One of five graduate programs at University of Puget Sound, the School of Physical Therapy offers a rigorous three-year program leading to the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree. A unique feature of the program is the on-site teaching clinic, which offers direct-access, free physical therapy services to the community. In this clinic, second- and third-year students are responsible for all patient evaluation and treatment under the supervision of expert clinical instructors who are hired solely to teach in this environment rather than to carry a caseload of their own. In addition, students complete two full-time, off-campus internship experiences. Clinical supervisors in the community consistently compliment University of Puget Sound students on their clinical readiness and medical documentation ability. 

At Puget Sound, you will get to know your professors and fellow students well in small classes. You will work with professors whose top priority is mentoring students, and you will have ample opportunity to hone your clinical skills. In the third year of the program, students have the opportunity to take advanced clinical electives in specialty practice areas. Our curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, and faculty are current in clinical competency through ongoing practice. Opportunity for students to participate in a physical therapy research project in collaboration with a faculty member is offered as an elective. Typically, half or more of the research projects are presented by students at a national or international professional conference. The School of Physical Therapy is based in a state-of-the-art facility that opened Fall 2011 with the entire first floor devoted to clinical space for patient treatment and therapy practice labs.

This is a nonrefundable deposit that is credited toward first semester tuition.

The School of Physical Therapy gives preference to individuals with undergraduate degrees from University of Puget Sound, if competitive within the current applicant pool. University of Puget Sound graduates typically represent less than 10% of the entering class; applicants from all institutions are encouraged to apply. State residency is not a factor in admissions. International applicants and non-native English speakers who are fluent in English are welcome to apply.  Important:  see TOEFL requirements for more information.