The purpose of the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program is to provide the community with physical therapists who are prepared to assume their professional role in the health-care field.

Graduates of this program currently are employed in general hospitals; rehabilitation, pediatric, and gerontology facilities; public schools; sports-medicine clinics; private practice; and industrial health programs. They also serve as consultants, teachers, administrators, and researchers in the health-care field.

Physical therapy is concerned with the prevention of disability and with the evaluation, maintenance, and improvement of the functions of the musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, cardiovascular, and respiratory systems of the individual. Evaluation procedures may include tests of respiratory, sensorimotor, circulatory, and neurodevelopmental status, as well as the assessment of muscle performance, joint motion, and levels of independent function.

Treatments are designed to assist the individual in achieving realistic goals consistent with his or her functional capacity by improving joint function, muscle strength, coordination, and endurance; developing motor skills; and relieving or managing pain. Physical therapy is implemented through preventive intervention; direct patient care; instruction of patients, families, and supportive personnel; and coordination and consultation with other health-care professionals.