Continuing Education for Physical Therapists
As part of our program’s goal to educate and create lifelong learners, DeSales University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program is pleased to present our continuing education series! Each semester, the DPT program will offer several continuing education offerings for area physical therapists and physical therapist assistants to earn continuing education credits.
As a CAPTE approved provider for physical therapy education, DeSales DPT program is an approved continuing education provider by the Pennsylvania State Board of Physical Therapy.
DPT Continuing Education Courses
McKenzie Institute Part B – MDT: Cervical and Thoracic Spine
Dates: February 6-8, 2026
Location: DSU-Wills Hall
This course examines how McKenzie MDT applies to the cervical and thoracic spines, utilizing the same teaching format as Part A and also begins with a comprehensive online session, followed by a three-day live course.
Course Outline includes:
· Pathophysiology and biomechanics of the cervical spine
· Subjective / objective assessment
· Review and treatment of the three syndromes
· Cervical headache and trauma ('whiplash')
· Complications, contraindications and outcome predictors
· Thoracic spine: anatomy, pathology, examination and treatment
· Patient demonstration, analysis and discussion
Pre-requisite:
Completion of at least Part A or Parts A and C
McKenzie Institute Part D – MDT: Advanced Cervical & Thoracic Spine and Extremities - Upper Limb
Dates: February 26-March 1, 2026
Location: DSU-Wills Hall
This course focuses on advanced McKenzie MDT principles and practical application for the cervical and thoracic spine and an introduction for the upper limb.
Course Outline includes:
· Establishing correct diagnosis and identifying multiple diagnoses
· Recognizing appropriate vs. inappropriate changes
· Progression of forces in treatment
· Reactivation / functional restoration
· Patient compliance and reassessment
· Indications for use of advanced manual therapy techniques
· Application of advanced clinician techniques
Pre-requisite: Completion of Parts A, B, and C
Sunday, March 15, 2026
- Start Time: 7:45 AM
- End Time: 4:45 PM
- Location: DeSales University, University Center (DUC), Center Valley, PA
Physical Therapists and PT assistants may earn up to a total of 7 contact hours for this course.*
This course offers a holistic educational opportunity for all healthcare practitioners to experience neurogeriatric care across all medical settings. The course is designed to provide attendees with an overview of major neurogeriatric topics like depression, vertigo, dementia, and delirium.
Attendees will be able to choose their afternoon sessions focusing on medical practice, rehabilitation, and community outreach. Local resources for older adults will be discussed, and vendors specializing in this area will be available.
This course is essential for any medical professional who cares for older adults with neurologic impairments.
See the St. Luke's Website for CME information for healthcare providers.
* DeSales University Doctor of Physical Therapy Program is a pre-approved sponsor of continuing education for physical therapists and physical therapist assistants in PA and NY.
Third-year graduate students will showcase their faculty-mentored research projects in poster and platform presentations. Experience research projects within orthopedics, geriatrics, pediatrics, neurology, and professional development in a mix of group research project and case report formats. Registration information will be provided at a later date.