Core of the Curriculum: Movement science, the primary science of physical therapy, lies at the core of the curriculum. A motor control framework developed by our department* is the fundamental structure for analysis of movement problems. Both basic science and clinical courses incorporate this framework in their focus on the management of movement problems. The fundamental principles of movement science and the motor control framework are introduced in the first trimester of the first year. The subsequent basic science courses, including anatomy, physiology, neuroscience, kinesiology, and behavioral science demonstrate how all systems interact in developing, affecting, and altering an individual's ability to move. 

Program Philosophy | Curriculum Goals | Curriculum Sequence and Course Descriptions

Clinical Education: A series of Clinical Management courses applies movement principles and the motor control framework to the analysis of movement problems and potential interventions that may prevent or alleviate those problems. These courses analyze movement problems arising from dysfunctions within one or more body systems and include a wide variety of examinations, evaluations and interventions. During these courses, students interact with faculty and patients in the classroom and a variety of clinical settings. Students also participate in practice opportunities in a variety of clinical sites, including pro bono clinics, as part of their course work.

Synthesis Project: Critical thinking skills are crucial to successful practice. All courses actively engage students in investigation and critical thinking. All students participate in the Synthesis Project that extends throughout the curriculum. In small faculty-directed groups, students investigate an emerging topic of personal interest and professional importance through quantitative or qualitative research techniques, or by developing an educational or advocacy intervention. Students thoroughly investigate a topic in the process of formulating one or more key empirical hypotheses or propositions. Data are collected, analyzed and used to test and draw conclusions about the hypothesis or proposition. The project culminates with a formal public presentation of the results. The synthesis project offers the student the opportunity to integrate new information with existing knowledge and to develop the ability to investigate and communicate about professional matters.

Role as a Professional: A series of courses dealing with the development of the professional roles of the physical therapist extends across the curriculum. These courses discuss economic, political, and social issues that influence a person's health and that impact a physical therapist's ability to be an effective practitioner within a changing health care arena.

About the Department of Physical Therapy and Human Movement Sciences: As a department within The Feinberg School of Medicine, NUPTHMS is a part of the vibrant educational and cultural community of Northwestern University, an independent private institution founded in 1851. The Feinberg School – one of Northwestern's 11 colleges and schools – is located at the Chicago campus, between Lake Michigan and North Michigan Avenue along "Chicago's Magnificent Mile". Classes are held in facilities that are outstanding for teaching and research activities. Classroom and laboratory space includes state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment for teaching. Laboratories for the basic sciences are shared with the medical students. Research spaces include eight laboratories which are designed to study normal and abnormal movement. Campus facilities also include a library, a learning resources center, and a personal computer center. The Department includes a strong, talented faculty engaged in teaching, research, and clinical practice. They are creative and committed educators with both depth and breadth of content. Their teaching is substantiated with the latest in research and clinical practice. Many faculty are recognized for their work on a regional, national and international basis. The department is committed to excellence in teaching, research, and clinical practice.

We encourage you to visit the department to observe classes, tour the facilities, meet the students and faculty, and learn more about the program. You may call the Assistant Chair for Admissions, at 312.908.6789 to schedule an appointment. Every winter we host an open house for accepted applicants and alternates.