Program Overview:
This program is designed for students interested in the rehabilitation career field of physical therapy. Students will learn skills required to function as a therapy or rehabilitation technician including therapy treatments, communication skills, patient transfers, patient ambulation, patient range of motion, clinic policies and procedures, and professionalism. Students will learn to assist physical therapists and physical therapist assistants in managing patient care in a rehabilitation setting such as outpatient, hospital, and skilled nursing facilities. Students will demonstrate abilities such as evaluating patient range of motion, therapeutic exercise, interpersonal and professional communication skills, and basic and functional human anatomy. Students will participate in clinical observations.
Course Descriptions:
For Concurrent Enrollment Classes see Appendix.
Introduction to Physical Therapy: This course introduces students to the field of physical therapy through the history, medical terminology, documentation, therapy treatments, and pertinent legal and ethical considerations of the profession. Healthcare for a diverse population begins its thread in this course. Students will participate in clinical observations.
PES 2400/Exercise Science/Sports Medicine: This course is designed to introduce the student to the area of physical therapy and athletic training. Students will also learn components of sports medicine including human anatomy and physiology, injury prevention, first aid practices, injury evaluations, healing processes, therapeutic modalities, sports nutrition, performance skills, and career options.
Educational Opportunities:
Students have the opportunity to further their education at a community college for an Associate’s Degree in the much needed field of Physical Therapy Assisting. Students can also go on to a Bachelor’s Degree in a related field, and then obtain a Doctor of Physical Therapy Degree.
Career Possibilities:
- Rehabilitation Technician
- Physical Therapist Assistant
- Physical Therapist
- Physical Therapy Aide
- Certified Personal Trainer
- Physician
- Surgeon
- Athletic Trainer
- Sports Psychologist
- Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist
Additional Details:
High School Credit:
CTE credit or elective credit: 2 credits
Concurrent Credit:
2 college credits available. Student is responsible to register and pay for concurrent enrollment at UVU
Additional Opportunities:
Physical Therapy clinical hours, Utah Skill Physical Therapy Aide Endorsement, Utah Skills Sports Medicine Endorsement, BLS CPR Certification, Concussion Prevention Certification, Heat Illness Prevention Certification, NSCA Certified Personal Trainer (CPT Certification), Compete in HOSA State/National Championships
Requirements:
None
Recommended:
Anatomy, Physiology and Exercise Science
