Utica College

What you'll study

The tDPT is organized as seven core courses plus a practicum. Course topics listed in the curriculum include foundations of autonomous practice; prevention and wellness; two sequential diagnostic imaging courses; two sequential pharmacology and pathophysiology courses; global health care issues; and a practicum that ranges from one to six credit hours. Learning objectives emphasize locating and critically appraising literature to form clinical hypotheses, using technology to answer clinical questions, integrating cultural competence into care, evaluating diagnostic test sensitivity and specificity, and combining evidence, patient values, ethics and clinical experience in patient management.

Entry requirements

Applicants living in the U.S. must be licensed or license-eligible physical therapists and submit a transcript from their physical therapist degree program, a professional portfolio, current U.S. state professional license (or proof of eligibility to sit for licensure), two written recommendations and a brief essay stating goals for ppDPT study.

Applicants living in or outside the U.S. who are not yet licensed or license-eligible must provide a comprehensive credential evaluation from the Foreign Credentialing Committee on Physical Therapy (FCCPT) confirming their entry-level PT education is substantially equivalent to the first professional degree in the U.S., a professional portfolio, current license from their country of origin (if living outside the U.S.), two written recommendations and a brief essay. Non-native English speakers must meet Utica University's TOEFL or IELTS minimums (TOEFL 550 paper / 213 computer / 79 internet; IELTS 6.0).

Career prospects

Graduates gain advanced competencies useful for higher-level clinical roles where autonomous practice, advanced diagnostic interpretation and integrated management (including imaging and pharmacologic understanding) are expected. The program emphasizes skills for enhanced clinical decision-making across the lifespan and may support transitions into advanced practice, clinical education, specialty residencies (Utica partners with Sunnyview Rehabilitation Hospital for a neurologic PT residency) and leadership roles within physical therapy settings. The curriculum does not, however, create eligibility for initial U.S. licensure where that is required.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

The program information does not list specific scholarships. Prospective students should inquire with Utica University's Office of Graduate Admissions about available graduate funding, institutional scholarships, employer tuition assistance and external professional association awards.