Doctor of Physical Therapy Program

Program Overview

The University of the Incarnate Word's 29-month Doctor of Physical Therapy program utilizes problem-based learning and clinical experiences to prepare students for the National Physical Therapy Examination. Graduates are equipped for diverse career paths in physical therapy, including clinical practice, research, education, and administration. The program emphasizes ongoing assessment and contemporary clinical practice to ensure graduates' readiness for the licensing exam and professional success.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program at the University of the Incarnate Word is a 29-month program that combines small group learning, didactic and clinical courses, and community outreach opportunities. The program prepares students to pass the National Physical Therapy Examination and embark on a career dedicated to helping others.

Outline:

The DPT program uses a problem-based learning (PBL) approach, where students work in small groups with close faculty guidance to engage and solve problems through clinical patient cases of growing complexity. The curriculum includes extensive laboratory experiences, special topic seminars, and foundational science courses.

Assessment:

The program conducts ongoing assessment of the curriculum and contemporary clinical practice to ensure graduates are well-prepared for the licensing examination. Students take a mock licensure exam at least twice during the program and attend a national physical therapy exam preparation workshop prior to graduation.

Teaching:

The program employs a problem-based learning approach where faculty facilitate discussions and ask questions to ascertain student learning. Students also evaluate their own participation skills and those of their classmates in written and oral formats.

Careers:

Graduates of the DPT program are prepared for a variety of career paths in physical therapy, including clinical practice, research, education, and administration. They are also eligible to sit for the National Physical Therapy Examination and obtain state licensure to practice physical therapy.