Curriculum Overview
The Physiotherapy program at Guru Kashi University Bathinda is structured over eight semesters, providing a balanced blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience. The curriculum emphasizes foundational sciences in early years followed by specialized training in clinical applications and research methodologies.
Course Structure Across 8 Semesters
| Semester | Course Code | Full Course Title | Credit Structure (L-T-P-C) | Pre-requisites |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | PHY-101 | Introduction to Human Anatomy and Physiology | 3-1-0-4 | - |
| 1 | PHY-102 | Basic Biomechanics and Kinesiology | 3-1-0-4 | - |
| 1 | PHY-103 | Introduction to Research Methods | 2-0-2-3 | - |
| 1 | PHY-104 | Basic Laboratory Skills in Physiotherapy | 0-0-3-2 | - |
| 2 | PHY-201 | Pathophysiology of Musculoskeletal Disorders | 3-1-0-4 | PHY-101, PHY-102 |
| 2 | PHY-202 | Neurological Assessment and Intervention | 3-1-0-4 | PHY-101, PHY-102 |
| 2 | PHY-203 | Cardiovascular and Respiratory Pathophysiology | 3-1-0-4 | PHY-101, PHY-102 |
| 2 | PHY-204 | Introduction to Clinical Practice I | 0-0-3-2 | - |
| 3 | PHY-301 | Advanced Biomechanics and Gait Analysis | 3-1-0-4 | PHY-201, PHY-202 |
| 3 | PHY-302 | Manual Therapy Techniques | 3-1-0-4 | PHY-201, PHY-202 |
| 3 | PHY-303 | Electrotherapy and Physiotherapy Modalities | 3-1-0-4 | PHY-201, PHY-202 |
| 3 | PHY-304 | Clinical Practice II | 0-0-3-2 | PHY-204 |
| 4 | PHY-401 | Neurological Rehabilitation Techniques | 3-1-0-4 | PHY-302, PHY-303 |
| 4 | PHY-402 | Orthopedic Physiotherapy Principles | 3-1-0-4 | PHY-301, PHY-302 |
| 4 | PHY-403 | Pediatric and Geriatric Physiotherapy | 3-1-0-4 | PHY-202, PHY-301 |
| 4 | PHY-404 | Research Project Preparation | 0-0-3-2 | - |
| 5 | PHY-501 | Advanced Clinical Practice I | 0-0-3-2 | PHY-404 |
| 5 | PHY-502 | Specialized Treatment Protocols | 3-1-0-4 | PHY-401, PHY-402 |
| 5 | PHY-503 | Public Health and Community Outreach | 3-1-0-4 | - |
| 5 | PHY-504 | Internship in Clinical Settings | 0-0-6-4 | - |
| 6 | PHY-601 | Advanced Research Methodology | 2-0-2-3 | PHY-404 |
| 6 | PHY-602 | Capstone Project Proposal | 0-0-3-2 | PHY-504 |
| 6 | PHY-603 | Professional Ethics and Legal Aspects | 2-1-0-3 | - |
| 7 | PHY-701 | Capstone Project Implementation | 0-0-6-4 | PHY-602 |
| 8 | PHY-801 | Final Thesis and Presentation | 0-0-3-2 | PHY-701 |
Detailed Course Descriptions for Advanced Departmental Electives
Advanced Biomechanics and Gait Analysis: This course delves into the mechanics of human movement, focusing on gait analysis using motion capture technology. Students will learn to interpret biomechanical data and apply it to develop customized treatment plans for patients with locomotory disorders.
Manual Therapy Techniques: Designed to provide comprehensive training in manual therapy interventions, this course covers joint mobilization, soft tissue manipulation, and neuromuscular re-education techniques. Students will gain proficiency in performing hands-on treatments under supervision.
Electrotherapy and Physiotherapy Modalities: This elective explores the application of electrical stimulation, ultrasound therapy, and other modalities to promote healing and pain relief. Students will learn the scientific basis behind these therapies and their clinical applications.
Neurological Rehabilitation Techniques: Focused on treating patients with neurological conditions such as stroke, spinal cord injury, and Parkinson’s disease, this course introduces advanced therapeutic approaches and neuroplasticity-based interventions.
Orthopedic Physiotherapy Principles: This subject covers the pathophysiology of musculoskeletal disorders, surgical procedures, and post-operative care. Students will learn to develop comprehensive rehabilitation programs for orthopedic patients across different age groups.
Pediatric and Geriatric Physiotherapy: Tailored to meet the unique needs of children and elderly populations, this course addresses developmental milestones, growth anomalies, and age-related health challenges in physical therapy.
Advanced Clinical Practice I: A capstone course integrating clinical knowledge with practical skills, preparing students for real-world patient interactions through simulated environments and supervised practice sessions.
Specialized Treatment Protocols: This course introduces specialized treatment protocols for specific conditions such as chronic pain, sports injuries, and occupational disorders. Students will learn to design individualized care plans based on evidence-based practices.
Public Health and Community Outreach: Emphasizing the role of physiotherapy in public health initiatives, this course covers community assessment, health promotion strategies, and advocacy efforts to improve access to rehabilitation services.
Internship in Clinical Settings: A mandatory hands-on experience where students work under guidance in affiliated hospitals or clinics. This exposure ensures that students are ready for professional practice upon graduation.
Project-Based Learning Philosophy
The department believes that project-based learning is essential for developing critical thinking, research skills, and practical application of knowledge. The curriculum integrates mini-projects throughout the program to reinforce classroom learning and encourage innovation.
Mini-Projects (Years 1-4)
Mini-projects are designed to be completed in groups of 3-5 students over a period of 2-3 months. These projects typically involve literature review, data collection, analysis, and presentation of findings related to current issues in physiotherapy.
Examples include analyzing the effectiveness of aquatic therapy for arthritis patients or evaluating the use of virtual reality in stroke rehabilitation. Projects are evaluated based on originality, scientific rigor, and clarity of communication.
Final-Year Thesis/Capstone Project
The final-year thesis is a significant component of the program, allowing students to explore an area of personal interest within physiotherapy. The project involves extensive literature review, hypothesis formulation, experimental design, data collection, and statistical analysis.
Students are paired with faculty mentors who guide them through the process from proposal development to final presentation. Projects often result in publications or presentations at national conferences, enhancing the student's academic profile and career prospects.
Project Selection and Mentorship
Students select their projects based on interest areas and available faculty expertise. The selection process involves a formal proposal submission followed by review by a committee of departmental faculty members.
Mentors are assigned based on project relevance, faculty availability, and student preferences. Regular meetings with mentors ensure continuous progress and support throughout the project lifecycle.