title: PT graduates' perceptions of a higher education early intervention training program on employment and practice.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  The purpose of this study was to describe physical therapist graduates' perceptions of a higher education early intervention (EI) training program on postgraduation employment and practice.
  
  
  METHODS
  Using a mixed methods approach, 13 graduates responded to an online survey and 14 participated in a telephone interview. Descriptive statistics and qualitative methods were used for analysis.
  
  
  RESULTS
  More than 80% of survey respondents pursued state EI certification following graduation and had practiced in EI. Participants reported that the EI training increased their marketability for employment and preparation for EI practice. Reported challenges included embracing the diverse role of an EI service provider and limited mentoring by another PT.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Results provide important program feedback and highlight the need for curriculum review. This study further informs the national discussion about EI training, pediatric physical therapy curriculum, new graduate practice in EI, and entry-level versus advanced practice.
authors.affiliation: Department of Physical Therapy, Movement and Rehabilitation Sciences (Dr Golub-Victor and Ms Dumas), Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts; Research Center for Children with Special Health Care Needs (Ms Dumas), Franciscan Hospital for Children, Boston, Massachusetts.
authors.forename: Ann C
authors.initials: AC
authors.lastname: Golub-Victor
authors.forename: Helene
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Dumas
mesh_terms: D018479:Early Intervention, Educational; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010465:Perception; D059825:Physical Therapists / Q000193:education*