Best Physical Therapy and Therapist Masters Programs in Wisconsin

The UW-Madison Doctor of Physical Therapy Program curriculum focuses on the study of diagnosis and interventions for improving dysfunctional human movement and is built upon a foundation of scientific inquiry and critical appraisal of published works.

The UW-Madison Doctor of Physical Therapy curriculum is organized into three distinct yet integrated tracks:.

Each track consists of sequential and progressive course work, using sound education principles. Students take all of the courses in each track. The curriculum is initially weighted heavier in the basic science track, ending with emphasis in the clinical practice track. Most semesters incorporate courses from all three tracks.

For example, in the basic science and clinical science tracks, a systems model is utilized to organize content, with an emphasis on structure-function relationships and development across the lifespan. A problem-oriented model based on scientific method is used throughout the curriculum to guide critical inquiry, clinical decision-making and patient management. These processes are integrated with relevant content and ultimately applied during the clinical internships within the clinical practice track.

The Doctor of Physical Therapy Program curriculum also emphasizes evidence-based practice. Other trans-curricular themes include integration across domains, generalist practice, ethical practice, critical thinking and problem-solving, cultural diversity, patient-centered care, clinical medicine, prevention wellness, life-long learning and openness to new ideas.

Explore over 70 certificate, master and doctoral programs offered through the Graduate School at Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Marquette is routinely listed among the country top universities, renowned for academic rigor, innovation and the achievements of its community of scholars.

Highly competitive Physical Therapy, which ranks in the top 10 percent of the than 200 accredited physical therapy programs nationwide. It is also part of the Clinical and Translational Science Institute of Southeastern Wisconsin (CTSI), which is funded by the National Institutes of Health. The Exercise and Rehabilitation Science program is one of only a few CTSI programs in the country specifically geared toward clinical research training in physical therapy and rehabilitation science.

Students will have access to CTSI partner institutions for collaborative research opportunities, patient populations and advanced course work.

The master of science program in exercise and rehabilitation science:.

Designed for individuals with an interest in clinical research or future plans to pursue a post-baccalaureate clinical degree.

Students may choose from a variety of areas of emphasis for their degree including:.

Both thesis and non-thesis options are available. Students interested in an MS in clinical research must successfully defend a thesis consisting of a translational research project by the end of their second year. Those students pursuing a non-thesis track must present a scholarly paper in their second year.

Students graduating from the MS program will be able to:.

We anticipate that students who graduate from the EXRS-MS program at Marquette will be able to make a contribution to scholarship or clinical practice in the field of rehabilitation medicine.

Students in the Exercise and Rehabilitation Science program typically begin their studies in the fall of each academic year. Admission is on a rolling basis, so applicants are encouraged to apply early.

Earn your PhD in exercise and rehabilitation science.

24 credits of basic science course work accepted from your post-baccalaureate clinical degree.

Core course work in rehabilitation systems physiology, applied neurophysiology, statistics, molecular genetics and research methodology.

The doctoral program is suited for practicing physicians, physical therapists, occupational therapists, physician assistants and nurses with post-baccalaureate degrees interested in a translational research and clinical research training.

The doctor of philosophy builds upon the core competencies of clinical degrees (anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, medical ethics and patient care) with course work in rehabilitation systems physiology, applied neurophysiology, statistics, molecular genetics and research methodology.

Students have access to state of the art research techniques in the exercise, rehabilitation and movement disorders research core laboratories housed within the exercise science program and the Physical Therapy.

Students graduating from the PhD program will be able to:.

We anticipate that students who graduate from the EXRS-doctoral program at Marquette will demonstrate commitment to advancing the values of scholarship in their own careers and in the mentorship of others.

Students enrolled in the program typically begin their studies in the fall of each academic year. Admission is on a rolling basis, so applicants are encouraged to apply early.

Earn a Combined PT PhD in exercise and rehabilitation science.

The combined PT PhD degree track is for students currently enrolled in the Marquette Physical Therapy program. For MUPT students, they are eligible to apply for the combined PT PhD program in the Fall of their second year of study.

A bachelor degree from a regionally accredited institution or international equivalent must be completed prior to starting graduate school.

A bachelor and master degree in a related discipline or a post-baccalaureate degree in a clinical profession (physician assistant studies, physical therapy, doctor of medicine, nursing, speech-language pathology, etc.) from a regionally accredited institution or international equivalent must be completed prior to starting graduate school.

If coursework was completed outside of the United States, a transcript evaluation is required. A copy of a course-by-course evaluation is approved for the application process.2.

A personal statement of no than 500 words addressing your purpose for applying to the program, your ability to successfully complete the program and your goals (short and long term).

At least one academic reference must be included.

Applicants may wish to submit one example of written work, such as a class project, course assignment, first author publication, grant application, etc.

Students typically begin their studies in the fall of each academic year. This program has rolling admission, which means you may apply any time before the following dates but applicants are encouraged to apply early.

Applicants who wish to be considered for merit-based financial aid (graduate assistantships fellowships) should be aware of the merit-based financial aid deadlines. To be considered for merit-based financial aid, all applicant materials must be received by the Graduate School by February 15.

Research assistantships within the Exercise Rehabilitation Health Science program are available to a limited number of doctoral candidates. Assistantships include a full tuition scholarship, stipend for living expenses, and subsidized medical insurance. Private scholarships may also be available. U.S. citizens and permanent residents may be eligible to apply for need-based federal aid (loans) to help fund their educational expenses as well.

Discover what our graduate students are involved in while in the program.

Program Duration: MS 2 years, Doctoral average 4-6 years.

Earn your Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree at UW-La Crosse!

HEALTH SCIENCE CONSORTIUMInter-professional collaboration research with health programs from local universities.

NATIONALLY ACCREDITED PROGRAMThe Doctor of Physical Therapy Program at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE).

IMPRESSIVE EMPLOYMENT OUTLOOKAccording to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of Physical Therapists is expected to grow 15% from 2022-2032, considerably faster than the national average for all occupations. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

When individuals are recovering from injury or disease, the physical therapist evaluates and directs the recovery process to relieve pain, make them stronger, and help them to regain use of an affected limb.

A physical therapist is an integral part of the health care team that makes these goals a reality.

How UWL new program transforms lives of amputees and PT students.

Virtual rehab: UWL Physical Therapy Program embraces shift to telehealth. in the Campus Connection.

UWL PT students create programming for people with progressive neurological diseases in unique community program.

Led by Tom Kernozek, UW-La Crosse physical therapy program a hotbed for scientific studies. at the La Crosse Tribune.

The UW-La Crosse PT Program has been granted the maximum 10 years of accreditation. in Campus News.

Women in medicinePosted 2 a.m.Tuesday, Jan.9, 2024 Physical therapy doctoral student recognized for Achilles research Women in medicine.

AcademicsCollege of Health SciencesDoctor of Physical Therapy the Program.

The Carroll University Entry-level Doctor of Physical Therapy program consists of a six-year course of study, divided into two phases. The pre-professional phase consists of the freshman, sopho and junior years when students pursue their bachelor degree while the professional phase includes the senior year and two years of graduate study allowing the student to earn the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) in a total of six years.

The Entry-Level Doctor of Physical Therapy program involves three years of coursework and internships. During Year I, students complete 30 credits in physical therapy program at the 400 level. Bachelor degrees are awarded to those students satisfying all relevant college requirements at the conclusion of Year I, which is the senior year for students following the 3+3 cohort. In addition, students must satisfy specific academic requirements to progress in both Year II and Year III of the DPT program.

Students take 46 credits of courses in physical therapy at both the Year II and Year III levels. An entry-level Doctor of Physical Therapy degree is awarded upon successful completion of all three years of the DPT program. As part of the DPT Year II and Year III professional curriculum, the candidates must satisfactorily complete all required weeks of clinical education at facilities affiliated with Carroll.

Pass a national board exam administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT).

Secure a physical therapy state license through a state regulation and licensing.

Concordia PT program is committed to equipping you with a sound foundation in movement science, faith, and integrity. Whether you're currently a PTA or beginning your search for physical therapist schooling, our program will empower you to graduate prepared for safe, autonomous, and ethical practice, ready to serve your patients and community in mind, body, and spirit.

Our team is standing by to assist you with additional program details, financial aid options, and admissions questions.

We're excited to offer multiple program pathways to help you take the next step in your career as a physical therapist. Not only will you explore the scientific underpinnings of PT but also the professional characteristics required in healthcare learn supervise PT staff, create programs promoting healthy, holistic lifestyles, and follow the ethical and legal standards necessary in clinical practice.

The following PT pathways will help you to streamline your doctorate with the path that best suits your needs and educational background:.

For CUW students with any major who take all prerequisite science courses at CUW. Students in this pathway can earn their bachelor and doctorate in 6.5 years.

For incoming freshmen looking to earn both their bachelor and doctorate in 5.5 years.

Our goal is to ensure that as a DPT graduate, you'll be able to demonstrate the knowledge and skills for entry-level practice of physical therapy as a generalist clinician. Our comprehensive curriculum includes coursework in human anatomy, movement science, therapeutic exercise, neuroscience, clinical decision-making and problem-solving, and musculoskeletal disorders just to name a few.

Our state-of-the-art facilities give you access to our human anatomy lab, where you'll have opportunities to interact with cadavers to supplement your education. By combining classroom, laboratory, and clinical education, you'll graduate with the knowledge and skills necessary to embody professionalism, servant leadership, and advocacy in the ever-changing healthcare system.

The physical therapy program at CUW is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). Graduation from a CAPTE-accredited program is required for eligibility to sit for the licensing exam, for which Concordia graduates have an ultimate pass rate of 100%. Graduates will be eligible to sit for the national physical therapy licensing exam. You may also be interested in adding a specialty to your PT license. Consider Concordia orthopedic residency program as a way to add an orthopedic specialty to your DPT.

Applicants to the Doctor of Physical Therapy program apply through an online service called Physical Therapist Centralized Application Service (PTCAS).

Please official GRE scores to code 7697 for the Concordia DPT program they will automatically be sent to PTCAS. Do not send your GRE scores to the main university or graduate admissions code.

To apply for this program you must have the following:.

Minimum GPA of 3.0 in all prerequisite sciences with no final individual science prerequisite course grade less than a C.

Ability to perform Essential Functions of a physical therapist.

Completion of the following prerequisite courses: (also see PTCAS for listing).

Human Anatomy and Physiology I II: full year sequence of either separate Anatomy and Physiology courses or A P I and II are accepted. Must include face to face lab.

Physics I II: two-semester sequence of General Physics with face to face labs are required. Courses do not need to be Calculus-based.

Statistics Course: one 3-credit statistics course completed with a grade of C or better. Courses taught within biology, psychology and mathematics department are acceptable.

The priority admission option will allow students to complete the Doctor of Physical Therapy degree in 6.5 years. The option will be open to students who matriculate as freshmen at the Concordia University Mequon campus and who take all science prerequisite coursework on the Mequon campus.

At the time of application are not missing than one prerequisite science course.

Have an overall science prerequisite course GPA of 3.30 with no individual science prerequisite course grade less than a C.

Students are able to retake no than one science prerequisite course.

The accelerated admission option will allow students to complete the Doctor of Physical Therapy degree in 5.5 years. The option will be open to students who matriculate as freshmen at the Concordia University Mequon campus and who take all science prerequisite coursework on the Mequon campus.

If you decide to pursue admission through the accelerated process, you will receive a Bachelor of Science in Rehabilitation Science (BSRS) following completion of your fourth year of academic study at Concordia University.

Demonstrate proficiency in science courses retaking no than one prerequisite science course. In addition, students who withdraw from a course late in the semester are not eligible for accelerated admission.

Have all Science prerequisite courses completed by end of spring semester sopho year and apply for early decision via Physical Therapy Centralized Application Service (PTCAS) during summer between sopho and junior year.

Have earned a 3.30 in the science prerequisite courses AND have a 3.0 overall GPA.

All science courses will need to be completed at SNC or VU.

CAPTE accreditation of a physical therapist or physical therapist assistant program satisfies state educational requirements in all states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Thus, students graduating from CAPTE-accredited physical therapist and physical therapist assistant education programs are eligible to take the National Physical Therapy Examination and apply for licensure in all states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

The Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) approved Concordia University DPT program application for substantive change and continues accreditation for a Bridge DPT cohort. Effective date of this approval was November 2, 2021.

States have established standards of practice for physical therapists.

Hannah BakerPT, DPT, PhD, Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Geriatric Physical Therapy.

Psychosocial Elements of Physical Therapy: The Connection of Body to Mind. Thorofare, NJ: SLACK.

Robert BarnhartPT, MS, ScDPT, Board Certified Specialist in Pediatric Physical Therapy Emeritus.

Sci D Physical Therapy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center (2006).

MS Rehabilitation Adaptive Physical Education, University of Tennessee (1992).

Physical Therapy, Emory University School of Medicine (1979).

Impact Spirituality (therapist and patient) has on rehabilitation process.

Kate BennettPT, DPT, ATC, Board Certified Clinical Specialist in Neurologic Physical Therapy.

DPT Physical Therapy, College of St. Scholastica (2015).

Stolzman, S., Alfonsi, E., Bennett, K., Gruben, N., Loughlin, A., Pennings, O. Facilitating Acute Care Competencies and Confidence in Doctorate Physical Therapy Students. APTA Wisconsin Fall 2023 Conference. Wisconsin Dells, WI.

ColemanPT, DPT, Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Orthopaedic Physical Therapy.

Coleman has taught across all three cohorts in the Concordia Doctor of Physical Therapy program and currently instructs courses in Evidence-Based Practice, Orthopedics, and elective courses in manual therapy. I am passionate mentoring and teaching DPT students the skills required to deliver quality, evidence-based patient care.

DPT Physical Therapy Concordia University Wisconsin (2011).

Dale GerkePT, MPT, ScD Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Orthopaedics Fellow, American Academy of Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapists.

He teaches in the Entry Level Physical Therapy and Orthopedic Residency programs.

MPT Physical Therapy, Concordia University Wisconsin (2000).

Physical Therapy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (2009).

Gerke, D., Nelson, E., Bruggink, B., Smith, Z., Goetz, E. Menges, L., (2021). A Survey of Diagnostic Imaging Curricula in Orthopaedic Physical Therapy Residency and Fellowship Programs. Oral Presentation.

Emily Goetz-SutinenPT, DPT, Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Orthopaedic Physical Therapy.

DPT Physical Therapy, Concordia University Wisconsin (2018).

Goetz, E., Menges, L. Bidney, A., (2019). When are They Ready: An Objective Influence on Return to Sport Decision Making After ACL Reconstruction. Oral Presentation. Aurora Sport Symposium.

Goetz, E., Menges, L. Bidney, A., (2019). Demonstration. Aurora Sport Symposium.

MS Human Performance, University of Wisconsin-La Crosse (2015).

Training Elite Athletes Across the Lifespan. American Physical Therapy Association Wisconsin. Pewaukee, WI.

Kathy Lemley teaches human anatomy and neuroscience in the Physical Therapy program.

MS Human Kinetics, University of Wisconsin Milwaukee (1999).

BS Physical Therapy, University of Wisconsin (1984).

Berrios Barillas, R. Lemley, K. (2 ed., vol. Journal of Occupational Therapy Education.

Albers, M., Bares, K., Kitching, A., Miller, A., Olson, A., Schulz, A., Suess, B., Wegener, S., Morrissey, A., Stolzman, S. Lemley, K., (2019). Effects of Retrowalking on Exercise-Induced Hypoalgesia in Healthy Young Adults: A Pilot Study. Wisconsin Physical Therapy Association Fall Conference. Madison, WI.

Lemley, K., Stolzman, S. Morrissey, A., (2019). Leg Dominance May Influence Exercise-Induced Hypoalgesia Response to Moderate Intensity Retrowalking: A Pilot Study.

Sojka, M., Brunette, P., Barg, A., Wolf, A., Hausl, S., Thompson, S., Poirier, N., Sanders, S., Fischer, R. Lemley, K., (2018). A systematic review. Wisconsin Physical Therapy Association Fall Conference. Wisconsin Dells, WI.

My clinical practice spans over forty years, with experience in all aspects of acute care and outpatient physical therapy. My areas of expertise are in the physical therapy management of the geriatric patients with special interest in working with the individual with Parkinson Disease. I am a Board Certified Geriatric Clinical Specialist. I recently was re-certification which is good thru 2032.

Petersen, C., Steffen, T., Paly, E., Dvorak, L. Nelson, R. Reliability and Mininal Detectable Change for Sit-to-Stand tests and the Functional Gait Assessment for Individuals with Parkinson Disease. Academy of Geriatric Physical Therapy: Journal of Geriatric Physical Therapy.

Clinical decision making, therapeutic exercise and supervising students practicing their hands-on skills to clients in the community thru the Community Clinic Courses.

EDD Doctorate in Educational Leadership, University of the Cumberlands (2022).

The PT program does not observe the week 6 Fall or Spring semester break.

The Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program Bridge track is designed for licensed Physical therapy Assistants (PTA) with at least one year of clinical experience. Our flexible hybrid learning format allows you to learn online with one on-campus weekend required per month (Fridays 12 pm-9 pm Saturdays 8 am-5 pm).

Choose between our two bridge programs based on your current level of education:.

For PTA with an associate degree PTA to BSRS to DPT.

For PTA with their bachelor degree PTA to DPT Bridge.

Licensed PTAs with a bachelor degree and at least one year of experience can earn a DPT degree in as little as 2.5-years. (103 credits) The hybrid program format allows students to continue working as a PTA for approximately 8 hours per week during the first two years of the program.

All students applying for admission to the program must:.

Be a licensed physical therapist assistant working at least 80 hours per month as a PTA.

Two semesters of human anatomy and physiology, both taught in a science, anatomy, biomedical science, or biology.

All prerequisite science courses need to have been completed within the last 7 years.

Applicants who already have their bachelor can Doctor of Physical Therapy Bridge program through an online service called Physical Therapist Centralized Application Service (PTCAS).

Please official GRE scores to code 7697 they will automatically be sent to PTCAS. Do not send your GRE scores to the main university or graduate admissions.

Applicants with an associate degree can earn their Bachelor of Science in Rehabilitation Science (BSRS) and their Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree in a continuous plan. Applicants whose highest degree is an associate degree must apply for the BSRS bridge program.

Prerequisite science coursework must be completed prior to admission into the DPT program.

Applicants who are currently in the CUW BSRS program and applying to the Bridge DPT program must also have:.

3.0 cumulative GPA in prerequisite science courses in BSRS program.

Graduation rate according to the formula in the Annual Accreditation Report The two-year average first-time pass rate for our program is 100% Licensure examination pass rate consistent with the information published by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy Employment rate: % of graduates who were employed within 6 months of passing the licensure examination.

Goal 1: Demonstrate the knowledge and skills for entry-level practice of physical therapy as a generalist clinician.

Possess the knowledge and skills related to developing prevention health promotion programs.

Please note, students will benefit from a locked tuition rate for all three years of study. Tuition is based upon the year students enter into the program.

Our partnership with Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science (RFU) provides you with an opportunity to obtain both a bachelor degree in biology or sport and exercise science from WLC and a Doctorate in Physical Therapy (D.P.T.) from RFU in just six years instead of the usual seven or eight.

This accelerated program is designed for students who want to pursue a career as a Doctor of Physical Therapy, allowing you to complete your doctorate degree in physical therapy a year or two earlier than typical, saving you tuition expenses and allowing you to enter the workforce with an advanced degree and begin earning income sooner.

Physical therapists are also in high demand.

Our close affiliation with RFU means you will not need to take the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) that is required of most D.P.T. programs. Our partnership does not offer direct entry, therefore admission to RFU is competitive.

Students interested in the Christ-centered academic experience that WLC offers can now also achieve their career aspiration through advanced education at Rosalind Franklin University. The Physical Therapy program at RFU has quickly developed a reputation for excellence in inter-professional health care education.

The RFU two-year average National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) ultimate pass rate for the Classes of 2020 and 2021 was 100%. The two-year average Employment Rate for the Classes of 2019 and 2020 who passed the NPTE and sought employment in the field of physical therapy is 100%.

The Doctor of Physical Therapy Program at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE).