A Doctor of Physiotherapy (DPT) degree is a professional doctorate it provides the required education necessary for graduates to embark on a professional career in physical therapy. The DPT graduate possesses clinical competence and is prepared for collaborative practice. It prepares individuals to become licensed physiotherapists. It's an advanced degree that emphasizes evidence-based practice, clinical reasoning, and practical experience through extensive clinical placements. The program typically includes coursework, research components, and hands-on training in various healthcare settings.
The Doctor of Physical Therapy Programme is a ten (10)-semester plan of study, which typically spans over a period of 5 years. The students are awarded the DPT degree after completing 175 credit hours of professional course work including 19 credit hours of supervised clinical practice.
The curriculum had been established on Outcome Based Education (OBE) Model, to ensure that graduates have a comprehensive understanding of human movement, musculoskeletal function, and rehabilitation principles. Initial course focus on development of strong basic science background in the biological, kinesiological, and biomechanical sciences, which serve as a foundation upon which pre-clinical courses are incorporated preparing the graduate with necessary knowledge and skill for patient management and team work. Finally in clinical sciences era the students are provided with ample opportunity to work on their clinical hands on skills and attitude along with development of research culture and promotion of evidence based practice. The curriculum is structured to ensure
Clinical education is at the heart of our DPT program. A significant component of the DPT Programme is dedicated to developing clinical skills and competencies. Students engage in hands-on training through laboratory sessions, simulated patient interactions, and clinical practicums. These experiences allow students to learn and practice various physical therapy techniques, including therapeutic exercises, manual therapy techniques, gait training, balance training, and electro therapeutic modalities. We require our students to participate in supervised clinical rotations that expose them to a wide variety of settings and a broad range of patient conditions. Through these experiences, we believe students integrate and expand the knowledge gained in the classroom. Our students participate in full time learning experiences at top-notch on campus health care facilities.
To further enhance their skills and gain real-world experience, DPT students are required to complete clinical rotations in diverse healthcare settings. These rotations typically occur in hospitals, outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centers, sports medicine facilities, and other relevant healthcare environments. During these supervised experiences, students work directly with patients, under the guidance of licensed physical therapists, to apply their knowledge and skills in assessing, diagnosing, and treating various musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, and cardiopulmonary conditions.
Graduates of the DPT Programme have a wide range of career opportunities in the field of physical therapy. They can work in various settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centers, sports medicine facilities, nursing homes, schools, research institutions, and private practices. Physical therapists play a crucial role in helping individuals of all ages regain mobility, manage pain, improve functional abilities, and prevent disability. They work closely with patients, physicians, and other healthcare professionals to develop personalized treatment plans, implement interventions, monitor progress, and promote optimal health outcomes.
As with any healthcare profession, physical therapy is a continually evolving field. To stay current with the latest research, advancements, and best practices, physical therapists are encouraged to engage in continuing education activities to higher research or clinical degrees, such as MS/MPhil or PhD. These may include attending conferences, participating in professional development courses, pursuing advanced certifications or specialization, and engaging in research and scholarly activities. Continuing education allows physical therapists to expand their knowledge, enhance their skills, and provide the highest level of care to their patients.
Overall, the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree Programme offers a comprehensive education and training for aspiring physical therapists. It equips graduates with a solid understanding of the human body, movement, and rehabilitation principles. Through clinical experiences and hands-on training, students develop the skills necessary to assess, diagnose, and treat patients with a wide range of physical impairments and conditions. Graduates have excellent prospects for a rewarding career in physical therapy, helping individuals improve their quality of life and achieve optimal physical functioning.