Best Online Doctorate in Physical Therapy Programs
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Physical therapists (PTs) have the privilege of making a significant positive impact on people's lives by aiding them throughout their recovery process and guiding them toward improved health.
Physical therapists work closely with patients, helping them recover from injury. This direct impact on a person's quality of life can be incredibly fulfilling.
The journey to becoming a physical therapist is a demanding undertaking that involves rigorous educational requirements. Physical therapists need a doctor of physical therapy (DPT) degree to become licensed and practice as physical therapists.
This guide will cover what you can expect from a doctorate in physical therapy program, how to choose the right one, and the typical admission requirements.
Featured Online Physical Therapy Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Best Online Doctorate in Physical Therapy Programs
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Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center
Lubbock, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
At the heart of Texas, TTUHSC is one of the leading health science colleges in the United States. It offers a hybrid doctorate in physical therapy program that incorporates web-based coursework and weekend on-campus sessions with both lectures and laboratory experiences.
Courses in the program cover orthopedic surgical management, advanced clinical practice, the neuroscience of pain, and orthopedic physical therapy screening.
Admission requirements include completion of a bachelor's degree and prerequisite courses like general biology, anatomy, general physics, chemistry, and statistics.
Students also must show a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 and GRE results, as well as at least 100 observation hours with a licensed physical therapist.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Cost: $40,870 per year (in-state); $89,730 per year (out-of-state)
- Program Length: 3 years
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: Unspecified
- Format: Hybrid
- School Status: Private
- School Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Northeastern University
Boston, MA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Based in Boston, Massachusetts, Northeastern offers online, international extension, and on-campus doctorate of physical therapy programs. The online doctorate of physical therapy program is a 35-credit program aimed at licensed physical therapists with master's or bachelor's degrees.
Students can choose between different concentrations depending on their areas of expertise. Applicants must have a bachelor's degree or higher with a minimum GPA of 3.0 to be accepted into the program.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Cost per Credit: $785 per credit
- Program Length: 1-3 years
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 35
- Format: Online
- School Status: Private
- School Accreditation: New England Commission on Higher Education
A T Still University of Health Sciences
Kirksville, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Based in Kirksville, Missouri, ATSU offers a professional doctor of physical therapy program online. The requirements for enrollment in this program include a minimum overall GPA of 2.8 and GRE results.
This program consists of a flexible schedule that includes a rotating slate of classes that a student can select from and complete one at a time. This arrangement ensures learners are able to schedule their classes around their other commitments. Students can also take two classes at a time to accelerate program completion.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Cost per Credit: $546 per credit
- Program Length: 3 years
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: Unspecified
- Format: Online
- School Status: Private
- School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Based in Los Angeles, USC offers an online doctorate in physical therapy program. The program incorporates online coursework and hands-on, immersive training. The course takes three years to complete on a full-time basis. Additionally, course completion requires 44 weeks of clinical experience in the student's local community.
Admission requirements include at least a "C" in biological sciences, chemistry, anatomy, physics, and physiology, as well as minimum cumulative and science GPAs of 3.0. GRE scores are also required. A minimum of 150 hours of clinical experience is recommended but not required.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Cost: $69,748 per year for the first two years; $42,140 for year three
- Program Length: 3 years
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: Unspecified
- Format: Hybrid
- School Status: Private
- School Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University.
Utica College
Utica, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Based in Utica, New York, UC serves a student body of over 5,000 and offers over 100 courses, including more than 20 online programs.
UC's doctor of physical therapy program is an 18-19 credit offering depending on the student's chosen practicum. It takes a minimum of 18 months for students to complete the program if attending on a full-time basis. The program can take up to three years in a hybrid format.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Cost per Credit: $785 per credit
- Program Length: 18 months-3 years
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 18-19 credits
- Format: Hybrid
- School Status: Private
- School Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Shenandoah University
Winchester, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Founded in 1875, Shenandoah University is a private liberal arts college located in Winchester, Virginia. The school offers an online transitional doctor of physical therapy program that gives students an option between three tracks.
Track one is aimed at master's graduates and offers accelerated degree completion, while tracks two and three are for students with only a bachelor's degree and take longer to complete.
Students must show GRE test scores and a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.8 on prior courses to gain admission.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Cost per Credit: $633 per credit
- Program Length: 1-3 years
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 16-20 credits depending on track
- Format: Online
- School Status: Private
- School Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
The College of Saint Scholastica
Duluth, MN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The College of St. Scholastica is a top college in Duluth, Minnesota. It offers an online doctorate of physical therapy program that emphasizes equipping students with theoretical knowledge to advance their practice.
The program is 100% online and caters to out-of-state and international students. It comprises 16 credits covering six classes. Successful applicants will have a minimum of a bachelor's degree in a related field with a minimum of 3.0 GPA and submit GRE scores.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Cost per Credit: $750 per credit
- Program Length: 2 years
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 16 credits
- Format: Online
- School Status: Private
- School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The first public university in the United States, UNC-Chapel Hill offers an online doctorate in physical therapy program. The 30-credit program is based on clinical practice, clinical foundation, and specialty practice modules. It also combines distance learning with ongoing clinical application.
A bachelor's degree in physical therapy is a prerequisite with a minimum overall GPA of 3.0. Students will also have to submit their GRE results.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Cost: $9,201 per semester (in-state, full load); $18,064 per semester (out-of-state, full load)
- Program Length: 1-3 years
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 30
- Format: Hybrid
- School Status: Public
- School Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
University of Michigan-Flint
Flint, MI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
UM-Flint is a public institution serving close to 50,000 students and is one of three University of Michigan locations. UM-Flint offers a doctorate in physical therapy online and on campus. The online program requires a minimum of 24 credits to complete and takes about two years.
All coursework is completed online, although some hands-on clinical and lab work is required. Out-of-state students should visit the state authorization page to find out if the online program is available in their state.
The enrollment requirements for this program include a 3.0 GPA for prerequisite courses and an overall 3.0 GPA. All students must also submit GRE scores.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Cost per Credit: $762 per credit (in-state); $1,138 per credit (out-of-state)
- Program Length: 2 years
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 24
- Format: Online
- School Status: Public
- School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Winston-Salem State University
Winston-Salem, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
WSSU is a public university founded in 1892 and located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. It offers an online transitional doctorate of physiotherapy program for professionals who have graduated with a master's or bachelor's degree.
The program comprises 24 credits which must be completed over three years. To enroll in the program, students require a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA, 120 credits of prior education, and GRE scores. Students with a prior master's degree may receive 6 credits of recognized prior education.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Cost per Credit: $186 per credit (in-state); $672 per credit (out-of-state)
- Program Length: 1-3 years
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: Unspecified
- Format: Online
- School Status: Public
- School Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
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What to Expect From a Doctorate in Physical Therapy Program
Doctorate in physical therapy programs are rigorous and comprehensive, designed to prepare you for a career as a licensed physical therapist. These programs include research projects and advanced coursework. They also include clinical rotations or internships, providing you with practical, hands-on experience under the supervision of experienced physical therapists.
Most DPT programs take around three years to complete on a full-time basis. However, the exact duration can vary depending on the program's specific curriculum, your prior educational background, and whether you're studying full-time or part-time.
The number of credit hours needed to complete a doctoral program varies widely, with some requiring as few as 48 and others requiring as many as 120. Most DPT programs require you to complete 90-120 credit hours. This usually includes both coursework and clinical experiences.
Physical Therapy Specializations
After earning a doctorate in physical therapy, you can choose to specialize in a particular area of physical therapy. These specializations allow you to focus your studies and clinical experiences on a specific patient population or type of care.
There are numerous focus areas licensed PTs can choose from, including neurology, geriatrics, oncology, orthopedics, pediatrics, and sports, among others. Here are a five popular PT specializations:
-
Cardiovascular & Pulmonary
This specialization focuses on helping patients who have had heart or lung surgery or suffer from cardiovascular or pulmonary conditions. These professionals work to improve their patients' endurance and functional independence. -
Geriatrics
Geriatric specialists work with older adults, helping them to improve mobility, build strength, and maintain functional ability. They might work with patients suffering from arthritis, osteoporosis, or other conditions common in older adults. -
Orthopedics
Orthopedic physical therapists specialize in the musculoskeletal system and treat conditions affecting the muscles, bones, ligaments, or tendons. They help patients recover from surgery and manage chronic conditions. -
Pediatrics
Pediatric specialists work with infants, children, and adolescents, helping them develop or improve motor skills. They work with children experiencing a range of conditions, from developmental disorders to injuries. -
Sports
Sports medicine specialists work with athletes and active individuals of all ages. They help athletes recover from sports-related injuries, work to prevent injuries, and aim to improve athletic performance.
Courses You Can Expect to Take in a Doctorate in Physical Therapy Program
Courses differ widely among programs. It's important to ensure that your chosen program offers courses that match your learning goals.
Below are several courses you may encounter during an online doctorate in physical therapy program.
Diagnostic Imaging
During this course, you are introduced to the clinical interpretation of various medical imaging techniques. These techniques may include magnetic resonance imaging, computerized tomography, and plain film radiography.
Pharmacology
In this course, you'll delve into advanced concepts of pharmacologic management of patients and learn to identify drugs commonly taken by patients and their side effects.
Research Methods and Statistical Analysis
This course introduces statistical methods and their applications in the life sciences. You may also explore the significance and relevance of research and analysis in physical therapy.
Medical Screening and Nutrition
This course equips you with the knowledge and skills needed to screen patients and make sound clinical judgments regarding their physical and nutritional needs.
Motor Control
This course typically covers advanced topics in motor control and learning. You explore how to apply current research to clinical practice across various settings.
Featured Online Physical Therapy Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
How to Choose an Online Doctorate in Physical Therapy Program
There are several factors you need to consider when choosing an online DPT program, including the cost, location, and available specializations. Another crucial factor is accreditation, as it guarantees that potential employers will acknowledge and respect your PT degree.
Cost
When choosing a doctorate in physical therapy program, it's essential to consider the cost. Tuition fees can vary greatly between programs, and it's important to remember that the most expensive programs are not necessarily the best.
A 2023 CAPTE study found that median tuition for a doctorate in physical therapy costs an average of $20,640 per year for in-state students at public schools and $39,976 per year at private schools.
Be sure to also factor in additional costs such as textbooks, equipment, and any required travel for clinical placements. You can apply for financial aid, grants, and scholarships to help offset these costs.
Program Format
Another important factor to consider when choosing a doctorate in physical therapy program is the format. Online programs offer flexibility, which can be particularly beneficial if you're working or have other commitments.
However, it's also important to ensure that the online program offers the necessary hands-on clinical experience, which is a crucial component of physical therapy training.
Location
Even when choosing an online program, location can be an important factor. Many DPT programs have clinical rotations or practical components, where you may be required to attend on-campus sessions.
Additionally, for the practical component of the program, you may need to consider the location of the clinical placements. It's also worth noting that licensure requirements can vary by state, so it's important to ensure that the program you choose meets the requirements of the state in which you plan to practice.
Accreditation
Accreditation is a crucial factor in choosing a doctorate in physical therapy program. Accreditation ensures that the program meets certain standards of quality and that it will be recognized by employers and professional bodies.
In the United States, physical therapy programs should be accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE).
Student Support
Finally, consider the level of student support offered by the program. This can include academic support, such as tutoring and study resources, as well as career counseling, technical support for online learning, and support for mental health and wellbeing.
Good student support can make a significant difference in your success in the program and beyond.
Area of Focus
When selecting a doctorate in physical therapy program, it's important to ensure that the program prepares you to work in your area of focus. That means offering classes that could help you find work in orthopedics, neurology, geriatrics, pediatrics, or sports medicine after graduation.
Choosing a program that aligns with your career goals and interests can ensure you're well-prepared for your future career in physical therapy.
Admission Requirements for a Doctorate in Physical Therapy Program
Admission requirements vary from program to program. The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) offers a great guide to all possible requirements. Generally, you must have completed certain undergraduate courses at accredited colleges. Most programs also maintain a minimum GPA cutoff.
The graduate admissions process can be a bit tricky. If you have a good idea of the program requirements before you apply, the process should be less complicated and stressful. Some programs may require a criminal record check and physical therapy work or volunteer experience, along with a sound academic record.
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Application
Applications include your educational background and personal history. The APTA's Centralized Application Service allows you to apply to a variety of doctorate in physical therapy programs using a centralized application system. -
Test Scores
If you're applying for a doctorate in physical therapy, you should plan to take an entrance exam and complete the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). Most programs have a minimum GRE score requirement. -
Letters of Recommendation
Many programs require letters of recommendation. You can ask former professors or professional supervisors for recommendations. -
Resume and Work Experience
You may need to submit a resume when applying to a program. This resume typically includes previous work experience, with a particular focus on physical therapy experience. -
Essays
Some programs may conduct interviews or require graduate essays as part of the admissions process. These essays give the admissions department a better idea of who you are and how your goals and values might match the school's. -
Official Transcripts
Doctorate in physical therapy programs can be quite specific when it comes to which courses and credits they recognize. You usually need to submit official transcripts to prove which courses you have completed.
Featured Online Physical Therapy Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Frequently Asked Questions About Doctorate in Physical Therapy Programs
Do physical therapists need a doctorate degree?
Yes, a doctor of physical therapy degree from an accredited program is the minimum education requirement to practice as a licensed physical therapist in the U.S. Upon completing the program, you can deepen your expertise through a residency in a specific PT area.
As part of the licensing requirements, you must also pass the National Physical Therapy Exam, which is administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy. Once you obtain licensure, you can begin your PT career.
If you're interested in the field of physical therapy but don't have the time or resources to devote toward long-term study, consider becoming a physical therapist assistant. These professionals only need an associate degree to get started and work closely with physical therapists.
How much can you make as a physical therapist?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), physical therapists earned a median salary of $97,720 in 2022, which is significantly higher than the median annual wage for all occupations of $46,310. The top 10% of physical therapy professionals earned more than $128,000.
Is a physical therapy degree worth it?
A physical therapy degree can certainly be worth it, especially if you're passionate about helping others improve their health and well-being.
In addition, the job outlook for physical therapists is very promising, with a projected growth rate of 15% from 2022 to 2032. That's much faster than the national average and means that physical therapists can expect good job opportunities in the future.
However, the path to becoming a physical therapist is a challenging endeavor, requiring extensive educational and training requirements. All in all, you should expect to spend about seven years completing educational and training requirements.
Is physical therapy a good career?
Physical therapy is generally considered a good career for those who are interested in healthcare and enjoy working with people. It offers the opportunity to make a positive impact on people's lives, helping them recover from injuries or manage chronic conditions.
Physical therapists can also earn a comfortable salary in many states, and the field is expected to grow significantly in the coming years, offering good job prospects. And, research from a 2023 study conducted by the American Physical Therapy Association shows physical therapists report high levels of job satisfaction.
However, as with any career, it's important to consider your personal interests, strengths, and career goals when deciding if it's the right fit for you.
