A Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) is a doctoral-level degree that prepares individuals to become licensed physical therapists. The degree program typically takes three years to complete and includes both academic coursework and clinical training.
During the DPT program, students take courses in anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, kinesiology, neuroscience, pharmacology, pathology, and other related subjects. They also receive extensive hands-on training in a variety of clinical settings, such as hospitals, outpatient clinics, and rehabilitation centers.
After completing the DPT program, graduates must pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) to obtain a license to practice as a physical therapist. Physical therapists work with patients to help them recover from injuries or illnesses, manage chronic conditions, and improve their overall physical function and mobility.
Physical therapy interventions may include exercises, manual therapy, modalities such as heat and ice, education, and other techniques designed to reduce pain, increase strength and flexibility, improve balance and coordination, and help patients achieve their goals for functional mobility and independence. Physical therapists may also work with patients to prevent injuries and promote healthy lifestyle habits.
Physical therapy is a growing field, and DPT graduates have a variety of career opportunities in settings such as hospitals, private practices, rehabilitation centers, sports clinics, schools, and more.
Stream | Doctor of Philosophy |
Course | Doctor of Physical Therapy |
Full Name | Doctor of Physical Therapy |
Eligibility | Master in relevant Subject with 55 % marks |
Duration | 3 Years |
Fees | Updated Soon |
Type | Degree |
Mode | Year |
Most Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) programs require applicants to take the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). Some programs may also accept other exams, such as the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) or the Dental Admission Test (DAT).
To be eligible for admission to a DPT program, applicants must have a bachelor's degree in a related field, such as exercise science, biology, or kinesiology.
Some programs may also require applicants to have completed specific prerequisite courses, such as anatomy, physiology, and statistics.
Additionally, many programs have minimum GPA and GRE score requirements.
The duration of a DPT program is typically three years for students who hold a bachelor's degree in a related field. For students who do not have a related bachelor's degree, the program may take four years.
DPT programs typically consider a variety of factors when selecting applicants, including academic performance, GRE scores, letters of recommendation, healthcare experience, and personal statements. Some programs may also require applicants to participate in an interview.
To apply for a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program, applicants can access the application form through the Physical Therapist Centralized Application Service (PTCAS) or directly through the program's website. The application form typically requires applicants to provide personal information, educational background, and healthcare experience.
The application process for a DPT program typically involves submitting the application form, official transcripts, GRE scores, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. Some programs may also require applicants to participate in an interview or submit additional materials, such as a supplemental application.
The application fee for a DPT program varies by program, but typically ranges from Updated soon per program.
The syllabus for a DPT program typically includes courses in anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, kinesiology, neuroscience, pharmacology, pathology, and other related subjects. The clinical training portion of the program includes hands-on experience working with patients in various settings.
Anatomy and physiology |
Exercise physiology |
Biomechanics |
Neuroscience |
Pharmacology |
Pathology |
Musculoskeletal physical therapy |
Neurological physical therapy |
Cardiovascular and pulmonary physical therapy |
Pediatrics and geriatrics physical therapy |
Clinical practice |
The salary for physical therapists varies depending on the setting and location of employment. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for physical therapists in the United States is $91,010. Career opportunities for DPT graduates include positions in hospitals, private practices, rehabilitation centers, sports clinics, schools, and more.
DPT graduates have many career opportunities in the field of physical therapy. They can work as clinical physical therapists, sports physical therapists, pediatric physical therapists, orthopedic physical therapists, and more. They may also choose to specialize in areas such as neurology, oncology, or women's health.
Some of the top colleges in India for a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree include:
Q.1 - What is the procedure for PhD Admission to the University?
ANSWER: - The Ph.D. and M.Phil. programs of prestigious Universities are conducted and guided strictly as per the provisions and regulations dictated by the UGC (Minimum Standards and Procedure for Award of Ph.D./M.Phil. Degrees) (1st Amendment) Regulations, 2018 and subsequent amendments. The entire procedure for admission to the research programs encompasses a Research Entrance Exam (RET) and then an Interview/Viva Voce. The performance of a candidate in the RET is given 70% weightage, and the remaining 30% weightage is given to his/her performance at the Interview.
Q.2 - What are the modes of pursuing M.Phil. & Ph.D. programs at the University?
ANSWER: -Both the full-time and part-time modes are available at University for pursuing its Ph.D. programs and only the full-time mode is available for M.Phil. program in the desired subjects/fields. These highly-qualitative and prolific research programs are available in a rather broad range of fields/subjects. At University, the minimum time duration of the M.Phil. and Ph.D. programs is 1.5 Years and 3 Years, respectively, in general.
Q.3 - Are the Ph.D. and M.Phil. Degrees granted by any University valid abroad?
ANSWER: -Yes, of course. If the University is properly recognized under section 2(f) of the UGC Act of 1956 and is a prestigious member of the AIU (the Association of Indian Universities). It is an M.Phil. and Ph.D. degrees granted in various fields/subjects are duly valid across India and the world.
Q.4 - What are the main eligibility criteria for participating in the University Research Entrance Exam (RET)?
ANSWER: -The following are the main eligibility conditions for participating in the RET: - A rigorous Master’s Degree in the proposed subject/field obtained from any recognized university/institution located in India or abroad, with a minimum 55% marks in aggregate or an equivalent grade. Candidates belonging to SC/ST/OBC/Differently-abled categories are given a 5% relaxation in respect of this eligibility criterion. Candidates with an M.Phil. degree in the proposed field/subject, or have qualified for the UGC (JRF) Examinations/ NET/ SET/ SELT, etc., will be allowed to appear directly for the interview, without appearing in the RET. Impressive academic records, and any prior experience in research work, will be given additional advantages.
Q.5 - What relaxations are granted to the reserved categories for Ph.D.? Admission to the University?
ANSWER: - Candidates belonging to the categories of SC/ST/OBC (Non-Creamy layer)/Differently-Abled, and so on, are given all relaxations prescribed by the Govt. of India and the UGC. These relaxations are provided in form of 5% reduced marks for them at post-graduation, and also in the minimum qualifying marks at RET. Thus, candidates belonging to these categories only need to score a minimum of 45% marks at RET, to qualify for the final interview.
Q.6 - How will be the pattern of RET?
ANSWER: - The syllabus or pattern of RET consists of subject-specific matters, research methodology, and aptitude (covering logical reasoning, numerical ability, analytical reasoning, statistics, etc.).Thus, RET will contain a total of 70 multiple-choice questions (MCQs).
Q.7 - Are M.Phil. Holders/UGC- NET (including JRF)/ UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/ SLET/ GATE exempted from appearing at RET?
ANSWER: - Yes. The holders of M.Phil. degrees in their respective fields/subjects are made exempt from appearing in RET. The same is the situation in cases of aspiring candidates who have qualified exams like UGC-NET (including JRF)/ UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/ SLET/ GATE, etc.
Q.8 - How is the application fee paid?
ANSWER: - The Application Fee (i.e. the fee for getting participated in RET) can be paid online or offline, like the Application Form. Payment Modes: DD (in Favor of the University) / NEFT/ Cash Deposit.
Q.9 - Do working candidates require to obtain NOC from employers for pursuing research at any University?
ANSWER: - Yes, necessarily. Working Professionals who are interested in research at any University are required to obtain the NOC (No Objection Certificate) from their respective employers, in order to avert any intrusion ever during the entire doctoral course.
Q.10 - Does an M.Phil. holder require to undergo Ph.D. coursework?
ANSWER: - Yes. M.Phil. holders are again required to undergo the coursework in Ph.D. at some Universities. However, their prior knowledge in the field/subject will be very supportive to them for learning and performing efficiently during the Ph.D. program.
Q.11 - Can I pay the yearly program/course fee in installments?
ANSWER: - Yes, you can pay the yearly course fee as many as in two installments, but well within the yearly session.
Q.12 - Does Any University provide any scholarship or stipend to pursuing scholars?
ANSWER: - Yes, of course. Many Universities offer scholarships as well as stipends to meritorious and talented candidates who undertake research studies at the University. Scholarships are granted to those candidates who come under the top 21 by scoring higher marks in RET and interviews. And, stipends are provided to those scholars who also give lectures to UG or PG students at the University, in addition to doing their Ph.D. coursework. The amount of the monthly stipend will be commensurate with the candidate’s qualifications and capabilities and may go up to Rs. 20,000.
Q.13 - What other many facilities are provided to research scholars at the University Campus?
ANSWER: - All necessary and constructive resources, amenities, and facilities are offered by well-established and prestigious universities to research scholars in various streams/subjects. These facilities include the following - spacious and peaceful study rooms, erudite and well-experienced academicians and research experts, Wi-Fi and diverse IT devices, state-of-the-art laboratories, well-stocked libraries, lavish R&D amenities, separate amenities for lodging and foods for male and female candidates, peaceful and constructive environment within the university campus, and many other comforting and convenient facilities and services.