Doctor of Physical Therapy

Program Overview

Lewis University's Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program prepares graduates to pass the licensure exam, optimize movement and function, and become ethical, innovative clinicians. The 7.5-semester program includes classroom experiences, 32 weeks of clinical education, and a focus on evidence-based practice, leadership, and global citizenship. Graduates become human movement specialists who practice with integrity and interprofessional skills.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Lewis University's Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program

will equip graduates to:

• Pass the physical therapy licensure exam required to practice in Illinois and nationwide.
• Optimize movement and function across the lifespan in diverse populations, communities, and individuals.
• reflective, ethical, culturally informed, socially responsible, and innovative clinicians

Program Objectives:

• Integrate education, scholarly activities, service, and clinical care to foster optimal movement and function in diverse populations.
• Develop critical thinkers and ethical practitioners who demonstrate interprofessional skills, autonomy, and commitment to evidence-based practice.
• Cultivate innovative leaders and health advocates who embrace lifelong learning and contribute to global citizenship.

Description:

• The DPT program is a
• 7.5-semester program
with a total of
• 112 semester credit hours
.
• classroom experiences
• 32 weeks of clinical education

Outline:

Curriculum:

• Classroom Experiences:
• Engaging program seamlessly integrating traditional lectures and hands-on laboratory experiences.
• Case studies, interprofessional collaborative education, and team-based learning.
• State-of-the-art facilities for an enriching learning environment.
• Clinical Education:
• Diverse clinical experiences representative of common physical therapy practice settings.
• Four 8-week clinical experiences in:
• Orthopedics
• Neurorehabilitation
• Acute care
• Niche areas
(e.g., pediatrics, geriatrics)

Curriculum Map:

• Graduates become innovative human movement specialists and critical thinkers who practice with integrity, autonomy, and interprofessional skills.
• Program prioritizes contemporary evidence-based practice, innovation, health advocacy, and global citizenship.
• The first program data will be available in 2028-29.