The Doctor of Physical Therapy is a clinical doctoral program that equips students to become licensed physical therapists. It prepares graduates for practice in hospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centers, schools and private settings.
Students develop expertise in evidence‑based practice, anatomy, movement science, and clinical reasoning. The course structure integrates hands‑on lab work, interprofessional service learning, and cultural relevance, preparing students to assess, treat, and prevent musculoskeletal conditions across all ages.
Prospective applicants must complete the DPT prerequisites set by Messiah University and undergo pre‑screening, which can begin in the spring of their junior year. The program accepts graduates from any undergraduate discipline who meet these prerequisites.
Graduates are eligible to sit for the National Physical Therapy Examination and can pursue careers as practitioners, educators, administrators, or consultants in hospitals, outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centers, schools, or private practice.
Messiah University offers a locked‑in per‑credit tuition rate for the DPT program and provides access to general scholarships and financial aid opportunities. Students are encouraged to explore available aid through the university’s financial aid office.
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