Khon Kaen University - SDG Alignment for Master of Science Program in Physical Therapy

SDG Alignment for Master of Science Program in Physical Therapy

Overall SDG Alignment Evaluation:

The Master of Science Program in Physical Therapy is fundamentally dedicated to advancing human health, well-being, and quality of life, placing it in direct and powerful alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals. The curriculum is designed to produce researchers, advanced clinicians, and leaders who can address the health needs of diverse populations, from children to the elderly, and promote lifelong health. The program's core mission to restore function, reduce pain, and improve mobility is a cornerstone of SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being). By focusing on evidence-based practice and person-centered care, the curriculum actively supports SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) by ensuring equitable access to high-quality healthcare for all individuals, including vulnerable populations. The emphasis on women's health and pelvic floor dysfunction directly contributes to SDG 5 (Gender Equality). As an advanced research-based degree, the program is a pillar of SDG 4 (Quality Education), fostering a new generation of physical therapy specialists. Furthermore, its emphasis on research collaboration and the dissemination of knowledge embodies the cooperative spirit of SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

SDG Related Course(s)

SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being

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Alignment Summary: This program is central to promoting good health and well-being across the lifespan. It equips graduates with advanced clinical skills to treat a wide range of conditions, from musculoskeletal and neurological disorders to cardiopulmonary diseases, thereby helping to reduce mortality and morbidity and improve the quality of life for all ages.

Course Code	Course Title	Alignment Rationale
PT 527 711	Advanced Musculoskeletal Physical Therapy	Directly contributes to health and well-being by providing advanced knowledge to manage musculoskeletal conditions, which are a leading cause of disability worldwide (Target 3.4).
PT 527 721	Advanced Neurological Physical Therapy	Supports good health by training specialists to manage neurological disorders, helping to reduce mortality and morbidity from non-communicable diseases (Target 3.4).
PT 527 731	Advanced Cardiopulmonary Physical Therapy	Aligns with good health by providing expertise in the rehabilitation of patients with heart and lung diseases, directly supporting the reduction of premature mortality from these conditions (Target 3.4).
PT 527 741	Advanced Pediatric Physical Therapy	Promotes healthy lives and well-being for children by focusing on the specialized care and rehabilitation needed for pediatric populations (Target 3.2).
PT 527 742	Physical Therapy in Geriatric and Health Promotion	Directly supports healthy aging by addressing the health needs of older persons, helping to ensure they can live healthy and active lives (Target 3.8).

SDG 4: Quality Education

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Alignment Summary: As a Master of Science program, this curriculum is a pillar of quality education, offering advanced and specialized training in physical therapy. It is designed to equip students with the research and clinical skills necessary for high-level employment and leadership roles, fostering a culture of lifelong learning and evidence-based practice.

Course Code	Course Title	Alignment Rationale
PT 527 701	Research Methodology and Biostatistics in Physical Therapy	Directly supports Target 4.4 by providing students with advanced technical and research skills for relevant employment and innovation in the field of physical therapy.
PT 527 891	Seminar in Physical Therapy Research	Enhances lifelong learning opportunities (Target 4.3) by training students in critical analysis and communication of scientific literature, essential for continuous professional development.
PT 527 898 / 899	Thesis	Represents a capstone lifelong learning opportunity where students conduct original research, thereby acquiring superior technical skills for employment and contributing new knowledge to the field (Target 4.4).

SDG 5: Gender Equality

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Alignment Summary: The curriculum contributes to gender equality by addressing specific health issues that disproportionately affect women. The specialized course in women's health and pelvic floor dysfunction empowers physical therapists to provide essential care, promoting the health and well-being of women throughout their lives.

Course Code	Course Title	Alignment Rationale
PT 527 743	Physical Therapy in Women's Health and Pelvic Floor Dysfunction	Directly supports Target 5.6 by ensuring universal access to sexual and reproductive health care through the management of conditions related to pelvic health.

SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities

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Alignment Summary: The program aims to reduce health inequalities by training physical therapists to provide care for diverse and often marginalized populations, including children and the elderly. By promoting person-centered care, the curriculum ensures that all individuals have the opportunity to achieve their full health potential, regardless of age or ability.

Course Code	Course Title	Alignment Rationale
PT 527 741	Advanced Pediatric Physical Therapy	Promotes social and economic inclusion of all, irrespective of age or disability, by providing specialized care to help children with disabilities participate fully in society (Target 10.2).
PT 527 742	Physical Therapy in Geriatric and Health Promotion	Empowers and promotes the social inclusion of older persons by providing care that enhances their mobility, independence, and quality of life (Target 10.2).

SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals

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Alignment Summary: The program's advanced, research-oriented nature fosters partnerships for sustainable development. Through seminar and thesis work, students engage with the global scientific and healthcare communities, promoting the knowledge-sharing and multi-stakeholder collaborations essential for addressing the complex, interconnected challenges of global health.

Course Code	Course Title	Alignment Rationale
PT 527 891	Seminar in Physical Therapy Research	Enhances the global partnership for sustainable development by having students present and discuss cutting-edge research, contributing to the international body of scientific knowledge (Target 17.6).
PT 527 898 / 899	Thesis	Represents a significant contribution to global partnerships (Target 17.17) by creating new, publishable knowledge that is shared internationally to help solve critical health challenges.