Top Online Master's and Doctorate Degrees in Physical Therapy
The American Physical Therapy Association's accredited body — the Commission on Accreditation of Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) — accredits entry-level academic programs in physical therapy. Of the 212 accredited physical therapist education programs, 12 awarded master's degrees, and 200 awarded doctoral degrees in 2009. Master's degree programs are typically 2 to 2.5 years in length, while doctoral programs are 3 years.
Physical therapy education programs include foundational science courses, such as biology, exercise physiology, neuroscience, pathology, and radiology/imaging. Some of the clinically-based courses include medical screening, examination tests and measures, diagnostic process, therapeutic interventions, outcomes assessment, and practice management. In addition to classroom and lab instruction, students also receive supervised clinical experience.
 Doctor of Physical Therapy |
Utica College – The Utica College Transitional Doctorate in physical therapy degree covers a variety of topics, including Foundations of Autonomous Practice, Prevention and Wellness, Diagnostic Imaging, Pharmacology and Pathophysiology, and Global Health Care Issues. The degree is designed for licensed physical therapy professionals with BS/MS degree credentials. |
 Doctor of Physical Therapy |
A.T. Still University of Health Sciences – The Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy program at A.T. Still University of Health Sciences is built for professionals that are practicing physical therapists. The curriculum includes courses in pharmacology, radiology, evidence-based practice, and differential diagnosis. |
 MS: Rehab Science |
California University of Pennsylvania – The California University of Pennsylvania offers an online MS in Exercise Science with a specialization in rehabilitation science for those interested in becoming physical therapists, PE teachers, chiropractors, personal trainers, or other health/fitness professionals. Students of this program take courses in Rehabilitation, Corrective Exercise in Rehabilitation, Corrective Exercise Program Design, and more. |
 Doctor of Physical Therapy |
Boston University – While the Boston University Doctor of Physical Therapy program is a rigorous one, graduates are confident they received a second-to-none education at one of America's top universities. The curriculum features five academic semesters and one summer semester of coursework, plus 44 weeks of full-time clinical education that includes a six-month internship. |
 MA: Vision Rehab Therapy |
University of Massachusetts – The University of Massachusetts MA in vision rehabilitation therapy program is built for individuals who have a passion for serving adult populations who are visually impaired. The curriculum integrates compensatory skills and assistive technology, empowering you to ensure your patients live safe, productive, independent lives. |
 PhD: General Human Services |
Capella University – The Capella University PhD in General Human Services prepares students to advance their careers in the human services and health care fields. The curriculum includes adult development, diversity, ethics, strategic planning, and the impact of today's changing health care industry on human services. |
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