Program Details:
- Credit Hours: 103
- Courses in Program: 52
- Estimated Completion Time: 3 years
- Program Format: Hybrid (Online courses + in-person sessions)
The D’Youville University Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program is designed to prepare students for successful careers as physical therapists.
The D’Youville University Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program is designed to prepare students for successful careers as physical therapists.
Our CAPTE-accredited program combines the flexibility of online learning with immersive in-person clinical experiences, allowing you to complete your degree in three years full-time.
As a leader in healthcare education, D’Youville is committed to preparing the next generation of physical therapists. Our DPT program features an innovative hybrid format that blends online coursework with hands-on lab intensives during the first two years. This unique approach allows you to balance your studies with other commitments while still gaining essential hands-on experience.
You’ll also benefit from our extensive network of over 300 clinical fieldwork sites, where you’ll apply what you’ve learned in real-world healthcare settings. Plus, you’ll be supported throughout your journey by our dedicated faculty, many of whom are recognized leaders in their fields.
YOU WILL:
- Develop critical skills for patient evaluation, care, and rehabilitation.
- Participate in interdisciplinary education labs to enhance teamwork and collaboration.
- Gain hands-on experience through 32 weeks of clinical fieldwork.
- Prepare for leadership roles in physical therapy, healthcare administration, or academia.
THREE YEARS. ONE DPT PROGRAM. A WORLD OF CAREER POSSIBILITIES.
As a graduate of our Doctor of Physical Therapy program, you’ll be equipped to begin your professional career as a physical therapist in almost any healthcare setting.
COURSES AND REQUIREMENTS
Admission Requirements
To apply to the D’Youville DPT program, you must submit an application through PTCAS (Physical Therapist Centralized Application Service) online. You will also need to submit the following:
- Official academic transcripts from colleges and universities attended, both undergraduate and graduate levels
- Evidence of capability to succeed in a graduate program, as shown by a cumulative undergraduate G.P.A. of at least 3.00 (on a 4.00 system)
- Evidence of completion of all prerequisite courses completed with a grade of B or better with the exception that a maximum of two undergraduate course grades may be a C (C+, C, B-) or better. The applicant must also have a minimum prerequisite G.P.A. of 3.00 or better.
Prerequisite courses equivalent to the following D’Youville courses:
- Math and Natural Sciences
- Two 3-credit courses in human-based science or applied science courses
- One course in human anatomy with lab
- One course in human physiology with lab — may be two courses in human anatomy with physiology with labs
- Two courses in chemistry with labs
- Two courses in physics with labs
- One semester of statistics
Social and Behavioral Sciences
- One course in psychology
TUITION and FEES
Tuition and fees vary based on your program of study and whether you are considered a full- or part-time student. Financial aid is available for those who qualify and can be applied to full- and part-time status.
Below, you’ll find information about the potential cost of your program.
| COST | Total | |
|---|---|---|
| Full Program Tuition | $1,320 per credit hour | $135,960 |
| Full Program Fees | $4,680 | $4,680 |
| Full Program Total | $139,680 | |
Career Outcomes
Physical therapists are in demand and well compensated. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the median national wage for physical therapists was $99,710 as of 2023. Employment of physical therapists is projected to grow 15% from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations.
Specializations
The preparation you receive at D’Youville will qualify you to begin your professional career as a physical therapist in almost any healthcare setting. However, while many of our graduates enjoy fulfilling careers in general practice, many others choose to specialize in areas such as:
Orthopedic Physical Therapy
Focuses on treating musculoskeletal injuries involving
muscles, bones, ligaments, tendons, and joints. Common conditions treated
include fractures, sprains, and post-surgical rehabilitation.
Neurological Physical Therapy
Addresses conditions affecting the nervous system, such as stroke, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, and spinal cord injuries. Therapists help patients improve mobility, balance, and coordination.
Pediatric Physical Therapy
Specializes in treating children and adolescents with developmental, neuromuscular, and orthopedic conditions. Therapists work on improving motor skills, strength, and coordination in young patients.
Geriatric Physical Therapy
Focuses on the unique needs of aging adults, addressing issues such as arthritis, osteoporosis, balance disorders, and mobility problems. The goal is to improve overall function and quality of life for older adults.
Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Physical Therapy
Involves the treatment of patients with heart and lung conditions. Therapists help improve endurance, breathing, and functional independence through exercise and education.
Sports Physical Therapy
Concentrates on athletes and active individuals, focusing on injury prevention, rehabilitation, and performance enhancement. Therapists work with a wide range of sports-related injuries and conditions.
Women’s Health Physical Therapy
Addresses issues related to women’s health, including pelvic pain, incontinence, pre- and post-natal care, and conditions such as osteoporosis. Therapists provide specialized care to improve
function and quality of life.
Oncology Physical Therapy
Specializes in treating cancer patients, helping them manage the physical side effects of
cancer treatment, such as fatigue, pain, lymphedema, and weakness. The goal is
to improve overall physical function and well-being.
Wound Care Physical Therapy
Specializes in the assessment and treatment of acute and chronic wounds, including pressure ulcers, diabetic ulcers, and surgical wounds. Physical therapists in this specialty use various
techniques such as debridement, dressings, compression therapy, and modalities like ultrasound or electrical stimulation to promote healing and prevent complications. They also educate patients on proper wound care and prevention strategies.
Clinical Electrophysiology Physical Therapy
Involves the use of electrical modalities to assess and treat neuromuscular and musculoskeletal
conditions. This specialty includes the use of electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies to diagnose conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome or peripheral neuropathy. Therapists may also use electrical stimulation, biofeedback, and other electrotherapy techniques to reduce pain, improve muscle function, and enhance tissue healing.
A Physical Therapist’s Role
Your role as a practicing physical therapist will be to help your patients regain strength and function, improve mobility, relieve their pain, and prevent or limit the scope or impact of physical disabilities on their lives and their health.
In clinical settings you’ll work with patients to assess their physical functions in the context of their medical history and social support. You’ll also test and measure their strength, range of motion, balance, coordination, posture, muscle performance, respiration, and motor function in order to establish baselines for therapy.
Finally, as a physical therapist you’ll also help your patients after they leave your care by prescribing therapeutic exercise in order to improve the quality of their lives.
Post-Professional Degrees
While many of our graduates go into clinical practice, others enter advanced academic programs in order to pursue careers in research and teaching in both private and public organizations. These students typically pursue post-professional degrees such as doctor of science (D.Sc.), doctor of education (EdD), or doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) degrees.
If you choose to pursue this path you can rest assured that the rigorous academic, research, and clinical work you’ll complete in our entry-level professional DPT program will provide you with a solid foundation for advanced study and practice.
Ready to take the Next Step?
Fill out the form to request more information and start your journey toward becoming a Doctor of Physical Therapy.