Doctor of Physical Therapy Program

Program Overview

Marquette University's Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program prepares students to become competent and compassionate physical therapists. The six-year program emphasizes hands-on clinical experience, research opportunities, and interprofessional collaboration. Graduates are well-prepared for successful careers in various settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, and sports medicine facilities. The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE).

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Objectives:

• Prepare students to become competent and compassionate physical therapists.
• Equip students with the knowledge and skills to help patients recover from injury, restore function, and promote long-term health.
• Develop students' expertise in movement science, rehabilitation, and patient care.
• Foster a commitment to patient-centered care and ethical practice.

Program Description:

• The Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program at Marquette University is a six-year program consisting of a three-year pre-professional phase and a three-year professional phase.
• Students graduate with a bachelor's degree in an academic area of their choice and a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree.
• The program emphasizes hands-on clinical experience, research opportunities, and interprofessional collaboration.
• Marquette's DPT program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE).

Outline:

Pre-Professional Phase:

• Focus on foundational coursework in biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, and social sciences.
• Opportunities for research involvement and clinical observation.
• Completion of prerequisite courses for the professional phase.

Professional Phase:

• Core curriculum covering topics such as human anatomy, physiology, pathology, biomechanics, neuroscience, and clinical practice.
• 32 weeks of clinical experience in diverse settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, and rehabilitation centers.
• Specialization opportunities in areas such as sports performance, orthopedics, neurology, and pediatrics.
• Capstone project emphasizing evidence-based practice and research.

Course Schedule:

• The program follows a semester-based schedule with a typical course load of 15-18 credits per semester.
• Specific course offerings and schedules are available on the Marquette University Online Bulletin.

Modules:

• Human Anatomy: In-depth study of the human body's structure and function.
• Patient Management: Develops skills in patient assessment, diagnosis, and treatment planning.
• Clinical Pathology and Pathophysiology: Examines the causes and mechanisms of disease and their impact on human health.
• Geriatric Rehabilitation: Focuses on the unique needs of older adults and their rehabilitation.
• Evidence-Based Decision Making: Develops skills in critical thinking and applying research evidence to clinical practice.
• Orthopedics: Covers the diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of musculoskeletal injuries and disorders.
• Neurological Rehabilitation: Focuses on the rehabilitation of patients with neurological conditions.
• Physical Therapy Elective: Opportunity to explore specific areas of interest within physical therapy.

Assessment:

• Continuous assessment through exams, quizzes, assignments, and clinical evaluations.
• Comprehensive final examinations at the end of each semester.
• National Physical Therapy Licensure Examination (NPTE) required for licensure as a physical therapist in the United States.

Teaching:

• Experienced faculty with expertise in various areas of physical therapy.
• Emphasis on interactive learning, hands-on experiences, and problem-based scenarios.
• Small class sizes for personalized attention and mentorship.
• Use of innovative teaching methods and technologies.

Careers:

• Physical therapists work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, sports medicine facilities, schools, and rehabilitation centers.
• Graduates of Marquette's DPT program have a high job placement rate and are well-prepared for successful careers in the field.
• Potential career paths include:
• Clinical physical therapist
• Sports physical therapist
• Geriatric physical therapist
• Pediatric physical therapist
• Neurologic physical therapist
• Research physical therapist
• Educator
• The university's location in Milwaukee provides access to diverse clinical experiences and cultural opportunities.