Master of Science degree programs such as the one at Oakland University in Rochester, MI are designed to develop advanced knowledge in both the theory and practice of physical therapy. The program focuses on orthopedic, pediatric and adult neurological aspects of physical therapy, biomechanics and motor skills. Required courses for the master's degree in physical therapy include analysis and synthesis of human motion and measurement and evaluation of human motion. Students may also learn to use electrogoniometry, electromyography, dynamometry, and cinematography to measure and evaluate human movement. Additionally, courses in biomechanics and physiology are included along with research and statistics courses.
The master's program may also require the completion of a research project or comprehensive examinations. The program at New York University Steinhardt focuses on research and design implementation. Research projects include mentoring by an adviser who chairs the approval committee for the research project's final presentation. In the program at Oakland University, the completed research is presented both orally and in written format before the committee. For students opting for the comprehensive examination, the focus is three topics chosen by the student and his adviser. Reading lists are provided for each topic, and passing a written examination is required for the degree.
Doctoral programs are generally three years long and include both academic courses and a clinical internship. Objectives of the doctoral program offered at Maryville University in St. Louis, MO include learning to assess joint motion, muscle strength and endurance, function of heart and lungs and performance of activities in daily living. This knowledge is the foundation for the clinical internship requirement of 40 weeks of work in hospitals, outpatient clinics, skilled nursing facilities, rehabilitation facilities and school.
Courses for the doctoral degree may include pathophysiology, neurophysiology, functional anatomy, assessment procedures, modalities, rehabilitation diagnoses, neuroanatomy, kinesiology, exercise physiology, therapeutic exercises and physical restoration. Additional classes may include orthotics and prosthetics, musculoskeletal studies, cardiac rehabilitation, motor control, rehabilitation psychology, pharmacology and lifespan issues.