Physical Therapy
Advance health and improve lives as a movement expert.
Why Study Physical Therapy?
Physical therapy is ranked by U.S. News & World Report as one of the best jobs in the health care sector. It's easy to see why. As a physical therapist, you'll impact people's lives in meaningful ways, from helping them regain movement to managing pain. Physical therapists work with people for extended periods of time, enabling them to develop rewarding relationships with their patients.
With a doctor of physical therapy (DPT) degree, you'll have the option to assess and treat patients across the lifespan from children to adults to older adults; in a variety of settings such as hospitals, outpatient and home; and in a range of practice areas including neurology, sports, orthopedics and oncology. The DPT is the official entry-level degree for the profession.
What is a physical therapist?
Why Study Physical Therapy at UNMC?
Experienced faculty, hands-on learning, and outreach opportunities are just a few of the reasons why you should choose UNMC for your education. Watch the video to hear from our students and faculty.
PT Student Research at UNMC
Through hands-on research experiences, students help tackle real-world challenges and contribute to impactful solutions in our communities. Opportunities exist for students to actively participate in research including joining a faculty member’s team or a summer research elective course.
Program Snapshot
Course Load
Duration
Location
Start Date
Program Highlights
What to Expect
You'll study topics including anatomy, physiology, neuromuscular PT, musculoskeletal PT, cardiopulmonary PT, integumentary PT, psychosocial aspects of healthcare, orthotics and prosthetics, physical agents, imaging, health promotion and health policy, research and critical inquiry, and practice management.
Overview & Degree RequirementsHolistic Review
At UNMC, we perform a holistic review of all applications, considering both academic and non-academic experiences. Enrollment in the program is limited and competitive.
PT FacultyClinical Education
Clinical education courses are an integral part of the DPT curriculum. These courses allow you to apply the knowledge, skills and abilities learned in the classroom to patients in the clinical setting under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist. Through clinical education experiences, students gain the necessary depth and breadth for preparation to practice as an entry-level physical therapist.
Mission and Vision
The mission of the Physical Therapy Program is to advance health for all by optimizing movement through education, research and service...
AccreditationGlobal Health Opportunities Program
The Global Health Opportunities Program in Physical Therapy is an umbrella for different international trainees from physical therapy students to physical therapy practitioners.
Student Life
From service learning opportunities to job placement, we've got you covered. Find links to the SUNAPTA Career Fair, job postings for graduates, and more information about life as a DPT student at UNMC.
Outcomes
Graduates of the program are eligible to sit for the National Physical Therapy Exam, administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy, recognized as part of licensure in the state(s) in which they wish to practice.
DPT student outcomes reflect 2-year averages:
- Employment rate: 100% (Class of 2022-2023)
- Graduation rate: 97% (Class of 2023-2024)
- Licensure exam - first time pass rate: 92% (Class of 2023-2024)
- Licensure exam - ultimate pass rate: 98% (Class of 2023-2024)
Careers
Physical therapists are in high demand. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts employment of physical therapists will grow 18% from 2019 to 2029. In that period, an estimated 47,000 jobs are predicted to open up. The need for physical therapists is expected to remain strong as the U.S. population ages and the demand for physical therapy services grows.
Although many physical therapists practice in hospitals, more than 80% practice in other settings.
Job Opportunities
- Hospitals
- Outpatient Clinics
- Rehabilitation Centers
- Doctors Offices
- Sport and Fitness Facilities
- Nursing Facilities
- Universities
- Home Health Care Services
- Research Settings
Related Programs
More than DPT Education. Check out the post-professional residency, dual enrollment degree or continuing education opportunities.
