Tell a Friend

Your Name :
Your Email :
Email To :
Comments :

• How many courses/units must I take to fulfill requirements for the degree?
• Do I have to enroll in all the courses or can some of them be waived?
• Must I complete a research project for the degree?
• Must I complete additional clinical affiliations for the degree?
• How many weeks are in a trimester and do the courses run year round?
• Can I take a trimester off if needed or do I have to take courses three semesters each year?
• How often do I have to come to campus for each course?

The exact number will depend upon your previous academic coursework and experience.  The typical student in this program requires about 19-22 units to complete all degree requirements.

Some courses may be waived if you can demonstrate competency and mastery of course content.  If you hold APTA Board Certification in a specialty area, course(s) related to that area may be waived.

Must I complete a research project for the degree?

No, a research thesis or dissertation is not part of the degree program.  This is a clinical doctorate and will require an understanding of research methodology and evidence-based practice.  Emphasis is on developing skill in asking clinical questions, searching the literature for relevant research, critically analyzing the research, and applying it to the clinical setting.

Must I complete additional clinical affiliations for the degree?

No, additional clinical affiliations are not necessary since this degree is equivalent to a first professional (entry-level) program.  This is not an advanced DPT degree and does not require special clinical internships.

How many weeks are in a trimester and do the courses run year round?

Each trimester is 12 weeks in length.  Fall trimester starts the end of August/beginning of September and ends prior to Thanksgiving holiday.  There is a break until January.  Spring trimester runs from January through mid April and is followed by a 1-2 week break.  Summer trimester begins in April and ends mid-July.  The summer break is about 6 weeks before fall classes begin.

Can I take a trimester off if needed or do I have to take courses three semesters each year?

You can take one course for 2 of the 3 trimesters per year and be in good standing.  You can request a Leave of Absence (LOA) if you can only take one trimester in a given year (as long as you complete the program in 4 ½ years). 

How often do I have to come to campus for each course?

Each course requires 2-3 weekend sessions on campus.  A weekend may include Friday afternoon/evening, all day Saturday, or both Friday evening and Saturday.  Currently most courses do not meet on Sundays, but this may be an option as well.  Other options are currently under consideration for out-of-state/area students.