A Local 12 news feature highlights how hands-on laboratory experiences at the Mount prepare future physical therapists to translate classroom knowledge into real-world clinical skills.
Mount St. Joseph University's Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program recently received a spotlight on Local 12 News in recognition of National Physical Therapy Month and the hands-on learning experiences preparing students for careers in physical therapy.
The October 23 feature takes viewers inside the Mount's campus, where first-year DPT students are building their clinical skills through interactive laboratory experiences. During a recent lab, students practiced identifying the thoracic and lumbar spine, developing their understanding of spinal anatomy, muscles and movement through hands-on practice with their classmates.
Dr. Christy Heinrich, assistant professor of physical therapy, shared how these experiences help students move beyond foundational coursework and begin developing the practical skills they'll use when working with patients. Students also discussed what drew them to the profession, highlighting their interest in human movement, personalized care and helping others improve their mobility and quality of life.
Hands-on learning is an essential part of the Mount's 2.5-year doctoral program. Through small class sizes, personalized faculty support and diverse clinical education experiences, students progressively develop the knowledge, confidence and clinical reasoning needed to serve patients across a variety of settings. The program culminates in 36 weeks of full-time clinical education across four unique practice settings.
The Local 12 feature highlights the Mount's commitment to preparing compassionate, skilled physical therapists through collaborative learning and real-world experience. As the university celebrates National Physical Therapy Month, MSJ recognizes the students, faculty, alumni and professionals making a difference in the health and well-being of their communities.
Watch the Local 12 feature: Mount St. Joseph PT Program Marks National Physical Therapy Month with Hands-On Labs
