Clinical Experiences and Internships
South University’s PT program offers students a wide range of clinical experiences and internships that allow them to apply their classroom knowledge in real healthcare settings. These clinical experiences are vital for students’ professional growth and readiness for their future careers as physical therapists. Under the supervision of licensed professionals, students have the opportunity to work with diverse patient populations, including individuals with orthopedic conditions, neurological disorders, cardiopulmonary conditions, and pediatric conditions. These experiences provide students with exposure to various treatment approaches, assessment techniques, and interprofessional collaboration, preparing them to meet the complex needs of their future patients.
Inpatient Rehabilitation
During their clinical education, students may have the opportunity to work in inpatient rehabilitation settings such as hospitals or rehabilitation centers. In these settings, they gain experience in managing acute and chronic conditions, designing treatment plans, and collaborating with interdisciplinary healthcare teams. Students learn to assess patients’ functional abilities, monitor progress, and modify treatment interventions based on individual needs. The inpatient rehabilitation experiences provide a comprehensive understanding of the continuum of care and the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to patient management.
Outpatient Clinics
Working in outpatient clinics exposes students to a different aspect of physical therapy practice. In these settings, students have the opportunity to work with individuals who have musculoskeletal injuries, chronic pain, or sports-related conditions. They learn to conduct thorough evaluations, design personalized treatment plans, and implement various therapeutic interventions such as manual therapy, therapeutic exercise, and modalities. Outpatient clinical experiences enhance students’ clinical reasoning skills, enabling them to develop effective treatment strategies that address patients’ specific needs.
