Emory DPT’s Areas of Precision and Clinical Pathways provide a dynamic, longitudinal framework that enables students to intentionally shape their professional development while strengthening core clinical competencies. Throughout eight semesters, students collaborate with faculty mentors in structured clinical and community-based immersive experiences that integrate Areas of Precision (Research, Community Engagement, Business and Entrepreneurship, Humanities, Advocacy). This progressive model fosters meaningful mentorship and supports the real-world application of knowledge and skills, preparing graduates to contribute thoughtfully and innovatively to the evolving practice of physical therapy.
Semesters 1-3: Students are introduced to the five Areas of Precision through structured experiential learning and community engagement that emphasize exploration and discovery.
Semester 4: In their seven-week Integrated Clinical Experience, students identify a clinical case relevant to an Area of Precision and engage in reflective practice. Faculty present projects in different Areas of Precision.
Semester 5: Students finalize their chosen Area of Precision, and work with faculty mentor to develop and timeline and draft a proposal for their Captstone Project
Semesters 6-7: During their three 10-week Terminal Clinical Experiences students continue to work with faculty mentor to refine their Capstone Project proposal, conduct literature review and collect data as needed. Students submit written Capstone proposals in Semester 7.
Semester 8: Mentored Capstone Experience - students finalize their project in their chosen Area of Precision culminating in presentation of findings through a professional poster presentation synthesizing findings.
