Curriculum
The DPT curriculum spans 34 months and is comprised of didactic (classroom) courses and clinical courses delivered in 8 semesters for a total of 106-110 credits. Following successful completion of the curriculum, graduates are awarded the DPT degree. Roughly 75% of courses are didactic and 25% is clinical that provide students with a variety of clinical experiences in various practice settings. The curriculum includes basic science courses taught by both program core faculty and by affiliate faculty from other departments. It also includes clinical science courses taught by program core faculty and adjunct faculty, many of whom are board certified specialists. In the first spring semester, prior to being sent out on their first clinical affiliation, students undergo a comprehensive objective, structured, clinical examination (OSCE) to ensure their readiness for the full time clinical work.
The clinical experiences, both full and part-time, are integral to the overall program. Our clinical instructors are highly qualified and knowledgeable of the program. Students are required to travel to complete their full-time clinical experiences that range in length from 6-16 weeks.
Course descriptions are available in the current graduate academic catalog.
Program Highlights
The ISU DPT Program has been producing effective and caring physical therapists for over 30 years. Our faculty is clinically engaged and directly supervise and instruct students in the clinic with direct patient care beginning in the first year of the program. We emphasize critical reflection and evidence-based practice to challenge the student to be lifelong learners to drive the future of the profession.
Graduate Statistics
Our graduates excel in their transition to professional practice, supported by small class sizes, close faculty mentorship, and a curriculum designed for clinical readiness. The graduation rate for the Classes of 2024 and 2025 is 100 percent. Performance on the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) remains strong, with first-time pass rates of 91.3 percent (2024) and 93.6 percent (2025). The ultimate pass rate is 100 percent for the Class of 2024 and 95.7 percent for the Class of 2025. Among graduates pursuing employment, 100 percent secured a position within six months of graduation.
Contact Us
(833) 499-1813