Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)

The Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program educates students to become competent, compassionate, and ethical practitioners in a variety of health care settings. Graduates will be highly dedicated professionals with excellent patient care, communication, critical thinking, patient education and advocacy, management and research skills. The program is a full-time professional doctoral program requiring completion of 112 credits beyond the bachelor's degree. The course work is taken in a prescribed sequence over nine semesters as provided here and all course work is required. The program requires a total of 34 weeks of full-time clinical training. During the clinical affiliations, students work under the direct supervision of a licensed physical therapist. Mission The mission of the University of Central Florida's Doctor of Physical Therapy Program is to cultivate excellence in physical therapist practice through comprehensive and focused doctoral education. The program fosters excellence through its dedication to foundational sciences, clinical skill proficiency, research and evidence-based practice, service and professional duty, and lifelong learning. The program is committed to the development and strengthening of the healthcare community in order to optimize patient care in the dynamic healthcare environment. Vision The Doctor of Physical Therapy Program at the University of Central Florida will be distinguished for: Its breadth, depth, and collaborative approach to physical therapist education Clinical excellence and advancement of clinical practice Scholarly achievements and professional recognition of students, faculty, and clinical partners Dedication to the health and well-being of the Central Florida community Professional commitment and advocacy Cultivation of professional development to advance the practice of physical therapy