MScPT Student Handbook

The Department of Physical Therapy

The Department of Physical Therapy is one of three departments in the Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine at the University of Alberta. The other two Departments include the Department of Occupational Therapy and the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders. Each of these Departments offers an entry-level professional Master's of Science graduate program. Professional programs allow graduates to become registered clinicians in a specific profession. The Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine also offers graduate programs in Rehabilitation Science.

Vision of the Department of Physical Therapy

Optimizing movement for life.

Mission of the Department of Physical Therapy

Inspire learning, advance knowledge, and foster partnerships to improve health and wellbeing.

Vision of the Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine

Enhancing life through rehabilitation.

Mission of the Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine

We create knowledge, inspire learning, and advance the practice of rehabilitation to enhance health and participation.

University of Alberta -For the Public Good

Physical Therapy - What Is It?

Physical Therapy or Physiotherapy (these are interchangeable) is a primary care, autonomous, client-focused health profession dedicated to:

• improving and maintaining functional independence and physical performance;
• preventing and managing pain, physical impairments, disabilities and limits to participation; and
• promoting fitness, health and wellness.

Physical Therapy's unique contribution to health care stems from its advanced understanding of how the body moves, what keeps it from moving well and how to restore mobility.

What do Physical Therapists (Physiotherapists) do?

Physical Therapists (PTs) assess an individual's level of mobility, strength, endurance and other physical abilities to determine the impact of their illness or injury on their physical function, whether at work, rest or play. PTs diagnose the condition and any functional impairments and develop a plan to restore mobility, reduce pain and/or improve function. They work with individuals and when appropriate, their families, to understand how their conditions and impairments are affecting their daily life. PTs measure the individual's progress regularly and adjust the care accordingly. They also advise the individual on how to manage their condition independently and help the individual prevent avoidable recurrences or complications. PTs may also work with populations of individuals with similar health challenges within wellness, injury prevention and health promotion activities.