Dr. Bryan Southerland

PhD, PT, MBA

Assistant Professor of Physical Therapy

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Education

• PhD, University of Central Arkansas (Physical Therapy with Concentration in Rehabilitation Research and Biomechanics)
• Certificate in Clinical Anatomy, Hardin-Simmons University
• MPT, Arkansas State University (Physical Therapy: Honors Graduate)
• BS, Arkansas State University (Exercise Science: Honors Graduate)
• AA, East Arkansas Community College (General Studies: Honors Graduate)

 

Professional Credentials

• Arkansas Physical Therapy License
• Certified Gross Anatomy Instructor
• Certified Senior Strength Trainer

Teaching Specialties

• Human Anatomy
• Biomechanics
• Research and Statistics
• Kinesiology

Research Interests

• Body mechanics and analysis in athletics
• Injury prevention
• Concussion diagnosis, prevention, and management
• Education
• Dyslexia
• Pediatrics treatment and outcome measures
• Pediatric gait norms and deviations

Affiliations

• American Physical Therapy Association (APTA)
• American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM)
• National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA)
• Arkansas Athletic Association (AAA)
• International Weightlifting Association (IWA)
• International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation (IBJJF)

Curriculum Vitae

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Biography

A native of Forrest City, Dr. Southerland is the first generation in his family to receive a Bachelors, Masters, and/or Doctoral Degree. Dr. Southerland began his academic career at East Arkansas Community College in Forrest City in 2000, graduating Magna Cum Laude in 2002 with an Associate of Arts in General Studies. He continued his education at Arkansas State University completing a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science in 2005, again graduating with honors. Dr. Southerland was accepted into Arkansas State University’s Physical Therapy Programs class of 2008, graduating with honors. Upon completion of the program and after passing the National Physical Therapy Board Exam, Dr. Southerland began clinical practice soon thereafter. Throughout the years, he has practiced in various settings helping to provide a well-rounded clinical foundation in orthopedics, acute, inpatient, sports medicine, and pediatrics. Dr. Southerland began teaching at Arkansas State University in 2020 and currently teaches anatomical and biomechanical classes as well as serving as the director of the gross anatomy lab. Dr. Bryan Southerland graduated from the University of Central Arkansas in 2022 with a PhD. Dr. Southerland and his wife who is an early childhood educator, are the proud parents of a daughter, Mattie-Jane, and a son, Forrester Mills. In his spare time, he enjoys coaching and/or watching any sport his kids are involved in and spending time at the lake with his family where they boat, swim, and wakeboard. He is also an avid athlete engaging in fitness and competitive endurance sports, weightlifting, and training in mixed martial arts with an emphasis on BrazilianJiu-Jitsu.