Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
College of Health Sciences
Today’s constantly changing healthcare environment means physical therapy professionals need a strong foundation of knowledge joined with a passion for lifelong learning. At the University of Indianapolis, you’ll discover that combination and much more in our Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program, one of the top 50 programs in the nation as ranked by U.S. News and World Report.
At UIndy, you’ll get to work closely with faculty through in-person and virtual instruction. Clinical experiences will offer you hands-on opportunities to build confidence and practice what you learn. With both research and independent study tracks available, you can chart your course through the three-year program and prepare yourself for success as a professional physical therapist.
Graduation comes with your DPT degree and eligibility to apply for licensure across the U.S. No matter which clinic, hospital, or other setting you pursue, your skills and abilities as a developed professional and adaptive learner will set you apart in the physical therapy field.
As an emergency department PT, I utilize much of what I learned as a student nearly every day. My program gave me the foundational knowledge to be effective and successful in my unique work environment. Today, I can build upon that foundation and push the boundaries of who I can be as a physical therapist and what our profession is capable of achieving.
Explore your passion for care
At UIndy, you’ll have plenty of options to direct your own progress through the DPT program. Students can choose to focus on traditional research, working alongside faculty on a comprehensive research project that typically leads to publication in a peer-reviewed journal or presentation at a professional conference. You could also advance your professional development through the independent professional project track, where you’ll work with a faculty advisor to conduct an independent study exploring the professional aspects of a practicing DPT.
You’ll also have access to courses and electives to develop your unique talents and passions. DPT students study topics like gerontology, Medical Spanish, and American Sign Language for healthcare workers. Plus, our dual certificate program, with concentrations in Aging Studies or Healthcare Administration, sharpens areas of particular interest — and offers you a standout element on your resume.
Just over one year into my career, I feel so much more confident and seasoned than I could have expected, solely due to the variety of experiences offered and the expertise our faculty has in their specialties.
Teaching that lasts a lifetime
Learning at UIndy extends far beyond the classroom. For instance, DPT students can access our Community Patient Resource Group (CPRG), volunteers who have impairments that require rehabilitation. You can see, feel, and better understand what goes into working with patients, connecting your class instruction with real-life outcomes. Most of our students begin working with the CPRG as early as the third week of classes!
The combination of hands-on experience and instruction prepares our DPT alumni to work in award-winning hospital systems and clinics like: Community Health Network, IU Health/Methodist, Franciscan Health, Body One Physical Therapy and Indiana Physical Therapy.
The DPT profession offers limitless potential — and with a strong network of faculty and alumni behind you, you’ll find opportunities to live your passion every day.