Mission and Philosophy

A Program Mission…

The Physical Therapy Program at the University of Wisconsin-Madison was developed in order to meet the physical therapy needs of the people in the state of Wisconsin and beyond. The curriculum is designed to produce a generalist clinician who is able to function in a caring, professional manner and who has the foundation to assume the roles of physical therapy teacher, researcher, administrator, and consultant.

…within a School of Medicine and Public Health Mission

The School of Medicine and Public Health mission of "meeting the health needs of Wisconsin and beyond through excellence in education, research, patient care and service," is evident throughout the Physical Therapy Program curriculum and its study of interventions for improving dysfunctional human movement. The curriculum is built upon a foundation of scientific inquiry and critical appraisal of published works.

A Philosophy…

Classroom and clinical opportunities incorporate concern for the dignity of the individual by emphasizing integration of the patient into his/her own environment. Lifelong learning, as well as continued academic and professional growth, are fostered so that graduates can be leaders in meeting the future needs of patients and the physical therapy profession.

...to Produce Quality Graduates

The graduate will be prepared to assume his/her role in patient care through alleviation of suffering, enhancement of physical abilities and wellness, and improvement in the quality of life of persons seeking care. These roles will be carried out through the processes of patient management and the education of patients, families, colleagues, and the community. The graduate will also be prepared to further the advancement of the profession by collaborating in and supporting research to advance the science of patient care.

Commitment to Diversity

The Physical Therapy Program, along with the American Physical Therapy Association, seeks to foster representation and participation of members of minority groups in the profession of physical therapy. Initiatives targeted toward recruitment and retention of minority students have been implemented within the Program, the School of Medicine and Public Health, the Madison campus, and the University of Wisconsin System.

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Physical Therapy - University of Wisconsin Department of Orthopedics & Rehabilitation
First published: 01/01/04 Last updated: 10/06/08 webmaster@surgery.wisc.edu
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