Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)

The entry-level professional physical therapy program leading to the Doctor of Physical Therapy is designed for students who have earned a baccalaureate degree and who wish to become qualified as physical therapists. Students have the opportunity to acquire basic competencies of physical therapy, participate in supervised clinical experiences, and develop skills in evidence-based practice, education, health promotion, and management.All students complete supervised clinical experiences at selected facilities that give the students exposure to a range of physical therapy practices and settings. Affiliated institutions are located in the greater Boston area and in many areas across the United States. Availability of clinical sites for any one clinical experience is determined by the PT program’s directors of clinical education and the individual clinical site. Students are advised that there will be additional costs associated with housing and transportation needs during each clinical experience.Learning OutcomesAt the time of graduation, students are expected to:Be prepared as entry-level clinicians to practice in a variety of settingsUtilize critical thinking and reasoning skills in all patientclient management decisionsDemonstrate the ability to acquire, interpret, and apply evidence to clinical practicePractice in a manner consistent with the core values of the profession as described by the document: Professionalism in Physical Therapy: Core Values (APTA)Adhere to the ethical and legal physical therapy practice standardsThe following is a typical three-year program for the Doctor of Physical Therapy degree. Each course carries 4 units unless otherwise noted.