Commencement 2025
Doctoral Studies in Physical Therapy include a PhD in Physical Therapy degree and the Doctor of Physical Therapy degree. An accredited Residency Program in Pediatric Physical Therapy is also offered.
Undergraduate students may pursue a bachelor’s degree of their choice, see pre-physical therapy pathway below, in addition to completing coursework required for application to the DPT program.
PhD in Physical Therapy
The Doctor of Philosophy Degree (PhD) in Physical Therapy allows physical therapists to become researchers, educators and leaders in the field of physical therapy. This degree is available to physical therapists (MS, MA, or MPT prepared) who are licensed to practice in the United States. The PhD webpage provides information about the application process and plan of study.
DPT Degree
The entry-level Doctor of Physical Therapy degree is a three-year, clinical doctorate program that prepares students to become a physical therapist. The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE).
Did you know the UCA PhD in Physical Therapy and the Professional DPT Program both began in 2000? The first DPT class graduation was held in 2003. – UCA Physical Therapy
Pediatric Physical Therapy Residency Program
The Department of Physical Therapy is pleased to offer a Residence Program in Pediatric Physical Therapy. Our first residents began in September of 2009. This accredited program, designed for physical therapists practicing in the United States, is offered in cooperation with community partners at Arkansas Children’s Hospital and Allied Therapies.
Pre-Physical Therapy Pathway
UCA students may pursue a bachelor’s degree with a major of their choice in preparation for application to the DPT Program. The DPT prerequisite coursework and application process is described in detail in the UCA DPT Brochure (pdf).
International Students
All international students must also complete an application for international admission through the UCA Division of International Engagement. Please refer to the International Engagement website and the International Admissions website for more information. Among the requirements, international students must provide evidence of financial support for one academic year tuition.