Academic Tracks

Courses within the curriculum are organized in three tracks:

1. Basic Science Track Courses in this track build on the prerequisite requirements to provide an exceptional basic science foundation upon which clinical theory and application can be based. The normal structure and function of the major systems of the body are emphasized including, but not limited to, neurological, musculoskeletal, and cardiopulmonary, as well as the physiological systems that influence the body in health and disease. In addition, this track includes course work in research design, and analysis and interpretation of research outcomes in order to develop student strategies for critical thinking and critical analysis of published research literature. Cultural and lifespan issues related to injury, disease, and rehabilitation are discussed. Courses within this track total twenty-four credits, see the course schedule for specific basic science course listings.
2. Clinical Science Track   This track comprises the courses in which content related to patient management is presented. This includes, but is not limited to, the elements of patient management leading to optimal outcomes, which consist of examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, intervention, and outcomes. The focus of this track is on examination and treatment of patients with cardiopulmonary and neuromusculoskeletal dysfunction. Concepts covered in the Basic Science and Clinical Practice Tracks are applied throughout the Clinical Science Track, especially as they relate to the anatomical and kinesiological bases of patient examination and treatment, the evaluation of related procedures based on their scientific merit, and communication and psychosocial issues. Pathophysiology and medical management of cardiovascular, pulmonary, neurologic, and musculoskeletal dysfunction are incorporated within the specific courses. Prevention, cultural, and lifespan issues related to injury, disease, and rehabilitation are discussed. Courses within this track total forty-seven credits, see the course schedule for specific clinical science course listings.
3. Clinical Practice Track Courses within this track focus on topics specifically related to the administration of physical therapy services; the psychosocial aspects of therapeutic interactions, including patient-practitioner, practitioner-peer, and practitioner-supervisor relationships; and clinical internships. Cultural and lifespan issues related to injury, disease, and rehabilitation are discussed within these courses. Clinical experiences are included in the second, third, and sixth semesters. All didactic course work culminates in four full-time eight-week clinical internships during the eighth and ninth semesters. Courses within this track total fifty credits; see the course schedule for specific clinical practice course listings.

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Physical Therapy - University of Wisconsin Department of Orthopedics & Rehabilitation
First published: 01/01/04 Last updated: 11/23/09 webmaster@pt.wisc.edu
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