BS in Physical Therapy

A Legacy of Excellence in Physical Therapy Education

The Department of Physical Therapy at LGU boasts a rich history, dating back to its inception within the ISPM Institute (Institut des Sciences Paramédicales) in the early 1970s. This pioneering program transformed into a Bachelor of Science (BS) program under IESP (Institut d’Enseignement Superieur de Physiothérapie) in 1999, solidifying its place as the cornerstone of LGU's physical therapy offerings. In 2007, the program integrated into the LGU Public Health Faculty, marking a new chapter in its evolution.

Since then, the Department of Physical Therapy has embraced continuous development, introducing a unique Master's degree in podology. This program, offered in collaboration with EPM (Ecole de Podologie de Marseille), a leading French podology school, positions LGU at the forefront of specialized physical therapy education. Additionally, the department has recently introduced a Doctorate in Physical Therapy, catering to students seeking the highest level of academic achievement.

Shaping the Future of Physical Therapy

With a distinguished alumni network exceeding one thousand graduates, the LGU Department of Physical Therapy has demonstrably influenced the field across Lebanon, Europe, Canada, and the Gulf region. The department remains steadfast in its mission to propel physical therapy education, research, and community engagement to new heights.

• Exemplary Education: The department fosters the highest educational standards through a diverse range of teaching methodologies, rigorous clinical experiences, and comprehensive field training opportunities.
• Evidence-Based Practice: The curriculum integrates the latest research findings, ensuring graduates are equipped with the knowledge to deliver the most effective treatments.
• Diversity and Inclusion: The department champions a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, fostering a culture that empowers graduates to become well-rounded healthcare providers and lifelong learners.

The Scope of Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is a cornerstone of modern healthcare, addressing a comprehensive spectrum of health conditions across all age groups, from infants to geriatric populations. It plays a pivotal role in promoting health and well-being through meticulous assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of impairments and disabilities affecting the musculoskeletal system and beyond.

The BS program spans over four years of rigorous study, equipping students with a strong foundation in theory and practical skills through intensive training and hands-on clinical experiences.

Career Opportunities

Physical Therapy graduates can work effectively in various inter-professional collaborative settings:

• Hospitals
• Rehabilitation centers
• Schools and educational institutions
• Health and fitness centers
• Geriatric centers
• Ergonomic consultancy in corporate sectors
• Private practices
• Home care services
• Industrial sectors
• Sports management
• Fitness consultancy
• Teaching & research

Research Focus

In a research-based learning environment, students at the Physical Therapy Department learn about research processes and develop research skills and the ability to critically analyze and reflect.

Evidence-based practice (EBP) is the gold standard approach in physiotherapy, emphasizing the necessity for students to recognize it as the most effective approach in delivering optimal patient care. Undergraduate EBP research can positively influence learning outcomes and research competencies related to traditional requirements of higher education.

Research in physical therapy is fundamental for fostering critical thinking skills and cultivating a mindset of lifelong learning. It also serves as a means to generate knowledge that enriches the discipline itself.