Doctor of Physical Therapy

The Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) at Florida Southern College is designed to help students provide patient-centered, evidence-based care. The program uses an accelerated model that applies theory to practice through engaged learning experiences that include traditional instruction, lab work, clinical practicums, and community learning.

Students complete 36 weeks of full-time practicums and 108 credit hours. Core instruction, including labs, lectures, and simulations, takes place on campus. The program also includes lab work using plastinated cadavers, integrated preparation for the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE), and hands-on experience through pro bono clinics and community outreach as part of the Integrated Professional and Community Education course series.

• A bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a regionally accredited institution may be in progress at the time of application. However, the degree must be awarded prior to matriculation into the Florida Southern College School of Physical Therapy Program.
• Minimum GPA of 3.00 (on 4.00 scale) in the last 60 credit hours of college course work.
• The average GPA for our accepted students in the last 60 credit hours is a 3.54.
• Minimum GPA of 3.00 (on 4.00 scale) for all prerequisite courses.
• All prerequisite courses must be completed with a grade of C or better (C- does not meet this requirement).
• The average GPA for our accepted students for all prerequisite courses is a 3.35.
• A minimum of 25 hours of demonstrable exposure to PT as evidenced by volunteer and/or paid work experience in a PT setting, including the Physical Therapy license number of the Physical Therapist verifying your Observation hours; the program does not accept observation hours verified by a PTA.
• Two letters of recommendation: one from a Licensed Physical Therapist; and one from a college-level faculty member, supervisor/employer, teaching assistant, pre-PT advisor, or collegiate-level coach.
• The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is required for admission.