Programs
The Department of Physical Therapy offers programs leading to the Doctor of Physical Therapy degree as well as programs leading to the Doctor of Philosophy degree, in conjunction with the VCU schools of Medicine and Education.
Physical Therapy Doctorate
The professional DPT program is an entry level program for applicants who have earned a baccalaureate degree.
Ph.D. Programs
The Ph.D. programs are for current physical therapists interested in a research career. Programs are offered in the areas of rehabilitation and movement science and health related sciences.
Objectives and goals
Although each program is unique in specific goals, these programs prepare physical therapy academicians who can contribute to the understanding and application of therapeutic procedures through basic and applied research and who can teach both clinical and didactic physical therapy on all academic levels with the goals of:
- Obtaining and excelling in faculty positions in all academic levels,
- Undertaking the research necessary to develop more scientific models of practice; including developing and testing theories at a basic science level,
- Assuming leadership roles within the profession and
- Advancing the development and delivery of clinical education.
» Research areas and labs of faculty involved in the Ph.D. Programs