Colleges with Physical Therapy Programs

Are you looking for a college with a physical therapy program that goes beyond the classroom? Alvernia University offers a comprehensive Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program that prepares students for successful careers. Graduates gain the clinical skills, ethical grounding, and leadership abilities to deliver excellent, compassionate care.

Comprehensive Courses

The DPT curriculum emphasizes practical learning and clinical competency. Advanced courses such as anatomy, biomechanics, and neuromusculars build a foundation of scientific principles. Students benefit from Anatomage Virtual Dissection tables, motion analysis systems, and real-time ultrasound units. These tools enable mastery of human anatomy, movement, and rehabilitation mechanics.

Clinical Immersion

Alvernia’s "clinic without walls" model combines clinical training with community service. In this model, students provide direct patient care under the supervision of licensed professionals, gaining valuable experience while addressing real healthcare needs within the community.

The student-run Health & Wellness Center is at the core of this immersive experience, where students work alongside healthcare experts to deliver comprehensive care. This setting strengthens their clinical abilities while fostering critical qualities such as empathy, communication, and teamwork.

Professional Opportunities

At Alvernia, DPT students benefit from mentorship and networking opportunities, which keep them up-to-date on the latest physical therapy advancements and ensure they practice evidence-based care. Integrating healthcare policy, advocacy, and interprofessional collaboration allows Alvernia graduates to navigate and excel in healthcare settings.

This well-rounded focus on professional development has proven successful—every Alvernia graduate from the 2022-2023 class secured a job. DPT graduates work in many healthcare settings, including:

Hospitals and acute care facilities: Treating patients recovering from surgery, illness, or injury.
Outpatient clinics: Providing therapy for patients with musculoskeletal issues, sports injuries, or chronic conditions.
Rehabilitation centers: Helping patients regain mobility and function after major injuries or surgeries.
Skilled nursing facilities: Assisting elderly or long-term care patients with mobility and strength.
Home health agencies: Delivering physical therapy to patients in their homes, often for those who have difficulty traveling to clinics.
Sports and fitness centers: Working with athletes to prevent injuries, enhance performance, and facilitate recovery.
Pediatric centers: Providing therapy for children with developmental, neuromuscular, or orthopedic conditions.
Schools: Assisting children with disabilities in improving their mobility and physical function.
Occupational health centers: Helping workers recover from job-related injuries and facilitating a safe return to work.
Research and academia: Engaging in clinical research, teaching future physical therapists, or contributing to policy development.

Flexible Pathways

Alvernia offers two pathways to earn a DPT, designed to accommodate different educational backgrounds and career goals:

Traditional 4+3 Year Path: Ideal for those with a bachelor’s degree, this route involves completing a four-year undergraduate degree followed by a three-year DPT program.
Accelerated 3+3 Year Path: For students beginning their undergraduate studies at Alvernia, this path allows them to earn a DPT in six years. Majors in Biochemistry, Biology, Healthcare Science, or Psychology begin DPT coursework during their senior undergraduate year, fast-tracking their entry into the profession. Maintaining a strong GPA and completing prerequisites ensure a smooth transition into the DPT phase.

Lead the PT Pack

With a commitment to academic excellence, practical experience, and community engagement, Alvernia University stands out among colleges with physical therapy programs. Aspiring physical therapists can choose from flexible degree pathways and benefit from advanced facilities and expert, supportive faculty—ensuring they are fully prepared for rewarding careers.