Master of Science in Counseling Psychology
Trains students to become successful, impactful counselors licensed in the state of Oklahoma.
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Program Overview
The Master of Science in Counseling Psychology (MSCP) degree is a 60-hour minimum program designed to meet the state of Oklahoma’s academic licensure requirements for the Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC).
The MSCP degree, in addition to the 30 hours of the MAAP degree, consists of a minimum of 21 additional hours in counseling-specific coursework, including counseling methods, theoretical foundations and applications, and treatment. In addition to the courses, MSCP students complete 150 hours of practicum hours (4 credit hours) and 450 hours of internship (5 credit hours), with 250 of those 600 total hours being direct client contact hours. Work on both components of the program (courses and practicum/internship) occurs simultaneously.
Be a Professional Counselor –Being a professional counselor provides individuals the opportunity to offer hope and transformation. SNU offers degree programs that will set you on the path to make a difference in the lives of others.
Graduate Programs in Counseling and Psychology Student Handbook
The coursework in the SNU Graduate Programs in Counseling and Psychology is designed to prepare graduates to sit for the licensure exams and fulfill all academic requirements to be licensed in the field of counseling in the state of Oklahoma as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). Students seeking licensure in other states should consult with the program director. Information known about preparation for licensure in US states and territories outside of Oklahoma has been compiled on our Preparation for Licensure by State Disclosure Report.
36
Months to graduate
60
Total credit hours
$649
Per credit hour
Frequently Asked Questions
A licensed counselor provides therapeutic support to individuals, couples, or families, helping them address and manage mental health issues, emotional difficulties, and behavioral challenges. With a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology from SNU, licensed counselors are equipped to work in settings such as private practice, schools, and mental health clinics. They use techniques like cognitive-behavioral therapy, crisis intervention, and client-centered approaches to help clients achieve emotional well-being and navigate personal challenges.
Applicants who are interested in working in the mental health field as a professional counselor should apply to this program. The generalist training allows for a career as an LPC who works with individuals of all age ranges, couples, and families.
Numerous mental health facilities are constantly in need of therapists. In addition, many of our graduates go on to develop successful private practice clinics. Jobs are easy to come by in the mental health field, as the need for good therapists has increased exponentially over the past decade.
Here are several jobs you can pursue with a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology from Southern Nazarene University:
- Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) – Provide therapeutic counseling to individuals, groups, and families.
- School Counselor – Support students’ academic, emotional, and social development.
- Substance Abuse Counselor – Help individuals recover from addiction through specialized therapy.
- Marriage and Family Therapist – Assist couples and families in resolving conflicts and improving relationships.
- Rehabilitation Counselor – Work with individuals facing physical, emotional, or mental disabilities to help them achieve independence.
- Mental Health Counselor – Provide therapy for those dealing with mental health issues in clinics, hospitals, or private practice.
Salaries continue to increase. Ten years ago, therapists were making approximately $40k per year, but that number has increased rapidly over the past decade. Many therapists have contracts in the range of $70k-$80k, depending on their site, and can eventually make six figures in private practice after establishing their name and credentials.
First, our program has been around since the early 1990s. We have been successfully training therapists for over 30 years. In addition, our reputation is our primary selling point and has been strong for many years. Our program works to be excellent at what we do related to the training of therapists. We successfully grew our onsite training clinic—Renew Counseling Center—into a robust clinic that now houses all practicum students and numerous interns. As such, students will get exceptional in-class and practical training in our program, which is unique amongst other programs. We have weekly didactics on various mental health-related topics that you will not get in the classroom. In addition, our faculty are also clinicians, meaning that they are not just presenting information that they learned in graduate school many years ago. Instead, we are on the cutting edge of treatment and research as we practice what we teach students. The cohort model allows students the opportunity to go through the program with the same group of students and develop a family atmosphere. In addition, our faculty work hard to make sure students have a positive experience in the program. While our program is rigorous, we scaffold students in unique ways and make sure that students are getting their money's worth out of the program. You will leave SNU with a one-of-a-kind training experience and reputation that will make you a sought-after therapist in the field for years to come.
The program is rigorous as it should be for master's level work. We often tell students that you will spend 12-16 hours outside of class per week on reading/writing assignments to be successful. In addition, years 2 and 3 require clinical training experiences, meaning that in addition to class times, you will be onsite at our training clinic for practicum during your second year for a few hours a week. In year three, you begin your internship experience, which can range anywhere from 10-20 hours per week, depending on the site. Flexible schedules in year two and three help students enjoy their experience and manage anxiety.
This program costs approximately $38,940 ($649 per credit hour) + books and a $150 application fee.
Yes, we have a robust alumni program that often serves as a great place to find/advertise jobs. Our reputation in the field has been strong for over 30 years. Networking opportunities also 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.
In a day and age in which convenience has become the selling point of many graduate programs, our program has focused instead on excellence. We pour into this program and expect students to do the same, meaning that the value you get from your degree and future career are unmatched.
Courses
This degree prepares students for more than the practical duties of their future career in counseling—it prepares them to enter the field as an insightful, well-rounded individual ready to make a difference. For an in-depth understanding of learning outcomes, review the courses and descriptions below.
Credit Hours: 3
Lifespan Development covers theoretical and research approaches to the development of human abilities and behavior throughout the lifespan. The course addresses a variety of theoretical approaches, as well as different developmental tasks across the lifespan. In order to more fully understand the issues and dynamics of counseling, it is imperative to have a clear grasp of the processes involved in human development. Such understandings of development are important because many clients enter counseling with problems that are the result of disrupted or dysfunctional developmental processes.
Credit Hours: 3
This course provides an emphasis on describing, classifying, and differentiating deviant behavior syndromes according to the current, prevailing classification system in the United States (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders). Literature dealing with description, etiology, and prognosis of various disorders will be examined.
Credit Hours: 3
This course provides an overview of basic neurophysiology, as it is relevant to behavior, mood, and psychopathology. It also examines the neurochemistry of the major classifications of psychotropic medications as they relate to treating mental disorders, their effects and side effects, and relevant concerns for clients that take them. In addition, the course will acquaint students with neurophysiology connected to abuse and addiction of alcohol, prescription drugs, and illicit substance abuse, including the connection between the effects of brain changes and resulting problematic behaviors that are a focus of treatment. It offers students important implications for counseling and educating individuals and families presenting with psychopharmacological, addiction, and other substance-related concerns.
Credit Hours: 3
This course acquaints students with how to design, conduct, and analyze research for the purpose of assisting students to review and critique relevant research in counseling, as well as to integrate research into clinical practice. In addition, the course addresses research ethics and methodology. Topics may include basic research designs and basic statistical analyses, including experimental, quasi-experimental, survey, and archival research.
Credit Hours: 3
This course provides students with the knowledge and requisite skills to address the wide range of topics and concerns surrounding human sexuality in the counseling relationship. Students will develop increased comfort and competency in engaging a diverse range of clients on topics of sexuality that include the expression of human sexuality and intimacy across the lifespan, attitudes and perspectives on sexuality, problems in sexual functioning, and therapeutic interventions.
Credit Hours: 3
This course provides an introduction and overview of the assessment process, beginning with the basics of test construction and measurement. Students will learn how to appropriately select, administer, and score neuropsychological and psychological tests in the areas of cognitive and personality assessment for children, adolescents, and adults. In addition, this course is aimed at helping students integrate psychological data obtained from clinical interviews and testing into a rich understanding of human functioning.
Credit Hours: 3
This course begins by making the case that all modern psychotherapeutic discourse is moral discourse and therefore contains presuppositions about the human good life. The course then examines the presuppositions of the Christian tradition regarding human nature, the good life, and the practices that shape human transformation. Students are then asked to examine their own conceptions of human nature and the good life and the relationship of these conceptions to their personal narratives, religious traditions, and cultural and historical contexts.
Credit Hours: 3
This course introduces students to the primary concepts related to the process of psychotherapy and the relational ideas that are central to the practice of counseling. Relationship-building skills and techniques, including interviewing, reflective listening, and the development of insight and self-understanding are explored. Students are also introduced to the profession of counseling and will begin the process of discussing how to make sound clinical decisions and the role of the mental health clinician throughout the professional lifespan.
Credit Hours: 3
This course is designed to provide a survey of ethical, legal, and professional issues facing counselors and others in human services. Emphasis is given to raising awareness of the complexities of ethical issues in professional clinical practice. Students will also develop an understanding of the importance of record-keeping and proper clinical documentation, as well as learn about confidentiality and the differing professional roles faced by psychotherapists.
Credit Hours: 3
This course will focus on the diverse identity demographics with which counselors interact, especially related to race and culture, religion, gender, age, sexuality, disability, and socio-economic status, emphasizing the implications of these factors for counseling. Students will have the opportunity to examine counseling approaches with persons of varying identities by analyzing various barriers to cultural responsiveness and ways to incorporate cultural responsiveness in counseling. In addition, students will be asked to examine personal assumptions regarding internalized assumptions and biases about other persons and groups of varying demographics. Students will learn an intersectional approach to conceptualizing counseling cases and applying counseling techniques.
Credit Hours: 2
In conjunction with PSY 5292, students will begin supervised introductory clinical experiences and practice with oversight at the training clinic. The practicum occurs concurrently with coursework and follows guidelines set forth in licensure preparation. Through readings, seminar discussions, written assignments, and supervision during the practicum, students will understand the aspects of training that are essential in becoming a competent counselor and incorporate such information into clinical practice. Students will also understand and demonstrate competencies for suicide risk consultation and intervention. Practicum(s) will total a minimum of 150 hours of service.
Credit Hours: 3
This course provides an overview of the various psychoanalytic, psychodynamic, and interpersonal approaches to counseling, specifically offering an introduction to the various perspectives on theory and technique. This course also examines the historical development of these approaches, the contemporary impact and understanding of these approaches in the counseling field, and the underlying anthropological and philosophical assumptions of these approaches. Students will have the opportunity to observe these various approaches, as well as to apply them practically through role-play and theoretically through case conceptualization and treatment planning.
Credit Hours: 3
This course provides an overview of the various behavioral, cognitive, and other evidence-based approaches to counseling, specifically offering an introduction to the various perspectives on theory and technique. This course also examines the historical development of these approaches, the contemporary impact and understanding of these approaches in the counseling field, and the underlying anthropological and philosophical assumptions of these approaches. Students will have the opportunity to observe these various approaches, as well as to apply them practically through role-play and theoretically through case conceptualization and treatment planning.
Credit Hours: 3
This course provides an overview of family structure theories and family systems approaches and applications to counseling. This course also examines the historical development of these approaches, the contemporary impact and understanding of these approaches in the counseling field, and the underlying anthropological and philosophical assumptions of these approaches. Students will have the opportunity to observe these various approaches, as well as to apply them practically through role-play and theoretically through case conceptualization and treatment planning.
Credit Hours: 2
In conjunction with PSY 5192, students will continue supervised introductory clinical experiences and practice with oversight at the training clinic. The practicum occurs concurrently with coursework and follows guidelines set forth in licensure preparation. Through readings, seminar discussions, written assignments, and supervision during the practicum, students will understand the aspects of training that are essential in becoming a competent counselor and incorporate such information into clinical practice. Students will also begin to develop an understanding of how to integrate theory into practice to form a theoretically sound treatment plan. Practicum(s) will total a minimum of 150 hours of service.
Credit Hours: 3
This is an applied psychotherapy lab course that engages the student in both the theoretical foundations for group psychotherapy and in the actual experience of facilitating a psychotherapy group. Students will review literature regarding appropriate referrals to this modality of treatment as well as learning techniques to enhance the efficacy of group therapies. Much of this course will involve an experiential learning model as students participate in group process.
Credit Hours: 3
This advanced course will serve as an overview course to introduce students to some of the basic issues that arise when providing services to children and adolescents. We will address issues that arise in working with youth including child maltreatment, divorce, trauma, and legal/ethical issues. Information pertaining to the treatment of childhood disorders based upon empirical evidence (emphasizing behavioral strategies) will be discussed. Special focus will be given to Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) and Coping Cat (anxiety treatment manual). Adherence to the scientist-practitioner model and the relative contributions of research to clinical practice will be emphasized throughout the course.
Credit Hours: 3
This course will focus on methods for assessing, diagnosing, and treating alcohol and drug-related problems in counseling settings. The course offers strategies for screening clients for substance-related issues, taking a detailed alcohol/drug history, working with ambivalence and increasing motivation to change addiction behaviors, examining family dynamics that contribute to addiction, treatment planning, and counseling interventions. The course will focus on assessing and treating a full range of substance-related and addiction problems, such as individuals with beginning substance use, individuals that do not acknowledge or understand more serious problems, more pervasive or diagnosed substance-related addictions, and family members of those with substance-related problems.
Credit Hours: 2
In conjunction with PSY 6493, students will begin supervised external clinical experience and practice, as approved by the program. The internship occurs concurrently with coursework and follows guidelines set forth in licensure preparation. Through readings, seminar discussions, written assignments, and supervision during the internship, students will increase their autonomy as professional practitioners while utilizing feedback from clients and supervisors. Students will also begin the process of developing their Clinical Competency Interview capstone project. Internship(s) will total a minimum of 450 hours of service.
Credit Hours: 3
The purpose of this course is to provide counseling students with the knowledge and skills essential in assisting self and others with career development/vocational issues. The course will present an overview of career counseling theories, along with assisting students in the appropriate implementation of career assessments and techniques in service of helping individuals make career choices. The course will also aid students in understanding the psychological factors that often interact with and impede healthy career development.
Credit Hours: 3
In conjunction with PSY 6193, students will continue supervised external clinical experience and practice, as approved by the program. The internship occurs concurrently with coursework and follows guidelines set forth in licensure preparation. Through readings, seminar discussions, written assignments, and supervision during the internship, students will work toward becoming independent professionals in the counseling field upon graduation, including preparation for licensure requirements. Students will present and defend their Clinical Competency Interview capstone project. Internship(s) will total a minimum of 450 hours of service.
Meet our SNU Faculty
Dr. Scott Secor, Ph.D
Program Director
Scott Secor, Ph.D. is a licensed health service psychologist, licensed professional counselor, and the program director for both the Master of Arts in Applied Psychology and Master of Science in Counseling Psychology programs. Dr. Secor obtained his Ph.D. from the University of Oklahoma in Counseling Psychology and completed his predoctoral internship in Clinical Psychology at the VA Medical Center/OU Children’s Hospital in Oklahoma City. Dr. Secor was previously the Director of Clinical Training for the SNU Graduate Programs in Counseling Psychology and has been an instructor in the program since 2012. He currently teaches Neuropsychopharmacology, Theories and Techniques of Counseling I, Research Methods, Lifespan Development, Survey of Psychological and Cognitive Assessment, Practicum II, and Internship II. He became the co-director of Renew Counseling Center in 2021 helping to build Renew into a large training clinic that currently consists of nearly 70 clinicians. He oversees the financial picture for Renew and the overarching vision for the clinic as a part of his current duties.
Holly Sapp, MA, LPC
Executive Clinical Director
Holly Sapp, MA, LPC is a licensed professional counselor and board approved supervisor. She is the executive clinical director for Renew Counseling Center at Southern Nazarene University. Holly obtained her Master of Arts degree from Southern Nazarene University in 2011.
Holly has worked in private practice, and was the director of the Health and Wellness Program in Deer Creek Public Schools from 2016-2021, during which time she trained future counselors and implemented suicide prevention programs in the school. She has been a contract therapist at Renew since its opening in 2012 and teaching the graduate course Counseling Children and Adolescents since 2019. She became a co-director at Renew in 2021 and is currently the executive clinical director of Renew, where she leads supervision and clinical operations.
Admission Steps
The faculty and administration in the Graduate Programs in Counseling and Psychology take the process of training counselors very seriously. The application process is therefore very thorough and critical to both our admissions and educational process. We greatly value our application process that accepts only those whom we believe will make the best counselors. We do not require the GRE because we do not want to simply quantify potential applicants. Our desire is for our admissions process to allow us to get to know each applicant as a person in order to see if that person will be a good fit for our program, and that our program will be the right program for the applicant. Also, we firmly believe that our program is challenging, demands excellence from our students, and more than adequately prepares all of our students for the variety of situations faced as a counselor. We are looking for future students who can excel in the classroom, be flexible in thought, and have the ability to connect with and engage others from various backgrounds and circumstances. We accelerate our program because we want our students to get the best training possible, while also being able to start their career as soon as possible.
You must meet the following requirements to apply to our program:
- Hold a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited college or university
- Taken at least 18 hours of psychology related undergraduate coursework (General or Introduction to Psychology and Statistics are required)
- GPA of 3.0 or higher is considered competitive
International Students: Please click here to find out more about the application requirements. http://snu.edu/international-admissions
If you need assistance with a learning, physical, or psychological disability that may affect your application process, we encourage you to contact the Academic Center for Excellence, Disability Services at (405) 717-6272 (M-F 8:00-5:00). All students with disabilities are encouraged to seek assistance from ACE (LRC 325).
Click here to view the complete admissions process.
Graduate Programs in Counseling and Psychology Student Handbook
Locations
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.
