The Doctor of Physical Therapy curriculum of the Department of Physical Therapy and Human Movement Sciences at Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine prepares physical therapists to apply the art and science of physical therapy to solve complex patient/client needs for individuals throughout the lifespan. During our 32-month curriculum, learning is viewed as a dynamic and interactive process. Learning of clinical sciences and professional issues begins early and reinforces the clinical significance of the basic sciences.

Learning activities focus on developing students' abilities to think critically and develop creative solutions to a variety of clinical problems that increase in complexity throughout the curriculum. All students conduct inquiry into a narrowly defined topic of relevance to the profession of physical therapy through a faculty-supervised project that culminates in a formal presentation to peers, faculty, and members of the clinical community. Academic and clinical faculty cooperatively plan and implement creative and progressive learning experiences to prepare graduates to assume various roles within physical therapy and a changing health care environment.

The program includes 38 weeks of full-time clinical education divided into 4, separate clinical education opportunities; two 6-week experiences integrated within the curriculum and two 13-week experiences at the end of the program. In addition to the full-time clinical experiences, students have multiple opportunities to interact with patients, families, and health professionals throughout the curriculum, both in clinical facilities and in the classroom. 

DPT/PhD: In conjunction with the McCormick School of Engineering, students earn the DPT and PhD in Engineering. Applicants complete the PTCAS application for the DPT and The Graduate School application for the PhD. The 7+ year program is fully funded.

DPT/MPH: In conjunction with the Program in Public Health, students earn the DPT and MPH (Master of Public Health). Only applicants who have been offered DPT admission may apply for the MPH and dual track. Both degrees are completed in 3 years.

Deposit will be applied to student's fall tuition.