Course Structure Overview
The Physiotherapy program at Pimpri Chinchwad University Pune is structured over 8 semesters, with a balanced mix of core subjects, departmental electives, science electives, and practical sessions. The curriculum is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in human anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics, followed by specialized training in various aspects of physiotherapy practice.
Course Schedule Table
Semester | Course Code | Course Title | Credit Structure (L-T-P-C) | Prerequisites |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | PHYS101 | Human Anatomy | 3-0-2-4 | - |
1 | PHYS102 | Physiology | 3-0-2-4 | - |
1 | PHYS103 | Biomechanics | 2-0-2-3 | - |
1 | PHYS104 | Introduction to Pathology | 2-0-2-3 | - |
1 | PHYS105 | Medical Terminology | 1-0-1-2 | - |
1 | PHYS106 | Research Methodology | 1-0-2-2 | - |
1 | PHYS107 | Lab Session - Anatomy & Physiology | 0-0-6-2 | - |
2 | PHYS201 | Neuroscience & Neurological Rehabilitation | 3-0-2-4 | PHYS101, PHYS102 |
2 | PHYS202 | Musculoskeletal Anatomy & Physiology | 3-0-2-4 | PHYS101, PHYS102 |
2 | PHYS203 | Basic Clinical Skills & Patient Assessment | 2-0-2-3 | - |
2 | PHYS204 | Manual Therapy Techniques | 2-0-2-3 | - |
2 | PHYS205 | Introduction to Electrotherapy | 1-0-2-2 | - |
2 | PHYS206 | Healthcare Ethics and Law | 1-0-1-2 | - |
2 | PHYS207 | Lab Session - Clinical Skills & Assessment | 0-0-6-2 | PHYS203, PHYS204 |
3 | PHYS301 | Geriatric Physiotherapy | 2-0-2-3 | PHYS201, PHYS202 |
3 | PHYS302 | Pediatric Physiotherapy | 2-0-2-3 | PHYS201, PHYS202 |
3 | PHYS303 | Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation | 2-0-2-3 | PHYS201, PHYS202 |
3 | PHYS304 | Orthopedic Physiotherapy | 2-0-2-3 | PHYS202 |
3 | PHYS305 | Rehabilitation Engineering & Assistive Devices | 1-0-2-2 | PHYS201, PHYS202 |
3 | PHYS306 | Lab Session - Specialized Physiotherapy | 0-0-6-2 | PHYS301, PHYS302, PHYS303, PHYS304 |
4 | PHYS401 | Advanced Neurological Rehabilitation | 2-0-2-3 | PHYS301 |
4 | PHYS402 | Advanced Orthopedic Physiotherapy | 2-0-2-3 | PHYS304 |
4 | PHYS403 | Community Health & Public Policy | 1-0-2-2 | - |
4 | PHYS404 | Research & Innovation in Physiotherapy | 1-0-2-2 | PHYS206 |
4 | PHYS405 | Tele-Rehabilitation & Digital Health | 1-0-2-2 | - |
4 | PHYS406 | Lab Session - Capstone Project Preparation | 0-0-6-2 | PHYS301, PHYS304, PHYS401, PHYS402 |
5 | PHYS501 | Capstone Project I | 0-0-8-4 | - |
5 | PHYS502 | Field Practice & Community Engagement | 0-0-6-3 | - |
5 | PHYS503 | Advanced Research Techniques | 1-0-2-2 | PHYS206 |
5 | PHYS504 | Professional Ethics & Career Development | 1-0-2-2 | - |
5 | PHYS505 | Lab Session - Capstone Project Execution | 0-0-6-2 | PHYS501 |
6 | PHYS601 | Capstone Project II | 0-0-8-4 | PHYS501, PHYS502 |
6 | PHYS602 | Internship - Clinical Practice | 0-0-8-4 | - |
6 | PHYS603 | Advanced Seminar Series | 0-0-2-2 | - |
6 | PHYS604 | Lab Session - Internship Preparation | 0-0-4-2 | - |
7 | PHYS701 | Advanced Clinical Skills | 0-0-4-2 | - |
7 | PHYS702 | Internship - Research & Development | 0-0-8-4 | - |
7 | PHYS703 | Lab Session - Professional Practice | 0-0-6-2 | - |
7 | PHYS704 | Final Portfolio Development | 0-0-2-2 | - |
8 | PHYS801 | Graduation Thesis / Capstone Presentation | 0-0-6-4 | PHYS701, PHYS702 |
8 | PHYS802 | Final Professional Practice | 0-0-6-3 | - |
8 | PHYS803 | Lab Session - Final Assessment | 0-0-4-2 | - |
Advanced Departmental Elective Courses
The program includes several advanced departmental elective courses that allow students to specialize and deepen their understanding of specific areas within physiotherapy. These courses are designed to enhance practical skills, critical thinking, and research capabilities:
Neurological Rehabilitation Techniques
This course explores advanced techniques used in treating neurological conditions such as stroke, spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson’s disease. Students will learn about neuroplasticity, motor learning principles, and evidence-based interventions.
Pediatric Musculoskeletal Conditions
This elective focuses on diagnosing and managing musculoskeletal disorders in children from infancy to adolescence. Topics include developmental milestones, growth-related conditions, and therapeutic approaches tailored for pediatric populations.
Geriatric Mobility & Fall Prevention
This course addresses the unique challenges faced by elderly patients, including balance disorders, osteoporosis, and functional decline. Students will learn how to assess risk factors, design fall prevention programs, and implement mobility-enhancing interventions.
Orthopedic Surgery Rehabilitation
This elective provides an in-depth look at post-surgical rehabilitation for orthopedic procedures such as joint replacements, ligament reconstructions, and fracture management. Students will gain hands-on experience with various rehabilitation protocols and outcome measures.
Cardiopulmonary Assessment & Management
This course covers the assessment and treatment of cardiovascular and respiratory conditions using physiotherapy techniques. Students will learn about exercise testing, pulmonary function assessments, and cardiac rehabilitation programs.
Manual Therapy for Musculoskeletal Disorders
This advanced course delves into manual therapy techniques used to treat musculoskeletal conditions. It includes hands-on practice with joint mobilization, soft tissue manipulation, and myofascial release techniques.
Community-Based Health Promotion
This elective emphasizes the role of physiotherapists in promoting health at the community level. Students will explore strategies for designing public health campaigns, conducting health screenings, and engaging with underserved populations.
Research Design & Data Analysis
This course teaches students how to design research studies, collect data, analyze results, and present findings effectively. It includes both quantitative and qualitative methodologies relevant to physiotherapy practice and research.
Digital Health Technologies in Rehabilitation
This cutting-edge course introduces students to emerging technologies such as wearable sensors, virtual reality systems, telemedicine platforms, and AI-driven tools used in rehabilitation settings.
Leadership & Management in Healthcare
This elective prepares students for leadership roles in healthcare organizations. It covers topics such as team management, resource allocation, quality improvement initiatives, and strategic planning in healthcare delivery.
Project-Based Learning Philosophy
At Pimpri Chinchwad University Pune, project-based learning is a cornerstone of the Physiotherapy program. This approach emphasizes real-world application, collaboration, and critical thinking skills essential for professional success.
Mandatory Mini-Projects
Throughout the program, students are required to complete several mini-projects that integrate theoretical knowledge with practical experience:
- Year 1 Project: Anatomical dissection and mapping project focusing on major organ systems.
- Year 2 Project: Clinical observation report analyzing patient case studies from a local hospital or clinic.
- Year 3 Project: Community health assessment report involving data collection and intervention planning.
Each mini-project is assessed based on clarity of presentation, depth of analysis, adherence to ethical guidelines, and demonstration of critical thinking skills.
Final-Year Thesis/Capstone Project
The final-year capstone project represents the culmination of the student's academic journey. It involves an original research study or applied project that addresses a relevant issue in physiotherapy practice:
- Research Thesis: Students conduct independent research under faculty supervision, culminating in a comprehensive thesis and oral presentation.
- Applied Project: Students develop a practical solution to a problem identified in clinical or community settings, such as designing a new rehabilitation protocol or implementing a health promotion campaign.
The capstone project is evaluated based on originality of approach, rigor of methodology, clarity of communication, and potential impact on the field of physiotherapy.
Project Selection & Mentorship
Students select their projects in consultation with faculty mentors who guide them through the research process:
- Students submit project proposals outlining objectives, scope, and methodology by the end of their third year.
- Faculty mentors are assigned based on expertise alignment and availability.
- Regular progress meetings are scheduled to monitor development and provide feedback.
This mentorship model ensures that students receive personalized guidance while maintaining academic integrity and professional standards.