Program Admission
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Admission is highly selective and enrollment in the DPT program is limited to 42 students. To be eligible for admission, students must have earned a bachelor's degree by the start of the program.
The Doctor of Physical Therapy program Admissions Committee considers the following factors in the selection process:
- Understanding of the Physical Therapy profession
- Understanding and involvement in cultural awareness and diversity
- Type of community activities
- Content of application forms and care with which they have been completed
- Quality of writing ability as demonstrated by personal narrative
Strength and Breadth of Academic Record
All prerequisite coursework must be completed by the start of the program, with a "C" grade or higher. In order to apply, your cumulative, science and last 45 semester credit GPAs must be 3.0 or higher. The method to document required prerequisite coursework is through the Pacific University School of Physical Therapy supplemental application. To ensure academic coursework will fulfill our requirements, complete an Unofficial Prerequisite Evaluation and submit to the Admissions Counselor for review.
Observation Experience
Applicants must demonstrate the accumulation of 100 hours of paid or volunteer experience with a current practicing certified Physical Therapist. Documentation of these experiences will occur in the PTCAS application and the Pacific University School of Physical Therapy supplemental application. Please note: The Admissions Committee will consider the total number of hours accumulated, "at the time" you submit your applications. No consideration will be given to hours projected for the future.
The Admissions Committee encourages seeking out observation experiences in diverse settings to provide an understanding of inpatient and outpatient populations. Examples may include, but are not limited to: hospitals, clinics (sports medicine, pediatrics, hand therapy), private offices, and schools.
Strength of Professional Evaluations
Two professional evaluations must be submitted with your application; one from a current practicing licensed PT and one additional reference. If possible, the other evaluation should be from a college faculty member, pre-professional committee, supervisor or employer. Professional evaluation forms are available through the PTCAS application.
Strength of On Campus Personal Interview
Additional Criteria Considered
More Information
We do not require the GRE for admission into the program
The Physical Therapy program does not grant advanced standing nor accept transfer students from other physical therapy programs.