DPT in Physical Therapy
The University of South Carolina’s Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program prepares top-tier physical therapists through an individualized, high-quality, and high-value clinical program rooted in exceptional, evidence-based client care.
Our dynamic program prepares you to diagnose and treat individuals of all ages that have health-related conditions that limit their abilities to move. As a physical therapist, you will diagnose and enhance physical and functional abilities; restore and promote optimal physical function; and prevent the onset and progression of limitations that may result from diseases, disorders, conditions or injuries.
Physical therapists provide care for people in a variety of settings, including hospitals, private practices, outpatient clinics, home health agencies, schools, sports and fitness facilities, work settings and nursing homes.
Students who complete the DPT program at the University of South Carolina have the option of applying, and if accepted, enroll in an accelerated Exercise Science Ph.D. program with a focus in one of three areas including Rehabilitation Sciences, Applied Physiology, or Health Aspects of Physical Activity.
The 3-year Clinical Doctoral program starts in August of each year and admits a small class size of 30 students that allows students an opportunity to receive highly individualized instruction and closely interact with instructors. Students complete a research project focused on clinical practice and learn the value of evidence-based practice. Following completion of the Doctorate in Physical Therapy (DPT), students are eligible to sit for the national physical therapy licensure exam.
Explore the specific application deadlines and requirements.
To prepare Doctors of Physical Therapy who skillfully engage in person-centered compassionate, evidence-based care to optimize function and health across the lifespan.
The Physical Therapy Program strives to positively impact the health and well-being of individuals, communities, and society. Through inquiry, innovation, and integrity we aim to foster graduates and faculty to be exceptional practitioners, researchers, and leaders. This focus is based upon the philosophy that physical therapy practice is dynamic and requires engagement in lifelong learning including the application, evaluation, and generation of new knowledge.
The Doctoral Physical Therapy Program at the University of South Carolina is dedicated to maintaining a culture that emphasizes life-long learning and excellence in evidence-based practice. The doctoral curriculum is sequenced to provide students with a foundation upon which clinical skills are developed and refined. Clinical experiences are designed to provide students with the opportunity to practice and advance clinical skills that are sequenced to complement didactic instruction. Graduates are encouraged to further their professional development though pursuit of advanced degrees, residencies, fellowships and employment in settings with active mentorship.
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Advancing Women's Health
Two-time Arnold School graduate combines public health and physical therapy to advance women’s health
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EXSC graduate joins DPT program
Exercise science graduate joins Doctor of Physical Therapy program
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Finding School-Family Balance
Graduate finds school-family balance with support from physical therapy program
