At Puget Sound School of Physical Therapy, clinical education experiences have a developmental scaffolding. Courses and experiences are designed to establish a foundation of clinical skills and behaviors, before developing confidence in professional abilities – all while students gain a variety of experiences.
Second year - Fall semester:
- Students spend one day per week shadowing and being mentored by third-year student-therapists in the on-site clinic.
- Students work with community members in the Exercise/Wellness Group.
Second year - Spring semester:
- Students spend one half-day each week in the student-led on-site clinic working closely with a licensed physical therapist designing and implementing plans of care for individuals with musculoskeletal or neurological diagnoses.
During summer, between the second and third year of the program, students complete a 14-week full-time clinical experience off-campus.
Third year - Fall semester:
- Students spend two half-days per week in the student-led on-site clinic, integrating clinical experiences with classroom work to advance development of clinical skills, emphasizing analysis and critical thinking.
- Students practice their screening and injury prevention skills.
Third year - Spring semester:
- Students round out their clinical experiences with 16-weeks of full-time clinical practice, with opportunities to incorporate physical therapy specialty practice areas (pelvic health, sports, vestibular rehabilitation, pediatrics or oncology).