Doctor of Education in Administration and Leadership (Ed.D)
Become transformational and inspirational leaders in educational institutions, private companies, nonprofits, and more.
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Program Overview
SNU’s Doctorate of Education in Administration and Leadership (DEAL) program stands out as the premier program for those who want to achieve a terminal degree! One characteristic that makes our doctoral program unique is the non-dissertation component. Doctoral students now produce two publishable articles based on original research. This type of product will benefit them more than completing a dissertation and will also provide accessible information to their professional communities.
Another characteristic that impacts students is the support that is provided. Each student has a research professor that will advise and coach them through the research writing process. Our commitment to providing a research professor is a difference maker and is reflected in our high graduation rate. The DEAL program is an excellent choice for you as you consider earning a top degree in your field that will help you accomplish your personal and professional goals.
6
Week course format
2
Start date per year
$600
Tuition Total Cost
57
Total credit hours
$750
Per credit hour
100%
Learn one night a week or online
Upcoming Start Dates
Frequently Asked Questions
- Classes take place online or one evening a week, allowing busy adults to earn a doctorate without sacrificing the things that matter most.
- Focus on one course at a time before moving on to the next to ensure true mastery.
- A research professor is paired with you from the beginning of the program to ensure your success as a student and researcher.
- Instructors with vast amounts of industry experience guide students through courses.
- Textbooks can be delivered directly to your door at the beginning of each class with a textbook subscription service.
With a Doctorate of Education in Administration and Leadership from SNU, you can pursue a variety of leadership roles in educational institutions and beyond. Graduates are prepared for positions such as school district superintendent, principal, or higher education administrator. Additionally, you can work in nonprofit or government sectors as educational consultants, policy advisors, or training and development leaders. The program equips you with advanced skills in strategic planning, organizational leadership, and educational policy implementation, enabling you to lead impactful changes in educational environments.
You should pursue a Doctorate of Education in Administration and Leadership to enhance your ability to lead and manage educational institutions effectively. The program provides advanced skills in strategic decision-making, organizational leadership, and educational policy development. With a focus on ethical leadership and real-world application, SNU’s program prepares you to tackle complex challenges in educational settings, fostering positive change. Additionally, the program’s flexibility supports working professionals seeking to balance their studies with their current career.
Graduates with a Doctorate of Education in Administration and Leadership can be hired by:
- K-12 School Districts for roles such as superintendents, principals, and district administrators.
- Higher Education Institutions for positions like university deans, department chairs, or provosts.
- Nonprofit Organizations in leadership and educational policy development roles.
- Government Agencies involved in educational policy and reform.
- Corporate Training and Development departments focusing on leadership training and organizational improvement.
A Doctorate of Education in Administration and Leadership prepares you for roles such as:
- School Superintendent
- University Dean or Department Chair
- Educational Consultant
- Chief Academic Officer
- Instructional Coach
- Higher Education Administrator
- Policy Advisor in Government or Nonprofit Organizations
- Corporate Leadership Trainer
- Strategist
These roles focus on strategic leadership, organizational development, and advancing educational initiatives in various settings.
Graduates with a Doctorate of Education in Administration and Leadership can expect average salaries ranging from $90,000 to $150,000 annually, depending on the specific role and location. For example, school superintendents may earn on the higher end of this scale, while higher education administrators such as deans and provosts often fall within a similar range. Other positions like educational consultants and policy advisors can also offer competitive salaries, reflecting their leadership and strategic expertise in educational settings.
SNU's doctoral program is unique because of the consistent and incredible support that the research professors provide as they guide students through the entire 32-month process. The feedback and support each student receives is clear and helpful. Research Professors are always available and teach the research courses as they support students' work on their individual research projects.
In the DEAL program, you can expect 10 - 20 hours of work per week. It's a big degree and requires a commitment of time and effort from each student who wants to succeed and make it to graduation. Students have great support for their learning and are expected to read and write at a high level as they respond to the guidance of their research professors.
The entire DEAL program costs $42,750 ($750/credit hour). Most students use financial aid through FAFSA. Some students self-pay, and others do a combination of both. Books are extra, and the Graduate Studies in Leadership program is launching a trial run with a book broker—similar to Spotify only with academic books—and all books would be available for $149 per term.
SNU has an active network of over 600 educators across Oklahoma, Texas, and the United States! Networking opportunities exist online, and while job placement is not currently offered, there are multiple opportunities for in-person networking at SNU career fairs, the annual Women in Leadership Symposium, and SNU's monthly Business and Leadership Network.
You should pursue your Doctorate of Education in Administration and Leadership at Southern Nazarene University because SNU emphasizes servant leadership, preparing you to handle complex educational challenges through a faith-based approach. The program offers flexibility for working professionals, allowing you to balance your career while gaining advanced skills in strategic planning and organizational leadership. With a focus on real-world applications and small class sizes, SNU fosters personalized learning and provides opportunities to lead transformative change in educational settings.
Courses
Engage in meaningful coursework that will propel you toward graduation with your doctoral degree. Upon finishing this degree program, you will be prepared to affect meaningful change as a leader wherever you go.
Credit hours: 3
This course will focus on Biblical and worldview perspectives in the area of leading shareholders, citizens, and the workplace of the student and in companionship with the SNU mission. The practices, standards, and styles of leadership will be introduced and examined with a variety of teaching methods and experiences. Understanding the critical intersection of leadership and servanthood will help frame each student’s philosophy as a visionary leader.
Credit hours: 3
Foundations of Research will introduce learners to the structure and format of a dissertation and will focus on the foundational components of a dissertation to include topic selection, problem statement, theory/theoretical framework, purpose statement, research questions/hypotheses, qualitative and quantitative approaches, and research design. Learners will also continue building a collection of research through critiquing, analyzing, and synthesizing peer-reviewed literature relevant to their research interest area. Learners will work collaboratively to create a dissertation problem statement that is well-supported and grounded in the existing literature.
Credit hours: 3
In today’s highly competitive and dynamic organizational environment, it is essential for leaders of all disciplines to be able to effectively deal with the wide range of organizational challenges with which they are presented. The ability to respond to the need for change is one of the hallmarks of contemporary organizations and students will examine the full spectrum of organization development tools and methods that can be implemented to increase organizational effectiveness. This course examines the major components of organizational development including the history of organization development and education reform initiatives, theories and process models, organizational culture, action research, and leading change initiatives.
Credit hours: 3
The Literature Review course will develop strong research, critical thinking, and writing skills to better equip students in their completion of the literature review section of their dissertation. The course focuses on understanding the purpose of the literature review and the fundamental skills needed to complete it such as developing search strategies, synthesizing sources, and constructing paragraphs. Learners will be required to apply writing, research, and critical thinking skills in writing components of the literature review and will also have a working draft of the Literature Review of their dissertation when the course is complete.
Credit hours: 3
This course will develop an intercultural understanding for the effective leader, by examining the different cultural aspects and diverse influences on leadership and ethics. This course will examine the interaction of internal/external diverse intersections of identities and cultures on the leader and explores the ways in which a leader’s identity and cultural experiences and values inform ethical decision-making and how different ethical and cultural systems address and define moral issues that arise in organizations. Ethical issues and practices will be analyzed as they relate to the decisions and styles of the leader and the growth of a leader is becoming culturally responsive.
Credit hours: 3
This course explores advanced research strategies and the development of designs and methods supporting research in leadership. Exposure to rich research traditions in the field of leadership and both knowledge and skills to begin doctoral research will be introduced. Students will achieve the skills necessary to search for, retrieve, and analyze information and data from a variety of sources. Students will also begin the development of the scholarly writing needed to successfully complete their dissertation research.
Credit hours: 3
This course will present the relationship of theory and implementation to leadership practices. Based on research, students will develop vision and mission statements that relate to the structure and functions of organizations. Learners will complete a project developing mission and vision statements for an approved organization, including the collaboration of stakeholders and documentation and reflection of the process.
Credit hours: 3
This course explores and analyzes the traditions, philosophies, and techniques of qualitative research. Students will experience participant observation, interviewing, and document analysis. Students will practice qualitative techniques and engage in initial data analysis related to their dissertation research.
Credit hours: 3
This course introduces students to quantitative methodology. Students will learn about descriptive and inferential statistics through exposure to parametric and non-parametric design models. Learners will obtain the skills to utilize their newly acquired methodology knowledge to critically analyze existing quantitative research.
Credit hours: 3
Concentrating on the understanding and development of one’s self and others, this course will build on the interpersonal and collaborative leadership skills previously accomplished by participants. It will facilitate the discovery of a diverse range of human practices as they relate to personal and organizational relationships in a variety of areas including constructing a team’s collective goals, creating role definitions within a team, managing conflict, team collaboration, and productive professional relationships. Learners will analyze these relationships through research and philosophical positions and will examine connections in historical and contemporary contexts. Students will be exposed to knowledge of empowering leaders to create productive and effective decision-making skills in the workforce.
Credit hours: 3
This course will present the critical importance of strategic planning for the purpose of implementing the goals of the organization. Strategic planning models will be introduced and discussed. Practical skills will be presented for building short and long term strategies based on current theories in strategic planning as well as best practices in multiple environments. The students will develop skills and knowledge on how to prepare the workplace for phases of implementing strategies for effective and progressive change.
Credit hours: 3
This course will develop an understanding of how to inspire, motivate, and rally around a shared and corporate vision. Students will explore innovative strategies and the implementation of those concepts with other colleagues in the workplace. An emphasis will be placed on creating purposeful goals for the organization and visionary sustainability.
Credit hours: 3
The focus of this course is multi-faceted. Learners will analyze, critique, discuss, and develop learner-centered, curriculum-based instruction that utilizes technology in authentic and meaningful ways for those in leadership roles. Students will complete in-depth investigations of specific learning tools and present their findings concerning the uses of the tool. Scholars will explore the latest research into how technology can most effectively facilitate their leadership. Learners will also investigate technology-related issues such as integration models, safety and health, copyright, evaluation of web resources, assessment, and assistive technologies.
Credit hours: 3
This course will provide an analysis of State and Federal regulations, guidelines and court decisions related to education, business, and public service organizations. Students will examine the impact of these processes and policies and project trends and applications for governance and policy-making based on theory and observation.
Credit hours: 3
More than ever in the past, the ability to lead effectively, respectfully, and sensitively across cultures has become crucial. This course offers its learners opportunities to examine global systems and traditions along with comparing and contrasting cross-cultural communications, famous international leaders’ models, and proven global leadership methods. Additionally, the learners in this course will develop and assess innovative and effective leadership approaches that foster global awareness and education.
Credit hours: 12
Doctoral students will be enrolled in dissertation credits each term. These will be determined by program mapping courses starting with the first term of the program. The dissertation is embedded within each term. Students must maintain a minimum of 2 dissertation hours each term until their dissertation is successfully defended. The Dissertation Proposal Meeting will occur between Term One and Term Two. The result will be a program of study agreed upon by both the learner and the learner’s Dissertation Committee members.
Meet our SNU Faculty
Dr. Stephoni Case
Program Director
Dr. Stephoni Case began her career in Education as a high school English teacher - and realized very quickly that believing in students and helping them accomplish their goals was her calling. Dr. Case taught in the Communication Arts Department at SNU for 19 years and then transitioned to Oklahoma State University in Stillwater as the Director of the Center for School Business Management. In 2014 she returned to SNU as the Director of the Master of Arts in Education Leadership (MAEL) program and has successfully led that program and launched and led the Doctor of Education in Administration and Leadership since 2019.
Dr. Gayle Kearns-Buie
Education and Leadership
Dr. Kearns-Buie was appointed to her latest position as Dissertation Director for Southern Nazarene University on September 1, 2019. Her educational journey began in 1973 as a Securities Officer for the Federal Reserve Bank and continued as a high school teacher for 12 years, a career and technology administrator for 6 years and as a higher education faculty and administrator for more than 30 years. The majority of Dr. Kearns higher education career was at the University of Central Oklahoma where she served as faculty, chairperson, Academic Dean and Chief Academic Officer of the Academy of Contemporary Music. Her last 5 years have afforded her the opportunity to work in the faith-based world as a Dean and Dissertation Director.
Dr. Shawn Pendley
Education and Leadership
Shawn Pendley graduated from The University of Oklahoma in 2015 with a PhD in the History of Education (Intellectual History). His previous professional experience includes academic manuscript editor, high school English teacher, summer college instructor for Upward Bound/TRIO at Oklahoma City Community College, and Assistant Professor of English Literature and Chair of Humanities and Sciences at Southwestern Christian University. He has served as the Academic Chair of the Oklahoma Educational Studies Association, Session Chair for the AERA 2017 Annual Meeting, and has served in a number of ways for the Society of Philosophers and Historians of Education (SOPHE). He was a major contributor to The Encyclopedia of the Social and Cultural Foundations of Education (2008) and edited Susan Laird’s seminal intellectual biography of Mary Wollstonecraft titled, Mary Wollstonecraft: Philosophical Mother of Coeducation (2008). He is currently a member of the Historical Society of the Episcopal Church.
Dr. Shawna Richardson
Education and Leadership
Shawna Richardson graduated from Oklahoma State University in 2014 with a doctorate degree in Education Administration. Following graduation, she assisted doctoral students in the development of their dissertations and dissertation proposals. She edited manuscripts for content, organization, APA style, and structure to ensure that each student was effectively prepared for their dissertation proposal hearing or dissertation defense. She taught courses at OSU as an adjunct professor in 2016 and then accepted a full-time position as a Visiting Assistant Professor from 2016-2017. She has taught masters and doctoral courses in education administration and research, served on dissertation committees, collaborated with colleagues on written manuscripts for education journals and presentations at national conferences, and most recently, contributed as a coauthor in the development of a dissertation proposal manual.
Dr. Kent Shellenberger
Education and Leadership
Kent Shellenberger, Ed.D, is a career educator with 45 years of professional experiences in common and higher education. He currently serves as an instructor in the traditional and graduate SNU programs. Dr. Shellenberger’s professional involvement includes: active state involvement as the elected member of the American Association of School Administrators’ governing board and Oklahoma Federal Relations Representative; member of the State Superintendent Advisory Council; Legislative Liaison for United Suburban Schools Association; Cooperative Council of School Administrators (CCOSA) Innovative Leadership Academy and a governor appointed board member of the Oklahoma Educational Quality and Accountability Commission (OEQA) and the Specials Needs’ Task Force Legislative Committee.
Admission Steps
Enrolling at SNU is a simple process. With rolling start dates, there’s no need to wait months at a time to begin your educational journey. Once you have earned your master’s degree or 33 graduate hours in an equivalent program from an accredited university with a GPA of 3.25, take the following steps.
Step 1. Ensure you meet program requirements as follows.
- Completion of a master’s degree or 33 graduate credit hours in an equivalent program from an accredited university.
- GPA of 3.25 from prior graduate coursework
- For non-native English speakers, either an overall band score of 7.0 or higher on the IELTS or minimum sub-scores for each element of the TOEFL iBT are:
Speaking: 22
Reading: 20
Listening: 15
Writing: 20
Step 2. Completed Graduate Application
Step 3. Send official transcripts from graduate degree conferred to SNU at pgsadmissions@snu.edu or ATTN: PGS Admissions, Southern Nazarene University, 6729 NW 39th Expressway, Bethany, OK 73008.
Step 4. Gather the following application materials,
- Two letters of recommendation (Reserve or waive your right)
- GSEL Vision Statement
- Curriculum Vitae or Resume
- One Writing Sample demonstrating satisfactory writing ability by submitting one of the following:
- a single-authored writing sample from previous coursework
- a two page APA aligned paper on an academic topic
Step 5. Submit application materials by email to the SNU School of education by email (pgsadmissions@snu.edu) or mail ATTN: PGS Admissions, 6729 NW 39th Expressway, Bethany, OK 73008.
Step 6. Upon request, you may need to interview the program director and two advisory council members who determine the applicant's purposeful intent and commitment.
Locations
Online
Online classes are specially designed for professional & graduate studies.
+1 (405) 491-6332
Email: pgs@snu.edu
Program Overview
Southern Nazarene University's Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) Program is designed with you in mind. The 23-month program offers night-time classes twice a week to fit your busy schedule. This format allows you to work or take care of other responsibilities while still pursuing your degree. Graduates will receive a Physical Therapist Assistant Associate of Science degree. The degree program also prepares students to sit for the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) and pursue their PTA license. The program curriculum includes courses in general education and basic science as well as technical physical therapy coursework. The program places a strong emphasis on integrating clinical education preparation throughout the curriculum. This includes the use of intensive-simulated practice to prepare for direct patient care in three full-time clinical education experiences.
PTA Program Mission Statement
The Southern Nazarene University Physical Therapist Assistant Program prepares competent, ethical, and self-directed healthcare practitioners who model professional core values. The program is committed to excellence in education and delivers a contemporary curriculum within a Christ-centered community. Graduates will be able to meet the diverse needs of the community by providing high-quality patient care as a physical therapist assistant working under the direction and supervision of a physical therapist.
PTA Program Goals
- Graduates will be prepared to work as entry-level physical therapist assistants who model professional core values and integrity while serving their community under the direction and supervision of a licensed physical therapist.
- Students and graduates will demonstrate effective interprofessional and intraprofessional collaborative practices as a part of the healthcare team.
- The program will provide students with excellent, contemporary, and diverse educational opportunities delivered in a Christ-centered community.
- Program faculty will engage in activities to support diversity, equity, and inclusion.
The Physical Therapist Assistant program at Southern Nazarene University is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education, 3030 Potomac Ave., Suite 100, Alexandria, Virginia 22305-3085; telephone: 703-706-3245; email: accreditation@apta.org; website: http://www.capteonline.org. If needing to contact the program directly, please call 405.491.6630 or email LMartin@snu.edu.
720
Hours of clinical education
1
Start date per year
23
Graduate in as few as months
72
total credit hours
$375
Per credit hour
1 - 2
Nights a week on campus learning
Upcoming Start Dates
March 1st, 2025 - April 12th, 2025 (Saturday)
Location: Zoom
Cost: $600.00
| Instructor | Hansen | Saturday |
|---|---|---|
| Day | Date | Time |
| Week 1 | 03/01/25 | 8 AM - 12 PM |
| Week 2 | 03/08/25 | 8 AM - 3 PM |
| Week 3 | 03/15/25 | 8 AM - 3 PM |
| Week 4 | 03/29/25 | 8 AM - 3 PM |
| Week 5 | 04/05/25 | 8 AM - 3 PM |
| Week 6 | 04/12/25 | 8 AM - 12 PM |
Apply Now
Frequently Asked Questions
Earning a degree while working full-time or raising a family is possible at SNU because:
- Classes take place one to two nights a week.
- Students focus on one class at a time to ensure mastery and prevent burnout.
- Students study alongside other adults in similar life stages.
- Instructors with extensive clinical experience guide students.
- Textbooks are delivered directly to students before each class.
- A dedicated student success advisor supports students throughout their studies.
A physical therapist assistant (PTA) works directly with patients undergoing recovery and rehabilitation. PTAs spend patient care time working on activities such as exercise, ambulation, and functional mobility, while also completing administrative job tasks such as documentation and billing. PTAs work under the supervision of a physical therapist.
A PTA degree at SNU can be completed in 23 months in the evenings on our Bethany campus. Following completion of the degree, PTAs will sit for the national licensing examination and then begin a fulfilling career impacting patients' lives.
PTAs can be hired by hospitals, inpatient rehabilitation facilities, skilled nursing facilities, and stand-alone clinics. There are numerous areas within physical therapy in which PTAs can be employed, such as pediatrics, geriatrics, neurology, acute care, oncology, sports, orthopedics, pelvic health, and many more.
Currently, the average salary for a PTA is $55,400 in the state of Oklahoma.
SNU's PTA program is the only PTA program in the state that is offered in a true evening format. Our courses are also offered in a modular format, so students only have to focus on one course at a time. In addition to these unique aspects, SNU's PTA program also encourages students to view course content through a faith-based lens and promotes a Christ-like approach with Christian principles embedded throughout the program.
Students participating in the PTA program should expect a heavy time commitment. While the courses are only two nights per week, there is a large amount of time outside of class that must be dedicated to studying due to the fast-paced nature of the program. Students often use the lab and other program areas to study and practice important course skills and competencies during the days and on weekends.
The SNU PTA costs $375 per credit hour. There are a total of 48 program hours making total program cost $18,000, not including any general education courses that may be required. Refer to the PTA Financial Fact Sheet for more specific information.
The SNU PTA program offers numerous networking opportunities throughout the duration of the program. By employing currently practicing PT and PTA clinicians to serve as course instructors and lab assistants, students are able to network on a continuous basis. Additionally, students receive networking opportunities during the required clinical education components of the program, many of which lead to employment opportunities. The program faculty regularly follows up with students after graduation to determine employment status and can provide assistance and support if needed.
Students should complete their PTA degree at SNU, because they will obtain the knowledge and skills necessary to be adequately equipped for patient care following graduation. In addition to the competencies students will acquire while participating in SNU's PTA degree, they will also have the opportunity to learn in a supportive, faith-based environment.
There are 12 hours of prerequisite coursework that must be completed prior to enrolling in PTA courses. The prerequisite courses are:
- Composition I
- Composition II
- General Psychulogy
- Survey of Anatomy & Physiology*
*Coursework for Anatomy and Physiology must encompass both anatomy and physiology for the whole body. For example, Anatomy & Physiology I AND Anatomy & Physiology II must be completed, or one semester of Human Anatomy AND one semester of Human Physiology. Exercise physiology does not fulfill this requirement.
The SNU PTA program requires three separate, full-time clinical education experiences prior to graduation. These clinical education experiences occur in the 2nd year of the program. One 5-week clinical experience occurs in the Spring semester, and one 5-week and one 8-week clinical experience occurs in the Fall semester. These experiences occur during the daytime on a full-time basis. The embedded clinical education experiences allow students to practice and refine the skills and knowledge they have acquired in the classroom to effectively prepare them for the healthcare experience after graduation.
The SNU PTA program accepts a maximum of 28 students per cohort. The following components are considered when determining student admittance into the program: Overall GPA, prerequisite GPA, professional and personal references, and program interview. The minimum overall and prerequisite GPA required to be considered for an interview is a 2.0. Following the interview, applicants will be notified of a decision within 30 days. Please see the PTA Admissions Packet for additional information regarding the application process.
Courses
This program is designed to be completed in 23 months and prepare students to become a physical therapist assistant. Students in this program take one class at a time so they can master one subject before moving on to the next.
View the course of study by semester. View the 2023 PTA Student Financial Fact Sheet. View the Clinical Education Handbook and the PTA Program Policies and Procedures Handbook for additional information.
This course introduces the history of the PTA Profession and common practice settings. Students will learn and perform fundamental physical therapy assessments, interventions, documentation, and procedures of patient care including transfer training, gait training, and fitting assistive devices. The scope of practice of the PTA and PT, HIPPA, and documentation will be emphasized. Delineation of professional roles and responsibility in physical therapy, development of a team approach to healthcare delivery, and the psychosocial and interpersonal skills needed to function as a healthcare team are presented. Students will have laboratory time to apply, practice, and demonstrate the technical skills taught.
This course will explore human motion specific to the musculoskeletal system through the identification of anatomical structures and their relationship to function, normal and abnormal biomechanical principles of joint patterns, and gait. Emphasis will be on the study of musculoskeletal pathologies, the determination of appropriate physical therapy assessment, and a review of related anatomical structures. Laboratory time will be utilized to master skills and techniques including goniometry, manual muscle testing, joint play assessment, and joint mobilization.
A PTA degree at SNU can be completed in 23 months in the evenings on our Bethany campus. Following completion of the degree, PTAs will sit for the national licensing examination and then begin a fulfilling career impacting patients' lives.
This course will explore human motion specific to the musculoskeletal system through the identification of anatomical structures and their relationship to function, normal and abnormal biomechanical principles of joint patterns, and gait. Emphasis will be on the study of musculoskeletal pathologies, the determination of appropriate physical therapy assessment, and a review of related anatomical structures. Laboratory time will be utilized to master skills and techniques including goniometry, manual muscle testing, joint play assessment, and joint mobilization.
This course provides exposure to simulated patients and scenarios for the student to develop clinical problem solving, and practice skills related to semester 1 course content with instructor guidance. This course is designed to demonstrate clinical readiness and will focus on simulated patient assessment and treatment scenarios to prepare students for clinical education, in which they will perform specific assessment techniques and treatment interventions in simulated patient scenarios. In addition, this course includes a weekly online assignment consisting of a class discussion or reflection on related topics. By the end of the course, the student will appropriately epitomize the role and responsibilities of the physical therapist assistant in a variety of physical therapy settings.
This course is a study of how the human body functions and the physiological effects of disease. Building a clear, foundational understanding of normal physiology aids in illuminating how abnormal physiological function leads to human disease. Physiological response to exercise, etiology, signs and symptoms, red flags, diagnosis and prognosis, pharmacological intervention, and implications for physical therapy will be discussed. Case studies will be provided for critical thinking and application of theory to practice for the physical therapist assistant.
This course investigates the anatomy and physiology of the nervous system, with emphasis on the functional relationship between the nervous system and the presentation of pain in the musculoskeletal system. This course prepares the student for safe and effective application of a variety of rehabilitative agents and techniques for patient treatment. Procedures, mechanisms of action, theory, indications, precautions, and contraindications are discussed for the following: electrical stimulation, EMG, biofeedback, diathermy, aquatic therapy, laser, superficial heat, cryotherapy, traction, therapeutic ultrasound, therapeutic massage, mechanical compression, and soft tissue mobilization. The basic physics of electromagnetic radiation and electricity are presented along with skin assessment and wound care using electrotherapy.
This course is a study of general and specific exercises for conditions commonly treated in physical therapy. Principles will be discussed involving the theory and practical applications of specific therapeutic exercise as preventative treatment and for pathological conditions influencing strength, endurance, neuromuscular control, and flexibility of the human body. Emphasis is placed upon the body’s physiological response to exercise, design and application of exercise, the developmental sequence of exercise, types of exercise, and the use of exercise equipment.
This course provides exposure to simulated patients and scenarios for the student to demonstrate competent performance of physical therapy procedures and behaviors for the semester level. This course is designed to show clinical readiness by performing skills listed below through the use of simulated patient scenarios. In addition, a weekly online assignment of a group discussion board or reflection on selected topics, emphasizing principles and techniques of basic physical therapy interventions, with emphasis on assessment skills including: identifying red flags, performing joint mobilizations, identifying fundamental physical therapy interventions, and demonstrating values based and professional behaviors. This course will also include several guest lectures, in which the students will reflect upon the information using research. The student will appropriately epitomize the role and responsibilities of the PTA in all physical therapy settings. This course is intended to strengthen clinical problem-solving and provide an opportunity for students to practice skills with instructor guidance and feedback through patient scenarios. Laboratory practice with emphasis on positioning, patient safety, and manual skills. The course included a comprehensive written examination.
This course is a study of physical therapy ethics, physical therapist assistant roles and responsibilities, and diversity. Delineation of professional roles in physical therapy and the health care team, as well as psychosocial and interpersonal skills needed to function as a health care provider and team member will be discussed. Principles and ethics of patient care, medical documentation, and HIPPA are covered. Activities associated with preparing students for future clinical education will be included.
This course provides the student with experiences to apply, integrate, and perform learned clinical skills on patients under continuous supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist in a physical therapy clinical environment. Skills, knowledge, and attitudes learned in all first-year Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) courses will be applied to direct patient care in selected clinical settings over a full-time five-week period. Emphasis is placed on the clinical application and integration of the knowledge and skills learned during the first year of the PTA program, with the objective of students providing quality care with uncomplicated to moderately complex patients, and a moderate degree of supervision and guidance that will vary with the complexity of the patient or the environment. In addition, a weekly group discussion of selected topics, an individual weekly journal, and an in-service. This course is graded on a pass/fail basis.
Treatment of pediatric, pelvic health, and geriatric populations will be covered in this course. Theory and clinical application of normal and abnormal physical and cognitive development in the aging process as well as concepts of human growth and development will be covered in this course. Dysfunctions, interventions, common physical therapy treatments, and treatment progression will be the emphasis of content. Cultural diversity of older and younger populations and psychosocial impacts of aging will be discussed through a global perspective.
This course provides introduction to physical therapy interventions used in the management and prevention of cardiopulmonary conditions. Students will apply knowledge from this course and prior courses to both inpatient and outpatient care settings. Course content will include pulmonary hygiene, breathing techniques, cardiac rehabilitation, and principles of aerobic exercise. Information will be presented in lecture and laboratory settings.
This course provides information necessary for the physical therapist assistant to safely and competently treat patients with neurological diagnoses. This course will present the neuroanatomy of the CNS and PNS as it relates to physical therapy treatment, motor control, and motor learning. Neurological dysfunctions, neurological assessments, and the impact of neurological conditions on culturally relevant topics, such as gender, sexuality, communication, and socioeconomic factors will be explored.
This course is a continuation of Neuroscience I with emphasis on the application of exercise techniques, assessment, and the treatment of long-term disabilities and neurological conditions. This course will introduce common interventions and progressions used in neurological settings. The information, discussion, and treatment considerations for neurologically-based and other debilitating conditions will be applied in lab scenarios, in which the students will monitor the effectiveness of the exercise program.
This course focuses on the utilization of advanced physical therapy assessments and interventions. Topics covered include prosthetics and orthotic devices, rehabilitation techniques for amputations, wound care, and work hardening. Expected administration functions and activities of the physical therapist assistant will also be included.
This course provides the student with experiences to apply, integrate, and perform learned clinical skills on patients under the supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist in a physical therapy clinical environment. Skills, knowledge and attitudes learned in semesters 1, 2, and 3 Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) courses will be applied to direct patient care in selected clinical settings over a full-time five week period. Emphasis is placed on the clinical application and integration of the knowledge and skills learned during semesters 1, 2, and 3 of the Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program, with the objective of students providing quality care with uncomplicated to complex patients, and a degree of supervision and guidance that will vary with the complexity of the patient or the environment. This course is graded on a pass/fail basis.
This course provides the student with experiences to apply, integrate, and perform learned clinical skills on patients under minimal to no supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist in a physical therapy clinical environment. Skills, knowledge, and attitudes learned in all Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) courses will be applied to direct patient care in selected clinical settings over a full-time eight-week period. Emphasis is placed on the clinical application and integration of the knowledge and skills learned during the entire PTA program, with the objective of students providing quality care with uncomplicated to highly complex patients, and minimal to no degree of supervision and guidance that will vary with the complexity of the patient or the environment. In addition, a weekly group discussion of selected topics, an individual weekly journal, and an in-service are required. This course is graded on a pass/fail basis.
Meet our SNU Faculty
Dr. Loren Martin, PT, DPT, EdD
Program Director
Dr. Loren Martin joined the faculty of SNU in 2016. She is a two-time alum of SNU having earned her BS in Kinesiology (‘11) and her EdD (‘22). After completing her undergraduate at SNU, she earned her doctor of physical therapy (DPT) from Northwestern University in Chicago. Loren has practiced physical therapy in a variety of settings including outpatient orthopedics, rural hospital, and sports rehabilitation. She continues to practice with emphasis on SNU’s student athletes.
Dr. Leah Wooten, PT, DPT
Clinical Education Coordinator
Dr. Leah Wooten has served at SNU since January of 2023 in the Physical Therapist Assistant program. She brings real-world experience to this program as a currently practicing physical therapist, specifically in the world of pediatrics. Through her time as a practicing clinician, she works with children of all ages and abilities. She also has clinical experience in other settings, including acute care, school-based services, and orthopedics. She is currently pursuing a Doctorate of Education in Administration and Leadership (Ed.D.) from SNU.
Admission Steps
All students are encouraged to apply to SNU’s Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program. We review each applicant in our comprehensive, holistic admissions process. Admission into Southern Nazarene University’s PTA program is competitive. Maximum cohort size at this time is planned for 28 students. The required GPA for admission into the program is a minimum GPA of 2.0 in prerequisite courses with a grade of “C” or higher in prerequisite coursework. A cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher is considered competitive.
Please read the PTA Admissions Packet carefully for full instructions and details. The following criteria must be met for admission to SNU’s Physical Therapist Assistant program. Meeting these requirements does not guarantee acceptance into the program.
Step 1: Acceptance to SNU
All applicants must first apply and be admitted to Southern Nazarene University. This can be completed through the website at degrees.snu.edu/apply.
Step 2: Complete Prerequisite Coursework**
All prerequisite coursework must be completed prior to beginning the PTA program. A student may be currently enrolled in a prerequisite course at time of application; however, they must show proof of completing the course prior to starting courses in the PTA program with a grade of “C” or better. All prerequisite courses must have been completed within the last 7 years. A student may only take a course 2 times to be counted toward the prerequisite requirements. An average of the grades will be calculated for the admission points system.
- Composition I (3 credit hours)
- Composition II (3 credit hours)
- General Psychology (3 credit hours)
- Survey of Anatomy and Physiology (3 credit hours)
Step 3: Send transcripts to SNU.
Electronic transcripts can be sent directly to pgsadmissions@snu.edu. You may also request documents to be mailed directly to: SNU PGS Admissions Attn: Transcripts 6729 NW 39th Expressway Bethany, OK 73008.
Step 4: Sign the background check agreement form.
This form can be found in the PTA Admissions Packet and should be emailed to pgsadmissions@snu.edu
Step 5: Two letters of recommendation.
The recommenders should not send a written letter of recommendation to SNU. They should use this link to submit a recommendation online. One recommendation should be from an employer or educator and one recommendation should be from a non-family member who can attest to the applicant’s professional and organizational skills (e.g. coach, organizational leader).
Step 6: Students will need to attend an in-person information session following conditional acceptance.
Locations
All PTA didactic coursework will be offered in-person at SNU’s main campus in Bethany, OK. Clinical placements will be offered across the United States; it is not guaranteed that a student will receive clinical placement in their state of residence. Students will be responsible for their own transportation and housing while on clinical rotations.
Bethany Campus
6729 NW 39th Expressway,
Bethany, Oklahoma 73008
Become an Instructor or Clinical Instructor
Physical Therapist Assistant students often remember their clinical rotations as the most important component of their education. It provides clarity in learning, deepens their understanding, and transitions them from theory to practice. Your contribution to their success cannot be overstated. Just as you remember people who were pivotal to your success in mastering your profession, so will these students benefit from your hard-earned expertise. Finally, precepting students allows you to informally interview them as a prelude to employment after graduation.
Thank you for your interest in the Southern Nazarene University Physical Therapist Assistant educational process. Your support is invaluable to us and critical to our students.
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Complaint Policy
If a complaint falls outside of due process, complaints regarding the program should be addressed first to the Program Director, Dr. Loren Martin at lmartin@snu.edu.
Unresolved complaints or complaints about the Program Director should be directed to the Vice President of Professional and Graduate Studies, Dr. Melissa Lewis, mlewis@mail.snu.edu. No retaliation will occur by SNU or the PTA Program due to a complaint being filed.
All complaints will be documented, including the projected outcome, and kept on file at the program facility. All complaints will be stored in a locked filing cabinet located in the program director’s office.
Complaints regarding Accreditation of this program should be addressed to the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education at accreditation@apta.org. This Commission is located at 3030 Potomac Ave., Suite 100 Alexandria, VA 22305-3085.
