Physical Therapy, DPT

Physical therapy is a health profession involved in prevention, evaluation, and treatment of limited physical activity and injury. The practice is based in movement sciences. Physical therapists aid patients from pediatrics to geriatrics in the best methods of restoring an optimum quality of life. Physical therapists practice in rehabilitation centers, hospitals, home health agencies, nursing homes, school systems, pediatric clinics burn centers, wellness facilities, and in private practice.

Mission Statement

The mission of the University’s DPT program is to graduate competent, versatile, reflective, empathetic, and autonomous practitioners who by virtue of their critical thinking and active learning skills, clinical experience, diagnostic proficiency, ethical and behavioral standards, and commitment to professionalism will be prepared to assist and direct the patient or client in achieving optimum function. These practitioners will contribute to their practice and society through continued professional growth and personal example of a healthy and productive lifestyle.

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the DPT program, graduates will demonstrate the ability to

• engage in personal and professional development and lifelong learning activities;
• practice physical therapy in a manner that supports cooperative relationships with patients/clients, other health care providers, and the community;
• perform evidence-informed physical therapist practice based on foundational knowledge and professional clinical skills;
• interact in a professional manner that demonstrates effective communication for various audiences and purposes;
• implement principles of ethical and professional behavior in physical therapist practice;
• display qualities of leadership in physical therapist practice to advance the profession of physical therapy; and
• apply critical thinking to evidence-informed decision making in physical therapist practice.

Program Prerequisites

Required prerequisite coursework (must be completed with a grade of C or better) is as follows:

• 6 credits of general college chemistry
• 6 credits of general college physics, biomechanics, or anatomical kinesiology
• 6 credits of general college biology
• 6 credits of anatomy and physiology
• 3 credits of human growth and development across the lifespan
• 1 credit of medical terminology
• 12 credits of social sciences (e.g., psychology, sociology, or anthropology)
• Unless candidates have current work experience in a health sciences field, it is recommended that their prerequisites be no more than 5 years old—especially anatomy and physiology.

Note: Prerequisite substitutions can be considered with approval by the Program Director.

Delivery of Coursework

The DPT program is 131 credits and is offered on a full-time basis over 8 trimesters. Coursework is provided in a blended learning format. This is a combination of an online learning component with classroom instruction. Lab classes are taught in a hands-on setting, while some portions of the course content are presented through a variety of interactive online activities and augmented by inclass discussions, patient interactions, and simulation. This learning style allows students to have a vast range of learning techniques at their fingertips.