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.
97%
ultimate National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) pass rate, 2021-2022
100%
employment rate (based on post-graduate survey), 2020-21
100%
graduation rate, 2021-22
A High-Quality Education
From hands-on lab experiences to clinical internships and problem-based learning, the UD Doctor of Physical Therapy program prepares students to be successful physical therapists.
Facilities used by UD Doctor of Physical Therapy students include two skills labs, a resource room, virtual reality station, human anatomy lab, fitness assessment center, and a state-of-the art motion analysis research lab.
UD Doctor of Physical Therapy students benefit from four integrated clinical rotations (more than 35 weeks total) of full-time clinical training; unique small group problem-based learning, focusing on real patient cases; hands-on clinical research and service learning; and independent study and practice electives in their area of interest.
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.
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 China and India offer opportunities to explore patient care and culture through the lens of physical therapist.
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
Our program 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.
89%
first-time National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) pass rate, 2021-22