Doctor of Physical Therapy – Phoenix Metro

Program of Study

What You Will Learn

  • Comprehensive study of the human body’s structure and function.
  • In-depth exploration of the human movement system and development of treatment plans.
  • Development of clinical reasoning, critical thinking, professionalism, and communication skills.
  • How to assess patient needs and implement evidence-informed interventions.
  • Physical Therapy with an emphasis on integrative whole-person health care and team-based health.

What You Will Experience

  • Online-hybrid accelerated program that prepares students for a career in a growing field.
  • Hands-on experience in immersion labs and clinical education experiences.
  • Integration of technology and innovative techniques.
  • Commitment to professional growth and lifelong learning through continuing education opportunities.
  • Preparation for licensure examination.

Course Sequence (Total of 114 credits)

Term 1 (21 credits)

  • Physical Therapy Fundamentals
  • Evidence-Informed Practice I
  • Human Anatomy I & II
  • Human Physiology and Pathophysiology
  • Professional Competencies I
  • Health Promotion & Fitness Management
  • Therapeutic Interventions I

Term 2 (18.5 credits)

  • Musculoskeletal Practice I & II
  • Therapeutic Interventions II
  • Clinical Neuroscience
  • Movement Science
  • Evidence-Informed Practice II
  • Integrative Pain Science

Term 3 (18 credits)

  • Musculoskeletal Practice III & IV
  • Neuromuscular Practice I & II
  • Management of the Aging Adult
  • Cardiopulmonary Practice

Term 4 (21 credits)

  • Mindful Patient Management
  • Physical Therapy Practice I
  • Management of the Complex Patient
  • Management of the Pediatric Patient
  • Advanced Diagnostics
  • Pharmacology

Term 5 (16.5 credits)

  • Bracing, Orthotics, and Prosthetics
  • Advanced Therapeutic Interventions
  • Business Management & Entrepreneurship
  • Physical Therapy Practice II
  • Primary Care Physical Therapy
  • Capstone I

Term 6 (19 credits)

  • Professional Competencies II
  • Physical Therapy Practice III
  • Capstone II

College of Health Professions Mission

The College of Health Professions educates a diverse group of healthcare professionals to deliver patient-centered and integrative care, with a focus on achieving optimal outcomes, applying evidence-informed practices with the goal to enhance whole-person health.

Doctor of Physical Therapy Mission

The SCU DPT – Phoenix Metro program is committed to developing competent, caring, professional, and innovative Doctors of Physical Therapy who demonstrate integrity when providing evidence-informed, equitable, and integrative healthcare. We endeavor to foster an inclusive learning environment imbued with kindness, humor, and determination, by engaging faculty, staff, and students in meaningful involvement within the program and the community. Our graduates will be prepared to thrive as valuable members of collaborative interprofessional teams who advance whole-person health.

Program Learning Outcomes

  • Demonstrate Clinical Competence in Evidence-Informed Patient and Client Management.
  • Provide Caring, Inclusive, and Culturally Humble Care.
  • Practice with Professionalism and Integrity.
  • Demonstrate Innovation, Adaptability, and Self-Reflective Practice.
  • Advance Health Equity and Social Responsibility through Community Collaboration.
  • Engage in Effective Education, Communication and Interprofessional Collaboration.
  • Demonstrate Intellectual Humility by contributing to Quality Improvement, Scholarship Initiatives, and the Advancement of the Profession.