This degree requires the minimum completion of 33 credits. A comprehensive examination sequence is required following completion of the core coursework. Students must maintain an overall 3.0 GPA in order to be considered a candidate for graduation.
Neuromuscular Physical Therapy, MS
This program is designed for the practicing physical therapy professional who has already earned an entry-level degree in physical therapy. This post-professional graduate plan of study enables physical therapists to improve their clinical knowledge and clinical skills through a specific program of advanced physical therapy practice and scholarship.
Fall Term
- PTMS 2001 - ADVANCED NEUROSCIENCE
- PTMS 2002 - MOTOR LEARNING AND CONTROL OF MOVEMENT/HEALTH PROMOTION
- PTMS 2003 - ADVANCED CLINICAL PRACTICE: THE LOWER QUARTER
- PTMS 2004 - PRINCIPLES OF EVIDENCE-BASED PT PRACTICE
Spring Term
- PTMS 2006 - FALLS AND BALANCE DYSFUNCTION: PHYSICAL THERAPY MANAGEMENT AND INTERVENTION
- PTMS 2007 - ANALYSIS OF NEUROMUSCULAR SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS IN CLINICAL DECISION MAKING
- PTMS 2009 - ADVANCED CLINICAL PRACTICE: THE UPPER QUARTER
- PTMS 2010 - PHYSICAL THERAPY SPECIAL TOPICS SEMINAR (optional elective)
- PTMS 2012 - SEMINAR IN NEUROLOGIC PHYSICAL THERAPY
Summer Term
- PTMS 2008 - CONCEPTS AND PRINCIPLES RELATED TO SENSORY MOTOR CONTROL 1
- PTMS 2013 - EVIDENCE BASED MEDICAL AND PHYSICAL THERAPY INTERVENTIONS FOR PERSONS WITH NEUROMUSCULAR DISEASE
- PTMS 2014 - CASE STUDIES OF PERSONS WITH NEUROMUSCULAR DISORDERS
- PTMS 2015 - CLINICAL ROUNDS AND CASE PRESENTATION
Total Credits: 33-35
Examination and Testing Requirements
Throughout the plan of study, a series of written and/or oral-practical examinations are integrated within the formal course work. These examinations are used to determine mastery of the core elements of the plan of study.
The written examination will be at the levels of "application and analysis" and "synthesis and analysis" so as to gauge the student's ability to utilize information in their clinical decision making.
The practical examinations will focus on the clinical application of therapeutic assessment and treatment techniques. Students will be expected to demonstrate appropriate patient handling, awareness of safety issues, application of technique, and decision-making rationale at the level of an advanced clinician.
Additional Opportunities
The University of Pittsburgh has rich resources for education. Information about seminars, lectures of interest and journal clubs will be posted in order for students to learn more about specific areas of interest. Students are invited to Concussion grand rounds, Physical Therapy grand rounds, the PM & R grand rounds. Also, new seminars have been added to support internationally trained physical therapists in their efforts to obtain licensure and prepare for the NPTE examination.