I was just assigned a court date yesterday for this Thursday. Is there anyway I can change it without physically going in and requesting a continuance??

It depends. Talk to a lawyer. Do not rely upon the responses you receive here.

Depends on the case.

Depends on type of case. If its criminal arraignment no, if its secondary criminal dates clerk can continue over the phone. If its housing a form is available at clerk or make your own motion for continuance , bit must be files in person and copy mailed to othe party or atty. For civil process and housing you got your court date outside of the five business day guideline so the clerk or end or judge will approve your continuance on that premise but again criminal secondary easy over phone civil housing in person