Physical Therapy Doctorate (DPT)

Doctorate of Physical Therapy (DPT) Professional Curriculum

Wayne State University offers a three and one half year program leading to a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree. The DPT program provides students with a comprehensive preparation for evaluating and managing patients with impairments, functional limitations, disabilities, or changes in physical function and health status resulting from injury, disease, or other causes. The curriculum provides students with both a depth and breadth of knowledge, skills and professional behaviors necessary for excellence and success in physical therapy practice.

The DPT curriculum requires 10 semesters of full-time course work over the course of three and a half calendar years. The DPT program is considered a "lock step" curriculum, meaning that the courses are taken in a specific sequence meant to build students' knowledge and skills in a progressive and comprehensive manner. The DPT program is a traditional, full-time academic program with most courses scheduled Monday through Friday between 8 am and 5pm. After admission, students with special considerations can request a part-time status. Part-time is a limited option and only permitted on a per student basis. Review the entry-level DPT curriculum to see a complete list of courses. 

Clinical Education is a significant and integral component of the professional physical therapy curriculum. The Physical Therapy program at Wayne State University affiliates with over 170 carefully selected clinical sites, including many within the major health care systems located in Southeastern Michigan. Students in the physical therapy program are involved in primary types of clinical education experiences.