Shenandoah University

Programme overview

Shenandoah University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy is an accredited, entry-level professional doctorate that combines classroom instruction, hands-on clinical education and research exposure. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based, compassionate and ethical care for prevention, diagnosis and treatment of movement dysfunction. Students begin clinical experiences in the second semester of year one and complete a program designed to prepare graduates for direct-access practice and NPTE eligibility; the program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE).

What you'll study

The curriculum spans three years of didactic and clinical work. Foundational and clinical sciences are taught on the Winchester campus, while clinical education runs throughout the program beginning in semester two of year one. Course work and placements focus on assessment, manual and exercise-based interventions, and incorporation of current evidence into clinical decision making. Clinical rotations occur across ambulatory and non-ambulatory settings through a network of over 900 affiliates, including specialty sites such as The Shepherd Center, The Cleveland Clinic, Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters, and military and athletic partners; students may also access international clinical experiences in countries like Italy, Switzerland and Australia.

Entry requirements

The published material describes this as an entry-level program for students seeking to enter the physical therapy profession. Specific prerequisites, application procedures and academic requirements are not listed on the provided page and should be confirmed with the university’s admissions office.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared to sit for the NPTE and pursue state licensure to practice as physical therapists in direct-access and team-based care settings. Alumni examples include clinicians working in hospitals and specialty centers and graduates who have applied clinical skills to entrepreneurship and product development for adaptive equipment. The program emphasizes leadership, professional membership and readiness to work with diverse patient populations.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

The source text does not list specific scholarships or funding. Prospective students should explore Shenandoah University’s general financial aid resources, departmental funding opportunities, and external scholarships for health professions when planning how to finance the three-year program.