Top Physical Therapy Graduate Programs Near Philadelphia, PA

For aspiring physical therapists near Philadelphia, finding a graduate program that balances academic rigor with hands-on experiences is essential. Fortunately, several top-tier options are located in and around the city. Among the top schools, Alvernia University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program in Reading, PA, stands out for its immersive clinical training, student-centered environment, and values-based approach to healthcare education.

Real, Regional Clinical Opportunities

One of the defining strengths of Alvernia’s DPT program is its commitment to hands-on learning, starting from the first semester. While many programs delay clinical exposure, Alvernia integrates part-time and full-time clinical rotations throughout the curriculum. Students complete over 39 weeks of full-time clinical experience in diverse healthcare settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centers, and schools. This early and sustained exposure builds confidence and clinical skills and provides a more straightforward path to specialization.

Located about 60 miles from Philadelphia, Alvernia offers the best of both worlds: proximity to a major metropolitan healthcare market and the advantages of a supportive academic community. For students who live in or near Philadelphia, the program offers an accessible option without the high cost or congestion of city-based campuses. Many

Alvernia DPT students complete clinical rotations in Philadelphia-area hospitals and health systems, helping them network and explore job opportunities while still in school.

A Future-Focused Learning Environment

Physical therapy is a hands-on profession, meaning students need more than textbooks to succeed. Alvernia’s DPT program is housed in the John R. Post Center at Reading CollegeTowne, a 250,000-square-foot facility with advanced simulation labs, motion capture systems, and high-tech rehab tools. These modern learning environments replicate clinical settings, preparing students to walk confidently into any care environment.

Personalized Support and Small Cohorts

Unlike larger universities where students may feel like a number, Alvernia emphasizes individualized attention. Small class sizes create opportunities for strong faculty-student relationships, and professors, many practicing clinicians, are invested in students’ academic and professional success. Advising, mentoring, and one-on-one feedback are integral to the program experience.

Values That Go Beyond the Classroom

Rooted in Franciscan values, Alvernia’s DPT program prioritizes more than technical excellence. The curriculum emphasizes service, empathy, and cultural competence. Students participate in community outreach and service-learning projects that enrich their understanding of physical therapy’s role in promoting wellness, especially in underserved populations.

Strong Outcomes and Career Support

The transition from student to licensed professional can feel daunting, but Alvernia prepares students every step of the way. With built-in support for the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE), resume-building workshops, and direct access to career development resources, students graduate feeling prepared and confident.

The university’s strong ties to regional health systems, including many in the Philadelphia area, help open doors for clinical placements and job opportunities. 2023 Alvernia’s 2023 DPT graduates boast a 100% two-year employment rate.

Is Alvernia the Right Fit for You?

If you’re exploring top physical therapy graduate programs near Philadelphia, PA, take a closer look at what Alvernia University has to offer. With academic excellence, practical training, values-driven education, and strong community ties, it’s a program built for future leaders in physical therapy.

Learn more about Alvernia’s DPT program or reach out to Graduate Admissions at 610-568-1546 or soo.sun@alvernia.edu to get started.