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Applications must be submitted to PTCAS by October 1, but it is strongly recommended that applicants complete their application by September 15. Click here to learn more about admission requirements.
This full-time cohort program begins each fall and is completed in only 28 months.
Visit our Program Philosophy page and learn more about the program experience on our student-run Instagram page.
Chatham’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program maintains strong student outcomes, including a 99% licensure examination pass rate, 79% first-attempt pass rate (average of 2023–2024), an 86% graduation rate, and 100% employment within six months of graduation.
The incorporation of small group problem-based learning in the Chatham DPT curriculum provides students the opportunity to practice clinical decision-making and the application of evidence within the context of a patient case.
—MELISSA BEDNAREK, PT, DPT, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Physical Therapy Program Director
Watch and listen as current students give you an overview of the DPT program, and outline some of its benefits.
To reflect our commitment to your continuous enrollment and progress towards earning your degree, we’ve implemented a tuition lock program for the DPT, meaning that as long as you are continually enrolled, what you pay in tuition your first year is what you will pay for your second.
Explore Tuition Lock Program : Checkerboard 1 - Tuition Lock Program
Chatham University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program is a 106-credit physical therapy doctorate program designed for students pursuing careers in evidence-based physical therapy practice. The curriculum includes seven terms of study and 36 weeks of supervised clinical experience.
Explore DPT Curriculum : Checkerboard 2 - DPT Courses & Curriculum
In recognition of 30 years of educating PTs, we celebrate the community of students, faculty, staff, alumni, and clinicians who have contributed to our program's enduring success.
View Our Accomplishments : Checkerboard 3 - 30 Years of AchievementChatham’s innovative problem-based learning (PBL) approach presents the clinical arts and science of physical therapy in an integrated format organized around body systems and real-world patient care.
Learn About PBL : Checkerboard 4 - Problem-Based Learning
Interprofessional education involves students from two or more health professions learning together during their training. The goal of IPE is to enhance communication and decision-making, allowing various domains of knowledge to complement each other.
Learn About IPE : Checkerboard 5 - Interprofessional Education (IPE)
DPT clinical experiences span the curriculum, including 36 weeks of full-time clinical rotations at more than 500 healthcare facilities in Pennsylvania and across the United States. Students also participate in community engagement and service-learning opportunities throughout the program.
View Service Opportunities : Checkerboard 6 - Clinical Experience
Chatham’s Doctor of Physical Therapy faculty members bring extensive clinical and teaching experience across a variety of healthcare settings. Faculty serve as mentors and advisors while helping students develop the clinical and professional skills needed for physical therapy practice.
Meet the Faculty : Checkerboard 7 - Program Faculty
We view learning as an evolving, collaborative and continuous process, one that integrates the learner's needs and goals and that extends beyond the climate of formal education. Learn about the Chatham DPT program philosophy, goals, and technical standards by clicking the button below.
View Philosophy & Technical Standards : Checkerboard 8 - Philosophy & Technical Standards
Chatham University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). Review accreditation details, student outcomes, licensure information, and program performance metrics below.
View Accreditation & Outcomes : Checkerboard 9 - CAPTE Accreditation & Program Outcomes
The cost of a graduate degree consists of university tuition (per credit charge), fees, and any other personal expenses you may require for earning your degree. Our Financial Aid and Admissions offices will also work with you to understand loan and financing options for which you may qualify.
Explore Tuition & Funding : Checkerboard 10 - Tuition & Funding
Learn more about Chatham's DPT program admissions process, requirements, information for international applicants, and an admitted student profile.
View Admission Requirements : Checkerboard 11 - Admission Requirements
Want more details? Download our PDF for answers to the most frequently asked questions about Chatham's Doctor of Physical Therapy program.
Download the PDF : Checkerboard 12 - Frequently Asked Questions
Our collaborators and community—including preceptors, clinical sites, and guest speakers—are an essential (and highly appreciated!) part of the healthcare education system. Many get involved to give back to the profession, but there are a number of other benefits, too.
Explore Resources for Partners : Checkerboard 13 - Resources & Partnerships
For 10 years, Chatham University's Doctoral of Physical Therapy program has invited clinicians, authors, and researchers to share their expertise at our Grand Rounds Presentations.
