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Introduction to the Ph.D. in Physical Therapy Program

The Ph.D. in Physical Therapy program at Nova Southeastern University is designed to prepare leaders in the profession of physical therapy who can serve as change agents in the profession. This program is ideal for individuals who want to address health issues, negotiate and advocate for clients, educate clients and students, consult with organizations, and contribute to the profession through research.

Skills You Need for Academic and Research Careers

The program focuses on developing skills necessary for academic and research careers, including critical thinking, assertiveness, initiative, leadership, self-understanding, openness, and strong communication skills. Students must also be motivated and self-directed.

Program Details

Delivery Options

Courses are conducted in a distance-hybrid format and as independent study under faculty supervision. The distance hybrid education format enables students to continue their career while earning the degree.

Application Deadlines

• Entry Fall 2026: Application Due Date: June 30, 2026
• Entry Winter 2027: Application Due Date: October 31, 2026

Tuition

Tuition information can be found on the Tuition and Fees page.

Credits & Requirements

The Ph.D. program is 60 credits and requires a dissertation.

Program Structure

The course of study includes:

• Required HPD Core Courses (for students admitted prior to Fall 2022): 12 credits
• Required PT Core Courses:
  • 23 credits for students admitted prior to Fall 2022
  • 34 credits for students admitted after Fall 2022
• Elective Courses: 9 credits
• Comprehensive Exam: 0 credits
• Dissertation:
  • 16 credits for students admitted prior to Fall 2022
  • 17 credits for students admitted after Fall 2022

Admissions Requirements

Selection of students for the Physical Therapy Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) program is based on prior academic performance, clinical experiences, and references. Applicants must:

1. Be a graduate of schools accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE).
2. Demonstrate English language proficiency, if appropriate.
3. Have a minimum of 3 years of clinical experience as a physical therapist by the time of program start.

Foreign Coursework

Graduate and undergraduate coursework taken at a foreign institution must be evaluated for U.S. institution equivalence by one of the following agencies:

• Foreign Credentialing Commission on Physical Therapy (FCCPT)
• International Consultants of Delaware, Inc. (ICD)
• International Education Research Foundation, Inc. (IERF)

Application Procedures

All of the following documents must be received by the admissions office by the application deadline:

1. A completed application form along with a non-refundable application fee.
2. Official transcripts from all undergraduate, professional, and graduate institutions attended.
3. Professional experience information.
4. Three recommendations from individuals who can evaluate the applicant's performance as a physical therapist and/or the applicant's potential for doctoral studies.
5. A statement of purpose indicating professional and research interests.
6. If applicable, English proficiency scores.

Curriculum Requirements

Courses are conducted in a distance-hybrid format and as independent study under faculty supervision. Graduates will be awarded the Ph.D. degree in Physical Therapy upon satisfactory completion of all degree requirements.

Program Courses

The following courses are part of the program:

• PHT 7010: Professional Issues in Physical Therapy and Health Care
• PHT 7020: Legal Issues in Health Care
• PHT 7030: Health Care Policy and Health Care Reform
• PHT 7040: Bioethics and Ethical Issues in Health Care
• PHT 7112: Measurement Issues in Physical Therapy Research
• PHT 7113: Advanced Methods and Design
• PHT 7120: Critical Inquiry
• PHT 7130: Dissertation Research Seminar
• PHT 7200: Teaching and Learning in Physical Therapy
• PHT 7220: Research Ethics
• PHT 7300: Consulting Skills
• PHT 7320: Biostatistics I
• PHT 7330: Biostatistics II
• PHT 7340: Qualitative Research
• PHT 7350: Quantitative Research Design
• PHT 7400: Independent Study
• PHT 7520: Philosophy of Science
• PHT 7530: Grant Writing and Publication
• PHT 7800: Dissertation
• PHT 7801: Research Seminar