Program Overview

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Introduction to the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program

The Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program at Bowling Green State University is Ohio's first and only public, accelerated, hybrid DPT program. This program allows students to earn their Doctor of Physical Therapy degree in seven semesters.

Program Overview

The DPT program at BGSU is a blended learning program that combines online and in-person instruction. After passing the NPTE licensure exam, graduates will emerge as clinicians with a strong foundation in clinical reasoning and evidence-based practice, making them valuable contributors to the interprofessional healthcare team.

Admission Information

The program uses a holistic review strategy for admissions and recruitment, reducing barriers to the physical therapy profession. Persons with bachelor's degrees from accredited institutions who meet the pre-requisites established by BGSU's DPT Program and demonstrate promising scholastic standing, along with professional potential, are considered for admission.

Program Mission

The mission of BGSU's DPT program is to develop Doctors of Physical Therapy who create positive change in the lives of their patients and communities. This is achieved by teaching competence, innovation, application, research, and collaboration.

Faculty and Curriculum

The faculty, all renowned members of the physical therapy profession, have created an intensive curriculum designed to challenge and empower BGSU DPT students. The curriculum is body-systems aligned and delivered across seven semesters using an accelerated, hybrid learning delivery model.

Curriculum Details

• Approximately half of the curriculum is delivered online, with the remaining taking place in face-to-face lab immersion sessions and clinical education settings.
• Online instruction includes asynchronous multi-media content review, assignments, and assessment learning activities combined with synchronous online classes and faculty office hours.
• Attendance is required for weekly sync sessions during remote learning weeks, with students engaging in approximately 6-8 hours of synchronous online learning a week.

Delivery Model

The program is both accelerated and hybrid.

Accelerated Defined

This approach allows completion of the DPT degree requirements in seven semesters, meeting the established timing and content standards set by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE).

Hybrid Defined

BGSU DPT students experience the benefit of living anywhere in the country while still being part of the BGSU community. The accelerated, hybrid DPT program infuses contemporary learning technologies and experiences into modern professional training for aspiring physical therapists.

Career Paths and Outlook

BGSU DPT graduates will have the opportunity to practice across a spectrum of settings. The physical therapy profession is set to grow 18% from 2019-2029, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, much faster than the average for all careers.

Career Options

• Neurological physical therapist
• Pediatric physical therapist
• Private practice PT
• Home services
• Geriatric PT
• Sports medicine
• Women's health
• Cardiac rehabilitation

Accreditation

The Doctor of Physical Therapy Program at Bowling Green State University is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE).

Conclusion

The Doctor of Physical Therapy program at Bowling Green State University offers a unique, accelerated, and hybrid learning experience that prepares students for a successful career in physical therapy. With its holistic admission approach, intensive curriculum, and commitment to creating a supportive community, BGSU's DPT program stands out as a premier choice for those pursuing a career in this field.