Sam Smith PT, DPT

Overview

Dr. Smith is a Kansas-licensed Doctor of Physical Therapy with more than seven years of clinical experience in outpatient orthopedic and home health care.

Dr. Smith excels at engaging students both in lecture and laboratory settings. He has a strong passion for Human Anatomy and Physiology, Pathophysiology, and Clinical Neuroscience. He believes that the most effective learning happens through a combination of didactic work along with hands on application and clinical experiences.

As Director of the Scientific Foundations Division in the College of Health Professions, Dr. Smith oversees the Human Simulation and Human Cadaver laboratories, which provides students with immersive, state-of-the-art training opportunities.

Dr. Smith earned a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in Marketing and a minor in Management (2009), a master’s degree in Exercise Science (2013), and a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree (2019)—all from Wichita State University.

Academic Interests and Expertise

• Outpatient Orthopedic Physical Therapy
• Clinical Neuroscience
• Human Anatomy and Physiology
• Pathophysiology

Areas of Teaching Interest

• HS 290 Foundations of Human Anatomy and Physiology
• HS 400 Pathophysiology
• HS 585 Clinical Neuroscience
• PT Differential Diagnosis: Screening for Medical Referral
• Pain Neuroscience Education 

Awards and Honors

Academy For Effective Teaching Finalist for the Outstanding Teacher Award. Student Nominated for Academic year 2024-2025. Wichita State University, Wichita, KS

Areas of Service

• Director of the Scientific Foundations Division

• Coordinator for Certificate of Human Anatomy 

• Staff Physical Therapist at Student Health Services on campus

• Faculty advisor for HOSA 

• Facilitator for High School Human Simulation and Cadaver Lab Tours