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Rockhurst University's Department of Physical Therapy and Exercise Science is committed to preparing competent, caring physical therapists who will transform society by optimizing movement to improve the human experience. Throughout the professional program students engage in active learning experiences to promote wellness and help others manage their health when their abilities are threatened or impaired by developmental deficits, aging, physical illness or injury. Emphasizing and integrating critical thinking, problem solving, leadership, service, and ethical decision making throughout the curriculum, the Rockhurst Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program prepares students for licensure as physical therapists and enhances students abilities to clinically reason in a complex and changing health care system. 

Rockhurst's fully accredited DPT program is distinctive for its close faculty-student interactions, diverse service learning opportunities, professional and leadership development, and interprofessional collaboration. The Rockhurst DPT program is designed as an entry-level doctoral degree program, with the curriculum beginning each summer semester, including eight semesters of dynamic course work over two and half academic years. Students participate in a wide variety of interactive learning experiences, including class discussions, clinical simulation, multiple service projects, independent study, leadership experiences, nationwide clinical site locations, immersed international service opportunities, and options for advanced elective coursework. 

Rockhurst also offers the nation's first integrated DPT-MBA program as well as a Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership with a concentration in health care management. Both programs prepare students with additional skills increasingly necessary for contemporary healthcare leadership roles.

Students have the option to participate in an extra curricular course to prepare them for the NSCA's certified strength and conditioning specialist exam (CSCS).

Additionally, the DPT graduate programs has locked-in tuition rates for each entering class. The tuition rate approved by the University each year will be guaranteed throughout the cohort's time in the program. Prospective students can view scholarship opportunities at: RU PT Department Scholarships.

DPT/MBA
DPT/MA

Interviews will take place on November 12, 2022. Please check RU's PT Department Website to confirm.

The deposit is applied to the first semester's tuition.

Rockhurst is a private institution. Therefore, state and/or country of residence is not a factor in admissions decisions. However, preference is given to applicants who are currently enrolled and receive an undergraduate degree from the University. Additionally, Rockhurst reserves places in the program for qualified incoming freshman and transfer students who maintain certain criteria throughout their undergraduate education.