Program Description
The Doctor of Physical Therapy degree program requires a minimum of 112 hours of approved coursework, including at least 3 full-time clinical practicum experiences (30 weeks total). The curriculum consists of basic sciences, physical therapy sciences, scientific inquiry, clinical reasoning, and clinical practicum experiences.
In addition to the academic requirements, students are expected to adhere to the technical and professional standards of the program. For the most up to date information regarding these standards, program suspension, and terminations refer to the program's website at the College of Health and Human Sciences.
Completion of the following coursework and successful performance on a comprehensive examination are required for graduation. The program is structured as a 33-month, lockstep, full-time, curriculum. The program must be completed within 6 years.
Program Admission Requirements
Applicants for the physical therapy program must apply to both the Graduate School and the Physical Therapy Central Application Service (PTCAS). To apply to PTCAS, applicants will list all undergraduate and graduate courses and verify with an official transcript; and list three references who will be expected to submit a reference online. To apply to the Graduate School, pay the application fee and submit official scores from the GRE.
In addition to the admissions criteria established by the Graduate School, the program also requires the following:
Test Scores
GRE
GPA and/or previous degree or coursework
Baccalaureate degree required from a regionally accredited college or university; minimum GPA for prerequisite coursework and in the last 90 hours: 3.2.
Applicants must have successfully completed all outstanding pre-requisite courses prior to enrolling in physical therapy courses. Pre-requisite coursework must have been completed within the last 7 years prior to the projected enrollment date. All courses with *noted below must include (face-to-face) laboratory components.
- 6-8 credit hours: biology*
- 6-8 credit hours: human anatomy and physiology*
- 6-8 credit hours: general chemistry*
- 6-8 credit hours: general physics*
- 3 credit hours: statistics
- 3 credit hours: psychology
- 3 credit hours: exercise physiology
Essay or Narrative Statement
Yes.
Letters of Recommendation
Three references are expected to complete an online form through PTCAS.
Resume and/or Experience
Forty hours (minimum) of volunteer or paid observation in a physical therapy setting.
Additional Requirements
Applicants must apply first through PTCAS. The department accepts only full-time students. All accepted students are required to have a criminal background check completed consistent with policy and procedures established by the College of Health and Human Sciences.
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