The Graduate School of Physical Therapy at Slippery Rock University offers a rigorous and student-centered curriculum leading to the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree. As the third DPT program established in the United States, SRU has a longstanding tradition of excellence in physical therapist education and is fully accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). Graduates will be eligible to sit for the National Physical Therapist Examination (NPTE), the successful completion of which is required for physical therapy practice throughout the United States. Licensure requirements vary by state, so individuals should contact the licensing board in the state where they plan to practice for additional information.

SRU’s DPT program prepares students to provide high-quality physical therapy services to a diverse and evolving patient population. The curriculum integrates foundational, clinical, and behavioral sciences to equip graduates with the knowledge and skills necessary for effective practice across a variety of settings. Emphasis is placed on restoring movement and function, promoting health and wellness, preventing injury, and reducing disability through evidence-informed clinical decision‑making.

The full-time program spans eight semesters plus one winter-session course, allowing students to complete their doctoral training in under three academic years. Students engage in three clinical practicum experiences that progressively build competence and confidence; the final two are full-time terminal internships completed after all didactic coursework. These clinical placements allow students to apply classroom learning in real-world environments and develop strong professional behaviors, communication skills, and clinical reasoning.

Foundational science coursework, including concepts in anatomy, kinesiology, and clinical pathology, is intentionally sequenced and integrated throughout the curriculum. This structure promotes the development of advanced clinical skills and fosters connections between basic science and patient/client management. The curriculum also includes an evidence-based practice component, preparing students to be critical consumers of scientific literature and contributors to innovative, research-supported physical therapy care.

The overarching mission of the DPT program is to graduate highly competent, ethical, and reflective physical therapists who are prepared to excel in a dynamic health care environment. SRU graduates are equipped to meet the needs of individuals, communities, and global health systems while upholding the profession’s values and contributing to its continued advancement.

Note to Slippery Rock 3+3 Students Entering the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program

Should students in the 3+3 Physical Therapy program be unsuccessful in completing the first year of the DPT curriculum and wish to return to their original undergraduate program, the determination of whether any completed physical therapy courses may count toward their bachelor’s degree rests solely with the coordinator of the student’s undergraduate major. The undergraduate program will evaluate course applicability on a case-by-case basis, and students will be responsible for fulfilling all remaining requirements of their original major in order to complete the bachelor’s degree.

Participation in the undergraduate commencement ceremony occurs only after students have successfully completed the full first year of the DPT program, at which point they are considered to have met the requirements for conferral of the bachelor's degree.

Program Learning Outcomes

Related Links

Physical Therapy, DPT Program Page

Physical Therapy Fact Sheet

Professional Licensure/Certification Page

Curriculum Guide

Important Curriculum Guide Notes

This Curriculum Guide is provided to help SRU students and prospective students better understand their intended major curriculum. Enrolled SRU students should note that the My Rock Audit may place already-earned and/or in progress courses in different, yet valid, curriculum categories. Enrolled SRU students should use the My Rock Audit Report and materials and information provided by their faculty advisers to ensure accurate progress towards degree completion. The information on this guide is current as of the date listed. Students are responsible for curriculum requirements at the time of enrollment at the University.

PASSHE - Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education Institutions

Major Code: 9D6C
Effective: Summer 2026
UCC 11.25.2025
Revised: 01.06.2026

Recommended Course Sequence

** This document is meant to serve as a guide. Please consult with your academic adviser and refer to your curriculum guide prior to registering for courses. This plan should be reviewed, and verified, by you and your academic adviser at least once each academic year.

Major Code: 9D6C