Academic Tracks
The UW-Madison Doctor of Physical Therapy curriculum is organized into three distinct yet integrated tracks: basic science, clinical science and clinical practice. Each track is comprised of sequential and progressive course work, utilizing sound education principles.
The curriculum is initially weighted heavier in the basic science track, ending with emphasis in the clinical practice track. Most semesters incorporate courses from all three tracks.
Curriculum Matrix
| Semester |
Basic Science Track |
Clinical Science Track |
Clinical Practice Track |
| Year 1: Summer (Semester 1) |
|
- PT 501 Anatomical Applications in Physical Therapy
|
- PT 538 Introduction to the Physical Therapy Profession and Professionalism
|
| Year 1: Fall (Semester 2) |
- ANA 637 Functional Neuroanatomy
- PT 627 Clinical Decision-Making: Tissue Mechanics and Adaptations
|
- PT 527 Foundations of Physical Therapy Examination, Evaluation Diagnosis
- PT 664 Clinical Medicine I
|
- PT 539 Physical Therapy Education and Lifespan Learning Issues
|
| Year 1: Spring (Semester 3) |
- PT 628 Clinical Decision-Making: Neuromuscular Mechanics and Control
- PT 640 Scientific Inquiry in Physical Therapy
|
- PT 534 Foundations of Physical Therapy Intervention
- PT 665 Clinical Medicine II
|
- PT 700 2-Week Clinical Internship I
- PT 540 Psychosocial Aspects of Health Care
|
| Year 2: Summer (Semester 4) |
|
- PT 521 Physical Agents
- PT 675 Orthotics: Application in Physical Therapy Practice
- PT 668 Health Promotion and Wellness
|
- PT 701 4-Week Clinical Internship II
|
| Year 2: Fall (Semester 5) |
- PT 641 Current Issues in Rehabilitation Research I
|
- PT 523 Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Aspects of Physical Therapy
- PT 635 Motor Control Dysfunction: Examination, Diagnosis, and Management I
- PT 676 Musculoskeletal Dysfunction: Examination, Diagnosis, and Management I
|
- PT 541 Issues of Culture and Diversity in Health Care
|
| Year 2: Spring (Semester 6) |
- PT 643 Current Issues in Rehabilitation Research II
|
- PT 636 Motor Control Dysfunction: Examination, Diagnosis, and Management II
- PT 677 Musculoskeletal Dysfunction: Examination, Diagnosis, and Management II
|
- PT 512 Principles of Professional Practice and Administration
- PT 542 Medical Ethics, Jurisprudence, and Health Care Regulations
|
| Year 3: Summer (Semester 7) |
|
- PT 667 Clinical Case Conference
- PT 678 Physical Therapy Management of Integument Conditions
|
- PT 543 Professional Practice Issues in Physical Therapy
- PT 600 Service Learning Seminar in Physical Therapy
- PT 702 8-Week Clinical Internship III
|
| Year 3: Fall (Semester 8) |
|
|
- PT 703 8-Week Clinical Internship IV
|
| Year 3: Fall (Semester 8) |
|
|
- PT 704 8-Week Clinical Internship V
- PT 705 8-Week Clinical Internship VI
- PT 601 Physical Therapy Externship
|
Offered any semester:
- PT 799 Independent Study
- PT 642 Research Practicum