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MAKING MOVES:

Guide to a Doctor of
Physical Therapy Program

Physical therapists have a special power in the medical world. They can significantly enhance someone’s quality of life using non-invasive and precision-guided techniques. No scalpels, no prescriptions.

Physical therapists are the architects of rehabilitation, designing personalized treatment plans to help patients move better, reduce pain, and prevent disability. Physical therapy is deeply rooted in a commitment to aiding recovery and improving the quality of life for people across all age groups.

The pathway to becoming a practicing physical therapist has evolved. The Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree has become the required degree for practice, replacing master's level programs.

By pursuing a DPT, you're making a tangible difference in healthcare. You'll be stepping into a career that challenges you to be your best, continually learn, and grow alongside a dedicated community that values compassion, innovation, and excellence.

1

  

BE AN EXPERT

What is Physical Therapy?

Physical therapy (PT) is a dynamic and essential branch of healthcare focused on restoring, maintaining, and enhancing the physical well-being and mobility of patients. PT aims to empower patients, facilitating recovery from injuries, surgeries, or managing chronic conditions through non-invasive and holistic approaches.

The field is grounded in a deep understanding of human anatomy, physiology, and the biomechanics of movement, allowing physical therapists to design effective, personalized treatment plans.

The primary objectives of physical therapy include:

  • Improving Mobility
  • Alleviating Pain
  • Preventing or Managing Chronic Conditions
  • Rehabilitation and Recovery
  • Preventing Disability

What Does a Physical Therapist Do?

Physical therapists enhance patient health through a variety of methods. They use therapeutic exercises to boost mobility and strength, and manual therapy techniques like massage and joint mobilization to alleviate pain and improve movement. PTs create individualized exercise programs tailored to patients' recovery or fitness goals. They also educate patients on how to manage conditions and maintain their health independently. Initial and ongoing assessments enable PTs to evaluate a patient’s progress and adapt their therapies to optimize recovery and functional ability.

Where Do Physical Therapists Work?

Physical therapists operate across a variety of industries, predominantly in healthcare, but their expertise is also needed in fields beyond medical settings.

Healthcare

Sports and Fitness

Home Health

Research

Education

Corporate/Industrial

Physical Therapy Specializations

Physical therapists work in various settings, specializing their knowledge and training to serve different populations’ needs. Here are some specialties you can pursue:

Pediatric Physical Therapy: Focuses on treating children with developmental issues, congenital disabilities, or injuries to enhance their physical functionality. Sports Physical Therapy: Aims to help athletes recover from sports injuries through rehab programs, often working with sports teams or clinics.
Geriatric Physical Therapy: Addresses older adults’ specific health issues like arthritis and balance disorders to improve mobility and reduce pain.
Orthopedic Physical Therapy: Treat injuries, including post-surgical rehab and chronic conditions, to aid recovery.
Neurological Physical Therapy: Help patients with neurological conditions such as stroke or Parkinson’s, focusing on mobility and muscle strength improvement.

How Much Do Physical Therapists Make?

When considering a career in physical therapy, it’s not just the emotional and professional rewards that are appealing—the financial benefits can’t be overlooked.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, physical therapists see promising career growth possibilities, competitive salary expectations, and a positive job market trajectory. Compared to other careers in healthcare, physical therapy stands out among the options.

15%

Job Growth

$99,710

Median pay per year

37,300

added PT jobs by 2032

PT vs. OT: What PTs are Not

The role of physical therapists is often confused with professions like occupational therapists (OTs), speech-language pathologists (SLPs), and even medical doctors (MDs), despite each discipline’s distinct expertise and approach to patient care.

A physical therapist’s primary goal is to enhance physical performance and alleviate pain, especially after injuries. In contrast, OT is centered on enabling patients to engage effectively in their daily activities. While they may share similar techniques and approaches, their patient population and root challenges differ.

Like PTs and OTs, SLPs and MDs also address quality-of-life concerns, but their approaches and focus areas differ significantly.

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GO OUT ON A LIMB

Pursuing a Physical Therapy Career

The need for physical therapists is on the rise–and quickly growing. An aging population and advances in medicine make becoming a PT a smart choice. Now is a great time to enter the competitive and fulfilling field, but how do you become a physical therapist?

How Long Does it Take to Become a Physical Therapist?

A DPT program typically lasts three years. Some programs may offer an accelerated time frame or part-time attendance options to accommodate different schedules and commitments.

DPT Curriculum

DPT programs offer comprehensive coursework that focuses on multiple areas of medicine, body mechanics, patient care, and healthcare ethics. The curriculum often includes:

  • Foundational Science Courses: Such as anatomy, physiology, and biology
  • Applied Physical Therapy Classes: Covering orthopedics, neurology, and pediatric physical therapy, among others
  • Clinical Reasoning and Research: To develop problem-solving skills and evidence-based practice
  • Healthcare Systems and Policies: Understanding the context in which physical therapy services are delivered
Percent Change in Employment Chart

Hands-On Clinical Experiences

An integral part of DPT programs is the clinical experience. These hands-on experiences provide real-world application of classroom learning. They include:

  • Observations: Watching and learning from practicing physical therapists
  • Internships: Gaining experience under supervision in various clinical settings
  • Residencies: Postgraduate opportunities for specialization after obtaining licensure

Clinicals benefit students by offering practical applications of their studies and serve as networking opportunities within the healthcare community.

DPT Entrance Exams and Licensure Process

Upon the successful completion of a DPT program, graduates must pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) to become licensed practitioners.

80%

average pass rate for all first-time NPTE test takers

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You're Ready

DPT Program Application Process and Selectivity

PT Program Application Checklist
  • Official Transcripts
    • Required Prerequisite Courses
  • GRE Scores
  • Resume
  • Letters of Recommendation
  • PT Observation Hours
  • PT-CAS Application

Entering a DPT program requires careful preparation. Your application process starts by demonstrating academic strength through your prerequisite coursework and maintaining an admissible GPA, which shows you are up to the challenge of a demanding curriculum.

Your GRE Exam results offer a metric of your critical thinking skills. Gaining real-world insights through volunteer or observation hours in various physical therapy settings enriches your understanding of the field and confirms your dedication to the profession.

A seamless application, submitted through PTCAS, is your formal introduction to the programs of your choice, and a supporting resume offers admissions teams insights into your history. When it comes to sharing your story, well-crafted letters of recommendation allow those who know your academic and clinical skills to advocate for your potential.

While the DPT program application process is comprehensive, each element is a building block that presents a compelling case for your place in a DPT program.

How Selective are PT Programs?

DPT programs can be quite selective, with more applicants than available spaces. Recent CAPTE application data shows an acceptance rate of just over 70% for all CAPTE-accredited PT programs. Preparation, organization, and dedication are essential to crafting an application that reflects your commitment and ability to succeed in a DPT program and future career as a physical therapist.

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Nice to Meet You

Showcasing Neumann University's DPT Program

Neumann University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program, accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), is designed to develop the next generation of motivated and passionate physical therapists. Our curriculum is built around the body systems model, incorporating a comprehensive range of topics, including physical therapy science, clinical medicine, professional subjects, research and evidence-based practice, as well as administration and management.

CAPTE Accredited

Weekend, In-Person Format

Can Complete in 3 Years

Group 807@2x

Typical NU Clinical Experiences

Our DPT program maintains agreements with 500 clinical affiliation sites, ensuring a suitable match for every student to gain experiential learning. Placements for Neumann DPT students at these clinical sites are carefully aligned with your educational requirements and career aspirations.

The DPT program incorporates three essential clinical experiences, spanning both outpatient and inpatient environments. These experiences are diverse, covering a broad spectrum of patient conditions across all age groups and involving various body systems typically treated by physical therapists.

NU Pass Rates

Upon the successful completion of a DPT program, graduates must pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) to become licensed practitioners.

98.4%

NU pass rate
on the NPTE

90%

Average NU DPT graduation
rate

98%

students from recent
cohorts employed as
a physical therapist postgrad

DPT Program Learning Outcomes

Possess broad knowledge spanning from basic science to complex clinical patient management.

Prevent and treat movement impairments using expert knowledge.

Work cooperatively in medical teams and adapt to dynamic healthcare settings.

Employ research evidence to ensure quality patient care.

Predict patient outcomes to plan safe, effective, and efficient care strategies.

Honor diverse patient backgrounds and preferences in all professional interactions.

How Much Does it Cost to Become a Physical Therapist?

Becoming a physical therapist, no matter the program you choose, involves a significant financial commitment due to the costs associated with completing a Doctor of Physical Therapy program.

$10,450 per semester

Although Neumann boasts a competitively affordable tuition rate, we understand that the majority of our students require some form of financial support during their time in graduate school.

To fully explore your financial aid options, download our comprehensive guide, Offsetting the Cost of Graduate School — Financial Aid for Graduate Students, where you’ll find all the essential information you need as you explore the cost of a DPT program.

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Neumann's Own

DPT Student Profiles

Get to know the dedicated students of Neumann’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program, each with unique stories, goals, and reasons for becoming a physical therapist.

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Connect With Neumann

Take the Next Step: Neumann University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy Program

7-next steps@2x

Choosing a career in physical therapy opens the door to a profound and fulfilling role. As a physical therapist, you enter a fulfilling, stable, and highly sought-after profession within the healthcare sector, where every day brings the rewarding opportunity to make a tangible difference.

At Neumann University, our Doctor of Physical Therapy program is crafted to provide students with the essential knowledge, skills, and clinical experience needed to excel in this dynamic field. Featuring a comprehensive curriculum, state-of-the-art facilities, and an array of clinical experience options, our program ensures a robust educational experience that prepares you for future challenges and successes.

Here, you’ll become part of a supportive community dedicated to your growth toward becoming a committed and successful physical therapist. Take the next step by selecting an option below. Learn more, start your application, or start a conversation with our team. 

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