Department of Physical Therapy Doctor of Physical Therapy Program Class of 2023
Student Handbook
This is meant to be used as a supplement to the University of Pittsburgh Graduate & Professional Studies Catalog
(https://catalog.upp.pitt.edu/index.php)
Please familiarize yourself with the contents of both documents.
Table of Contents
Introduction: Learning SHRS Policies and Procedures 5 About the School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences (SHRS) 6 University of Pittsburgh Mission Statement 7 Department of Physical Therapy Philosophy, Mission, Vision & Values 8 Non-Discrimination Policy Statement 10
Academic and University Policies: Academic & Professional Conduct 12 Code of Professional Conduct 13 Academic Integrity Code 16 Roles & Responsibilities of Students 17 DPT Student Dress Code 19 SHRS Social Media Policy 23
DPT Program Academic Regulations DPT Course Descriptions 25 Quality Improvement & Performance Assessment Project 36 DPT Comprehensive Examination 37 Requirements for Graduation 37 Standardized Grading Scale 38 Faculty Advisors 39
DPT Clinical Education: Intro to Clinical Education 41 DPT Student Requirements 42 Clinical Education Health Requirements, Clearances, 43 and Certifications/Training Clinical Education Schedule 44 General Guidelines for Clinical Education 45 Student Use of the Exxat Software Tool 48 Policy on Social Networking 48 Evaluation and Grading 49
Financial Resources: Tuition 51 Fees 52 Financial Aid & Eligibility for PA Tuition Rates 53 Scholarships and Awards 54 SHRS Information and Student Resources: Department of Physical Therapy at Bridgeside Point I 58 Forbes Tower 58 SHRS Technology Support Services 59 University Email Accounts 59 SHRS Learning Resource Center 60 Health Sciences Library System 60 Parking/Transportation 61 Disability Resources & Services 62 Student Health Services 62 University Counseling Center 63 Student Health Fees 64 UPMC Health Plan for Students 65 Liability Insurance 66 Student Resources 67 SHRS Contacts 69 Department of Physical Therapy Contacts 70 Student Related Policies & Procedures 76 Main Campus Map 73
Appendix DPT Technical Standards 76
*After reviewing the material contained in this DPT Student Handbook, please electronically sign, date, and return the Acknowledgement Form to the Administrator, Student Services via email.
INTRODUCTION
4 Introduction
The Dean, Chair, Faculty, and Staff all join in welcoming you to the School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences (SHRS) Department of Physical Therapy (PT) at the University of Pittsburgh. We are pleased that you have chosen SHRS as the academic environment in which to pursue your educational goals.
SHRS and Department of Physical Therapy Policies and Procedures
This handbook was developed to inform you of the SHRS and Department of Physical Therapy policies, procedures, and information that may vary from general University of Pittsburgh policies. Therefore, we ask that you:
Read the University Catalog thoroughly and familiarize yourself with its contents. https://catalog.upp.pitt.edu/index.php
Read the Student Code of Conduct thoroughly and familiarize yourself with its contents. www.studentaffairs.pitt.edu/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/2017_Code_of_Conduct_Clean.pdf
Read the SHRS Graduate Student Handbook thoroughly and familiarize yourself with its contents and University/School policies. http://www.shrs.pitt.edu/current-students/student-handbooks
Read the DPT Handbook thoroughly and familiarize yourself with its contents.
5 About the School of Health and Rehabilitation Science (SHRS)
The mission of the School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences (SHRS) is to advance the theoretical base of knowledge underlying the practice of health and rehabilitation disciplines and professions through research, teaching and professional service.
The SHRS facult