Program Overview

Introduction to the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program

The Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program at Tufts University School of Medicine is designed to prepare students for a career in physical therapy. The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) and is committed to providing students with a comprehensive education in the field of physical therapy.

Program Overview

The DPT program is a seven-semester program that includes both didactic and clinical education. The program is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in the sciences and to prepare them for the demands of clinical practice. The program includes coursework in anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and pharmacology, as well as clinical experiences in a variety of settings.

Admission Requirements

To be considered for admission to the DPT program, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• A bachelor's degree from an accredited institution
• A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00
• Completion of prerequisite coursework, including:
  • General Biology I and II
  • General Chemistry I and II
  • General Physics I and II
  • Psychology
  • Human Anatomy and Physiology I and II
  • Statistics or Research Design
• Two letters of recommendation
• Official transcripts
• Official GRE scores (optional)
• Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS) scores (if applicable)

Application Procedures

Applications to the DPT program are accepted through the Physical Therapist Centralized Application Service (PTCAS). The application deadline is April 1, 2026, and all application materials must be verified by the final application deadline.

Prerequisite Courses

The following prerequisite courses are required for admission to the DPT program:

• General Biology I and II
• General Chemistry I and II
• General Physics I and II
• Psychology
• Human Anatomy and Physiology I and II
• Statistics or Research Design
• Courses used to fulfill the Anatomy and Physiology requirements must have been completed within 10 years of the admissions cycle year.

Technical Standards and Essential Functions

The DPT program has established technical standards and essential functions that all students must meet in order to participate in the program. These standards include:

• The ability to communicate effectively with patients, families, and healthcare teams
• The ability to maintain composure in unpredictable situations
• The ability to render patient care in a respectful, empathic, and culturally safe manner
• The ability to demonstrate scientific knowledge, psychomotor skills, and clinical reasoning

Tuition and Financial Aid

The tuition rate for the DPT program is $18,571 per semester, and fees range from $54 to $292 per semester. Financial aid is available in the form of federal loans, and students are encouraged to submit a financial aid application as early as possible.

About the Phoenix Campus

The Phoenix campus is located in the heart of a thriving healthcare and biosciences hub, providing students with access to state-of-the-art facilities and renowned healthcare institutions.

Accreditation

The Tufts University Doctor of Physical Therapy Phoenix program received accreditation on November 25, 2024. The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE).