Please note that the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education approved these course descriptions October 2004.  Updated course descriptions are in the process of development and will be posted in the near future. Course numbers will be assigned by the Registrar as courses are approved.  Refer to your course syllabi for current course descriptions.

FIRST YEAR

Semester 1: Summer

RS 716  Human Anatomy. 4 S.H. lecture, 1 S.H. lab. This course in gross anatomy is designed to provide students with the knowledge of clinical anatomy necessary to practice their expertise upon graduation. The contents of the course include gross anatomy and an introduction to anatomical radiology, and will be conducted to represent a survey of the entire human body. Teaching/learning methodologies will include lectures and discussions, prosected human cadavers, and computer applications. The course will be taught regionally (i.e. upper limb, lower limb, spine, etc.), and will survey all morphologic systems. Thomas & Karakostas

PT 700  Foundations of Physical Therapy. 3 S.H. lecture. This course introduces the student to the history, development, and current issues of the physical therapy profession and the American Physical Therapy Association. The Guide to Physical Therapist Practice, Code of Ethics (complete with the Guide for Professional Conduct), and Guidelines for Documentation will be presented and discussed.  Legal and regulatory issues related to the physical therapy profession will be examined.  Professional communication, intercultural communication, and cultural competence will be discussed in the context of patient and professional relations.  Wise & Cegles

PT 704  Medical Terminology for the Physical Therapist.  1 S.H. lecture.  The assigned textbook, The Terminology of Health and Medicine (2nd edition) is a learner-oriented, self-study, programmed text.  It is organized into distinct frames that require students to actively particpate in his or her learning by writing in, and confirming answers. The course is arranged by body systems, just as the Guide to Physical Therapist Practice, in addition to medical/surgical specialty areas.  The medical terminology used in this course is based upon the International Classification of Diseases, Clinical Modification (ICD-9CM) Diagnostic Code, Current Procedural Terminology (CPT), Diagnosis Related Groups (DRGs), and Nursing Diagnoses.  The text is accompanied by a free integrated website that compliments the book with quiz questions and immediate quiz results, case studies, and self-instructional CD-ROM. Cegles

PT 705  Movement Science I.  3 S.H. lecture. Movement Science I utilizes lecture and independent learning activities for the study of biomechanics and kinesiology as related to human posture, movement, and normal function. The structure and function of the components of the human movement system are included.  Karakostas

PT 705L  Movement Science Lab I.  1 S.H. lab. The purpose of this laboratory course is to provide students the opportunity to develop palpation skills and to appreciate the differences of a variety of tissue types while learning clinical surface anatomy. The course uses a regional approach and is designed to correlate with the Human Anatomy course. Karakostas

Semester 2:  Fall Semester

RS 701  Neuroscience. 5 S.H. lecture. This course will thoroughly examine the structure and function of the human nervous system with emphasis on functional considerations related to clinical practice. This course will include a study of microscopic and macroscopic anatomical components of the central, peripheral, and autonomic nervous system with emphasis on the organization of functional systems. The neurophysiological principles which are related to neural transmission and function of the various structures and systems will also be examined. Signs and symptoms related to various pathological conditions affecting the nervous system will be emphasized and students will be expected to correlate the clinical manifestations with the anatomical location of the pathology. L. Saladin

PT 711  Clinical Pathophysiology. 4 S.H. lecture. Understanding diseases and pathologically altered function forms an important component to evaluation, treatment, and rehabilitation of individuals having frequently encountered illnesses, both chronic and acute. The purpose of this course is to provide expertise concerning pathological changes in human function that lead to and are associated with various diseases that can affect the human body. A multisystem approach allows students to learn about numerous diseases and disease processes, with the intent of development of a fundamental understanding and appreciation for the effects of pathology and its implications for the rehabilitation process. The course will also include applied microbiology, and will instruct students in the clinical aspects of bacteriology and virology. Cegles, Thomas, & Sword

PT 712  & PT 712L  Applied Physiology and Nutrition. 3 S.H. lecture, 1 S.H. lab. Lecture: The course provides the student with an understanding of the acute and chronic adaptations that occur in the human body in response to physical activity/exercise. The student will be introduced to various methods of assessing and improving fitness in the five component areas: cardiorespiratory fitness, muscular strength, muscular endurance, flexibility, and body composition. The role of nutrition in the prevention of illness and in enhancing the human physiological functioning is addressed.  Lab:  The lab portion of the course will involve the methods available to physical therapists for assessing cardiorespiratory and metabolic function and the interpretation of test results in determining dysfunction. Sword

PT 715L  Physical Therapist Examination I LAB. 2 S.H. lab. This laboratory course is designed to introduce the students to the physical therapist examination and will detailed practice concerning: acquiring and recording the patient/client history, review of systems, posture assessment, AROM, PROM, and muscle performance. Karakostas & Morrisette

PT 721 & PT 712L  Physical Therapist Interventions I. 1 S.H. lecture, 1.5 S.H. lab.  The purpose of this primarily laboratory-based course is to develop student knowledge and skill in the performance of dependent and assisted positioning, bed mobility, transfers, gait training and massage. The use of proper body mechanics will be emphasized during the execution of all tasks. Clinical problem-solving using case studies will be incorporated. Brotherton

Semester 3: Spring Semester

PT 730  & PT 730L  Musculoskeletal I.  3 S.H. lecture, 2 S.H. lab  Lecture: Introduces the examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, intervention, and outcomes for patients/clients with musculoskeletal problems of the spine and peripheral joints.  Musculoskeletal I primarily addresses upper quarter problems/pathology and the preferred practice patterns 4B-1 through 4J-1 from the Guide to Physical Therapist Practice. Lab: The laboratory component of Musculoskeletal I provides detailed instruction and learning experiences focusing on the examination, critical reasoning, and clinical management of individuals with upper quarter musculoskeletal problems. Morrisette

PT 716  Physical Therapist Examination II. 1.5 S.H. lecture. This course covers the sensory examination, cranial nerve examination, testing reflex integrity, assessment of motor/myotomal function, an overview of balance assessment, pain assessment, and detailed gait analysis. Saladin & Karakostas

PT 722  & PT 722L  Physical Therapist Interventions II: Physical Agents and Therapeutic Exercise   3 S.H. Lecture,  2 S.H. Lab   Lecture:  This course provides an introduction to the theory, scientific principles, and evidence for the use of various types of exercise and physical agents employed by physical therapists for the promotion, maintenance, and restoration of optimal health and physical function.   Lab: Laboratory sessions will provide instruction and experience in the application of thermal/electrical agents for the management of pain, dysfunction, impaired muscle performance, range of motion limitations, and the delivery of medications.   Emphasis will also be placed on basic exercise techniques related to muscle performance (including strength, power, and endurance) and stretching/flexibility activities. Case based instruction, evidence-based practice and clinical reasoning are emphasized. Wise & Sword

PT 727 & PT 727L  Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Physical Therapy. 3 S.H. lecture, 1 S.H. lab. Analysis of common diseases/conditions involving the cardiovascular and pulmonary systems, as well as the various types of interventions used to treat them is addressed, with an emphasis on the role of the Physical Therapist in providing appropriate rehabilitative exercise programs and risk factor modification education for persons with, or at risk of developing cardiovascular and/or pulmonary disease.  Problem-solving skills will be enhanced through the use of patient problems and case studies. Sword

PT 728  Imaging/Clinical Electrophysiology for the Physical Therapist.  2 SH.  Introduces the foundations and principles of imaging and the use of imaging studies in physical therapy.  Case studies are used.  The course proceeds to cover the principles of the use of electrophysiologic studies with neuromuscular disease and injury. The role of the physical therapist specialist in electrophysiology (ECS), the process to become a clinical specialist, and the role of the non-specialist to make the appropriate referral are discussed. Morrisette & Thomas

SECOND YEAR

Semester 4: Summer

PT 747 Introduction to Research. 2 cr. lecture. This course introduces students to techniques of literature searching. Students will search, read, and analyze literature that validates current practice. Attention will be given to the advantages and disadvantages of quantitative and qualitative research designs, principles of reliability and validity, the value of descriptive and inferential statistics and the importance of ethical research conduct in evidence-based practice. M Saladin

PT 731 Musculoskeletal II. Musculoskeletal II is a 3 S.H. lecture 2 S.H. laboratory. Lecture: Musculoskeletal II is the second in a series of courses that prepares students to be safe, proficient, and reflective practitioners in examining and treating dysfunction and disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Emphasis is placed on evidence-based practice, as well as current research and theory.  Musculoskeletal II primarily addresses lower quarter problems and addresses the preferred practice patterns 4B-1 through 4J-1 from the Guide to Physical Therapist Practice.  Lab: The laboratory component of Musculoskeletal II provides detailed instruction and learning experiences focusing on the examination, evaluation and clinical management of individuals with lower quarter musculoskeletal problems and dysfunction. Karakostas & Brown

PT 748 Pharmacology. 2 S.H. lecture.  Many individuals attending rehabilitation are managed pharmacologically with prescription and/or over-the-counter medications.  Many patients/clients are also involved with the use of “natural” remedies that can have an impact on their function and wellbeing.  The physical therapist is in an optimal position to recognize and evaluate the effect of medications on the patient’s function and the rehabilitation process. This course provides the student with knowledge concerning pharmacokinetics and pharmacotherapeutic principles, adverse effects, and interactions.  The recognition of adverse effects and the influence of medications and natural remedies on function and rehabilitation will be emphasized. R. Ferguson

PT 749 Comprehensive Health Care. 2 S.H. lecture. This course is designed to introduce the student to the history and evolution of the U.S. health care system, alternative models of health care systems that may influence the future of health care in the U.S., health care finance, and contemporary health policy issues.  Topics include reimbursement issues and mechanisms, concepts of managed care, and the impact of health policy on rehabilitation professions. This course also serves to build on the educational concepts and learning theories introduced in Physical Therapist Examination I & II and Physical Therapist Intervention I & II.  Student physical therapists will have the opportunity to explore and apply various educational principles. Participants will also learn to integrate cross cultural patient/client education techniques and develop their written and verbal communication skills. At course completion, students will be able to effectively educate others using culturally appropriate teaching methods commensurate with learner needs. Cegles and Brown

PT 717 Physical Therapist Examination III: Differential Diagnosis in Physical Therapy.  2 S.H. This course takes a systems approach in differential screening, interpretation of results, and differentiating dysfunction within the scope of physical therapist practice from those that indicate a referral to other health care practitioners. Cegles

Semester 5:  Fall (2) Semester

PT 740 Clinical Practicum I (7 weeks) 7 S.H. This is the student’s first full-time onsite clinical learning experience supervised by a licensed physical therapist with a progression of learning opportunities, application techniques, and professional behavioral abilities.  Offered the first part of the Fall semester. Brown

PT 750 Research Seminar. 2 S.H. lecture. This course requires students to review, discuss, and critique peer reviewed journal articles related to their future research project that have the potential to influence clinical activities, and to use the literature as a tool for evidence-based practice, using the APTA Hooked on Evidence as a resource in addition to other databases of systematic reviews.  Emphasis is placed on the quality of the literature and the results, as applicable to clinical practice. Students will identify a specific scholarship activity in conjunction with an MUSC faculty or community clinician mentor. Cegles/Faculty

PT 732 Musculoskeletal III. Musculoskeletal III is a 3 S.H. lecture course and a 2 cr. laboratory course.  Lecture: Musculoskeletal III is the third in a series of courses that prepares students to be safe, proficient, and reflective practitioners in physical therapist management and prevention of dysfunction of the musculoskeletal system. Emphasis is placed on evidence-based practice, as well as current research and theory.  Musculoskeletal III addresses in greater detail the spinal component and associated areas to upper and lower quarter problems and addresses the preferred practice patterns 4B-1 through 4J-1 from the Guide to Physical Therapist Practice.  Lab: The laboratory component of Musculoskeletal III provides detailed instruction and learning experiences focusing on the examination and clinical management of individuals with problems concerning the spine and associated areas. Morrisette

PT 752 Motor Development.  2 S.H. lecture.  Lecture: This course involves normal development of gross motor, fine motor, oral motor, psychosocial, cognitive, language, self-care and play skills and their relationships will be examined. It is designed to be the physical therapy precursor course to Neuromuscular I and Pediatrics. The normal development of gross motor skills will be contrasted with the abnormal development that occurs in the presence of various conditions and pathologies throughout the lifespan. Faculty

Semester 6:  Spring (2) Semester

PT 723 Physical Therapist Interventions III: Applied Therapeutic Exercise. 1 S.H. lecture This course builds on the concepts and techniques introduced in PT Intervention II.  The theory, scientific principles and evidence for the use of various types of activities to enhance agility, coordination and balance will be covered.   The clinical decision-making process regarding exercise selection and progression will be emphasized. Will also include demonstration, practice, and independent learning experiences that will provide the student with opportunities to integrate both basic and novel approaches to exercise.  The student will be required to design a preventative/rehabilitative program for selected impairments or conditions using the direct interventions of exercise and for improving agility, coordination, and balance. Sword & Wise

PT 751 Diagnosis and Management of Medical/Surgical Conditions. 2 S.H. lecture. Students will develop, integrate, and apply knowledge and skills necessary to examine and treat individuals with integumentary dysfunction such as open wounds, burns, and lymphedema using lecture, observation, and case study. Brotherton

PT 751L Diagnosis and Management of Medical/Surgical Conditions Lab. 1 S.H. Lab supporting PT 751.  Brotherton

PT 753 Research Project. 2 S.H. lecture. This offering allows students to work with faculty members on a research project, and gives students the opportunity to actively participate with faculty members in innovative research experiences that will allow them to better relate the scientific method of discovery to clinical practice. Each student will work with his/her faculty mentor on aspects of a project of mutual interest. Cegles/Faculty

PT 733 Musculoskeletal IV 2 S.H. lecture; 0.5 S.H. lab. Students will learn examination and treatment interventions for individuals with amputation, osteoporosis, pelvic floor dysfunction, prenatal and postpartum musculoskeletal problems. Musculoskeletal IV Lab will focus on application of tests and measures in the examination of individuals  with these conditions and treatment techniques such as pre and post prosthetic training, exercise, patient education, fall prevention, and postural correction. Brotherton & Monger

PT 755 Neuromuscular I Lecture: 4 S.H. lecture, 4 S.H. lab. This course is the first of two major courses that will provide students with a solid foundation in the examination of and interventions for individuals with neuromuscular disorders. This course will focus on physical therapist practice patterns 5A, 5D, and 5I from the Guide to Physical Therapist Practice. The emphasis in this course will be on evidence-based examination and treatment of impairments, functional limitations and disabilities that are common in individuals within these practice patterns. Both traditional and contemporary models of neurological rehabilitation will be presented and the application of an integrated model will be emphasized. Lectures and discussions will utilize case studies to integrate information and enhance the development of clinical problem solving skills.  Lab: Neuromuscular I laboratory uses case studies and hands-on client/patient experiences to provide students with opportunities to apply the information learned in lecture to patient problems and to practice skills applicable to this patient population.  Examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, intervention, and discharge planning skills will be applied to clients/patients with impairments and functional limitations associated with non-progressive disorders of the nervous system.  The components of physical therapist examination and intervention will be practiced to enhance the student’s clinical problem-solving skills and help prepare them to practice safely in the clinical setting. L. Saladin

PT 757  PT for Older Adults.  2 S.H. lecture.  This course will examine foundational, clinical, and behavorial sciences pertinent to the examination, evaluation, and planning of treatment interventions for older adults. Brotherton

PT 757L  PT for Older Adults Lab.  1 S.H.  lab.  This course will provide students with the opportunity to develop and skill in the provision of physical therapy services for older adults and to become acquainted with community resources available for these clients.  Brotherton

THIRD YEAR

Semester 7:  Summer (3) Semester

PT 754 Health Promotion and Disease Prevention. 2 S.H. lecture. This class will serve to address the relevance of Healthy People 2010 to the practice of Physical Therapy. The 10 “Leading Health Indicators” as outlined in Healthy People 2010 are discussed and  particular attention will be paid to these health indicators as they relate specifically to the citizens of South Carolina.  Expert guest speakers will present updated information on various topics consistent with the Healthy People 2010 focus areas. Sword

PT 760 Pediatrics.  3 S.H. lecture, 1 S.H. lab.  This course involves the examination and treatment of the pediatric population using an interdisciplinary approach.  The etiology and clinical features of common diseases/ disorders observed in the pediatric population will be emphasized. Lab:  Methods for examination, goal setting, and intervention are emphasized. Students will participate in interdisciplinary case studies and an interdisciplinary evaluation project. Faculty

PT 756 Neuromuscular II: 2 S.H. lecture, 2 S.H. lab. Lecture: The second course in the neuromuscular sequence will integrate information from previous courses including Neuroscience, Movement Science I and II, and Neuromuscular I and expand on this knowledge to include a comprehensive study on the evaluation and treatment of individuals with chronic and/or progressive neurological disorders. Advanced skills applicable to patients with all neuromuscular disorders that include wheelchair seating and positioning, orthotics and computerized motion analysis will be included in this course. Lectures and discussions will utilize case studies to integrate information and enhance the development of clinical problem-solving skills  Lab: Neuromuscular II laboratory uses case studies and hands-on client/patient experiences to provide students with opportunities to apply the information learned in lecture to patient problems and to practice skills applicable to this patient population.  Examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, intervention, and discharge planning skills will be applied to clients/patients with impairments and functional limitations associated with chronic or progressive disorders of the nervous system.  The components of physical therapist examination and intervention will be practiced to enhance the student’s clinical problem-solving skills and help prepare them to practice safely in the clinical setting. L. Saladin, Wise, & Monger

PT 761 PT Management and Supervision: Physical Therapy Administration. Lecture 2 S.H., lab 1 S.H. This course introduces students to current concepts and principles of organization and management, new program development, human resource management, consultation, and legal issues important to the health professions.  Topics of child, marital, and elder abuse will also be covered. Lab: Students develop a new program for a rehabilitation department and apply knowledge obtained in lecture the analysis of management case studies. Brotherton

Semester 8: Fall (3)

PT 762 Clinical Reasoning and Practice. 3 S.H. lecture, 1 S.H. lab. This course uses a case study format, utilizing problems from a variety of patient/client populations including those with musculoskeletal, neurological, pediatric, geriatric, wound care, cardiac, and pulmonary dysfunction.  The course emphases clinical reasoning and problem solving, with the incorporation of complex, multifactoral problems.  Students will experience a higher level clinical application, with the course cumulating with a comprehensive written and practical examination drawn from all areas across the curriculum. Faculty

PT 763 Physical Therapist Professional Issues. 2 S.H. lecture. This course will focus on current issues affecting the physical therapy profession. Potential topics include the importance of social responsibility, citizenship, and advocacy; individual professional development plans for advanced and continuing professional education (e.g., residencies, fellowships, ABPTS certification, etc.); ethical and legal concerns; state licensure and regulatory changes in the practice act; and current issues emanating from the profession and the American Physical Therapy Association. This course also serves to assist student physical therapists recognize future roles as an academic and clinical educator, while weighing the value/ethical aspects of integrity, accountability, altruism, duty, and caring as a health professional using generic ability guidelines. Wise and Cegles

PT 741 Clinical Practicum II (8 weeks) 8 S.H. Full-time onsite clinical learning experience. Brown

Semester 9: Spring (3) Semester

PT 742 Clinical Practicum III (8 weeks) 8 S.H. Full-time, onsite clinical learning experience. Brown

PT 743 Clinical Practicum IV (8 weeks) 8 S.H. Full-time, onsite clinical learning experience. Brown

PT 770 Clinical Seminar (1 week) 1.0 S.H. This is the Capstone course on preparation for the national physical therapist licensing examination (NPTE) and post-professional employment, including test-taking strategies in conjunction with the Center for Academic Excellence; exit interviews (individual and group); post-professional residencies, fellowships, specialty certifications, and other graduate and continuing competency studies; professional practice portfolios and resumes for interviewing and application to specialty markets (i.e., public health, rural settings, non-traditional career pathways, underserved populations, military service, etc.) and ending with the annual Career Fair.  Cegles