Many wonder how to become a physical therapist, and RU’s pre-physical therapy degree is the perfect jumping-off point.
Program Overview
The department of physical therapy at Rockhurst University transforms students into competent entry-level physical therapy practitioners who demonstrate a lifelong commitment to learning, moral responsibility and the values that serve as the foundation for professional practice.
Students who complete a bachelor’s degree and key pre-requisite courses are eligible to apply for Rockhurst’s Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program. Our DPT program is a doctoral program with a new cohort beginning each summer semester. The program consists of eight semesters of coursework, including 34 weeks of fieldwork experience presented throughout 2 1/2 academic years.
Accomplished and experienced faculty members utilize a hybrid learning approach that develops relationships among students and educators while incorporating state-of-the-art digital simulation and instructive resources.
DPT Program Points of Entry
The Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program accommodates and encourages multiple points of entry for prospective students:
Freshman Direct Entry
Students who plan to attend Rockhurst for their bachelor's degree may be awarded a seat in the DPT program based on their high school GPA and, if submitted with the application for admission, ACT or SAT scores. With this opportunity, you will begin your path to achieving your Doctor of Physical Therapy degree starting day one of your freshman year, and no additional application will be necessary for the graduate-level phase of your degree. We have built this program for completion in only 5.5 years. Learn More about PT Freshman Direct Entry.
DPT Traditional Entry
Students who have completed all prerequisite coursework and earned a bachelor's degree by the end of the spring semester prior to beginning the DPT program start are encouraged to apply. This is a 2.5-year program. For more information, including program/class requirements, click here.
More PT Admission Information
- DPT Post-Baccalaureate (Apply during last year of undergrad with plan to enter PT School)
- Transfer Applications
- Articulation Agreements
- Contact Us
Program Outcomes
Rockhurst University is committed to the development of proficient, compassionate physical therapy professionals with a strong ability to effectively lead and advocate for patients and clients. Graduates are ready to assist individuals in the prevention or treatment of impairments due to developmental deficits, injury, aging or physical illness.
Unique to other physical therapy schools, Rockhurst proudly offers a Jesuit education emphasizing teaching excellence. Priorities include students learning to serve others, sharing their skills through their involvement in varied, clinically based community service projects and/or international service immersion and mission experiences.
Rockhurst PT students have a distinctive opportunity to explore specialized physical therapy subject areas with a choice of elective courses during their last semester, including Examination and Treatment of the Running Athlete, Pediatric PT or Special Issues in Women’s and Men’s Health.
PT program graduates are committed to leadership, advocacy and service within the community and as part of their physical therapy jobs.
Common undergraduate majors for future DPT students include:
- Exercise science
- Kinesiology
- Biology
- Health science
- Athletic training
Physical Therapist
Personal Trainer
Medical Writing
Athletic Trainer
Rehabilitation Aide
Dietitian
Exercise Physiologist
Research Assistant
Course Map
Degree and class descriptions and requirements can be found by clicking on the course catalog listings below:
Degree Info
- Select freshmen, first-year students and transfer students with strong academic backgrounds may be offered pre-admission to the Doctor of Physical Therapy graduate program upon initial acceptance to Rockhurst.
- Undergraduate students at Rockhurst can join the Pre-PT/Pre-OT Club.
- Student members of the American Physical Therapy Association have the opportunity to meet and network with other physical therapy students.
- In conjunction with Rockhurst University’s Helzberg School of Management, physical therapy students will have the opportunity to earn both a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree and a Master of Business Administration or Master of Arts in Management degree.
The MBA includes a measurable business curriculum while the MA in Management features a focus on management leadership. Both degrees provide the skills to practice as a physical therapist and effectively manage a department, your own clinic or corporation. Both degrees also include optional electives in health care leadership. Learn more at Rockhurst University dual degrees.
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