Physical Therapy (DPT)

Associate Dean's Welcome

Welcome to the website of the University of Colorado Physical Therapy Program! As one of the top programs in the country, we are proud of our commitment to physical therapy education, research, and service since our initial accreditation in 1947.

Our curriculum introduces students to a clinical education experience within their first semester and provides the option of a unique year-long, paid internship. In addition, our Hybrid DPT Pathway is among the first programs of its kind to provide students with collaborative clinical learning experiences (CCLE). Students are very involved in service opportunities, volunteering at the Stout Street Clinic for individuals that experience homelessness, DAWN Clinic for the high-needs Aurora community, and other non-profit organizations in the Denver metropolitan area.

We are deeply committed to our research endeavors, offering a PhD in Rehabilitation Sciences, leading the way with groundbreaking grants and clinical studies, and providing a number of opportunities for students to get involved with faculty research. Our CU Rehabilitation Science Consortium houses multiple laboratories, providing a space for research assistants, post-doctoral fellows and PhD students participating in faculty research.

Our partnerships at CU Anschutz and surrounding greater Denver area enhance our research capabilities and strengthen our clinical partnerships. We have over 120 clinical partners throughout the region, with the Rocky Mountain Regional VA Medical Center, Children’s Hospital and UCHealth located steps away. Moreover, we now offer a unique DPT-MPH dual degree track in partnership with the Colorado School of Public Health.

I welcome prospective students and program alumni interested in physical therapy education to reach out to our program staff and faculty. Your active involvement is essential to the success of the University of Colorado Physical Therapy Program. We look forward to our continued growth and progress within the University and the profession!

Michael Harris-Love, PT, MPT, DSc, FGSA, FAPTA
Associate Dean for Physical Therapy Education, School of Medicine

Why Choose CU PT?

The University of Colorado has established a tradition of excellence in the educational preparation of physical therapists for over 75 years. Our strong ranking is linked to our superb faculty, commitment to the education of our students, our state-of-the-art facilities at CU Anschutz and UCCS Hybl Center, and a strong network of supportive alumni and clinical faculty throughout the Rocky Mountain Region and the country. The Physical Therapy Program is housed within the Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, within the School of Medicine. Education for the Doctor of Physical Therapy degree is provided via a residential pathway in Aurora and a hybrid pathway in Colorado Springs.

Mission

The University of Colorado Physical Therapy Program leads discovery and innovation to improve movement, participation, health, and wellness for individuals and society through excellence in education, research, clinical care, and service.

Vision

We transform health and foster wellness in individuals and society through education, discoveries, engagement and innovation.

Values

Respect: For all individuals’ safety, rights, dignity, and perspectives
Integrity: Because professional behavior reflects who we are
Altruism: In service to the individual, community, and organization
Belonging: Foster access within the profession
Accountability: To all those seeking care and providing care within our profession and health care systems
Passion: Because we are committed to lifelong learning, service, and community engagement
Collaboration: To leverage collective input from all individuals
Leadership: Within the university, profession and community at large
Quality: To attain excellence in all we do

GENERAL INQUIRIES

Phone: (303) 724-CUPT (2878)
Fax: (303) 724-9016

PHYSICAL ADDRESSES

CU Physical Therapy Program
CU Anschutz, Residential Pathway
Education 2 South
3rd Floor, Room 3106
Mail Stop C244
13121 E. 17th Avenue
Aurora, CO 80045
Directions & detailed map

CU Physical Therapy Program
University of Colorado - Colorado Springs
Hybl Sports Medicine and Performance Center
4925 N Nevada Ave
Colorado Springs, CO 80918

The University of Colorado Physical Therapy Program responds to the needs of the students and the community. We welcome your comments, suggestions, ideas and constructive criticism.

Careers

Find job openings with the Physical Therapy Program via CU Careers.

Accreditation

The Physical Therapy Program at University of Colorado is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), 3030 Potomac Ave., Suite 100, Alexandria, Virginia 22305-3085; 703-706-3245; accreditation@apta.org; http://www.capteonline.org. If needing to contact the program/institution directly, please call 303-724-2878 or e-mail mailto:vonelle.pomeroy@cuanschutz.edu

On November 3, 2020, the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) reaffirmed the accreditation status based upon compliance with all of the evaluative criteria. The accreditation status remains in effect for the full 10-year period, until 2031, at which time the accreditation status will undergo a self-study report and on-site review.

The University of Colorado Physical Therapy Program is a member of the American Council of Academic Physical Therapy (ACAPT) which supports academic institutions to strive for excellence in physical therapist education. We encourage faculty, clinical educators, academic administrators and students interested in pursuing teaching to check out acapt.org.

Admissions

Please visit the Application Information section of our website to review everything you need to know about applying for our DPT program (both Residential and Hybrid Pathways), including eligibility, prerequisites, application process and matriculation requirements.

For more information about our Doctor of Physical Therapy Program, please contact CU Physical Therapy Admissions by phone at (303) 724-9144 or email at PT.Admissions@cuanschutz.edu.

For information on campus visit days, information sessions, virtual tours and more, please visit our Contact Admissions website.

*The Program follows University policies to facilitate equal opportunity and nondiscrimination for faculty, staff and prospective/enrolled students, by following policies of the Office of Equity and the Regent's laws and Policies, Article 10, nondiscrimination.

The University of Colorado Anschutz Physical Therapy Program is committed to providing equitable access to learning opportunities for all students, including those with disabilities (e.g., mental health, attentional, learning, chronic health, sensory, or physical) who meet the technical standards of the program, with or without reasonable accommodations.

If you are an applicant with a disability who would like to engage in a confidential consultation about disability access at CU Anschutz, or who requires accommodations to complete the application or interview process, please contact The Office of Disability, Access, & Inclusion.

Programs

The University of Colorado Physical Therapy Program offers seven educational opportunities in clinical care and rehabilitation science.

Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) - Residential and Hybrid Pathways

The University of Colorado Physical Therapy Program is a 2.5-year program offered as both a residential and hybrid pathway. The academic program starts in the summer and continues for 8 consecutive semesters. Full-time and part-time clinical education experiences are interspersed throughout the first two years and begin as early as the second semester. Upon completion of the Program, students are awarded the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree and are eligible to take the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE). Learn more.

For further information about our DPT pathways, please visit our Frequently Asked Questions page.

Residency in Pediatric Physical Therapy

The University of Colorado Physical Therapy Pediatric Residency Program consists of planned post-professional clinical and didactic education for licensed physical therapists who have graduated from an accredited DPT program. In addition to clinical opportunities with structured mentorship, the program also includes participation in the Leadership and Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities (LEND) program through JFK Partners, and access to the resources of the University of Colorado Physical Therapy Program at CU Anschutz. Learn more.

PhD in Rehabilitation Science

An interdisciplinary program educating future scientists. University of Colorado's PhD in Rehabilitation Science is within the Graduate School.

Doctor of Physical Therapy-Rehabilitation Science PhD Pathway

The University of Colorado Anschutz DPT-PhD pathway facilitates a viable educational plan for promising students with a strong interest in academic physical therapy and rehabilitation science. This collaborative dual degree pathway between the CU Physical Therapy Program and the Rehabilitation Science PhD Program provides an efficient approach to earning both the clinical doctorate and the research doctorate. Learn more.

Orthopaedic Residency

The University of Colorado School of Medicine Physical Therapy Orthopaedic Residency in partnership with UCHealth is a structured, accredited, post-professional education program for licensed physical therapists who have graduated from an accredited DPT program. The orthopaedic residency will offer experiences in outpatient patient management through the UCHealth system and didactic as well as teaching experiences through the resources of the University of Colorado Physical Therapy Program on the prestigious CU Anschutz campus. There is no tuition and residents earn a salary with a comprehensive benefits package. Residency graduates will be qualified to sit for the ABPTS orthopaedic clinical specialist exam. Learn more

Faculty Residency

The University of Colorado Anschutz Faculty Residency is a structured, accredited, post-professional education program for licensed physical therapists who have graduated from an accredited DPT program who aspire to an academic faculty position. The program is designed to significantly advance preparation of the physical therapist as a highly qualified educator and productive academic scholar. Potential as a future leader in physical therapist education develops through multiple teaching experiences, structured mentorship opportunities, and mentored educational scholarship throughout the program. The program also offers access to the resources of the University of Colorado Physical Therapy Program on the CU Anschutz campus. Learn more

Doctor of Physical Therapy- Master's of Public Health Dual Degree Track

The University of Colorado Anschutz DPT-MPH track is a collaborative dual degree track between two well-established and successful degree programs: the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program and the Master of Public Health (MPH) program. Learn more.

PT Degree Requirements

The DPT degree requires completion of 116 credit hours, which includes 38 weeks of clinical education. Students complete and present a capstone project in year 3 before the final clinical internship

The University of Colorado Physical Therapy Program has established a tradition of excellence for over 70 years. Our 2.5 year graduate professional Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree boasts superb faculty, a location on the state-of-the-art CU Anschutz campus, commitment to the education of a diverse body of students and a strong network of supportive alumni and clinical faculty.

The PT Program educates competent, ethical physical therapists to assume the multi-faceted roles of clinical practitioner, patient manager, teacher, researcher, administrator, consultant and advocate. In addition to compassion, character and professionalism, certain essential skills are required in order to complete the PT Program. Upon successful completion of the PT Program, graduates are eligible to take the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) in any state.

DPT Curriculum

Year 1 Curriculum

Plan of Study Grid
Year 1
Summer		Hours
DPTR 5001	Clinical Anatomy I	5
DPTR 5171	Health Promotion and Wellness I	1
DPTR 5201	Examination & Evaluation I	2
DPTR 5211	Foundations of Intervention I	2
DPTR 5711	Professional Development I	2
	Hours	12
	Total Hours	12

Plan of Study Grid
Year 1
Fall		Hours
DPTR 5011	Neuroscience	3
DPTR 5101	Movement Science I	3
DPTR 5141	Human Growth & Development	2
DPTR 5151	Motor Control & Motor Learning	2
DPTR 5202	Examination and Evaluation II	2
DPTR 5212	Foundations of Intervention II	2
DPTR 5621	Evidence Based Practice	3
DPTR 5901	Collaborative Clinical Learning Experience I	1
	Hours	18
Spring
DPTR 5111	Exercise Science	2
DPTR 5161	Psychosocial Aspects of Care I	1
DPTR 5301	Medical Conditions I	4
DPTR 5401	Musculoskeletal Conditions I	4
DPTR 5501	Neuromuscular Conditions I	3
DPTR 5631	Clinical Reasoning I	1
DPTR 5731	Healthcare Delivery I	1
IPCP 5000	Interprofessional Collaborative Practice	1
	Hours	17
	Total Hours	35

Year 2 Curriculum

Plan of Study Grid
Year 2
Summer		Hours
DPTR 6002	Clinical Anatomy II	3
DPTR 6402	Musculoskeletal Conditions II	2
DPTR 6502	Neuromuscular Conditions II	2
DPTR 6931	Clinical Education I	5
	Hours	12
	Total Hours	12

Plan of Study Grid
Year 2
Fall		Hours
DPTR 5162	Psychosocial Aspects Care II	2
DPTR 6102	Movement Science II	2
DPTR 6302	Medical Conditions II	2
DPTR 6403	Musculoskeletal Conditions III	2
DPTR 6404	Musculoskeletal Conditions IV	2
DPTR 6503	Neuromuscular Conditions III	4
DPTR 6632	Clinical Reasoning II	1
DPTR 6712	Professional Development II	2
IPHE 6000	IPE Healthcare Ethics	0
DPTR 6902	Collaborative Clinical Learning Experience II	1
	Hours	18
Spring
DPTR 6303	Medical Conditions III	3
DPTR 6633	Clinical Reasoning III	2
DPTR 6713	Professional Development III	1
DPTR 6732	Healthcare Delivery II	3
DPTR 6932	Clinical Education II	6
DPTR 7112	Applied Exercise Science	3
	Hours	18
	Total Hours	36

Year 3 Curriculum

Plan of Study Grid
Year 3
Summer		Hours
DPTR 7171	Health Promotion and Wellness II	3
DPTR 7212	Elective	1
DPTR 7213	National Physical Therapy Examination Preparation	1
DPTR 7641	Integrated Practice	2
DPTR 7651	Clinical Reasoning Capstone	4
	Hours	11
	Total Hours	11

Plan of Study Grid
Year 3
Fall		Hours
DPTR 7933	Clinical Education III	10
	Hours	10
	Total Hours	10

The following are expected minimum outcomes for our students:

90% of our graduates will pass the NPTE on their first attempt to become licensed physical therapists.
85% of our graduates will feel competent to practice autonomously as Doctors of Physical Therapy within their first year post-graduation.
All of our graduates will use critical thinking, evidence, and clinical reasoning in physical therapy patient management.
All of our graduates will be prepared to provide physical therapy care to meet the needs of patients across the lifespan.

For more information about our Doctor of Physical Therapy Program, please contact CU Physical Therapy Admissions by phone at (303) 724-9144 or email at PT.Admissions@cuanschutz.edu

Courses

DPTR 5001 - Clinical Anatomy I (5 Credits)

This course introduces regional clinical anatomy foundational to physical therapy practice. It emphasizes musculoskeletal, nervous, and circulatory system structure–function relationships of the extremities, spine, thorax, head, and neck using a clinically oriented framework. Students will develop skills in anatomical identification, surface anatomy, palpation, and clinical reasoning through integrated lecture, whole-body donor laboratory dissection, cross-sectional anatomy, and medical imaging. Applied learning experiences focus on predicting functional consequences of injury, understanding joint mechanics and neurovascular pathways, and relating anatomy to movement, examination, and common clinical presentations encountered in physical therapy. Specific emphasis is placed on the upper and lower extremities, spine, thorax, and head and neck, with attention to anatomical variation and professional competence in human anatomy.

Grading Basis: Letter Grade with IP

Typically Offered: Summer.

DPTR 5011 - Neuroscience (3 Credits)

This course provides a framework for understanding the structural and functional organization of the human nervous system. Principles and applications of neurophysiology, neuroanatomy and functional correlates are included. Finally, diseases and dysfunctions of the nervous system that are relevant to current practice are introduced.

Grading Basis: Letter Grade

Typically Offered: Fall.

DPTR 5101 - Movement Science I (3 Credits)

This course investigates movement science with emphasis on foundational biomechanical principles related to human posture and movement. Qualitative and quantitative movement analysis is presented with emphasis on clinical application.

Grading Basis: Letter Grade

Typically Offered: Fall.

DPTR 5111 - Exercise Science (2 Credits)

This course will provide students with the current state of knowledge in the physiology of exercise. A systems approach will be used to provide a thorough understanding of the acute and chronic adaptations to exercise training, with an emphasis on the mechanisms underlying these adaptations.

Grading Basis: Letter Grade

Typically Offered: Spring.

DPTR 5141 - Human Growth & Development (2 Credits)

This course addresses functional movement across the life span in healthy individuals. Emphasis is on stages in life when the greatest changes in motor behavior occur and the factors that influence those changes. Developmental changes in all systems and their contributions to functional movement will be explored.

Grading Basis: Letter Grade

Typically Offered: Fall.

DPTR 5151 - Motor Control & Motor Learning (2 Credits)

This course presents the foundation of motor learning and control as it applies to optimal movement across the lifespan. Emphasis is on variables related to the individual task composition, the environment and augmented information that enhance practice of motor skills. These principles are applied to physical therapist practice.

Grading Basis: Letter Grade with IP

Typically Offered: Fall.

DPTR 5161 - Psychosocial Aspects of Care I (1 Credit)

This course is focused from the perspective of the practitioner as a person.General psycho-emotional issues and specific theories related to: practitioner self-awareness, emotions, spirituality, grief-loss-mourning, psych factors associated with the experience of pain will be presented.Introduction to motivational interviewing is included

Grading Basis: Letter Grade

Typically Offered: Spring.

DPTR 5162 - Psychosocial Aspects Care II (2 Credits)

Builds on knowledge, skills and attitudes gained in DPTR 5161 with additional focus on general issues and theories related to: changing behaviors, depression and anxiety, sexuality in rehabilitation, suicidal behavior, addiction in society, stress management and conflict resolution.

Grading Basis: Letter Grade

Typically Offered: Fall, Summer.

DPTR 5171 - Health Promotion and Wellness I (1 Credit)

Disease prevention and health promotion are recognized as integral aspects of physical therapist practice. In this first of two courses, students will use current models of behavior change, disability, and population health to understand the multiple determinants of health and wellness. Using oneself as the client, students will complete an individual health assessment, identify areas of growth, and generate a plan to promote their own health and wellness.

Grading Basis: Letter Grade

Typically Offered: Summer.

DPTR 5201 - Examination & Evaluation I (2 Credits)

This course introduces the physical therapist’s examination of the patient. This course will familiarize the student with the ICF framework and emphasize foundational examination skills including communication, manual muscle testing, goniometry, and surface palpation.

Grading Basis: Letter Grade with IP

Typically Offered: Summer.

DPTR 5202 - Examination and Evaluation II (2 Credits)

This course emphasizes developing a process of hypothesis generation to direct clinical decision making during the examination part of the patient encounter. Skill development includes examination techniques of the integumentary, cardiovascular/pulmonary, neuromuscular, and musculoskeletal systems, including analysis of human movement.

Grading Basis: Letter Grade with IP

Typically Offered: Fall.

DPTR 5211 - Foundations of Intervention I (2 Credits)

This course introduces basic intervention principles, including fundamentals of tissue healing and adaptation. Intervention techniques including posture and positioning, basic mobility with and without assistive devices, and thermal physical agents for improving functional mobility and for managing a variety of clinical populations are introduced.

Grading Basis: Letter Grade with IP

Typically Offered: Summer.

DPTR 5212 - Foundations of Intervention II (2 Credits)

Further introduction and advancement of foundational intervention principles and techniques including soft tissue mobilization, physical agents and electrotherapeutic modalities. Emphasis is on the application of exercise as an intervention for improving functional mobility and for managing a variety of clinical problems.

Grading Basis: Letter Grade with IP

Typically Offered: Fall.

DPTR 5301 - Medical Conditions I (4 Credits)

This course highlights the physical therapy management of patients with cardiovascular and pulmonary disorders across the lifespan and healthcare settings. Physiology, medical management, diagnostic testing, clinical decision making and medical screening are covered with implications for physical therapist’s practice.

Grading Basis: Letter Grade with IP

Typically Offered: Spring.

DPTR 5401 - Musculoskeletal Conditions I (4 Credits)

This course covers the examination, clinical reasoning, and physical therapy management of musculoskeletal disorders across the lifespan, focusing on conditions affecting the lower quarter, including the lumbopelvic region, hip, knee, foot, and ankle. Medical management principles such as radiology and pharmacology are also covered, with implications for physical therapy management.

Grading Basis: Letter Grade with IP

Typically Offered: Spring.

DPTR 5501 - Neuromuscular Conditions I (3 Credits)

Clinical decision-making frameworks are discussed for management of people with neurologic conditions with an emphasis on stroke and cerebral palsy. Clinical skills are taught for examination, evaluation and intervention across the lifespan and across settings. Evidence based practice and manual guidance are emphasized for intervention.

Grading Basis: Letter Grade with IP

Typically Offered: Spring.

DPTR 5621 - Evidence Based Practice (3 Credits)

This course covers and applies concepts and steps of evidence-based practice to a variety of clinical settings, including: searching; selection; and appraisal of the literature. Emphasis is on searching the literature to answer clinical questions regarding physical therapy tests and measures, interventions, and patient prognosis.

Grading Basis: Letter Grade

Typically Offered: Fall.

DPTR 5631 - Clinical Reasoning I (1 Credit)

This introductory course teaches students to integrate current evidence with critical reasoning in the ICF framework to facilitate patient-centered decision making in the examination, prognosis, and intervention for elementary patient cases across a variety of clinical practice settings.

Grading Basis: Letter Grade

Typically Offered: Spring.

DPTR 5711 - Professional Development I (2 Credits)

This course is the first in a series of courses on professional development. Students will explore self and begin the journey of becoming a physical therapist. This course emphasizes reflecting on personal and professional values, examining professional communication behaviors, and developing foundational writing skills.

Grading Basis: Letter Grade with IP

Typically Offered: Summer.

DPTR 5731 - Healthcare Delivery I (1 Credit)

This course provides a basic overview of the American health system and all payer types. Impact of regulation on therapists and support personnel supervision will be discussed with a focus on the Colorado State Practice Act, state and federal laws. Key concepts of Quality Improvement and Safety will be introduced.

Grading Basis: Letter Grade with IP

Typically Offered: Spring.

DPTR 5841 - Independent Study (1-3 Credits)

This course provides students with an opportunity to pursue study and learning content of their own choosing or a special clinical interest under guidance of a faculty mentor.

Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory w/IP

Typically Offered: Summer.

DPTR 5842 - Independent Study (1-3 Credits)

This course provides students with an opportunity to pursue study and learning content of their own choosing or a special clinical interest under guidance of a faculty mentor.

Grading Basis: Letter Grade

Typically Offered: Fall.

DPTR 5843 - Independent Study (1-3 Credits)

This course provides students with an opportunity to pursue study and learning content of their own choosing or a special clinical interest under guidance of a faculty mentor.

Grading Basis: Letter Grade

Typically Offered: Spring.

DPTR 5901 - Collaborative Clinical Learning Experience I (1 Credit)

Short-term clinical education experience providing initial foundation and understanding of clinical practice with emphasis on integration of didactic and clinical learning while working in a student team.

Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory w/IP

Typically Offered: Fall.

DPTR 6002 - Clinical Anatomy II (3 Credits)

This course builds on foundational anatomy to advance clinical reasoning through integrated study of abdominal, pelvic, perineal, and complex joint anatomy relevant to physical therapy practice. It emphasizes arthrology, neurovascular organization, and visceral structure–function relationships using biomechanical and regional analysis frameworks. Students will analyze joint arthrokinematics, stabilizing structures, and mechanisms of injury; evaluate abdominal and pelvic anatomy in relation to continence, pain referral, and movement dysfunction; and trace complex neurovascular pathways to formulate diagnostic hypotheses. Learning experiences include whole-body donor dissection, imaging interpretation, and applied problem-solving focused on common pathologies such as joint instability, nerve entrapment, hernia formation, and vascular compromise. The course highlights the abdomen, pelvis, perineum, and upper and lower extremity joints within clinical contexts central to contemporary physical therapy practice.

Grading Basis: Letter Grade with IP

A-GRAD Restricted to graduate students only.

Typically Offered: Summer.

DPTR 6102 - Movement Science II (2 Credits)

Application of movement science in physical therapy practice with emphasis on human movement related to aging, clinical analysis, tests & measures, and prosthetics & orthotics.The prosthetic & orthotic unit is designed to build student competency in clinical management of individuals who require use of common prosthetic & orthotic devices

Grading Basis: Letter Grade

Typically Offered: Fall.

DPTR 6302 - Medical Conditions II (2 Credits)

This course continues the physical therapy management of patients with varied medical conditions (cancer; rheumatic) occurring across the lifespan and health care settings. Physiology, medical management, diagnostic testing, clinical decision making and medical screening are covered with implications for physical therapist’s practice.

Grading Basis: Letter Grade

Typically Offered: Fall.

DPTR 6303 - Medical Conditions III (3 Credits)

This course continues the physical therapist management of medical conditions. Integumentary, endocrine, transplant, geriatric and ICU care are emphasized. Physical therapist’s clinical decision-making and differential diagnosis are advanced while integrating physiology, medical and pharmacological management and diagnostic testing.

Grading Basis: Letter Grade

Typically Offered: Spring.

DPTR 6402 - Musculoskeletal Conditions II (2 Credits)

This course continues the examination, clinical reasoning, and physical therapy management of musculoskeletal disorders across the life span, focusing on conditions affecting the cervical and thoracic regions. Medical management principles such as radiology and pharmacology are also covered, with implications for physical therapy management.

Grading Basis: Letter Grade with IP

A-GRAD Restricted to graduate students only.

Typically Offered: Summer.

DPTR 6403 - Musculoskeletal Conditions III (2 Credits)

This course continues the examination, physical therapy management and clinical reasoning necessary for the management of individuals with musculoskeletal (MSK) disorders across the life span, focusing on upper extremity conditions. MSK medical management, radiology and pharmacology are covered with implications for physical therapy management.

Grading Basis: Letter Grade with IP

Typically Offered: Fall.

DPTR 6404 - Musculoskeletal Conditions IV (2 Credits)

This course covers the examination, clinical reasoning, and physical therapy management of musculoskeletal disorders across the life span, focusing on temporomandibular disorders, pediatric orthopedics, adolescent orthopedics, pelvic health, working adults, and geriatric orthopedics within the continuum of care. Medical management principles such as radiology and pharmacology are also covered, with implications for physical therapy management.

Grading Basis: Letter Grade with IP

A-GRAD Restricted to graduate students only.

Typically Offered: Fall.

DPTR 6502 - Neuromuscular Conditions II (2 Credits)

This course includes an in-depth exploration of people with neurodegenerative conditions across the lifespan, specifically as related to tests and measures, prognoses, and intervention approaches. Radiology and pharmacology as related to neuropathy are included.

Grading Basis: Letter Grade

Typically Offered: Summer.

DPTR 6503 - Neuromuscular Conditions III (4 Credits)

This course progresses and synthesizes clinical skills, decision-making and reasoning using frameworks and evidence applied the physical therapy management for people with neurological conditions across the lifespan. Primary topics include vestibular disorders, traumatic/acquired brain injury, developmental and genetic disorders, and spinal cord injury.

Grading Basis: Letter Grade with IP

A-GRAD Restricted to graduate students only.

Typically Offered: Fall.

DPTR 6632 - Clinical Reasoning II (1 Credit)

This advanced course teaches students to integrate current evidence with critical reasoning in the ICF framework to facilitate patient-centered decision making in the examination, prognosis, and for intervention for complex patient cases across a variety of clinical practice settings.

Grading Basis: Letter Grade

Typically Offered: Fall, Summer.

DPTR 6633 - Clinical Reasoning III (2 Credits)

This course requires students to integrate evidence, patient values, and clinical expertise with the ICF model of clinical decision making for actual patient cases. Students will identify and answer focused questions regarding examination, intervention, and prognosis through literature searches and online collegial discussion forums. Requirement: DPT Students only

Grading Basis: Letter Grade

Typically Offered: Spring.

DPTR 6712 - Professional Development II (2 Credits)

Professional Development II expands conversations regarding our professional identity to consider what it means to be a health professional. We will explore our obligations to our patients, our profession, and society and consider the future of physical therapist practice. During the second half of the course we will turn our attention toward professional development, including licensure, practice settings, and post-professional career opportunities.

Grading Basis: Letter Grade with IP

Typically Offered: Fall.

DPTR 6713 - Professional Development III (1 Credit)

Introduction to management and leadership in healthcare including leadership styles and characteristics. Explores preparation for the clinical education internship and professional development opportunities following licensure including residency/fellowship, continuing education, consideration of salary/benefits/debt/etc, and the first position as a new professional. Discussion about career expectations, moving through the continuum of novice to expert, controversy/debate/difficulty conversations, and developing one’s professional identity/potential.

Grading Basis: Letter Grade with IP

A-GRAD Restricted to graduate students only.

Typically Offered: Spring.

DPTR 6732 - Healthcare Delivery II (3 Credits)

This course covers the organization, financing, and delivery of physical therapy services within the United States healthcare system. Topics include business concepts relevant to providing care and managing a practice (marketing, human resources, risk management, financial management), and legal and regulatory issues (licensure, fraud/abuse laws, Americans with Disabilities Act, supervision of support staff). Additional content includes comparisons between the US system and other countries, and professional issues like interviewing, negotiating job offers, and selecting positions after graduation.

Grading Basis: Letter Grade with IP

Typically Offered: Spring.

DPTR 6851 - Independent Study (1-3 Credits)

This course provides students with an opportunity to pursue study and learning content of their own choosing or a special clinical interest under guidance of a faculty mentor.

Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory w/IP

Typically Offered: Summer.

DPTR 6852 - Independent Study (1-3 Credits)

This course provides students with an opportunity to pursue content of their own choosing under guidance of a faculty mentor.

Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory w/IP

Typically Offered: Fall.

DPTR 6853 - Independent Study (1-5 Credits)

This course provides students with an opportunity to pursue content of their own choosing under guidance of a faculty mentor.

Grading Basis: Letter Grade

Typically Offered: Spring.

DPTR 6902 - Collaborative Clinical Learning Experience II (1 Credit)

CCLE II occurs in the middle of the fall semester and focuses on the broader roles that physical therapists have within patient and local community groups. It also continues the integration of classroom and clinical learning while student teams are placed in a new clinical setting (as compared to CCLE I). CCLE II allows immersion in activities focused on professional formation, advanced clinical problem solving, community engagement, and further development of cognitive, psychomotor and affective skills.

Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory w/IP

Typically Offered: Fall.

DPTR 6931 - Clinical Education I (5 Credits)

Eight-week, full time clinical experience providing students with the opportunity to take on responsibilities of the professional physical therapist, including beginning to manage a caseload and participating in a healthcare team. Requirements: DPT Students only.

Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory w/IP

Typically Offered: Fall, Summer.

DPTR 6932 - Clinical Education II (6 Credits)

This is a 10-week, full-time supervised clinical experience. Experience with emphasis on increasing independence in management of patients, becoming an integral member of the healthcare team and using self-assessment for professional development.

Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory w/IP

Typically Offered: Spring.

DPTR 7112 - Applied Exercise Science (3 Credits)

This course will focus on functional capacity and performance testing, as well as exercise prescription, for individuals with multi-system involvement. Emphasis will be placed on clinical decision-making to tailor evidence-informed, patient-centered rehabilitation interventions, optimizing and enhancing each individual's functional abilities. Additionally, the course will address overcoming multilevel barriers to both the prescription and execution of exercise interventions, as part of comprehensive rehabilitation care aimed at promoting health and function in medically complex populations.

Grading Basis: Letter Grade with IP

Typically Offered: Spring.

DPTR 7171 - Health Promotion and Wellness II (3 Credits)

Students will apply fundamental concepts learned in HPWI to further understand individual, social and structural determinants of health. Equipped with this knowledge, they will work to design interventions and programs that promote health at the individual and community level.

Grading Basis: Letter Grade with IP

A-GRAD Restricted to graduate students only.

Typically Offered: Summer.

DPTR 7212 - Elective (1 Credit)

Various topics: provides students with the opportunity to explore selected topics, related to clinical practice, in depth or topics that are outside of the scope of the set curriculum. DPT students only.

Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory w/IP

Repeatable. Max Credits: 1.

Typically Offered: Summer.

DPTR 7213 - National Physical Therapy Examination Preparation (1 Credit)

This course provides a structured and comprehensive review of key concepts covered on the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE). Students will engage with interactive lectures, structured study plans, and practice examinations designed to simulate the NPTE testing format and environment. Emphasis is placed on test-taking strategies, time management, and problem-solving skills. Content review areas may include the musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, cardiovascular, pulmonary, and integumentary systems, with a focus on clinical reasoning and application of foundational knowledge. Additional resources, including question banks and study guides, will be provided to reinforce learning.

Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory w/IP

Typically Offered: Summer.

DPTR 7313 - Hybrid Elective Tracks (2 Credits)

Various topics: provides hybrid pathway students with the opportunity to explore one of three selected tracks, related to clinical practice, in depth or topics that are outside of the scope of the set curriculum. DPT Hybrid Pathway students only.

Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory w/IP

Typically Offered: Summer.

DPTR 7641 - Integrated Practice (2 Credits)

A synthesis of curricular content applied to highly complex situations illustrative and inclusive of clinical practice across the lifespan. Through retrospective and prospective reasoning, students will analyze and articulate decisions based on reasoning, evidence, and contextual realities with colleagues across health care professions. Requirement: DPT Student Enrollment Only

Grading Basis: Letter Grade with IP

Typically Offered: Summer.

DPTR 7651 - Clinical Reasoning Capstone (4 Credits)

Final course in the clinical reasoning sequence requires students to articulate and defend their clinical decision-making process in the exam, eval, management, and outcome assessment for a selected patient. Students will synthesize and integrate the evidence to inform decision making throughout each aspect of the patient mgmt process. Requirement: DPT Student Enrollment Only

Grading Basis: Letter Grade

Typically Offered: Summer.

DPTR 7861 - Independent Study (1-3 Credits)

Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory w/IP

Repeatable. Max Credits: 6.

Typically Offered: Summer.

DPTR 7862 - Independent Study (1-5 Credits)

Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory w/IP

Typically Offered: Fall.

DPTR 7933 - Clinical Education III (10 Credits)

Terminal clinical experience with emphasis on professional identity formation and functioning as an entry-level clinician within the complexities of the healthcare system. Students will develop a deeper understanding of the role of the physical therapist within the profession and broader society. First phase of the yearlong internship.

Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory w/IP

Typically Offered: Fall.

IPCP 5000 Interprofessional Collaborative Practice
This course develops core competencies in teamwork & collaboration for incoming health professions students. Students will learn in Interprofessional Teams (IP) teams coached by IPE faculty, develop essential communication skills and processes for simultaneous and sequential teams, and provide feedback on individual and team performance to improve IP collaboration.
Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory w/IP
Typically Offered: Spring

IPHE 6000 Interprofessional Healthcare Ethics and Health Equity
This course develops foundational knowledge and basic practical skills to identify, analyze, and resolve ethical and health equity issues in clinical practice. This course integrates interprofessional collaboration and teamwork to teach students ethical theory and reasoning, professional ethics and its historical origins, and approaches to health care decision-making.
Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory w/IP
Typically Offered: Summer

Policies

Please refer to the University of Colorado DPT Program Student Handbook 2025-2026

Faculty

Michael Harris-Love PT, MPT, DSc, FGSA, FAPTA

Professor and Associate Dean, Physical Therapy Education, School of Medicine
Program Director, Residential Pathway, CU Physical Therapy Program
Joanne Posner-Mayer Endowed Chair in Physical Therapy
Health Scientist, Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center (GRECC), VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System
Director, Muscle Morphology, Mechanics, and Performance Laboratory
Executive Vice Chair, Physical Therapy, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Email Address: michael.harris-love@cuanschutz.edu
Primary Phone: 309-724-0687

Daniel Malone, PT, PhD, CCS
Program Director, Hybrid Pathway-CU Physical Therapy Program
Associate Professor
Phone number: 303-724-9321
Email: daniel.malone@cuanschutz.edu

For the most up-to-date information regarding our faculty please visit our website.

Residential Pathway Faculty

Hybrid Pathway Faculty

Dual Program Faculty

Learning Outcomes

Doctor of Physical Therapy Learning Outcomes

Student Learning Outcomes for the DPT Program are founded on 5 Curricular Elements: 1) Patient-Centered Care, 2) Clinical Reasoning and Evidence Based Practice, 3) Movement for Participation, 4) Teamwork and Collaboration, and 5) Quality Improvement and Safety. Specifically, the learning outcomes are that all (100%) of program graduates and their employers will be competent in:

Delivery of patient-centered clinical care.
Clinical reasoning and decision-making.
Applying foundational science knowledge to clinical care to promote patient/population movement for life participation.
Applying principles of teamwork and collaboration within healthcare systems.
Providing quality patient-centered health care that is safe, effective, ethical, equitable, and takes cost into account.

University of Colorado Denver | Anschutz Denver | Anschutz Medical Campus

2026-2027 Academic Catalog

Physical Therapy (DPT)

Associate Dean's Welcome

Why Choose CU PT?

Mission

Vision

Values

GENERAL INQUIRIES

PHYSICAL ADDRESSES

Careers

Accreditation

Admissions

Programs

Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) - Residential and Hybrid Pathways

Residency in Pediatric Physical Therapy

PhD in Rehabilitation Science

Doctor of Physical Therapy-Rehabilitation Science PhD Pathway

Orthopaedic Residency

Faculty Residency

Doctor of Physical Therapy- Master's of Public Health Dual Degree Track

PT Degree Requirements

DPT Curriculum

Year 1 Curriculum

Year 2 Curriculum

Year 3 Curriculum

Courses

Policies

Faculty

For the most up-to-date information regarding our faculty please visit our website.

Learning Outcomes

Doctor of Physical Therapy Learning Outcomes

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