Curriculum Tracks, Curricular Threads & Courses for the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program

Beginning in the 2025-2026 academic year, the residential format of the Doctor of Physical Therapy program will transition from 9 semesters to 8 semesters. The hybrid format will also be delivered across 8 semesters.

Please note that all students admitted before fall 2025 will complete the original 9-semester course of study.

Curriculum Tracks

MUSC’s Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program curriculum has been intentionally designed using a track approach. Curriculum tracks are structured educational pathways within the broader curriculum that guide students through a specific area of study or professional development. Tracks provide a clear content sequence where courses build from one to the next, ensuring students develop foundational knowledge before advancing to more complex concepts. This structured progression helps students systematically acquire the necessary knowledge and skills.

Curricular Threads

The MUSC DPT program has strong educational experiences in foundational sciences. During early learning, key curricular threads are identified. These threads represent knowledge and skills essential in physical therapy practice. Examples of curricular threads in the DPT program are the functional application of anatomy, the use of evidence in practice, and interprofessional collaboration. These threads are intentionally woven into subsequent curricula, supporting students in becoming master adaptive learners. Additionally, the program offers a variety of electives, allowing students to explore and specialize in areas of personal and professional interest. This flexibility enables students to tailor their education to their career goals and develop expertise in specific concentration areas.

Residential DPT Curriculum
Hybrid DPT Curriculum

Residential DPT Program

Curriculum

Year 1, Fall

Year 1, Spring

Year 1, Summer

Year 2, Fall

Year 2, Spring

Year 2, Summer

Year 3, Fall

Year 3, Spring

Approved Electives

• PT 695, Community-based Practice, 1-3 credit hours
• PT 720, Owning a Private Practice, 1 credit hour
• PT 729, Special Topics: Pediatrics, 1 credit hour
• PT 734, Manual Therapy: Upper Body, 1 credit hour
• PT 735, CSCS Exam Preparation, 0.5 credit hours
• PT 736, Sports Rehabilitation Outreach II, 1 credit hour
• PT 737, Trigger Point Dry Needling, 1 credit hour
• PT 758, Manual Therapy: Lower Body, 1 credit hour
• PT 768, Special Topics: Physical Therapy, 1-3 credit hours
• PT 790, Sports Rehabilitation Outreach I, 1 credit hour
• PT 800, Physical Therapy Education I, 1-3 credit hours
• PT 801, Physical Therapy Education II, 1-3 credit hours
• PT 802, Physical Therapy Education III, 1-3 credit hours
• PT 810, Physical Therapy Research I, 1-3 credit hours
• PT 811, Physical Therapy Research II, 1-3 credit hours
• PT 812, Physical Therapy Research III, 1-3 credit hours

Hybrid DPT Program

Curriculum

Year 1, Fall

Year 1, Spring

Year 1, Summer

Year 2, Fall

Year 2, Spring

Year 2, Summer

Year 3, Fall

Year 3, Spring

View 2024-2025 Doctor of Physical Therapy Curriculum