Doctor of Physical Therapy

The Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) is a professional graduate program which prepares individuals for licensure and entry into the physical therapy profession. As a graduate program, it includes theoretical, clinical practice, and research courses and experiences to prepare graduates to function in a variety of settings in physical therapy. Physical therapy is concerned with the prevention and treatment of acute and chronic conditions that cause disorders of movement. In order to provide appropriate treatment, physical therapists evaluate the musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, cardiopulmonary, and associated systems, calling on the basic sciences and behavioral sciences in the interpretation of this evaluation. Patient programs are then developed to resolve movement dysfunctions. Physical therapists work in concert with all members of the health care team through a variety of referral relationships. The Doctor of Physical Therapy at Oakland University is designed to prepare clinicians with the evaluation and examination skills necessary to make physical therapy differential diagnoses of movement related impairments affecting the neuromusculoskeletal system. In addition, this degree will prepare graduates to provide effective care in the areas of prevention, screening, rehabilitation and community reintegration for their clients. Finally, graduates will be able to interpret and conduct research related to physical therapy.