Program Overview

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Introduction to the Bachelor of Physical Therapy Program

The Bachelor of Physical Therapy (BPT) Program at King Khalid University, established in 2003 under the Department of Medical Rehabilitation Sciences, aims to address the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's increasing demand for qualified rehabilitation professionals. The program is designed to prepare competent Saudi physiotherapists capable of providing evidence-based care across both urban and rural communities.

Program Vision and Mission

• Program Vision: To be a leading program in physical therapy education, research, and community engagement, fostering lifelong learning and excellence in healthcare delivery.
• Program Mission: Foster an enriching educational environment that prepares competent physical therapists to provide quality healthcare delivery, engage in research and evidence-based practice, and contribute to community health needs through dedicated service and personalized therapeutic approaches.

Program Goals

1. Create a supportive and dynamic educational environment that fosters critical thinking, professional ethics, and interdisciplinary collaboration to prepare students for entry-level practice in physical therapy.
2. Equip graduates with the skills and knowledge to deliver safe, effective, and evidence-based physical therapy services for diverse patient populations.
3. Promote research in physical therapy by integrating evidence-based practices into education and clinical applications.
4. Address community health challenges by fostering partnerships, delivering quality physical therapy services, and promoting lifelong learning to adapt to advancements in healthcare.

Graduate Attributes

1. Critical Thinking: Develop problem-solving skills and clinical reasoning to address diverse patient needs.
2. Ethics and Professionalism: Demonstrate ethical behavior and professionalism in all aspects of physical therapy practice.
3. Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Work effectively within interdisciplinary teams to optimize patient outcomes.
4. Evidence-Based Practice: Integrate research and scientific evidence into clinical decision-making.
5. Community Engagement: Address community health challenges through partnerships and outreach programs.
6. Lifelong Learning: Pursue continuous education and professional growth to adapt to advancements in healthcare.

Program Learning Outcomes

Knowledge Domain:

• K1: Recall the fundamental sciences forming the foundation of physical therapy practice.
• K2: Interpret clinical and diagnostic parameters in physical therapy for diverse populations.
• K3: Demonstrate understanding of ethical, legal, and research principles in modern physical therapy.

Skills Domain:

• S1: Perform comprehensive patient assessments to develop individualized care plans.
• S2: Apply evidence-based interventions to restore function and enhance quality of life.
• S3: Utilize clinical reasoning to evaluate treatment outcomes and adapt interventions effectively.
• S4: Integrate scientific research into clinical decision-making to advance physical therapy practices.

Values, Autonomy, and Responsibility:

• V1: Exhibit ethical and professional behavior aligned with cultural and legal standards.
• V2: Communicate effectively with patients, caregivers, and interdisciplinary teams.
• V3: Engage in community health outreach to promote accessibility and awareness.
• V4: Pursue lifelong learning and specialization to stay updated with advancements in physical therapy.

Curriculum Structure

The program consists of required and elective courses, with a total of 127 credit hours. The structure includes:

• Institution Requirements: 34 credit hours
• College Requirements: 11 credit hours
• Program Requirements: 82 credit hours
• Field Training/Internship: 12 months practice in a hospital setting

Graduation Requirement

Students need to complete all courses with a pass grade to enter the internship. The student cannot enter the internship until they pass all the courses from level 1-8. After completing the internship year (12 months), the student will receive a graduation document.

Teaching and Learning Strategies

The program employs a variety of teaching strategies, including effective lecturing, classroom discussions, practical sessions, active learning, case studies, problem-based learning, and group discussions. Assessment methods include multiple-choice questions, short answer type questions, discussions, assignments, quizzes, practical exams, and continuous assessments.

Guidance and Orientation Programs for New Students

The Physical Therapy Program offers tailored orientation programs, including program-specific orientation, hands-on workshops, career path guidance, and mentorship programs, to address the specific needs of its students.

Student Counseling Services

The program provides specialized counseling services, including academic counseling, professional counseling, psychological counseling, and social counseling, to meet the unique needs of students.

Special Support

The program provides targeted support for students with exceptional needs, including support for low achievers, students with disabilities, gifted and talented students, and emotional and academic interventions.

Learning Resources, Facilities, and Equipment

The program ensures access to comprehensive and up-to-date learning resources, including textbooks, references, e-learning resources, and web-based resources. Facilities include well-stocked libraries, laboratories (anatomy, exercise therapy, electrotherapy, cardio-pulmonary, orthopedic, pediatric, and neurological rehabilitation), classrooms, and clinical training facilities.

Procedures to Ensure a Healthy and Safe Learning Environment

The program adheres to safety standards, including compliance with health and safety regulations, regular inspection and maintenance of equipment and facilities, hazard and infection control measures, emergency preparedness, accessibility, health monitoring, and mental health support.

Program Achievements, Awards, and Significant Accomplishments

The Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy program has demonstrated consistent achievement in faculty development, academic contributions, and community service, with faculty members receiving recognition through awards and certificates of appreciation for their contributions to specialized training events, community service, and extracurricular activities. The program has successfully organized skill-based training sessions and participated in institutional and community health awareness events.