Exact prerequisites vary by program; however, most traditional D.P.T. programs require applicants to have a bachelor's degree and a minimum undergraduate GPA. To be admitted, students may need to have completed courses in anatomy, physics, statistics and psychology as well as English composition. They may need to be certified in Basic Life Support or CPR, and to demonstrate previous clinical physical therapy experience. To complete their clinical requirements for the doctorate, students often have to submit evidence of vaccinations, a physical exam and a criminal background check.
Traditional D.P.T. programs, designed for students who already have a bachelor's degree, usually take three or four years to complete. Some D.P.T. programs offer accelerated schedules that combine undergraduate work with the professional degree, some of which admit students directly from high school. These programs can follow a 3+3 structure in which students spend three years on requisite undergraduate work and three years completing the D.P.T. requirements. Summer coursework may be scheduled into any of these programs to allow for quicker graduation.
D.P.T. degrees require classes in a range of scientific topics, including anatomy, physiology, kinesiology and pharmacology. Additional courses focus on professional issues and topics specific to physical therapy, such as health maintenance, the dysfunction of various body systems, medical imaging, research methods and the role of the physical therapist in the health care system. All physical therapy doctorate programs include practicums or other clinical work in the community. Typical examples of clinical sites include rehabilitation centers, hospitals, nursing homes, sports medicine facilities and organizations treating specific conditions such as cerebral palsy.
After earning the D.P.T., physical therapists have the option to complete clinical or fellowship work and become further specialized. They can also earn certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties in areas such as pediatrics, neurology and women's health. Certification requires licensure, a certain minimum number of hours of previous clinical work and other specifics that vary by specialty. Physical therapists usually work in health care settings that include nursing homes, hospitals and private clinics and offices.