Curriculum Overview
The Physiotherapy program at Nist University Ganjam is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education that combines foundational sciences, clinical skills, and research capabilities. The curriculum spans eight semesters, each building upon previous knowledge while introducing new concepts and applications.
| Semester | Course Code | Course Title | Credit Structure (L-T-P-C) | Pre-requisites |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | PHYS101 | Anatomy & Physiology | 3-1-0-4 | None |
| 1 | PHYS102 | Biochemistry | 3-1-0-4 | None |
| 1 | PHYS103 | Microbiology | 3-1-0-4 | None |
| 1 | PHYS104 | Biomechanics | 3-1-0-4 | PHYS101 |
| 2 | PHYS201 | Pathology | 3-1-0-4 | PHYS101, PHYS102 |
| 2 | PHYS202 | Pharmacology | 3-1-0-4 | PHYS101, PHYS102 |
| 2 | PHYS203 | Psychology | 3-1-0-4 | None |
| 2 | PHYS204 | Neuroscience | 3-1-0-4 | PHYS101, PHYS102 |
| 3 | PHYS301 | Orthopedic Physiotherapy | 3-1-0-4 | PHYS201, PHYS202 |
| 3 | PHYS302 | Neurological Physiotherapy | 3-1-0-4 | PHYS201, PHYS202 |
| 3 | PHYS303 | Manual Therapy Techniques | 3-1-0-4 | PHYS101, PHYS201 |
| 3 | PHYS304 | Pediatric Physiotherapy | 3-1-0-4 | PHYS201, PHYS202 |
| 4 | PHYS401 | Geriatric Physiotherapy | 3-1-0-4 | PHYS301, PHYS302 |
| 4 | PHYS402 | Cardiopulmonary Physiotherapy | 3-1-0-4 | PHYS301, PHYS302 |
| 4 | PHYS403 | Women's Health Physiotherapy | 3-1-0-4 | PHYS301, PHYS302 |
| 4 | PHYS404 | Research Methodology | 3-1-0-4 | PHYS201, PHYS202 |
| 5 | PHYS501 | Advanced Neurological Assessment | 3-1-0-4 | PHYS302 |
| 5 | PHYS502 | Exercise Physiology for Athletes | 3-1-0-4 | PHYS101, PHYS201 |
| 5 | PHYS503 | Biomechanical Analysis of Movement | 3-1-0-4 | PHYS101, PHYS201 |
| 5 | PHYS504 | Cognitive Rehabilitation Techniques | 3-1-0-4 | PHYS302 |
| 6 | PHYS601 | Advanced Sports Injury Management | 3-1-0-4 | PHYS301, PHYS502 |
| 6 | PHYS602 | Manual Therapy and Manipulation | 3-1-0-4 | PHYS303 |
| 6 | PHYS603 | Pediatric Neurological Conditions | 3-1-0-4 | PHYS304, PHYS504 |
| 6 | PHYS604 | Geriatric Assessment Techniques | 3-1-0-4 | PHYS401 |
| 7 | PHYS701 | Research Project I | 0-0-6-8 | PHYS404 |
| 7 | PHYS702 | Research Project II | 0-0-6-8 | PHYS701 |
| 8 | PHYS801 | Capstone Project | 0-0-6-12 | PHYS702 |
| 8 | PHYS802 | Clinical Internship | 0-0-12-12 | PHYS401, PHYS402, PHYS403, PHYS501 |
Detailed Course Descriptions
Below are descriptions of advanced departmental elective courses offered in the Physiotherapy program:
- Advanced Neurological Assessment: This course delves into complex neurological conditions and advanced assessment techniques. Students learn to evaluate patients with stroke, traumatic brain injury, and spinal cord disorders using standardized tools and protocols.
- Exercise Physiology for Athletes: Designed for students interested in sports physiotherapy, this course explores how exercise affects the body and how physiological responses can be optimized through targeted interventions.
- Biomechanical Analysis of Movement: Using motion capture systems and force plates, students analyze human movement patterns to understand mechanical principles that influence injury risk and recovery.
- Cognitive Rehabilitation Techniques: This course focuses on therapeutic approaches for patients with cognitive impairments following brain injuries or neurodegenerative diseases.
- Advanced Sports Injury Management: Students examine current treatment modalities for common sports injuries, including surgical interventions and post-operative rehabilitation strategies.
- Manual Therapy and Manipulation: This course teaches hands-on techniques for assessing and treating musculoskeletal dysfunction, emphasizing safety and effectiveness.
- Pediatric Neurological Conditions: Focused on children with neurological disorders, this course covers assessment, diagnosis, and treatment approaches specific to pediatric populations.
- Geriatric Assessment Techniques: Students learn specialized methods for evaluating older adults, including balance assessments, fall risk factors, and functional independence measures.
- Sensory Integration Therapy: This course addresses the role of sensory processing in development and how sensory integration techniques can be applied to treat developmental delays and disorders.
- Respiratory Rehabilitation: Designed for students interested in cardiopulmonary physiotherapy, this course covers breathing exercises, lung function testing, and exercise training for respiratory patients.
Project-Based Learning Philosophy
The department strongly believes in the power of experiential learning through project-based methodologies. Students engage in both individual and group projects throughout their academic journey, fostering critical thinking, collaboration, and practical application of theoretical knowledge.
Mini-projects are assigned in the second year, focusing on fundamental concepts such as assessment techniques or basic treatment protocols. These projects are evaluated based on presentation quality, depth of research, and clarity of communication.
The final-year capstone project is a significant component of the program. Students select a topic aligned with their interests or career goals, working closely with faculty mentors to develop a comprehensive research plan. The project culminates in a written thesis and oral defense, demonstrating the student's ability to conduct independent research and contribute original insights to the field.
Project selection involves a proposal process where students present their ideas to a committee of faculty members. Mentors are assigned based on expertise alignment and availability, ensuring that each student receives personalized guidance throughout their project journey.