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 Pathways
The DPT Program offers three educational pathways: two residential pathways in Salt Lake City and St. George, Utah and one Hybrid pathway. Each requires its own application to be completed in PTCAS. Application requirements are identical for all three.
The Hybrid pathway 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.
Hybrid applicants are required to submit a PTCAS application for the Hybrid pathway specifically. All other application requirements are consistent across pathways.
The Commission on Accreditation for Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) approved the Hybrid pathway 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.
Salt Lake City Residential applicants are required to submit a PTCAS application for the Salt Lake City Residential pathway specifically. All other application requirements are consistent across pathways.
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.
St. George Residential applicants are required to submit a PTCAS application for the St. George Residential pathway specifically. All other application requirements are consistent across pathways.
The Commission on Accreditation for Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) approved the St. George pathway in May 2022.
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.
Accreditation
Accolades & Affiliations