A Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree is required to obtain a license to practice as a physical therapist in the United States. Physical therapists work with patients to reduce pain, improve or restore functional mobility, and promote a healthy lifestyle. Job opportunities are plentiful and graduates may pursue future opportunities to become board-certified clinical specialists in a variety of practice areas including neurology, orthopedics, sports, cardiovascular and pulmonary, clinical electrophysiology, pediatrics, geriatrics, and women’s health.

The mission of the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program at Anderson University is to transform students into movement specialists whose practice is enlightened by scholarly evidence and reflective thinking, grounded in Christian values and professional ethics, and committed to service and lifelong learning.

Program admission is selective and is limited to 28 students per year with a summer start date. The 125 credit-hour physical therapy curriculum is organized around the following five behavioral themes with coursework spread over eight continuous semesters:

1.Knowing: We synthesize scientific knowledge to better understand human movement.

2.Applying: We solve problems of movement dysfunction via diagnosis and treatment.

3.Promoting: We seek ways to advance physical therapy practice and optimize societal health.

4.Modeling: We strive to reflect professional and Christian values in our daily lives and health care practice.

5.Serving: We seize opportunities to enhance the quality of life for all God’s people.

The curriculum includes part-time, interprofessional clinical experiences during the first year of the program and 32 weeks of full-time practicums during the second and third years of the program. Practical experiences occur in a variety of clinical settings including, inpatient, outpatient, and long-term care facilities. During these clinical experiences, students gain hands-on experience, under the direct supervision of a licensed physical therapist, working with patients and clients of all ages who have a variety of health care conditions. The DPT curriculum also features opportunities for students to pursue specialty interests via completion of a scholarly project, attendance at professional meetings/conferences, and a specialty clinical practicum.