Physical therapy degree programs prepare students to become licensed physical therapists through classroom instruction and clinical practice. The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) accredits these programs, which typically require a bachelor's degree for entry and culminate in a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree.
Most DPT programs take three years to complete, including coursework in anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, neuroscience, and pharmacology. Students also complete clinical rotations under licensed physical therapists' supervision. Some schools offer hybrid or online programs, but all require in-person clinical experiences.
Admission requirements vary but often include prerequisite courses in sciences, letters of recommendation, observation hours in physical therapy settings, and passing scores on the Graduate Record Examination (GRE).
| Program Type | Duration | Degree Earned | Prerequisites |
|---|---|---|---|
| Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | 3 years | DPT | Bachelor's degree, prerequisites, GRE |
| Transitional DPT (t-DPT) | 1-2 years | t-DPT | Master's in PT or equivalent |
| DPT to PhD | 6-7 years | PhD | DPT degree, research proposal |
Physical therapy programs exist at universities, colleges, and medical schools across the U.S. Students choose these programs to gain the education and clinical experience needed to pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) and obtain state licensure.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of physical therapists is projected to grow 21%, much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth drives demand for quality PT education programs.
Many people confuse physical therapy degree programs with occupational therapy or kinesiology programs. While related, these fields have distinct focuses:
Another misconception is that all PT programs are the same. In reality, programs vary in curriculum, clinical rotation opportunities, and specializations offered. For example, some schools emphasize sports physical therapy, while others focus on geriatrics or neurology.
The University of Pittsburgh offers a highly regarded DPT program that combines rigorous academics with extensive clinical experience. Students complete 32 weeks of full-time clinical rotations at sites across Pennsylvania and neighboring states. The program includes specialized tracks in orthopaedic manual physical therapy and neurologic physical therapy.
I visited the University of Pittsburgh's facilities during a campus tour and was impressed by their modern motion analysis lab and simulation center, which provides students with hands-on learning experiences not available at all PT programs.