The Program in Physical Therapy at Washington University in St. Louis creates a learning environment for the DPT curriculum that promotes the health and equity of learners, employees, and members of our community. Surrounded by professionals engaged across the triple aim of education, research, and clinical practice, our learners work collaboratively with expert clinicians immersed in the contemporary clinical environment, top researchers who incorporate new discovery in the classroom, and master educators who integrate new knowledge through the best practices in the learning sciences. Our environment is warm, non-competitive, and collegial. We take a learner-centered approach to education that provides active, flexible, and individualized learning opportunities supported through coaching and mentoring and an assessment philosophy that is focused on growth and improvement.

The Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) curriculum is a full-time clinical doctorate program that prepares future practitioners as experts of the Human Movement System. The curriculum is two years and eight months of combined academic and clinical education. Learners may choose from over 500 affiliated clinical education sites throughout the country. In addition to multiple full-time clinical experiences, the academic portions of the curriculum include early and frequent integrated clinical experiences on-and off-campus with patients and experienced clinicians to maximize learning in the authentic clinical environment. 

The program has been accredited continuously by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) since 1942. It is distinguished by its dedication to advancing human health through movement and is ranked #1 by US News and World Report. In addition, the program was selected as a site in The Physical Therapist Education for the 21st Century (PTE-21) study as a model of excellence and innovation in DPT education. 

Washington University in St. Louis DPT graduates embrace their professional identity as leaders in their community, dedicated to advancing human health by preventing, diagnosing, and managing movement-related conditions across the lifespan.

A $500.00 deposit is required by January 15. Earlier deposits are welcome. Applicants admitted after the January 15 deadline will need to deposit within two weeks after notification of admission. This fee is non-refundable and will be applied to the first fall tuition after matriculation.