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PHYSICAL THERAPY AT THE UNIVERSITY OF UTAH

Our program in physical therapy has been preparing students to be highly competent and compassionate professionals for over 50 years. We take pride in bringing together the most advanced educational philosophies and the most current research together with the finest faculty to create an effective and supportive learning environment. Proof of our success is a high graduation rate, high national licensure exam pass rate, and high employment rate. Find more information here.


Department Chair: Dr. Lee Dibble, PT, PhD, ATC, FAPTA

Program Director: Dr. Bo Foreman, PT, PhD

One Program, Three Options

The University of Utah Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program now offers three pathways. Two residential pathways, one in Salt Lake City, and one in St. George, Utah. The third Hybrid pathway, allows students to earn their degree without needing to relocate.  
Admissionsprerequisites, and application requirements for each option are identical. 

    The Hybrid Option will provide the unique opportunity for students to earn a DPT degree from the University of Utah without having to relocate. Didactic coursework will be conducted through a layered learning model which includes engaging asynchronous content, live online sessions, and two in-person immersions per semester. Immersions will take place on the Salt Lake City Campus and are required. Clinical experiences will take place in students' communities, which empowers students to learn in an intimate and innovative atmosphere while staying close to home.

    The Hybrid Option is accepting applications for students to begin in May 2023. Hybrid applicants are required to submit a PTCAS application for the Hybrid option specifically, listed under University of Utah - Hybrid Option. All other application requirements remain the same. 

    The Commission on Accreditation for Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) approved the Hybrid Option in November 2022. 

    The Salt Lake City campus is nestled next to the Wasatch mountains and is within minutes of nearby hiking trails, ski resorts, and mountain biking trails. Salt Lake City is the birthplace of our DPT program. Students in Salt Lake City receive didactic coursework in-person via video conferencing technology with the St. George campus. 

    Applicants can apply by indicating campus choice on our PTCAS application - University of Utah - Residential Option.

    Located on the Utah Tech University (UTU) campus, St. George offers state of the art facilities, student services provided by the University of Utah and UTU, and close proximity to several National Parks. Didactic coursework is in-person conducted via video conferencing technology with the Salt Lake City campus. 

    The St. George option was approved by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) in May 2022. Our first cohort of St. George students began in June 2022. Applicants can apply by indicating campus choice on our PTCAS application - University of Utah - Residential Option.

    3:52 video explaining the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program.

    Prospective Students

    General PT Information Sessions 

    The University of Utah Physical Therapy Department hosts general information sessions each month to provide information on physical therapy as a career; pre-requisites necessary for application to the program; and admission procedures. Most prospective students find their questions are answered during a session. All are welcome to attend.

    Click here to see dates and times for upcoming Information Sessions 

    You can also find information for prerequisites, application instructions, and admissions information by browsing our website.

    Pre-PT Club

    The Pre-Physical Therapy (Pre-PT) Club is a student-run organization with quasi-affiliation with the Department of Physical Therapy. Membership in the Pre-PT Club promotes camaraderie between persons interested in pursuing a career in physical therapy and provides opportunities for members to learn about the profession. The Club acts as a voice for physical therapy on campus, promotes interest in physical therapy and provides service to the community. Meetings are for members only; there is a one-time membership fee. The club is open to anyone interested in physical therapy.

    For questions, email us or visit our website.