Comprehensive Course Structure
The physiotherapy curriculum at Nirma University Ahmedabad is designed to provide a robust foundation in both theoretical and practical aspects of the field. The program spans eight semesters, with a carefully balanced mix of core courses, departmental electives, science electives, and laboratory sessions.
| Semester | Course Code | Course Title | Credit Structure (L-T-P-C) | Pre-requisites |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| I | PHYS-101 | Human Anatomy | 3-0-2-5 | - |
| I | PHYS-102 | Basic Physiology | 3-0-2-5 | - |
| I | PHYS-103 | Biomechanics | 3-0-2-5 | - |
| I | PHYS-104 | Introduction to Physiotherapy | 2-0-2-4 | - |
| I | PHYS-105 | Basic Psychology | 3-0-2-5 | - |
| I | PHYS-106 | Human Development | 3-0-2-5 | - |
| I | PHYS-107 | Basic Research Methods | 2-0-2-4 | - |
| I | PHYS-108 | Physical Education & Sports | 0-0-3-3 | - |
| II | PHYS-201 | Advanced Anatomy | 3-0-2-5 | PHYS-101 |
| II | PHYS-202 | Neurophysiology | 3-0-2-5 | PHYS-102 |
| II | PHYS-203 | Kinesiology | 3-0-2-5 | PHYS-101, PHYS-103 |
| II | PHYS-204 | Clinical Reasoning | 2-0-2-4 | - |
| II | PHYS-205 | Ethics in Healthcare | 2-0-2-4 | - |
| II | PHYS-206 | Research Writing | 2-0-2-4 | PHYS-107 |
| III | PHYS-301 | Neurological Physiotherapy | 3-0-2-5 | PHYS-201, PHYS-202 |
| III | PHYS-302 | Orthopedic Physiotherapy | 3-0-2-5 | PHYS-201, PHYS-203 |
| III | PHYS-303 | Pediatric Physiotherapy | 3-0-2-5 | PHYS-106 |
| III | PHYS-304 | Geriatric Physiotherapy | 3-0-2-5 | - |
| III | PHYS-305 | Manual Therapy Techniques | 3-0-2-5 | PHYS-203 |
| III | PHYS-306 | Cardiopulmonary Physiotherapy | 3-0-2-5 | PHYS-202 |
| IV | PHYS-401 | Clinical Skills Lab I | 0-0-6-6 | PHYS-301, PHYS-302 |
| IV | PHYS-402 | Evidence-Based Practice | 2-0-2-4 | PHYS-206 |
| IV | PHYS-403 | Professional Communication | 2-0-2-4 | - |
| IV | PHYS-404 | Health Informatics | 2-0-2-4 | - |
| IV | PHYS-405 | Community Health | 3-0-2-5 | - |
| V | PHYS-501 | Clinical Skills Lab II | 0-0-6-6 | PHYS-401 |
| V | PHYS-502 | Research Project I | 0-0-3-3 | PHYS-206 |
| V | PHYS-503 | Therapeutic Exercise | 3-0-2-5 | PHYS-301, PHYS-302 |
| V | PHYS-504 | Advanced Manual Therapy | 3-0-2-5 | PHYS-305 |
| V | PHYS-505 | Specialized Treatments | 3-0-2-5 | - |
| VI | PHYS-601 | Internship I | 0-0-8-8 | PHYS-501, PHYS-502 |
| VI | PHYS-602 | Research Project II | 0-0-3-3 | PHYS-502 |
| VI | PHYS-603 | Leadership in Healthcare | 2-0-2-4 | - |
| VII | PHYS-701 | Clinical Skills Lab III | 0-0-6-6 | PHYS-601 |
| VII | PHYS-702 | Advanced Clinical Practice | 3-0-2-5 | PHYS-503, PHYS-504 |
| VII | PHYS-703 | Capstone Project | 0-0-6-6 | PHYS-602 |
| VIII | PHYS-801 | Internship II | 0-0-8-8 | PHYS-701, PHYS-703 |
| VIII | PHYS-802 | Final Thesis | 0-0-3-3 | PHYS-703 |
| VIII | PHYS-803 | Professional Development | 2-0-2-4 | - |
Detailed Course Descriptions
Advanced departmental elective courses are designed to deepen students' understanding of specific areas within physiotherapy. These courses combine theoretical knowledge with practical application, ensuring that students gain hands-on experience in specialized domains.
- Neurological Physiotherapy (PHYS-301): This course delves into the pathophysiology of neurological disorders and explores evidence-based interventions for conditions such as stroke, spinal cord injury, and multiple sclerosis. Students learn advanced assessment techniques and develop treatment plans tailored to individual patient needs.
- Orthopedic Physiotherapy (PHYS-302): This course focuses on the diagnosis and management of musculoskeletal conditions including fractures, joint replacements, and sports injuries. Emphasis is placed on functional movement analysis and rehabilitation protocols designed to restore optimal physical function.
- Pediatric Physiotherapy (PHYS-303): Designed for students interested in working with children, this course covers developmental milestones, congenital anomalies, and therapeutic interventions for pediatric populations. It includes training in play-based therapy techniques and family-centered care approaches.
- Geriatric Physiotherapy (PHYS-304): This course addresses the unique challenges faced by older adults, including age-related decline, chronic diseases, and frailty management. Students learn to develop individualized care plans that promote independence and improve quality of life in elderly patients.
- Manual Therapy Techniques (PHYS-305): Focused on hands-on therapeutic approaches, this course teaches students various manual therapy techniques including mobilization, manipulation, and soft tissue mobilization. Practical sessions are conducted using simulation models and supervised patient interactions.
- Cardiopulmonary Physiotherapy (PHYS-306): This course explores the physiological basis of cardiopulmonary diseases and introduces students to therapeutic interventions such as breathing exercises, exercise training, and oxygen therapy. It emphasizes the integration of these techniques into comprehensive treatment plans.
- Clinical Skills Lab I (PHYS-401): This lab provides students with opportunities to practice clinical skills in a controlled environment before entering real-world settings. Students receive feedback from faculty members on their performance and are encouraged to refine their technique through repetition and reflection.
- Evidence-Based Practice (PHYS-402): This course equips students with the tools necessary to evaluate research literature and apply findings to clinical decision-making. It covers study design, statistical analysis, and critical appraisal of scientific papers.
- Health Informatics (PHYS-404): As healthcare becomes increasingly digitized, this course introduces students to electronic health records, telehealth platforms, and data analytics tools used in modern physiotherapy practices. Students learn how to use technology to enhance patient outcomes and streamline clinical workflows.
- Community Health (PHYS-405): This course examines the role of physiotherapy in public health initiatives and community-based care models. Students explore strategies for promoting health equity, preventing disease, and addressing social determinants of health affecting vulnerable populations.
Project-Based Learning Philosophy
The department's philosophy on project-based learning emphasizes experiential education that bridges the gap between theory and practice. Students are encouraged to engage in meaningful projects that challenge them intellectually and professionally, preparing them for real-world challenges in healthcare environments.
Mini-projects begin in the second year and continue through the final year of study. These projects are typically interdisciplinary, involving collaboration with other departments such as psychology, nutrition, and public health. The goal is to foster creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills while building a portfolio of work that demonstrates competency in various aspects of physiotherapy practice.
The final-year thesis or capstone project represents the culmination of students' learning experiences. It requires them to conduct independent research or implement a clinical intervention under the supervision of faculty mentors with expertise in relevant areas. The project must demonstrate originality, rigor, and relevance to current issues in physiotherapy practice or research.
Students select their projects based on personal interests, career aspirations, and availability of resources within the department. Faculty mentors are assigned according to the alignment between student interests and faculty expertise, ensuring that students receive guidance tailored to their specific goals.