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Physical Therapy Courses

Physical therapy courses can help you learn anatomy, biomechanics, patient assessment, and rehabilitation techniques. You can build skills in developing treatment plans, using therapeutic modalities, and enhancing patient mobility. Many courses introduce tools such as ultrasound machines, electrical stimulation devices, and exercise equipment, that support implementing effective treatment strategies and tracking patient progress.


Popular Physical Therapy Courses and Certifications


  • Status: Preview
    Preview
    U

    University of Toronto

    Managing Your Health: The Role of Physical Therapy and Exercise

    Skills you'll gain: Sports Medicine, Physical Therapy, Injury Prevention, Exercise Science, Preventative Care, Health Education, Pain Management, Rehabilitation, Cardiology, Orthopedics, Oncology

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    800 reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Preview
    Preview
    T

    The Chinese University of Hong Kong

    Fundamental Sports related Musculoskeletal Anatomy

    Skills you'll gain: Human Musculoskeletal System, Anatomy, Sports Medicine, Kinesiology, Orthopedics, Physical Therapy

    4.4
    Rating, 4.4 out of 5 stars
    ·
    59 reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Preview
    Preview
    U

    University of Colorado Boulder

    Science of Exercise

    Skills you'll gain: Exercise Science, Kinesiology, Physiology, Sports Medicine, Nutrition and Diet, Pharmacology, Public Health and Disease Prevention, Immunology, Preventative Care, Respiration, Athletic Training, Endocrinology, Chronic Diseases, Vital Signs, Biochemistry, Public Health, Mental Health

    4.8
    Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
    ·
    4.7K reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

  • Y

    Yale University

    Anatomy of the Upper and Lower Extremities

    Skills you'll gain: Human Musculoskeletal System, Anatomy, Orthopedics, Kinesiology, Patient Positioning, Neurology, Physical Therapy

    4.9
    Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
    ·
    99 reviews

    Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Free
    Free
    U

    University of Michigan

    Michigan Sport-Related Concussion Training Certification

    Skills you'll gain: Rehabilitation, Sports Medicine, Athletic Training, Injury Prevention, Emergency Medicine, Safety Training, Neurology, School Psychology, Long Term Care, Emergency Response

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    1.2K reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    R

    Rice University

    Human Anatomy & Physiology I

    Skills you'll gain: Human Musculoskeletal System, Anatomy, Endocrinology, Orthopedics, Kinesiology, Physiology, Neurology, Medical Terminology, Cell Biology, Biology, Chemistry, Clinical Practices, Sports Medicine, Physical Therapy, Molecular, Cellular, and Microbiology, Life Sciences, Lifelong Learning

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    160 reviews

    Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

What brings you to Coursera today?

  • Status: Free
    Free
    U

    University of Michigan

    Teaching and Assessing Clinical Skills

    Skills you'll gain: Constructive Feedback, Clinical Supervision, Clinical Assessment, Clinical Practices, Patient Evaluation, Patient Safety, Teamwork, Trustworthiness

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    796 reviews

    Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    U

    University of Colorado Boulder

    The Science of Movement

    Skills you'll gain: Kinesiology, Electrophysiology, Rehabilitation, Exercise Science, Human Musculoskeletal System, Sports Medicine, Exercise Therapy, Physical Therapy, Neurology, Physiology, Geriatrics, Control Systems, Coordination, Anatomy, Cell Biology, Biology

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    15 reviews

    Intermediate · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Preview
    Preview
    Y

    Yale University

    Introduction to Psychology

    Skills you'll gain: Psychology, Child Development, Psychiatry, Mental Health, Human Development, Human Learning, Social Sciences, Behavioral Health, Sociology, Neurology, Critical Thinking, Scientific Methods, Problem Solving

    4.9
    Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
    ·
    32K reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    M

    MedCerts

    Human Anatomy and Medical Terminology Fundamentals

    Skills you'll gain: Medical Terminology, Pulmonology, Pathology, Endocrinology, Cardiology, Medical Records, Respiratory Therapy, Neurology, Obstetrics And Gynecology, General Medical Tests and Procedures, Diagnostic Tests, Urology, Gynecology, Anatomy, Human Musculoskeletal System, Health Information Management and Medical Records, Cell Biology, Orthopedics, Physiology, Immunology

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    260 reviews

    Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

  • Status: New
    New
    Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    D

    Duke University

    Telehealth: Musculoskeletal Assessment

    Skills you'll gain: Telehealth, Patient Positioning, Health Assessment, Clinical Assessment, Health Technology, Patient Education And Counseling, Human Musculoskeletal System

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

  • Status: New
    New
    Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    D

    Duke University

    Telehealth: Essentials, Teamwork, and Musculoskeletal Exam

    Skills you'll gain: Telehealth, Patient Preparation, Teamwork, Patient Communication, Collaboration, Vital Signs, Clinical Assessment, Health Technology, Health Assessment, Patient Coordination, Patient Positioning, Patient Education And Counseling, Patient Treatment, Primary Care, Health Care, Health Systems, Patient Evaluation, Telecommunications, Care Management, Communication

    4.9
    Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
    ·
    24 reviews

    Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 4 Weeks

Searches related to physical therapy

managing your health: the role of physical therapy and exercise
1234…130

In summary, here are 10 of our most popular physical therapy courses

  • Managing Your Health: The Role of Physical Therapy and Exercise: University of Toronto
  • Fundamental Sports related Musculoskeletal Anatomy: The Chinese University of Hong Kong
  • Science of Exercise: University of Colorado Boulder
  • Anatomy of the Upper and Lower Extremities : Yale University
  • Michigan Sport-Related Concussion Training Certification : University of Michigan
  • Human Anatomy & Physiology I: Rice University
  • Teaching and Assessing Clinical Skills: University of Michigan
  • The Science of Movement: University of Colorado Boulder
  • Introduction to Psychology : Yale University
  • Human Anatomy and Medical Terminology Fundamentals: MedCerts

Frequently Asked Questions about Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is a healthcare profession focused on the treatment and rehabilitation of individuals with physical impairments or disabilities. It plays a crucial role in helping patients recover from injuries, manage pain, and improve mobility. By employing various techniques, including exercises, manual therapy, and education, physical therapists empower patients to regain their independence and enhance their quality of life. The importance of physical therapy extends beyond recovery; it also promotes overall wellness and preventive care, making it a vital component of the healthcare system. ‎

A career in physical therapy can lead to various job opportunities. Common roles include physical therapist, physical therapy assistant, and rehabilitation specialist. Physical therapists work directly with patients to develop treatment plans, while assistants support therapists in implementing these plans. Additionally, there are opportunities in specialized areas such as sports therapy, pediatric therapy, and geriatric therapy. Each role contributes to improving patient outcomes and enhancing the overall healthcare experience.‎

To succeed in physical therapy, you need a blend of technical and interpersonal skills. Key skills include strong communication abilities to effectively interact with patients and their families, critical thinking for developing treatment plans, and empathy to understand patients' challenges. Additionally, knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and rehabilitation techniques is essential. Hands-on skills in manual therapy and exercise prescription are also crucial for delivering effective care.‎

There are several excellent online courses available for those interested in physical therapy. For instance, Managing Your Health: The Role of Physical Therapy and Exercise offers insights into how physical therapy can enhance health and well-being. Other courses may cover specific techniques or populations, providing a comprehensive understanding of the field. Exploring these options can help you find the right fit for your learning goals.‎

Yes. You can start learning physical therapy on Coursera for free in two ways:

  1. Preview the first module of many physical therapy courses at no cost. This includes video lessons, readings, graded assignments, and Coursera Coach (where available).
  2. Start a 7-day free trial for Specializations or Coursera Plus. This gives you full access to all course content across eligible programs within the timeframe of your trial.

If you want to keep learning, earn a certificate in physical therapy, or unlock full course access after the preview or trial, you can upgrade or apply for financial aid. ‎

Learning physical therapy involves a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical experience. Start by enrolling in online courses that cover the fundamentals of physical therapy, anatomy, and rehabilitation techniques. Engage in hands-on practice through internships or volunteer opportunities in healthcare settings. Additionally, consider joining professional organizations or forums to connect with experienced practitioners and gain insights into the field.‎

Typical topics covered in physical therapy courses include anatomy and physiology, biomechanics, therapeutic modalities, and rehabilitation techniques. Courses often explore patient assessment, treatment planning, and evidence-based practice. Additionally, specialized topics such as sports rehabilitation, pediatric therapy, and geriatric care may be included, providing a well-rounded education for aspiring physical therapists.‎

For training and upskilling employees in physical therapy, courses that focus on practical skills and evidence-based practices are essential. Programs that cover topics like patient assessment, treatment techniques, and rehabilitation strategies can enhance workforce capabilities. Consider options that provide hands-on training or case studies to ensure employees can apply their knowledge effectively in real-world settings.‎

This FAQ content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals.

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