Why a Clinical Doctorate Degree in Physical Therapy? According to the American Physical Therapy Assoc. (APTA), the projected future of the profession is that "by 2020, physical therapy will be provided by physical therapists that are doctors of physical therapy. Earning a clinical degree or doctorate puts you on the cutting edge of this trend.
Why Study Physical Therapy at Andrews University? Andrews University offers a clinical entry-level doctorate in physical therapy. This program prepares students to take the physical therapists licensure exam and to work as a member of the healthcare team. The DPT program is fully accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE).
While you can receive quality PT education at many of schools across the nation, there are three very important features built in to our entry-level program that sets us apart:
A Christian approach to healthcare: Everything we do is integrated with our mission of Uniting Christianity with Healthcare Education. Every aspect of learning and interaction with faculty and clinicians is integrated with the goal to serve more than just the physical needs of patients.
Non-competitive Learning environment: Andrews PT students are not in competition with any classmate for grades or ranking. Class members are encouraged to be supportive and help each other succeed. We believe this not only reflects our Christian philosophy of education but is also more representative of clinical expectations after graduation.
Caring Family-like atmosphere: Our faculty, staff, and students care about each other. You will be surrounded by people who want you to succeed. It's satisfying to know that even though you will be investing a considerable amount of time, money, and energy into your professional education, you will have a support system.
What percentage of the faculty have doctorate degrees? All but one of the full-time faculty hold doctoral degrees. This faculty member will commence working on a doctorate degree within the next year.
Are the Physical Therapy faculty involved in current research? Yes, all of our faculty are involved in research and have also presented at state, regional and national meetings. Each year several faculty present at the annual APTA or CSM meeting. Faculty have published in a diversity of journals, including the Journal of Orthopedic and Sports Physical Therapy, Journal of Physical Therapy Education, Journal of Manipulative Physiological Therapy, and the Journal o the Section on Women’s Health. Two of our faculty have also written books. Dr Lynn Millar's book was released in 2003, titled "Action plan for Arthritis" and Dr. John Banks book titled "Atlas of Clinical Gross Anatomy" was released in 2004.
Are students involved in research? All PT students are involved in research however their focus is not to become researchers, but to be good consumers of research. Yes each student completes a research project and several of them actually go on to present them at state or national conferences. However, presenting their research at this level is not required, only encouraged.
What is the average class size? Andrews University enrolls 36 Doctor of Physical Therapy students per year. We are more interested in producing "quality" graduates, not quantity. Our ten year average class size is approximately 36/year.
How long is your program? The DPT program is 3 full years in length. Year 1 is mostly classroom study, followed by a 4 week Clinical Practicum. During year 3 you will complete two 8 week Clinical Internships and two 10 week Clinical Internships. [2007 Class Calendar]
What is the required GPA and GRE of students applying? The minimum required GPA is 3.0 overall and 3.00 in your sciences. The Graduate Record Examination General Test is a graduate requirement, however it is not a factor in our admissions decision. The average overall GPA for the 2003 entering class was 3.3.
When do I need to complete my prerequisite coursework? Prerequisite coursework does not have to be completed before applying, however all coursework must be completed before entering into the DPT program. If you have any questions about prerequisite coursework, please contact Dixie Scott our Admissions Director at scottd@andrews.edu, or 1-800-827-2878.
How many hours of Clinical Observation is required? A total of 80 hours of observation is required from at least two distinctly different physical therapy patient care settings. A minimum of 20 observation hours must be in an inpatient setting.
Can I take the PT prerequisite courses at your institution? Yes, we have three tracks for admission into the Andrews University DPT program. To find out more about these tracks, click here. Although a degree is not required for acceptance into the DPT program, applicants holding a baccalaureate (bachelor) or advanced degree are encouraged to apply.
Can I take PT perquisite courses at a community college or any other University? Yes, you may take the AUPT prerequisite coursework at any accredited college or University. It would be wise to contact the Admissions Director if you have any questions.
Is there an application deadline? No, but there is a priority deadline which is December 1. Individuals who submit the necessary paperwork by this date, will receive first consideration for acceptance.
Will I be able to work while I'm in school? Some students choose to work part-time, while many find they need the time to study. It is a personal choice, one that can be made after being in the program.
Do I need to be a member of your church? No, however if you are looking for a program that promotes Christian principles and values, the Physical Therapy program at Andrews University could meet your needs personally and professionally.
Is there on Campus housing? Yes, Andrews University offers on campus housing, both in dormitories and student apartments. If needed, we can also assist students in finding roommates for off campus housing.
What is the job placement rate? AUPT department has a 100% job placement rate for our graduates, with starting salaries ranging from $45-75,000 per year.
How do I get an application? You may request an application by calling the Physical Therapy department at (800) 827-2878 or online.
If I would like to visit your campus, whom should I contact? Contact Enrollment Services office at 800-253-2874, to set up a visit. We look forward to meeting you and sharing information about our DPT Program!
