Program Overview

Introduction to the UConn Doctor of Physical Therapy Program

The UConn Doctor of Physical Therapy program is an exceptionally unique physical therapy program with a rich history, established in 1956. It is one of the oldest continuously operating programs in the country. Located on the beautiful Storrs campus, students in the UConn DPT program enjoy access to world-class sporting events, theater, arts, entertainment, as well as a state-of-the-art student recreation facility.

Program Overview

The UConn DPT program provides a boutique and individualized experience for each of its students, made possible by its small class size of thirty students. The program fosters a commitment to service of others, with a student-led Pro-Bono Clinic serving members of the extended community who have limited access to physical therapists.

Clinical Research

Students in the UConn DPT program each develop, implement, and carry out at least one major research project as part of their doctoral training. Opportunities to collaborate with faculty include those within and outside of the immediate physical therapy faculty. Student research projects are regularly published in major journals and presented at national, regional, and state conferences.

Customizable Experience

The UConn DPT program curriculum is designed to prepare students to practice in any setting upon graduation, from hospitals to outpatient orthopedic practices, school systems to neurological rehabilitation settings. However, many students are driven to a particular area of practice. UConn successfully prepares students to begin a career towards a specialization as well.

Student Performance

Student success is the top priority, measured in retention, success on the licensure examination, and employment after graduation. The program has a high rate of student success, with the following data for the five most recent graduation classes:

• Program Year:
  • 2-year average:
    • Graduation Rate: 97%
    • Licensure Pass Rate: 100%
    • Employment Rate: 100%
  • DPT 2024:
    • Graduation Rate: 100%
    • Licensure Pass Rate: 100% (96.6%)
    • Employment Rate: Not yet available
  • DPT 2023:
    • Graduation Rate: 94%
    • Licensure Pass Rate: 100% (75%)
    • Employment Rate: 100%
  • DPT 2022:
    • Graduation Rate: 100%
    • Licensure Pass Rate: 100% (86.7%)
    • Employment Rate: 100%
  • DPT 2021:
    • Graduation Rate: 94%
    • Licensure Pass Rate: 100% (87.9%)
    • Employment Rate: 100%
  • DPT 2020:
    • Graduation Rate: 97%
    • Licensure Pass Rate: 100% (86.5%)
    • Employment Rate: 100%

Accreditation

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

Career Opportunities

Graduates may practice in a wide range of settings, including hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, public and private schools, private offices, homes, sports medicine centers, and industry. With advanced degrees, physical therapists practice as researchers and educators in college and university settings.