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Department of Physical Therapy

Classroom & hands-on training from day one

As a UD Doctor of Physical Therapy major, you'll prepare to be a compassionate and knowledgeable physical therapist who will serve the community by improving physical health and quality of life.

Our students grow personally and professionally while developing skills in critical thinking, lifelong learning and ethical decision-making. Using the latest in evidence-based practice, students are challenged to provide independent clinical judgments concerning the needs of the patient and the community.

Our innovative three-year (eight-semester) program combines classroom and hands-on training from day one that will prepare therapists to meet the demands of a rapidly changing health care system. Our faculty and graduates contribute to society and the physical therapy profession through practice, teaching, administration and research. The need for highly trained physical therapists continues to rise, and our program will put you at the front of the curve.


COVID-related admissions information

UD DPT Program Outcomes
UD DPT in the News!
Research 02.19.24

Fifteen physical therapy students joined UD faculty members to present research at the annual scientific conference for physical therapists. Four of the 12 presentations won top awards.

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Career Development 02.09.24

While graduate school is often used to advance skills in your current field of work, sometimes it can be a springboard into a whole new career. Read about five of the countless students that the UD has helped transition to a new profession.

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Faculty and Staff 07.10.23

Led by the desire to do good, Matt Day began searching for ways to provide physical therapy for people in need. Six years later, Day and his students are working weekly at a charitable clinic to aid in Daytonians’ recoveries.

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Explore

Attend an Open House

Prospective students interested in the UD Doctor of Physical Therapy program are invited to attend an open house. This is your opportunity to learn more about the program, admissions process, and the program's faculty and staff. Open houses are being offered in person and virtually.

Featured Programs and Initiatives

Unique Lab Spaces

Five unique laboratories allow students the opportunity engage in hands-on learning and research experiences. Facilities include two skills labs, a human anatomy lab, fitness assessment lab, and a state-of-the art motion analysis research lab.

Student Research

Students work alongside faculty to conduct and publish research in respected journals. Students also participate in UD's Doctor of Physical Therapy Research Symposium, an annual event that showcases student research to area clinician partners.

Graduate Assistantships

Two half-time annually renewable positions are typically offered to physical therapy students each year. Students selected for these positions receive a combined benefit (tuition remission + stipend) that is equivalent to half of the total tuition costs of the program. These positions are highly competitive, but any accepted student is welcome to apply.

Service Learning Opportunities

Programs in locations such as Jamaica, Asia, and India offer opportunities to explore patient care and culture through the lens of physical therapist.

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Experiential Learning

Real-World Experience

Through practical learning opportunities, you can build your resume, gain practical experiences and prepare for a successful career in physical therapy. We partner with clinical sites across the U.S., as well as with professional sports teams. Certifications are available to increase your knowledge and skills, which will give you an advantage as you begin your career. The real-world experiences you have at UD translate to your future success.

Accreditation information

The Doctor of Physical Therapy program at the University of Dayton is fully accredited by the Ohio Board of Regents and the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), 3030 Potomac Ave., Suite 100, Alexandria, Virginia 22305-3085; phone: 703-706-3245; email: accreditation@apta.org; website: www.capteonline.org. If needing to contact the program/institution directly, please call 937-229-5600 or email dpt@udayton.edu.

Today's Hours

7:45am to 5am


Full List of Hours
CONTACT

Department of Physical Therapy

Fitz Hall, Room 207
300 College Park
Dayton, Ohio 45469 - 2925
937-229-5600
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