Best Universities for DPT (2026): Top 10 US Programs

Best Universities for DPT (2026): Top 10 US Programs

A Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree is the key to becoming a licensed physical therapist. It’s essential to healthcare, especially with an ageing population worldwide.

For a bright career, top DPT programs offer excellent training and clinical opportunities. They also keep up with the latest advancements in healthcare. If you’re considering applying, this guide can help you make an informed decision. It covers some of the best universities for DPT. We’ll also share what to look for in programs and career options. Let’s dive in!

What is a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Degree?

The Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) is a professional degree. It prepares students to diagnose, treat, and manage movement disorders. A DPT program offers a combination of classroom learning and hands-on clinical training.

Graduates can take licensing exams to become physical therapists. In the US, a DPT must practice as a licensed physical therapist. It replaces older qualifications, such as a bachelor’s or master’s degree in physical therapy.

DPT vs. Other Physical Therapy Qualifications

The DPT degree is more advanced than other physical therapy qualifications. Older programs, such as bachelor’s or master’s degrees, are no longer the standard in the US.

The DPT focuses on independent clinical decision-making and evidence-based practices. It also includes advanced training in areas of specialisation, such as biomechanics, therapeutic techniques, and patient management.

Top 10 Universities for DPT Programs in 2026

There are many great options for a DPT program. The top 10 physical therapy schools on this list are known for their strong programs, excellent faculty, and hands-on training. Here’s our list, detailing the best colleges for physical therapy.

Washington University in St. Louis

Washington University in St. Louis offers a top-ranked Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program. According to US News and World Report, Washington University is the best university for DPT. The program lasts two years and eight months and is a full-time program that combines classroom learning with clinical practice.

Courses focus on movement impairment and orthopaedic and neuromuscular conditions. Materials are taught in a way that connects theory to real-life applications. Outside the classroom, students participate in clinical training at off-site locations.

WUSL’s DPT program has been accredited since 1942. Common undergraduate degrees include biology, kinesiology, and health sciences. However, students with degrees in psychology, dance, business, and engineering are also welcome.

Admission Requirements

• Overall average GPA: 3.76 (on a 4.0 scale)
• Average GPA for science and math prerequisites: 3.70 (on a 4.0 scale).
• Average GPA for core physical therapy prerequisites: 3.71 (on a 4.0 scale).

University of Delaware

The University of Delaware also offers the best Doctor of Physical Therapy programs. It is ranked No. 2 by USN World Report. This program focuses on teaching current treatment methods and techniques. It’s a full-time program that lasts 2.5 years, consisting of four sessions: fall, spring, summer, and winter. The CAPTE accredits the program.

UD offers two on-campus physical therapy clinics for hands-on learning: the Sports & Orthopaedic Clinic and the Neurologic & Older Adult Clinic. Both clinics are located on the STAR Campus. Students treat real patients under the guidance of expert faculty. They also complete three full-time clinical experiences, each lasting 10 weeks.

The faculty are highly skilled and lead important research projects. Many have received funding from top organisations like the NIH and NSF.

Admission Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree.
• GRE: Verbal and Quantitative GRE scores.
• Prerequisites: Courses in Psychology, Statistics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Anatomy, and Physiology (minimum grade C).
• GPA: 3.0 minimum overall and in science courses.
• Observation Hours: 50 hours required (25 by application).
• Letters of Recommendation: 2 from PTs, one from a professor.
• PTCAS Application.

University of Iowa

The DPT program at the University of Iowa is completed in 2.5 years. It has a proud history, dating back to 1942. Students begin in July and graduate in December, two and a half years later. The program is quite competitive. Around 50 students are admitted each year.

The program focuses on evidence-based practice. Students develop problem-solving and clinical reasoning skills. They are trained to provide excellent care and take on the responsibilities of a physical therapist.

The University of Iowa Health Care system strengthens education. It is one of the largest university-owned teaching hospitals in the US, and students work closely with expert clinicians and scientists.

It is consistently ranked among the top physical therapy programs in the US. Recent graduates have had strong outcomes. All students have graduated and found jobs. Nearly 99% of candidates passed the licensure exam on their first attempt.

Admission Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree
• GPA: A minimum overall GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
• Prerequisite coursework and a GPA of 3.0 or higher in all.

Emory University

Emory’s Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program takes 35 months. It starts in June and ends three years later in May. In the first two semesters, students focus on how the human body works. They also learn about movement science and communication skills needed for physical therapy.

From the third semester onward, students study diseases and how to solve clinical problems. They take courses like Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation, Neurorehabilitation, and Pediatric Rehabilitation. After these classes, students spend 2 weeks in a clinic, observing and helping with patient care.

Students complete 30 weeks of full-time clinical internships in their second and third years. They also return to Emory for research projects and advanced courses in their final year. After graduation, students must pass a state licensure exam to practice as physical therapists.

Admission Requirements

• Baccalaureate Degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0.
• Prerequisites Courses
• Human Anatomy with Lab (4 hours)
• Human Physiology with Lab (4 hours)
• Statistics (3 hours)
• Physics I & II with Lab (8 hours)
• All prerequisites must be completed within 5 years.
• Letters of Recommendation: 3
• Physical Therapy Experience: 50 hours required.
• Interview.

Northwestern University

Northwestern University is another of the best schools for physical therapy. Its Physical Therapy program lasts 27 months. After completing it, students can sit for the licensing exam.

Northwestern is one of the largest physical therapy schools in the US. Its size and location provide unmatched resources for students and faculty. The program is part of a top academic medical centre and accepts 90-95 students annually.

Admission Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree
• GPA: A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0/4.0
• Essays: Applicants must submit three essays (one for PTCAS and two for Northwestern).
• References: Three letters of reference; submit through PTCAS.
• PT Observation Hours: At least 50 hours of observation or volunteer experience in physical therapy settings.
• TOEFL (for International Applicants) Score: 100 (Internet-based) or 600 (paper-based).

Duke University

Duke’s DPT program offers a great chance to learn and grow. Students work closely with professors and get strong support from experienced faculty. The program offers opportunities for team-based learning, hands-on clinical experiences, and research.

Duke's graduation and employment rates are really strong. The average graduation rate is 100%, and the employment rate is 100%. The ultimate board pass rate is 97%, and the first-time pass rate is 80.1%.

Admission Requirements

• Degree: Must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited school.
• Prerequisites: Complete all required courses before starting the program.
• Recommendations: Three.
• Observation Hours: 50 hours of verified PT experience.
• GRE: Submit scores within five years using PTCAS GRE code 5473.

University of Southern California

Washington University in St. Louis offers a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program accredited by CAPTE. It is a full-time program and takes three years to complete. The program has two main pathways: residential and hybrid.

In the residential pathway, students attend classes on campus. Learning happens in small and large groups. Clinical training occurs in the St. Louis region and other parts of the US. The campus provides advanced learning tools, labs, and resources.

The hybrid pathway combines online learning with hands-on experiences. Students study through interactive online sessions and attend lab immersions on campus.

Admission Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree or higher is required.
• A minimum GPA of 3.0 for both overall and prerequisite courses.
• Prerequisite courses:  8 credits each (Human Anatomy & Physiology I & II, and Chemistry I & II with lab).
• 40 observation hours
• Personal statement and essay

Creighton University

DPT programs at Creighton University have two campuses: Omaha and Phoenix. They have an integrated curriculum and focus on serving underserved populations.

The DPT program in Omaha ranks among the top ten. It focuses on developing physical therapists who are dedicated to providing equitable care. For the past two years, the program has had 100% graduation and employment rates.

Established in 2022, the Phoenix program trains students to serve in areas with healthcare shortages. Creighton also has a Physical Therapy Residency Program offering specialised clinical practice training.

Admission Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree: Completing a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.
• Minimum GPA: A cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
• Prerequisite Courses: Completion of specific courses with a grade of 'C' or higher (a 'C-' is not acceptable):
  • General Biology I & II with labs (8 semester hours)
  • General Chemistry I & II with labs (8 semester hours)
  • General Physics I & II with labs (8 semester hours)
  • Human or Mammalian Physiology (3 semester hours)
  • Human Anatomy (3 semester hours)
  • English, including Composition (6 semester hours)
  • Statistics (3 semester hours)
  • Electives (51 semester hours)
• Observation Hours: A minimum of 60 hours supervised by a licensed physical therapist.
• Letters of Recommendation: Three letters, including one from a licensed physical therapist and one from a college professor or work supervisor.
• Interview: Qualified applicants may be invited for a personal interview.

Note: The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is not required for admission.

Ohio State University

Ohio State's Doctor of Physical Therapy program has over 60 years of experience and is known as one of the best in the country. For current physical therapists, it also offers several post-professional education programs. These include residencies in Orthopaedics, Neurology, Paediatrics, Geriatrics, Sports, and Women’s Health.

OSU students can customise their degrees with graduate specialisations in paediatrics, research, or global health. A post-professional master’s degree is also available for those interested in teaching or research roles.

Many faculty members have advanced degrees and have published research in top journals. If you want to combine a DPT with a PhD, this program can help you pursue a career in academics and research.

The job outlook for physical therapists is strong. The field is expected to grow 15% by 2032. In 2022, the median annual wage for PTs was over $97,700.

Admission Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree: Required from an accredited institution.
• Minimum GPA: 3.0 cumulative.
• Prerequisite Courses: Grades of 'C' or higher in:
  • Human Anatomy with Lab
  • Human Physiology
  • General Biology with Lab
  • General Chemistry with Lab
  • General Physics with Lab
  • Introductory Psychology
  • Human Growth and Development
  • Exercise Physiology
  • Statistics
• Observation Hours: Minimum of 40 hours under a licensed physical therapist.
• Letters of Recommendation: Three are required.
• Interview: By invitation.

University of Pittsburgh

The University of Pittsburgh’s DPT is well-ranked and prepares students for leadership in healthcare. It offers a 7-term curriculum with two formats: Residential and Hybrid. The hybrid option is for high-quality, interactive learning.

Admission Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0.
• 40 hours of physical therapy exposure
• ’C’ grade or higher in all prerequisite courses.
• Apply via the PTCAS portal.
• Personal statement and University of Pittsburgh essay.
• Three recommendation letters
• Official transcripts
• For international applicants: English Language Test (IELTS 7.0; Duolingo 130; TOEFL 100).

Comparisons of the Top DPT Programs

University Name	Location	Program Duration	Tuition Fees
Washington University in St. Louis	St. Louis, MO	2.5 years	$134800
University of Delaware	Newark, DE	2.5 years	$118,683
University of Iowa	Iowa City, IA	2.5 years	$115529
Emory University	Atlanta, GA	3 years	$124470
Northwestern University	Evanston, IL	2.25 years	$141672
Duke University	Durham, NC	3 years	$137100
University of Southern California	Los Angeles, CA	3 years	$228452
Creighton University	Omaha, NE & Phoenix	3 years	$169133
Ohio State University	Columbus, OH	3 years	$168705
University of Pittsburgh	Pittsburgh, PA	3 years	$125630

How to Choose the Right DPT Program for You

Here are a few key considerations to keep in mind when selecting a DPT program.

Accreditation and Reputation

Make sure CAPTE accredits the program. This is important for licensing. Choose a program with a strong reputation in physical therapy education.

Location and Format

Think about where you want to study. Some programs are hybrid, offering both online and in-person classes. Decide if you want to study near home or in a new city.

Clinical Experience

Check how much hands-on training the program offers. You’ll need real-world experience with patients. Look for programs with strong clinical opportunities to prepare you for practice.

Cost and Financial Aid

Consider the tuition costs as well. Also, check the available financial aid. Some programs offer scholarships, loans, or work-study options. Make sure you can afford the program.

Job Placement and Alumni Success

Research the program’s job placement rate. A strong program should help students find jobs after graduation.

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Career Prospects After Graduating from Top DPT Programs

The demand for physical therapists continues to grow. More and more people require assistance with mobility, and the ageing population will create additional job opportunities. The US Bureau of Labour Statistics projects that the need for physical therapists will increase by 15% by 2032, which is significantly faster than the average growth rate for most occupations.

Potential Career Paths

Graduates can choose many career paths after completing a DPT program:

• Clinical Practice
• Acute Care
• Rehabilitation Hospital
• Sub-Acute Rehabilitation
• Sports/Fitness
• Home Health
• Telehealth
• Research and Academia

The average salary for physical therapists is nearly $87,930, according to US News & World Report. Salaries can be higher, depending on your experience and the location of your work. For example, PTs specialising in certain areas or working in hospitals may earn more.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the highest degree in physical therapy?

The highest degree in physical therapy is a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT). It is the required degree for practising as a physical therapist.

What are the best physical therapy schools in the world?

Some of the best physical therapy schools include the University of Southern California, the University of Pittsburgh, and Washington University in St. Louis.

Which specialisation is best in DPT?

The best specialisation depends on your interests. Some popular ones are orthopaedic, neurologic, and sports physical therapy.

How competitive are DPT programs?

DPT programs are competitive. They require a strong academic record, relevant experience, and good recommendations.

What is the typical duration of DPT training?

After earning a bachelor's degree, DPT programs typically take approximately 3 years to complete.

Are there online DPT programs available?

Yes, some universities offer hybrid or online DPT programs, but they still require in-person clinical experience.

Conclusion

Choosing the best university for your Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program is a big decision. The best universities for DPT offer great education, hands-on experience, and the support you need to succeed. Each school has its strengths, whether in research, clinical work, or leadership training. Take a moment to reflect on what matters most to you. With the right university, you’ll be ready to start your career as a physical therapist!

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