The Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) is an entry-level professional physical therapy program designed for individuals with a bachelor???s degree in another subject area who have satisfied all the prerequisite course requirements and wish to become qualified for licensure as physical therapists. Students have the opportunity to acquire theoretical knowledge and clinical skills basic to physical therapy practice, participate in supervised clinical experiences, and develop an appreciation for research, all in a full-time, three-year program.

The professional physical therapy program leading to the Doctor of Physical Therapy is designed in accordance with the American Physical Therapy Association guidelines. It is not a transitional DPT, and is not open to students who possess a BS or MS in physical therapy. The DPT may only be completed as a full-time program.

The University of Hartford DPT Program educates graduates who are autonomous movement system experts able to practice within interdisciplinary, dynamic health systems. Our graduates are collaborative practitioners integrating best evidence for optimal health outcomes within a diverse society. Graduates are reflective leaders who value life-long learning for professional development. 

Our faculty is made up of expert clinicians with doctoral degrees who are committed to advancing the profession of physical therapy and mentoring those who will become the new professionals of tomorrow. Our faculty-to-student ratio is 1:12, and this smaller class size ratio allows the faculty to devote more attention to students and to get to know you and your educational needs.

The DPT is a three-year, full-time 12-month program. It includes content and process-based courses, starting with a core of foundational science courses, clinical content/lab courses, and applied clinical integration courses. Emphasis is placed on clinical decision making, research design, and functional outcomes.