Best Online Doctorate in Physical Therapy Programs

Tyler Epps
By
Updated on April 15, 2024
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We’ve ranked the best online doctorate in physical therapy programs. Compare schools by cost, convenience, and academic quality.

Portions of the following article were drafted using an in-house natural language generation platform. The article was then reviewed, fact-checked, and edited by multiple members of our editorial team prior to publishing.

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Best Online Doctorate Programs in Physical Therapy

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.

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Best Online Doctorate in Physical Therapy Programs

Best Online Doctorate in Physical Therapy Programs

Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center

  • Location-markerLubbock, TX
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$6,665
  • Out-of-state$19,344
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$6,360
  • Out-of-state$16,176
  • Retention Rate0%
  • Acceptance Rate0%
  • Students Enrolled5,274
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment62%
  • AccreditationYes
Best Online Doctorate in Physical Therapy Programs

Northeastern University

  • Location-markerBoston, MA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$54,360
  • Out-of-state$54,360
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$25,264
  • Out-of-state$25,264
  • Retention Rate97%
  • Acceptance Rate20%
  • Students Enrolled22,905
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment48%
  • AccreditationYes
Best Online Doctorate in Physical Therapy Programs

A T Still University of Health Sciences

  • Location-markerKirksville, MO
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$36,336
  • Out-of-state$36,336
  • Retention Rate0%
  • Acceptance Rate0%
  • Students Enrolled3,995
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment100%
  • AccreditationYes
Best Online Doctorate in Physical Therapy Programs

University of Southern California

  • Location-markerLos Angeles, CA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$59,260
  • Out-of-state$59,260
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$47,880
  • Out-of-state$47,880
  • Retention Rate91%
  • Acceptance Rate16%
  • Students Enrolled46,287
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment89%
  • AccreditationYes
Best Online Doctorate in Physical Therapy Programs

Utica College

  • Location-markerUtica, NY
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$21,560
  • Out-of-state$21,560
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$21,480
  • Out-of-state$21,480
  • Retention Rate78%
  • Acceptance Rate86%
  • Students Enrolled4,613
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment90%
  • AccreditationYes
Best Online Doctorate in Physical Therapy Programs

Shenandoah University

  • Location-markerWinchester, VA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$32,510
  • Out-of-state$32,510
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$21,720
  • Out-of-state$21,720
  • Retention Rate82%
  • Acceptance Rate74%
  • Students Enrolled4,174
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment51%
  • AccreditationYes
Best Online Doctorate in Physical Therapy Programs

The College of Saint Scholastica

  • Location-markerDuluth, MN
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$38,750
  • Out-of-state$38,750
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$14,182
  • Out-of-state$14,182
  • Retention Rate84%
  • Acceptance Rate73%
  • Students Enrolled3,712
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment36%
  • AccreditationYes
Best Online Doctorate in Physical Therapy Programs

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

  • Location-markerChapel Hill, NC
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$7,019
  • Out-of-state$34,198
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$10,552
  • Out-of-state$28,278
  • Retention Rate95%
  • Acceptance Rate25%
  • Students Enrolled30,092
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment91%
  • AccreditationYes
Best Online Doctorate in Physical Therapy Programs

University of Michigan-Flint

  • Location-markerFlint, MI
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$11,868
  • Out-of-state$23,604
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$11,862
  • Out-of-state$17,748
  • Retention Rate72%
  • Acceptance Rate77%
  • Students Enrolled6,829
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment62%
  • AccreditationYes
Best Online Doctorate in Physical Therapy Programs

Winston-Salem State University

  • Location-markerWinston-Salem, NC
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$3,401
  • Out-of-state$13,648
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$3,872
  • Out-of-state$13,987
  • Retention Rate77%
  • Acceptance Rate73%
  • Students Enrolled5,169
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment95%
  • AccreditationYes

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:

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    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.
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    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.
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    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.
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    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.
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    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.

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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.
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    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.
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    Letters of Recommendation

    Many programs require letters of recommendation. You can ask former professors or professional supervisors for recommendations.
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    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.
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    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.
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    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.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Doctorate in Physical Therapy Programs

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.

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