DPT Curriculum

The Division of Physical Therapy offers a contemporary hybrid curriculum. The DPT curriculum focuses on preparing Doctors of Physical Therapy who are experts in optimizing human movement. The curriculum is organized around nine thematic tracks to prepare students for practice and the licensure examination. More information is available via our curriculum flyer.

Students pursuing the Doctorate in Physical Therapy must complete the program requirements as outlined in the West Virginia University Academic Catalog. Additional information on program requirements can be found in the student handbook in SOLE.

Curriculum Tracks

1. Clinical Education: Clinical practice of physical therapy under the direction and supervision of licensed PTs.
2. Evidence-Based Application of Movement Science: Application of contemporary movement science to inform physical therapy practice.
3. Movement Diagnosis: Tools used by physical therapists to diagnose movement dysfunction.
4. Movement Interventions: Application of physical therapy interventions to address movement dysfunction.
5. Movement System Physiology: The science of physiological systems that underlie movement in health and disease.
6. Movement Systems Across the Lifespan: Focus on unique aspects of movement function and dysfunction at various times in the lifespan.
7. Musculoskeletal System: The science of the musculoskeletal system as it relates to normal movement and movement following injury.
8. Neuromotor System: The science of the nervous system as it relates to normal movement and movement following injury.
9. Professional Development: Roles of the DPT in professional practice as a movement system expert.