum. F,S,SS.
PT 692. Seminar in Physical Therapy. 1-4 Credits.
This course serves to focus student attention toward graduate study in Physical Therapy. Explore and discuss areas of interest for students and faculty. May repeat to 4 credits maximum. Prerequisite: Registered in Professional Physical Therapy Curriculum. Repeatable to 4.00 credits. S,SS.
PT 995. Scholarly Project. 1-2 Credits.
Students provide a final written and oral report to the faculty on the results of their collaborative Scholarly Project. The written component will be a scientific manuscript that conforms to the standards for submissions consistent with the School of Graduate Studies and Physical Therapy Journal. Prerequisite: Registered in Professional Physical Therapy Curriculum. Repeatable to 3.00 credits. F,S.
PT 996. Continuing Enrollment. 1-12 Credits.
Repeatable. S/U grading.
PT 997. Research III:Independent Study. 2 Credits.
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The physical therapy program at the University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences has a responsibility to society to graduate the best possible future physical therapists. All graduates of the physical therapy program must have knowledge, skills, and attitudes to function in a wide variety of clinical situations and to render a wide spectrum of patient care. The Department of Physical Therapy's Technical Standards are designed to ensure the graduation of capable, well-rounded future clinicians.
It is the experience of the Department of Physical Therapy that a number of individuals with disabilities (as defined by Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act) are qualified to study and practice physical therapy with the use of reasonable accommodations. To be qualified for the study of physical therapy, those individuals must be able to meet both the department's academic standards and technical standards with or without reasonable accommodation. Accommodation is viewed as a means of assisting students with disabilities to meet the standards by providing them with an equal opportunity to participate in all aspects of each course or clinical experience. Reasonable accommodation is not intended to guarantee that students will be successful in meeting the requirements of the course or the clinical experiences.
I. Overview of Technical Standards
Beyond the stated admission requirements, students must demonstrate with or without accommodations:
1. Adequate gross and fine motor ability to perform examination and intervention procedures. The physical therapy student must be able to:
- Safely transfer individuals or equipment using proper body mechanics or instruct others in the proper procedures
- Provide for individual's safety and well-being in all therapeutic activities
2. Adequate sensory and cognitive skills to examine, evaluate, diagnose, and implement intervention strategies as applied to physical therapy.
3. Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities leading to mature, sensitive, and effective decisions in the academic and clinical environments.
4. Effective communication with peers, faculty, patients, clients, family members, caregivers, other health care providers, consumers, and payers using verbal, nonverbal, and written formats.
5. Mature behavioral and social attributes with the ability to:
- Prioritize, organize, and effectively manage tasks within an appropriate timeframe
- Establish and maintain mature, sensitive, and effective relationships with peers, faculty, patients, clients, family members, caregivers, other health care providers, consumers, and payers
- Maintain intellectual and emotional stability and maturity under stress, while also maintaining appropriate performance standards
6. Sensitivity to individual and cultural differences in all professional interactions.
II. Description of Technical Standards
These skills apply to all candidates for admission and students within the professional program. The Committee on Admissions will consider for admission applicants who demonstrate the ability to perform, or to learn to perform, the essential skills listed in the Technical Standards. The Department must ensure that patients are not placed in jeopardy by students with impaired intellectual, physical, or emotional functions. Prospective and current students will be evaluated on their academic record in addition to their physical and emotional capacities to meet the full requirements of the curricula and to graduate and practice as skilled and effective professionals.
A candidate of, or student in, the curriculum must have the abilities and skills to perform in a reasonably independent manner. While attempts to develop creative ways of opening the curriculum to competitive qualified individuals with a disability is possible, the Department must maintain the integrity of its curriculum and preserve those standards deemed essential to the education of a student earning a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree.
To facilitate compliance with the Technical Standards developed by the Department of Physical Therapy, the following skills are set forth as examples. These are not intended to be all inclusive, rather present a basic understanding of each standard.
1. Motor (gross and fine): Candidates/students must have sufficient motor function to perform evaluation, treatment, and emergency procedures without injury to the patient or self. Students must be able to use their abilities to move to successfully complete classroom requirements, perform a physical examination, and provide physical therapy intervention for standard treatment, as well as to provide care during emergency situations. Please note that the terms "frequently" (frequent repetition for 1/3 to 2/3 of a full work shift) and "occasionally" (repetition for up to 1/3 of a full work shift) have been used. The following specific movement abilities are required:
When not participating in clinical education, ability to sit between 2 to 10 hours daily. When not participating in clinical education, ability to stand for 1 to 2 hours daily. When not participating in clinical education, ability to walk intermittently for up to 2 hours daily. When participating in clinical education, ability to stand or walk for at least 7 hours daily and to sit for at least 1 hour daily – modifiable according to the schedule of the specific facility to which the student is assigned. Ability to relocate living arrangements outside the area in which the student customarily lives to complete 1 or more clinical rotations of up to 10 weeks in duration. Frequently lift items less than 10 pounds and occasionally lift items between 10 and 50 pounds. Carry up to 25 pounds while walking up to 50 feet. Frequently exert 14 pounds of push/pull forces to objects up to a distance of 50 feet and occasionally exert 27 pounds of push/pull forces for distances of up to 50 feet. Frequently twist, bend, stoop, and squat. Depending on what class is being taken, or depending on what setting a student is placed for clinical rotation, either occasionally or frequently kneel, crawl, climb stools, reach above shoulder level. Frequently move from one location to another and from one position to another at a speed that permits safe handling of classmates and patients. Handling a workload efficiently and safely requires the ability to respond promptly with appropriate movement patterns. In most cases, when required to travel from one floor to another in a building, a student will have access to an elevator. However, students must have the ability to negotiate stairs and uneven terrain when elevators are not available (for example, when participating in clinical assignments in patient homes) or when assisting patients to learn how to safely negotiate stairs. Frequently use the hands with repetitive motions using a simple grasp and using a firm grasp and manual dexterity skills. Frequently coordinate verbal and manual activities with large movement activities. Ability to assess strength of patient. Ambulation ability and balance sufficient to aid patients with or without assistive devices during transfers and gait training. Ability to manipulate small items, dials, lines, tubes, etc. without disruption of care or injury to patient/self. Upper and lower extremity strength and upright posture sufficient to perform patient evaluation/intervention, respond to emergency situations, and perform CPR.
2. Visual Integration: Adequate vision to be able to:
Distinguish changes in symmetry, color, texture of body structures. Determine range of motion, edema, joint effusion, etc. Integrate examination and intervention techniques. Read charts, graphs, instrument scales, etc., in whatever form presented. Observe a patient at a distance and close at hand. Observe demonstrations, experiments, laboratory exercises.
3. Sensation: Enhanced ability in sensory skills is essential for a physical therapist. Tactile and proprioceptive abilities are necessary to perform a complete and thorough examination of and intervention for the patient including:
Changes in skin temperature, texture. Palpation of body structures, distinguish body parts by touch. Assessment of arthro- and osteokinematic joint movement. Ability to provide appropriate resistance, timing, pressure, etc. during examination and intervention techniques.
4. Cognitive Skills: The candidate/student must have the:
Ability to problem-solve one or more problems within specific timeframes (which are often very short). Ability to function effectively using all necessary cognitive and physical skills under normal working conditions and timeframes. Ability to meet deadlines.
5. Critical Thinking and Problem Solving: The candidate/student must possess the abilities to critically think and problem solve both in the classroom and in clinical settings. These skills include:
Ability to comprehend and apply mathematical principles for statistical concepts and solving clinical problems. Ability to integrate examination findings into a comprehensive intervention strategy for the patient. Ability to assimilate large amounts of material communicated through lecture, discussion, readings, demonstrations, and practice. Ability to utilize statistical information to interpret published reports regarding efficacy of care and apply those findings in a rational manner. Ability to develop research questions, collect data, perform and interpret statistical calculations, and formulate outcomes in a logical manner.
6. Communication: The candidate/student must be able to:
Speak, hear, observe to gain information, examine patients, describe status of patient, changes in mood, activity, posture, etc. Perceive non-verbal communication. Speak, read, and write in English in an effective and professional manner to communicate to all members of the health care team. Maintain appropriate written records.
7. Behavioral and Social: The candidate/student must:
Demonstrate sufficient emotional and mental health to fully utilize his/her intellectual and motor abilities. Exercise sound judgment in all situations, including under stress. Be able to promptly complete all duties involved in examination, evaluation, intervention, and discharge planning. Be able to develop mature/sensitive/empathetic relationships with the patient, family, caregivers, and other members of the health care team. Have the ability to cope with and tolerate heavy workloads, demanding patients, life-threatening clinical situations, rapidly changing environments and conditions; display flexibility; and function appropriately with the uncertainties involved in patient care. Maintain alertness and concentration during an 8- to 12-hour work period. Recognize and respond appropriately to potentially hazardous situations. Be able to work independently and with others under time constraints. Prioritize requests and work concurrently on at least two different tasks. Project image of professionalism at all times.
Students who need accommodations should contact Disability Services for Students at 701-777-3425 or refer to their website for more information on the services offered at the University of North Dakota.
Approved, UND PT Department July 2024
Read over the Student Handbook for graduate study students at the University of North Dakota.
Scholastic Standards
The Scholastic Standards are a set of policies, rules and procedures describing expectations for student academic, clinical and professional performance within the Doctor of Physical Therapy professional program at the University of North Dakota School of Medicine & Health Sciences. All students are provided with an electronic and paper copy of the Scholastic Standards once the students begin the professional program.