Curriculum Overview
The Physiotherapy program at Sigma University Vadodara is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the field through a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills. The curriculum is structured over eight semesters, with each semester building upon the previous one to ensure a progressive learning experience.
Semester-wise Course Structure
| Semester | Course Code | Course Title | Credit Structure (L-T-P-C) | Prerequisites |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | PHYS101 | Introduction to Physiotherapy | 3-0-0-3 | None |
| 1 | PHYS102 | Human Anatomy | 4-0-0-4 | None |
| 1 | PHYS103 | Human Physiology | 4-0-0-4 | None |
| 1 | PHYS104 | Basic Biomechanics | 3-0-0-3 | None |
| 1 | PHYS105 | Basic Psychology | 3-0-0-3 | None |
| 1 | PHYS106 | Basic Microbiology | 3-0-0-3 | None |
| 2 | PHYS201 | Pathophysiology | 4-0-0-4 | PHYS102, PHYS103 |
| 2 | PHYS202 | Pharmacology | 3-0-0-3 | PHYS102, PHYS103 |
| 2 | PHYS203 | Biomechanics | 3-0-0-3 | PHYS104 |
| 2 | PHYS204 | Basic Exercise Physiology | 3-0-0-3 | PHYS103 |
| 2 | PHYS205 | Basic Clinical Skills | 3-0-0-3 | PHYS102, PHYS103 |
| 2 | PHYS206 | Research Methodology | 2-0-0-2 | None |
| 3 | PHYS301 | Orthopedic Physiotherapy | 4-0-0-4 | PHYS201, PHYS202 |
| 3 | PHYS302 | Neurological Physiotherapy | 4-0-0-4 | PHYS201 |
| 3 | PHYS303 | Cardiac and Pulmonary Physiotherapy | 3-0-0-3 | PHYS201, PHYS202 |
| 3 | PHYS304 | Manual Therapy | 3-0-0-3 | PHYS201, PHYS202 |
| 3 | PHYS305 | Community Health | 3-0-0-3 | PHYS201 |
| 3 | PHYS306 | Electrotherapy | 3-0-0-3 | PHYS201 |
| 4 | PHYS401 | Pediatric Physiotherapy | 4-0-0-4 | PHYS301, PHYS302 |
| 4 | PHYS402 | Geriatric Physiotherapy | 4-0-0-4 | PHYS301, PHYS302 |
| 4 | PHYS403 | Women's Health Physiotherapy | 3-0-0-3 | PHYS301, PHYS302 |
| 4 | PHYS404 | Occupational Therapy | 3-0-0-3 | PHYS301 |
| 4 | PHYS405 | Research Project | 2-0-0-2 | PHYS206 |
| 4 | PHYS406 | Advanced Clinical Skills | 3-0-0-3 | PHYS301, PHYS302 |
| 5 | PHYS501 | Advanced Orthopedic Physiotherapy | 4-0-0-4 | PHYS401, PHYS402 |
| 5 | PHYS502 | Advanced Neurological Physiotherapy | 4-0-0-4 | PHYS401, PHYS402 |
| 5 | PHYS503 | Advanced Cardiac and Pulmonary Physiotherapy | 3-0-0-3 | PHYS303 |
| 5 | PHYS504 | Advanced Manual Therapy | 3-0-0-3 | PHYS304 |
| 5 | PHYS505 | Healthcare Management | 3-0-0-3 | PHYS305 |
| 5 | PHYS506 | Capstone Project | 4-0-0-4 | PHYS405 |
| 6 | PHYS601 | Specialized Topics in Physiotherapy | 3-0-0-3 | PHYS501, PHYS502 |
| 6 | PHYS602 | Research Thesis | 4-0-0-4 | PHYS506 |
| 6 | PHYS603 | Internship | 4-0-0-4 | PHYS506 |
| 6 | PHYS604 | Professional Ethics | 2-0-0-2 | None |
| 6 | PHYS605 | Advanced Clinical Skills | 3-0-0-3 | PHYS406 |
| 6 | PHYS606 | Global Healthcare Practices | 2-0-0-2 | PHYS501, PHYS502 |
| 7 | PHYS701 | Advanced Research Methods | 3-0-0-3 | PHYS602 |
| 7 | PHYS702 | Global Health Challenges | 3-0-0-3 | PHYS505 |
| 7 | PHYS703 | Healthcare Innovation | 3-0-0-3 | PHYS602 |
| 7 | PHYS704 | Leadership in Healthcare | 2-0-0-2 | PHYS505 |
| 7 | PHYS705 | Advanced Clinical Rotations | 4-0-0-4 | PHYS603 |
| 7 | PHYS706 | Capstone Project | 4-0-0-4 | PHYS602 |
| 8 | PHYS801 | Final Research Project | 4-0-0-4 | PHYS701, PHYS702 |
| 8 | PHYS802 | Professional Internship | 4-0-0-4 | PHYS705 |
| 8 | PHYS803 | Advanced Clinical Skills | 3-0-0-3 | PHYS705 |
| 8 | PHYS804 | Final Capstone | 4-0-0-4 | PHYS801 |
| 8 | PHYS805 | Graduation Thesis | 4-0-0-4 | PHYS801 |
| 8 | PHYS806 | Final Review | 2-0-0-2 | PHYS805 |
Advanced Departmental Elective Courses
Advanced departmental electives provide students with the opportunity to delve deeper into specialized areas of physiotherapy. These courses are designed to build upon the foundational knowledge gained in earlier semesters and offer students the chance to explore emerging trends and advanced techniques in the field.
Advanced Orthopedic Physiotherapy: This course focuses on the treatment of complex musculoskeletal conditions. Students learn advanced techniques for assessing and treating conditions such as chronic pain, post-surgical rehabilitation, and sports injuries. The course includes hands-on training in manual therapy, exercise prescription, and the use of assistive devices.
Advanced Neurological Physiotherapy: This course explores the treatment of neurological conditions such as stroke, multiple sclerosis, and spinal cord injury. Students learn advanced techniques for assessing and treating motor and sensory impairments, including the use of neuroplasticity principles and advanced rehabilitation strategies.
Advanced Cardiac and Pulmonary Physiotherapy: This course focuses on the management of patients with cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. Students learn about the pathophysiology of these conditions, the role of physiotherapy in treatment, and the use of advanced therapeutic techniques such as breathing exercises and exercise training.
Advanced Manual Therapy: This course provides in-depth training in manual therapy techniques. Students learn about joint mobilization, soft tissue manipulation, and other hands-on techniques for treating musculoskeletal conditions. The course includes practical sessions with experienced practitioners and case studies.
Healthcare Management: This course prepares students for leadership roles in healthcare settings. Students learn about healthcare policy, organizational management, and quality improvement strategies. The course includes case studies and simulations to provide practical experience.
Research Project: This course provides students with the opportunity to conduct independent research under the guidance of faculty mentors. Students learn research methodologies, data analysis, and academic writing. The course culminates in a research paper or thesis.
Capstone Project: This course is the culmination of the student's academic journey. Students work on a comprehensive project that integrates knowledge from all areas of the program. The project is supervised by faculty mentors and includes a presentation and report.
Specialized Topics in Physiotherapy: This course covers emerging trends and advanced topics in the field of physiotherapy. Students explore areas such as telehealth, rehabilitation technology, and global health challenges. The course includes guest lectures from experts in the field.
Professional Ethics: This course focuses on ethical issues in healthcare and professional practice. Students learn about ethical principles, legal responsibilities, and professional standards. The course includes case studies and discussions to enhance understanding.
Global Healthcare Practices: This course provides students with an understanding of healthcare practices in different countries and cultures. Students learn about global health challenges, international healthcare systems, and cross-cultural communication.
Advanced Clinical Skills: This course focuses on advanced clinical skills and techniques. Students learn about advanced assessment methods, treatment planning, and patient education. The course includes practical sessions with experienced clinicians.
Project-Based Learning Philosophy
Project-based learning is a core component of the Physiotherapy program at Sigma University Vadodara. This approach emphasizes hands-on learning and real-world application of knowledge. Students are encouraged to work on projects that address actual challenges in healthcare, allowing them to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
The program includes mandatory mini-projects in the third and fourth semesters, where students work in teams to address specific healthcare issues. These projects are designed to be interdisciplinary, integrating knowledge from various fields such as medicine, psychology, and technology. Students are guided by faculty mentors and are evaluated based on their ability to apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations.
The final-year thesis or capstone project is a significant component of the program. Students select a topic of interest and conduct an in-depth study under the supervision of a faculty mentor. The project is designed to be original and to contribute to the field of physiotherapy. Students are expected to present their findings and defend their work in a public forum.
Project selection is based on student interests and faculty expertise. Students are encouraged to choose projects that align with their career goals and that have the potential to make a meaningful impact in the field. The program provides resources and support to ensure that students can successfully complete their projects.