Program Overview

Introduction to the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program

The Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine is a top-ranked clinical program that prepares students for entry-level practice as Physical Therapists. All students must have earned a Bachelor’s degree prior to entering the program. Any Bachelor’s degree is acceptable as long as all prerequisite course work has been completed.

Program Details

• The program is 36 months in length and begins in May.
• The program includes 33 weeks of clinical experiences. The first clinical experience occurs at the end of the second year of study. The remaining three experiences occur during the third year.
• Graduation takes place in May.

Curriculum and Goals

The overall goal of the curriculum is to produce a highly competent generalist practitioner at the doctoral level. This encompasses the following guiding principles:

• Globally educated generalist physical therapist incorporating the patient/client management model
• Competent in the interpretation and implementation of research leading to evidence-based practice
• Capable of providing high-quality care to all who need it
• To be participants and leaders in community service activities

Accreditation

The Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE).

Program Structure

The DPT curriculum is designed as a first professional degree, furthering the education of students who possess a baccalaureate degree and a background in liberal arts, humanities, and science. Prerequisites are directed toward producing broadly educated students prepared for life in a complex and changing society.

Outcomes and Performance

Graduation Rate

For the classes of 2022 – 2024, 96% graduated of those who started with the class graduated with a DPT degree.

Licensure Examination Pass Rate

Licensure exam pass rates are 92% (first-time pass rate) and 98% (Ultimate).

Employment Rate

According to the latest survey results, 100% of graduates were employed as PTs within six months of passing the licensure examination.

Additional Programs and Opportunities

• Pediatric Physical Therapy Residency
• Orthopaedic Physical Therapy Residency
• Sports Physical Therapy Residency
• Upper Extremity Athlete Fellowship
• Neurologic Physical Therapy Residency
• Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Residency
• UM CAPiTTAL: Professional Development, Faculty Development, The SoTL Collaborative

Conclusion

The University of Miami’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program is designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and principles necessary to excel as generalist practitioners in physical therapy, emphasizing evidence-based practice, community service, and high-quality patient care.