Physical Therapy

Program Mission Statement

The faculty of the Physical Therapy Program at the University of North Florida is dedicated to preparing students for entry-level physical therapy clinical practice by utilizing an evidence-based curriculum, engaging students in on-going research, and participating in clinical internships that stimulate critical inquiry. The program is committed to life-long learning and seeks to provide opportunities to engage students, faculty and the community in professional development and service.

Student Learning Outcomes

Graduates will be able to:

Knowledge of Literature of Discipline (req)

• Upon program completion, students will correlate and apply theoretical foundations of knowledge to the practice of physical therapy; evaluate and clarify new or evolving theory relevant to physical therapy.

Professional Skills

• correlate and apply theoretical foundations of knowledge to the practice of physical therapy; evaluate and clarify new or evolving theory relevant to physical therapy.

• demonstrate in-depth knowledge of the foundational sciences of anatomy, physiology, neurology and pathology for application to the discipline of physical therapy.
• correlate and apply theoretical foundations of knowledge to the practice of physical therapy; evaluate and clarify new or evolving theory relevant to physical therapy.
• demonstrate mastery of entry level clinical skills based on contemporary physical therapy practice and evidence, including physical therapy examination, evaluation, diagnosis, intervention, prevention activities, wellness initiatives and appropriate health care utilization.
• consistently use information technology to access sources of information to support clinical decisions.
• consistently and critically evaluate sources of information related to physical therapy practice, research, and education, and apply knowledge from these sources in a scientific manner.
• demonstrate the behaviors of the scholarly clinician by developing and utilizing the process of critical thinking and inquiry particularly focused on the improvement of the practice of physical therapy and the delivery of healthcare.
• apply the principles of evidence-based practice to clinical decision-making.
• contribute to the evidence for practice by written systematic reviews of evidence or written descriptions of practice.
• expressively and receptively communicate in a culturally competent manner with patients, professionals and communities.
• use information technology such as word processing, presentation, data analysis software, e-mail, and electronic records to improve clarity and efficiency of communications.
• use a variety of communication skills to effectively educate others using appropriate teaching methods that are commensurate with the needs of the learner.
• practice as a reflective and competent clinician whose clinical decision making skills are guided by ethical practice standards.
• experience areas of personal growth necessary for the transition into becoming a professional.
• actively promote the profession of physical therapy by participating in professional organizations recognizing how the organizations’ values relate to the practice of physical therapy.
• demonstrate the professional, ethical and social skills to adapt to changing health care environments to effectively provide physical therapy care.
• determine when patients/clients need further examination or consultation by a physical therapist or referral to another health care professional.
• engage in reflective practice through sound clinical decision-making, critical self-assessment, and commitment to lifelong learning.

Independent Research

• Upon program completion, students will demonstrate mastery of entry level clinical skills based on contemporary physical therapy practice and evidence, including physical therapy examination, evaluation, diagnosis, intervention, prevention activities, wellness initiatives and appropriate health care utilization.

Assessment Approaches

Assessment of outcomes is an ongoing process, which leads to a continual review and revision of the curriculum. The faculty believes that this is imperative if we are to continue to prepare our graduates for effective practice in a continually changing and challenging health care environment. We are committed to maintaining this continuous assessment.