Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)

The Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree prepares students for licensure as physical therapists. The program requires three academic years and three summers to complete. Full-time enrollment is necessary, including the summers. All students must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher throughout the program. To be eligible for licensure, both the didactic and clinical components of the DPT degree must be successfully completed. Students are required to commute to affiliating hospitals and clinics for some professional courses, and some form of transportation is necessary. Students are also required to provide their own uniforms. The Doctor of Physical Therapy program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education. Student Learning Outcomes The Doctor of Physical Therapy program will foster professional leadership and advancements in physical therapy evidence-based practice, theory, research and education. After successful completion of the DPT curriculum, graduates will be prepared to: Apply foundational sciences of anatomy, physiology, neurology and pathology to the physical therapy clinical setting. Communicate in a professional, culturally competent manner to a diverse population in classroom activities and in clinical settings. Function as an autonomous, skilled physical therapist that is guided by ethical practice standards, reflects on clinical decisions, maintains competence, collaborates effectively with other professionals in patient management and in advocacy for the profession. Integrate best scientific evidence with clinical expertise, client-specific needs, and healthcare system values to provide quality therapy services meeting the healthcare needs of patient/clients and society.