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Chatham University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program produces highly-skilled physical therapists by emphasizing critical thinking and self-directed learning using a hybrid problem-based learning approach. We graduate PTs who will meet the challenges of a dynamic healthcare environment and support scholarly activity that bridges science and clinical practice. In recognition of 30 years of educating PTs, we celebrate the community of students, faculty, staff, alumni, and clinicians who have contributed to our program's enduring success.
Applications must be submitted to PTCAS by October 1, but it is strongly recommended that applicants complete their application by September 15. Click here to learn more about admission requirements.
This full-time cohort program begins each fall and is completed in only 28 months.
Visit our Program Philosophy page and learn more about the program experience on our student-run Instagram page.
The DPT program enjoys 97% of graduates passing their licensure examination and 88% on the first attempt (average of 22-23). There is an 88% graduation rate (average of 22-23), and 100% are employed within six months of graduation (average of 20-21).
The incorporation of small group problem-based learning in the Chatham DPT curriculum provides students the opportunity to practice clinical decision-making and the application of evidence within the context of a patient case.
—MELISSA BEDNAREK, PT, DPT, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Physical Therapy Program Director
Watch and listen as current students give you an overview of the DPT program, and outline some of its benefits.
To reflect our commitment to your continuous enrollment and progress towards earning your degree, we’ve implemented a tuition lock program for the DPT, meaning that as long as you are continually enrolled, what you pay in tuition your first year is what you will pay for your second.
Explore Tuition Lock Program : Checkerboard 1 - Tuition Lock Program
Chatham University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program is a 106-credit, entry-level program designed for students who want to become skilled practitioners of evidence-based physical therapy. The program requires seven terms of study, including 36 weeks of supervised clinical practice. Each cohort begins in the fall term.
Explore DPT Curriculum : Checkerboard 2 - Courses & Curriculum
In recognition of 30 years of educating PTs, we celebrate the community of students, faculty, staff, alumni, and clinicians who have contributed to our program's enduring success.
View Our Accomplishments : Checkerboard 3 - 30 Years of AchievementAn innovative problem-based learning (PBL) approach presents the clinical arts and science of physical therapy in an integrated manner organized around body systems.
Learn About PBL : Checkerboard 4 - Problem-Based Learning
Interprofessional education involves students from two or more health professions learning together during their training. The goal of IPE is to enhance communication and decision-making, allowing various domains of knowledge to complement each other.
Learn About IPE : Checkerboard 5 - Interprofessional Education (IPE)
DPT clinical experiences span the curriculum, with 36 weeks of full-time rotations at over 500 facilities in Pennsylvania and across the United States. Community service learning and engagement with diverse communities are also encouraged for all students.
View Service Opportunities : Checkerboard 6 - Clinical Experience & Service
Chatham’s Physical Therapy faculty members bring a wealth of clinical experience as well as teaching experience in a range of practice settings. They serve as mentors and advisors and are there for you every step of the way.
Meet the Faculty : Checkerboard 7 - Program Faculty
We view learning as an evolving, collaborative and continuous process, one that integrates the learner's needs and goals and that extends beyond the climate of formal education. Learn about the Chatham DPT program philosophy, goals, and technical standards by clicking the button below.
View Philosophy & Technical Standards : Checkerboard 8 - Philosophy & Technical Standards
The Doctor of Physical Therapy Program at Chatham University is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). Click the button below to review details on accreditation, program student outcomes, a financial fact sheet, and licensure information.
View Accreditation & Outcomes : Checkerboard 9 - Accreditation & Outcomes
The cost of a graduate degree consists of university tuition (per credit charge), fees, and any other personal expenses you may require for earning your degree. Our Financial Aid and Admissions offices will also work with you to understand loan and financing options for which you may qualify.
Explore Tuition & Funding : Checkerboard 10 - Tuition & Funding
Learn more about Chatham's DPT program admissions process, requirements, information for international applicants, and an admitted student profile.
View Admission Requirements : Checkerboard 11 - Admission Requirements
Want more details? Download our PDF for answers to the most frequently asked questions about Chatham's Doctor of Physical Therapy program.
Download the PDF : Checkerboard 12 - Frequently Asked Questions
Our collaborators and community—including preceptors, clinical sites, and guest speakers—are an essential (and highly appreciated!) part of the healthcare education system. Many get involved to give back to the profession, but there are a number of other benefits, too.
Explore Resources for Partners : Checkerboard 13 - Resources & Partnerships
Your generous donation can help support a Chatham physical therapy student! The PT Fund supports educational and professional development expenses for current students, and the Sawhney-Gough Clinical Excellence Scholarship is awarded to a second-year Physical Therapy student who embodies clinical excellence and a patient-first philosophy.
Start the next steps in your graduate journey at Chatham University by visiting campus or attending upcoming events. Join virtual info sessions, open houses, or admitted student sessions to learn about our programs and the application process, interact with faculty, and experience the Chatham community. Click the button below to view the schedule and register, and email graduate@chatham.edu with any questions.
View Graduate Event Schedule : Checkerboard 15 - Visits & Events
For 10 years, Chatham University's Doctoral of Physical Therapy program has invited clinicians, authors, and researchers to share their expertise at our Grand Rounds Presentations.
