Online Physical Therapy Courses at Accredited Schools

Utica College, the school below with the highest overall ranking, is effective at equipping students via its physical therapy courses to be successful physical therapists, PTs, exercise physiologists, physical therapy assistants, etc. and connect them to future employers. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, at present there are 174,490 people employed as physical therapists alone in the US, and their average annual salary is $76,220. Physical therapist aides make on average $24,990 per year and there are about 44,160 of them employed today.

Physical Therapy Organizations Physical Therapy Common Job Tasks
  • maintaining accurate records for company
  • evaluating and treating patients
  • assisting in new program techniques
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Ranked by Excellence

Physical Therapy Courses at Utica College

Program Name: Online Transitional Doctorate of Physical Therapy
Foundations Of Autonomous Practice
Course Number PHT701
Credits 3.0

Historical perspective of the role of the physical therapist as related to patient/client management. Introduction/review of the Guide to Physical Therapist Practice. Explore concepts related to physical therapy diagnosis, screening for underlying pathology, and application of a Disablement Model to clinical cases. Introduce Outcomes Measurement. Examine Evidence-Based Practice and strategies for acquiring best evidence. This course launches the program with an on-campus residency, designed to provide personal advising to outline a plan of study, enhance the subsequent online experience through peer networking and collaboration, and provide attendees with an advanced competency course in differential diagnosis facilitated by a nationally recognized speaker in our field, Dr. Steven Tepper


Prevention And Wellness
Course Number PHT712
Credits 3.0

Evaluate the role of the physical therapist in Primary Care and management of the whole patient. Screening/Risk stratification across the Practice Patterns. Examine epidemiology and its relevance to physical therapy. Assess the role of the physical therapist evaluation and prescription of exercises for intervention, wellness and prevention programs. Prerequisites: PHT701 and permission of instructor


Diagnostic Imaging I
Course Number PHT721
Credits 2.0

Fundamentals of diagnostic imaging for screening, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis and outcomes assessment in patient populations frequently cared for by physical therapists. Scientific principles underlying multiple imaging technologies will be covered. PHT 701 and permission of instructor


Diagnostic Imaging Ii
Course Number PHT722
Credits 2.0

Systematic Method Of Analyzing And Integrating Imaging Findings Into Physical Therapy Diagnostic Process, Linking Imaging Findings Of Clinical Case Studies Across Lifespan And Preferred Practice Patterns. Selected Depth Of Knowledge In Primary Clinical Practice Area. Prerequisites: Pht 701,pht 721 And Permission Of Instructor


Pharmacology And Pathophysiology I
Course Number PHT723
Credits 2.0

Fundamental principles of pharmacology, from cellular/molecular level to systems level. Emphasizes effect of drug action on major systems, including therapeutic and adverse interactions and factors that modify their effects. Traditional and alternative pharmacologic interventions involving all systems will be covered. Prerequisite: PHT701 and permission of instructor


Pharmacology And Pathophsiology Ii
Course Number PHT724
Credits 2.0

Case Studies And Systematic Reviews Of The Literature Will Be Used To Examine The Impact Of Medications On Physical Therapy Patient/client Management. Selected Depth Of Knowledge In Primary Clinical Practice Area. Emphasis On Clinical Decision Making And Autonomous Practice. Prerequisite: Pht 701, Pht 723 And Permission Of Instructor


Global Health Care Issues
Course Number PHT716
Credits 3.0

Evaluate current views on health policy, professionalism, professional interactions and competence and their impact on physical therapy practice. Strategies for fostering leadership, within the profession will be introduced. Prerequisite: PHT701 and permission of instructor


PRACTICUM
Course Number PHT816
Credits 1.0

Capstone Course Tailored To Individual Student Needs And Professional Interests. Students Select Education, Management, Gerontology, Or Clinical Research As A Focus. Individual Or Group Experiences Are Planned With Individual Faculty And Outside Agencies. Prerequisite: Pht 701, Pht 712, Pht 721, Pht 722, Pht 723, Pht 724 And Permission Of Faculty


Teaching And Learning
Course Number PHT811
Credits 3.0

Outcomes of instructional process through effective teaching techniques and strategies. Principles of teaching and learning and dynamics of teacher effectiveness related to physical therapist’s role caregiver, educator, consultant, and collaborator. Prerequisite: PHT701 and permission of instructor


Measurements And Interpretation Of Outcomes
Course Number PHT812
Credits 3.0

Fundamental measurement properties of instruments used by physical therapists in determining level of impairment, differential diagnosis, outcomes measures, health status, and patient/client satisfaction. Strategies to assess and select between various instruments for clinical practice. Prerequisite: PHT701 and permission of instructor


Management In Health Care Delivery
Course Number PHT813
Credits 3.0

Organizational management theory and principles. Quantitative analysis of health care issues. Supervision, quality assurance and marketing are explored. Examine concepts of human resources and quality assurance including productivity, contracts, and ethical/legal issues. Prerequisite: PHT701 and permission of instructor


Research Methods
Course Number PHT815
Credits 3.0

Fundamental concepts of scientific inquiry as they relate to clinical issues in health care. Levels of data, variance, sampling, reliability, validity, predictive value, and statistical inference are discussed in the context of clinical questions. Prerequisite: PHT701 and permission of instructor


Program description: With a highly acclaimed program that features nationally recognized faculty, personal attention, and state-of-the-art clinical facilities on campus, UC's Doctor of Physical Therapy degree prepares you for substantial professional opportunities, including positions at major medical centers throughout the United States.

Physical Therapy Courses at CDI College

Program Name: Rehabilitation Therapy Assistant
Pre-Science Basics
Course Number PSBE
Credits 25.0

This course provides an introduction to the basic principles of chemistry, equations, medical terminology, and human physiology in order to prepare students for the more advanced course of study in this diploma program. Study skills for learning the sciences are also discussed in order to facilitate the student’s learning process.


Introduction to Rehabilitation
Course Number IRHE
Credits 25.0

This Course Introduces Pta/ota Students To The Field Of Rehabilitation. It Addresses The Diversity Of Roles And Relationships Of Health Professionals Within The Field Of Rehabilitation And Within The Health Care System. Students Will Address Issues Including Professionalism, The Roles And Responsibilities Of The Pta/ota, Models Of Health Care And Professional Ethics.


Human Development
Course Number HUDE
Credits 75.0

This Course Traces Human Development From Conception To Death. Topics Include The Interaction Of Heredity And Environment, Age Group Characteristics, Physiological And Psychological Problems That Appear Throughout The Lifespan. A Focus Is Placed On The Appreciation Of How Human Development Relates To The Disciplines Of Pta And Ota.


Functional Movement
Course Number FMVE
Credits 75.0

Students are provided with an understanding of normal human motion. The course addresses topics that include joint mobility, muscle tone, range of motion, normal gait and normal posture. Students are also introduced to skills including palpation and observations skills, limb and patient handling. This provides an emphasis on both theoretical and practical skills.


Human Disorders
Course Number HDOE
Credits 75.0

Human Disorders introduces students to a variety of disabling conditions, based on broad diagnostic categories. This course addresses both physical and psycho-social conditions specific to the pediatric, adult and geriatric population. They are addressed within the framework of impairment, disability and handicap. The course provides a brief review of the body systems and disorders related to each of these systems.


Clinical Physiotherapy I - Orthopaedics
Course Number CP1E
Credits 75.0

The Clinical Physiotherapy I course is designed to introduce the student to the theoretical knowledge and practical application of therapeutic exercise in physical therapy. The Clinical Physiotherapy course will discuss basic exercise physiology, as well as treatment interventions related to a range of musculoskeletal disorders. Practical labs provide the student the opportunity to gain proficiency with patient handling skills and therapeutic exercise techniques.


Communications I - Client Care
Course Number CM1E
Credits 50.0

This course equips the student with the skills needed to deal effectively with clients and colleagues in the health care setting. It addresses topics including verbal and non-verbal communication, effective listening, cultural differences in communication, and conflict management. A variety of learning strategies are employed including group discussion, role playing, group exercises and individual assignments.


Clinical Physiotherapy II - Therapeutic Exercise
Course Number CP2E
Credits 50.0

The goal of this course is to develop the student's knowledge and skill in therapeutic activities in physical therapy. Topics include therapeutic exercise techniques for a variety of conditions. An emphasis will be placed on practical skills as well as the indications, contraindications, and precautions for a variety of interventions. As part of this course, students will also gain an overview of the area of therapeutic recreation and the role that the rehabilitation assistant can occupy in this sector.


Communications II - Client Record Management
Course Number CM2E
Credits 25.0

This course is designed to introduce the Physiotherapist/Occupational Therapist Assistant, Rehabilitation Assistant to Client Record Management in a clinical setting. The ability to provide accurate, concise documentation is integral to the role of the assistant. Assistants will be required to document the treatment provided under the direction of the registered practitioner, within professional guidelines and legal requirements. This course will provide the student with an overview of commonly used methods of documentation, legal guidelines, use of abbreviations, confidentiality, and the role of the assistant in Client Record Management.


Introduction to Gerontology
Course Number GERE
Credits 50.0

This course provides students with an overview of geriatric care and a review of systems as they relate to aging, with specific emphasis on the complexity of aging, pathology and health care. Topics will deal with aging pathokinesiology and the aging sensorium and will be directed at specific clinical conditions. Death and dying, as well as ethical considerations with the geriatric population will be reviewed.


Clinical Physiotherapy III - Neurological Rehabilitation
Course Number CP3E
Credits 50.0

This Course Is Designed To Introduce The Student To The Specialty Area Of Neurological Rehabilitation. Traditionally, Physical Therapists Have Chosen To Not Use Support Personnel In This Field, But Now The Trend Has Shifted And Neuro Rehab Is A Growing Field For The Pta Or Rehab Assistant. The Student Will Develop A Basic Understanding Of The Area Of Neurological Rehabilitation, Including Review Of The Common Neurological Conditions And The Various Neuro Treatment Approaches. The Student Will Develop A Thorough Understanding Of The Role Of The Pta Or Rehab Assistant As A Member Of The Neurological Health Care Team.


Therapeutic Recreation Program Facilitation
Course Number TRDE
Credits 50.0

This course will explore the importance of using recreation and leisure activity as therapy and the role of the rehabilitation assistant in the implementation and facilitation of therapeutic recreation services. Students will develop the ability to implement a variety of individual and group techniques, utilize a variety of assistive devices and techniques, apply therapeutic recreation content and services, and apply activity and task analysis in the delivery of therapeutic service. Students will examine the potential benefits in a variety of recreational activities.


Physical Agents
Course Number PHYE
Credits 75.0

Students are exposed to the theory and application of therapeutic modalities used in physiotherapy. An emphasis is placed on indications, contraindications and special safety considerations in the application of a variety of modalities. In addition, students will be provided with the practical skills required to safely and effectively apply these modalities to a patient.


Rehabilitation Processes / CPR and First Aid
Course Number RBPE
Credits 75.0

Students are provided with the knowledge and practical skills required for basic patient care management. This course provides an overview of patient positioning and draping, wheelchairs, lifts and transfers. The knowledge from the previous Anatomy and Physiology, Human Development, and Human Disorders courses is applied to assist in the determination of the purpose, benefit, functional sequence and safety precautions of movement and positioning procedures. Students are also provided with insight into accessibility issues for our patient population. CPR and First Aid training is included in this course.


Clinical Case Studies
Course Number CCSE
Credits 25.0

This course provides the student with the opportunity to integrate and consolidate the theory and practice of managing complex patient situations. The student will use critical thinking skills to determine a patient’s needs in order to appropriately implement components of a treatment plan as prescribed by, and under the supervision of, the Physiotherapist. The course will focus on the more complex patients who require Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy and other disciplines within the health care team. The course offers a combination of small group tutorials and problem solving sessions, along with a self-directed component.


OTA Therapeutic Techniques - Physical Disabilities
Course Number OT1E
Credits 125.0

This course introduces students to the philosophy and principles of the practice of Occupational Therapy and provides the opportunity to learn about the scope of service of the OT and OTA. A variety of physical disabilities will be explored and students will be familiarized with intervention strategies and therapeutic activities.


OTA Therapeutic Techniques - Psychiatry
Course Number OT2E
Credits 100.0

The objective of this course is to introduce students to the field of Occupational Therapy in Psychiatry, familiarizing them with the theory and therapeutic techniques applied by the Occupational Therapist working in Psychiatry.


OTA - Therapeutic Techniques in Pediatrics
Course Number OT3E
Credits 75.0

This course will cover the fundamentals of Pediatrics that an OTA needs to be familiar with. Pediatric health conditions, the Occupational Therapy process, pediatric assistive devices and the scope of practice will be covered.


Student Success Strategies
Course Number SSSE
Credits 25.0

This course will introduce students to skills and concepts that will help them achieve personal, academic, and career success.


Introduction to Computers
Course Number INTE
Credits 50.0

This course covers working with the Windows operating system to manage files and folders and customize the desktop, creating documents, and using the Internet for communication and research.


Anatomy and Physiology
Course Number APPE
Credits 45.0

This component of the program is designed to introduce students to the structures and functions of the human body. Emphasis is placed on the various effects of the disease states of the body and the manner in which pharmaceutical products affect them


Professional Skills
Course Number PSKE
Credits 25.0

This course is designed to equip students with interpersonal skills identified by employers as essential for success in the professional world. Using a variety of instructional methods including case studies, group exercises, and discussion, students learn and practice key communication skills.


Practicum
Course Number PRAC
Credits 100.0

This program includes a practicum component consisting of a specified number of weeks of work at a job site. This practicum work experience is a mandatory diploma requirement and the business organization does not pay for the services of the student during the practicum. The number of practicum hours varies between programs. To learn more about the specific practicum hours for a specific program, speak with an Admissions Representative.


Career and Employment Strategies
Course Number CESE
Credits 25.0

his course looks at the planning, preparation, execution, and follow-up stages of an interview.


Program description: Rehabilitation assistants work with physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and recreational therapists to aid in the recovery of patients. CDI College's Rehabilitation Assistant (RA) program is for students with a strong interest in human development, including injury, functional movement, human disorders and more.

Graduates of this diploma program have the skills, knowledge, values and behaviours necessary for employment in clinics, hospitals, and rehabilitation centres. Courses focus on understanding the body and human development. Students will study bio-chemistry, body mechanics and systems, anatomy and physiology, therapeutic exercise, and the use of advanced technological equipment.

Students put their knowledge to use in clinical placements in the community. Students are given an opportunity to complete their practicum in whichever specialty field they choose.

Physical Therapy Courses at Ashworth College

Program Name: Physical Therapy
Lesson 1: The Profession of Physical Therapy and Career Opportunities for the Aide

In this Lesson, you will learn the role rehabilitation plays in providing patients with physical therapy treatments. You will also explore the many opportunities to be found in this exciting new field to work in both private and public health care systems.



Lesson 3: Medical Records and Terminology

The purpose of this Lesson is to give you an understanding of medical word formation, abbreviations, and common terms you will encounter as a PT aide. You will also explore the major components of a physical therapy patient’s medical record.


Bonus Section: Time Management Guide

n/a


Lesson 4: Musculoskeletal Physical Therapy

The purpose of this Lesson is to introduce you to some on the Musculoskeletal techniques used in physical therapy.


Lesson 5: Neurologic, Cardiopulmonary, Pediatric, Geriatric and Integumentary Physical Therapy

The purpose of this Lesson is to explain how physical therapy techniques are used in the treatment of neurologic disorders. Knowing the appropriate modality for treating a specific condition is helpful even if the PT aide cannot personally implement the treatment or exercise.


Lesson 6: Safety and Preparation for Patient Care

The purpose of this Lesson is to provide you with an understanding of basic hospital safety principles and to teach you how to prepare the patient and the treatment area for care.


Lesson 7: Patient Positioning, Body Mechanics, and Transfer Techniques

The purpose of this Lesson is to teach proper techniques and safety precautions for positioning and transferring patients in a variety of situations.


Lesson 8: Wheelchairs, Assistive Devices, and Gait

The purpose of this Lesson is to give you practical information and advice about assisting patients with wheelchairs, assistive devices and gait training.


Bonus Section: Career Guide

n/a


Program description: Ashworth College's Career Diploma in Physical Therapy Aide program gives students the opportunity to learn how to assist patients suffering from a variety of injuries and problems. This program is intended to teach about the physical therapy profession and career opportunities for aides. Students also have a chance to learn about ethical and legal issues, medical records, terminology, safety and preparation, and wheelchairs and assistive devices. Ashworth College provides students in this program with an illustrated lesson book, study guides, a career search guide, and a time management guide.

Physical Therapy Courses at Penn Foster Career School

Program Name: Physical Therapy Aide
Instruction Set 1

Learning Strategies The advantages of learning at home; types of study materials; types of examinations; accessing and using the features of our website; determining what kind of learner you are; establishing a study schedule; using study tips; preparing for and taking examinations. Introduction to Physical Therapy Brief history of physical therapy (PT); definition of physical therapy; settings in which PT is practiced: hospitals, rehabilitation centers, clinics, etc.; categories of PT personnel; educational requirements; members of the patient-care interdisciplinary team and interaction. DVD: Rehabilitative Careers


Instruction Set 2

The Physical/Occupational Therapy Aide Definition of PT aide's role; education and training; job description and responsibilities; unskilled and skilled tasks, including clerical, inventory, treatment setup, direct patient care, routine exercise, therapeutic activities; supervision of the PT aide, including supervisory guidelines, supervisory relationship, and Medicare regulations governing the use of aides. Introduction to Medical Terminology Definitions; anatomical positioning, directional terms, body regions; therapeutic terminology; common abbreviations. Pronunciation CD Introduction to Medical Terminology


Instruction Set 3

Body Systems Terminology Musculoskeletal, nervous, sensory, circulatory, and respiratory terminology. Common Physical Disorders Dysfunctions and disorders of the musculoskeletal system, including repetitive motion injuries, fractures, soft tissue injuries, joint diseases, low back pain, osteoporosis, muscular dystrophy, and hernias. Dysfunctions and disorders of the nervous system, including headaches, general pain, numbness and tingling, carpal tunnel syndrome, cerebral vascular accident, transient ischemic attack, cerebral palsy, Alzheimer's disease, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, and epilepsy. Infectious disorders, including meningitis, poliomyelitis, shingles, and Bell's palsy. Other disorders, including amputation and decubitus ulcers. Pronunciation CD Body Systems Terminology


Instruction Set 4

Physical Therapy Treatments Introduction to therapeutic modalities or treatments, and the aide's role in administering such treatments. Superficial heat treatments; deep heating treatments; cryotherapy. Appropriate body mechanics and patient transfers. Exercise And Mobility Training Common therapeutic exercise and the aide's role, including range of motion exercises, strength exercises, and coordination exercises. Mobility training, including ambulation (walking) and gait training (rhythmic movements of the arms, legs, and trunk in walking). DVD: Exercise and the Aide


Instruction Set 5

Customer Service The patient relationship; patient rights and responsibilities; confidentiality; telephone and interpersonal skills; interacting with patients, the rehabilitative team, and other personnel; problem solving and conflict resolution. Workplace Health and Safety Patient safety, including standard first aid, CPR, recognizing patient distress; personal safety, including wellness, proper body mechanics and lifting techniques; environmental safety, including infection control, universal precautions; fire/disaster procedures. Supplement: Clinical Work Experience Option


Graduation Set

Quick Reference to Physical Therapy


Program description: The Penn Foster Career School Physical Therapy Aide Program can help you make a difference – your abilities assist patients recover from their injuries and return them to an active life. Train quickly and conveniently with these courses:

•Introduction to Physical Therapy
•Common Physical Disorders
•Introduction to Medical Terminology
•Physical Therapy Treatments
•Exercise and Mobility Training

Physical Therapy Courses by State & City

Top 20 US Physical Therapy Schools (campus and online)

Columbia University in the City of New York
Total Programs 192
Number of Subjects 141
Rank in USA 4th
University of Southern California
Total Programs 251
Number of Subjects 166
Rank in USA 10th
Northwestern University
Total Programs 197
Number of Subjects 139
Rank in USA 11th
New York University
Total Programs 204
Number of Subjects 146
Rank in USA 13th
Duke University
Total Programs 77
Number of Subjects 76
Rank in USA 15th
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Total Programs 148
Number of Subjects 126
Rank in USA 20th
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Total Programs 215
Number of Subjects 164
Rank in USA 23rd
University of Washington-Seattle Campus
Total Programs 243
Number of Subjects 168
Rank in USA 26th
Emory University
Total Programs 112
Number of Subjects 89
Rank in USA 30th
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
Total Programs 279
Number of Subjects 183
Rank in USA 31st
Boston University
Total Programs 6
Number of Subjects 124
Rank in USA 32nd
Ohio State University-Main Campus
Total Programs 202
Number of Subjects 150
Rank in USA 33rd
George Washington University
Total Programs 194
Number of Subjects 171
Rank in USA 52nd
Northeastern University
Total Programs 10
Number of Subjects 126
Rank in USA 56th
University of Connecticut
Total Programs 191
Number of Subjects 146
Rank in USA 63rd
University of Miami
Total Programs 177
Number of Subjects 151
Rank in USA 69th
University of Central Florida
Total Programs 136
Number of Subjects 140
Rank in USA 71st
University of Delaware
Total Programs 159
Number of Subjects 128
Rank in USA 95th
Stony Brook University
Total Programs 126
Number of Subjects 103
Rank in USA 96th
Temple University
Total Programs 210
Number of Subjects 158
Rank in USA 105th