Prepare to become a licensed physical therapist with Arcadia University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program. Delivered in a hybrid format, the program equips students with the clinical, behavioral, and research-driven expertise needed to diagnose and treat movement dysfunction across diverse patient populations.

• CAPTE-accredited program
• Hybrid format combining online learning and in-person immersions
• Complete in as few as 26 months
• Patient-centred, case-based curriculum
• Clinical education and hands-on training opportunities

About this program

The Doctor of Physical Therapy program prepares students to become skilled, evidence-based practitioners capable of delivering high-quality patient care across a range of clinical settings. Grounded in a patient-centred approach, the program integrates clinical reasoning, scientific knowledge, and hands-on practice. Students develop the skills required to examine, evaluate, diagnose, and treat movement dysfunction while improving patient outcomes and overall quality of life. Designed for aspiring physical therapists, the program supports students from diverse academic backgrounds and prepares them for licensure and professional practice.

Curriculum overview

The curriculum follows a structured, case-based model that integrates foundational sciences with clinical application. Students complete a 110-credit program organized into patient-centred courses that increase in complexity over time. Each stage focuses on developing clinical decision-making, problem-solving, and communication skills through real-world case scenarios. A key component of the program is clinical education, which includes both part-time and full-time experiences across inpatient and outpatient settings. Students complete immersive clinical placements, including a terminal clinical experience, enabling them to apply their knowledge in professional healthcare environments.

Online learning experience

The program is delivered through a hybrid learning model that combines live online classes, self-guided coursework, and in-person immersion experiences. Students engage in interactive sessions with faculty and peers while completing structured coursework designed for flexible learning. On-campus immersions and clinical experiences offer opportunities to refine hands-on skills and apply theoretical knowledge in real-world contexts.

Admissions and career outlook
Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and demonstrate strong academic performance, typically with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Prerequisite science coursework and relevant observation hours are required. GRE scores are optional, and applications are reviewed holistically.

Graduates are prepared to pursue licensure and careers as physical therapists across a range of settings, including hospitals, rehabilitation centres, outpatient clinics, and community health settings. With the growing demand for physical therapy services, graduates are equipped to meet the needs of diverse populations and help improve individual and community health outcomes