Getting Into a DPT Program
Most DPT programs require applicants to earn a bachelor's degree BPT prior to admission.
A few programs offer freshman entry, they recruit students directly from high school into a guaranteed admissions program. High school students accepted into these programs can automatically advance into the professional phase of the DPT program, pending the completion of specific undergraduate courses and any other stated contingencies, e.g., minimum GPA.
Other programs offer a 3+3 curricular format in which three years of specific preprofessional (undergraduate/pre-BPT) courses must be taken before the student can advance into a three-year professional DPT program.
Admissions in USA
The Physical Therapist Centralized Application Service allows applicants to use a single web-based application and one set of materials to apply to multiple DPT programs.
What after Graduation
Licensed physical therapists may choose to pursue any residency or fellowship program to enhance their knowledge and practice in the field.
A clinical fellowship is a planned program of postprofessional clinical and didactic education for a physical therapist who demonstrates clinical expertise in an area of clinical practice related to the practice focus of the fellowship.
Physical therapists also have the opportunity to become board-certified clinical specialists through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties. Specialization is the process by which a physical therapist builds on a broad base of professional education and practice to develop a greater depth of knowledge and skills related to a particular area of practice. PTs are not required to be certified in order to practice in a specific area.
