Physiotherapy, also known as physical
therapy, is a profession in health care in which patients with bodily
movement dysfunctions can seek treatment. Prospective students
interested in academic training online in this field can earn an online
Doctor of Physical Therapy.
An online Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program is designed to provide licensed, practicing
physical therapists
with advanced knowledge and clinical practice in the field. Throughout
this program, students develop leadership skills, integrate research
findings from case studies into practice, utilize diagnostic imaging
techniques and develop a professional commitment to the advocacy of
physical therapy. Students need to hold either a master's or bachelor's
degree in physical therapy, in addition to having professional work
experience in the field.
The typical length of a DPT degree program can range from 15-30
credit hours. This variance in time is contingent on students' previous
education experience; however, for students with a master's degree in
physical therapy the typical length is around 16-credit hours. These
programs can be structured in either a full-time or a part-time format,
and can be completed in 1-2 years. Most DPT programs combine online
coursework with mentored clinical practice. Course material, quizzes,
discussion forums and exams are often administered through online
learning platforms such as Blackboard and ANGEL.
Students must have a computer, with updated browser and operating
system, as well as a high-speed Internet connection. Audio and video
capabilities are necessary to access real-time or streaming course
material.
List of Common Doctor of Physical Therapy Online Courses
The curriculum in a DPT program explores skills in leadership,
professionalism, management and diagnostics. Online learners also
evaluate and research current practice and policy in the field.
Nutrition Course
This course focuses on the role that nutrition plays within a
physiological context. Students focus their study on the clinical
treatment of obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, anorexia,
bulimia and other weight disorders. Students use this knowledge to
create and promote public health plans, understand behavior in relation
to diet and educate patients in proper diet and nutrition.
Cardiovascular Physical Therapy Course
Students are instructed in the functions and structures of the
cardiovascular, pulmonary and lymphatic systems. Students learn
different methods for analyzing and evaluating adverse health within
these systems. Through investigating case studies and evidence-based
interventions, students learn traditional physical therapy techniques,
as well as current treatments utilizing modern technology.
Evidence-Based Physical Therapy Course
Students in this course consult case studies to develop a body of
evidence to influence their future practice. Through locating,
accessing, analyzing, applying and testing the evidence-based theories,
students develop a thorough portfolio of information from which to
reference when treating patients.
Graduates of this program are qualified to work as physical
therapists or physiotherapists. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
(BLS) reported in 2008 that the employment rate for this occupation was
expected to rise by 30% from 2008-2018, (
www.bls.gov). The BLS
reported in May 2009 that the top paying industries for this job were
health practitioner offices, as well as general medical and surgical
hospitals. In that same year, the mean annual wage for physical
therapists was reported to be $76,220, while the top 90% of this
profession earned $105,900.
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