The University of Lynchburg’s Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program provides students with the comprehensive knowledge and skills necessary to enter practice as a physical therapist. Our 115-semester-hour program is designed to meet the growing demand for physical therapists. It has been carefully planned to include a student-centered approach, evidence-based focus, and case-based integrated instruction.
All Lynchburg DPT students complete 40 weeks of supervised clinical experiences at various health care facilities across the U.S., allowing them to gain real-world experience. Faculty members are dedicated to student success and provide personalized instruction and mentoring through one-on-one office hours, small group sessions, lab work, and seminars.
Our comprehensive, progressive curriculum covers the full range of fundamental sciences and physical therapy practice areas while highlighting the importance of a patient-centered approach. Clinical decision-making skills and active learning strategies are emphasized throughout the curriculum.
At Lynchburg, we believe in providing a high-quality education with practical experiences for our DPT students so that they may become the highest-quality clinicians.
You’ll receive an education rooted in exceptional teaching, resources, and experiences — all designed to prepare you for success.
Lynchburg’s DPT program provides an unparalleled experience for aspiring physical therapists. With evidence-based instruction, student-centered learning environments, and a close working relationship with faculty, students can access the most current and up-to-date research and clinical information. The University also offers state-of-the-art classrooms and laboratory facilities, as well as onsite dedicated physical therapy research areas. Additionally, our health care partnerships offer unique clinical experiences that will prepare students for future practice.
Lynchburg’s program is a path to success:
Lynchburg offers an impressive 37,000-square-foot facility dedicated to physical therapy. Open 24/7, the building includes research lab space, classrooms, and a specialized graduate cadaver lab where students can gain hands-on experience working with human cadavers and anatomic models Additionally, the on-site University of Lynchburg Community Health Center allows students to apply their classroom knowledge treating real-life patients with a variety of health conditions.
Our institution has outstanding faculty who are committed to teaching and providing excellent patient care. Our faculty members are experts in their respective fields, many with active research projects that expand the knowledge base for physical therapy students. All faculty members are passionate about promoting student success through comprehensive instruction and fostering practical experience to prepare students for a successful career in physical therapy.
Tuition for the DPT program covers many additional expenses. These will save you thousands of dollars over your education and include:
The University of Lynchburg Community Health Center is an on-site clinic that’s run and staffed by DPT students. This clinic provides free physical therapy services to residents of Central Virginia who are either uninsured, underinsured, or have used up their insurance benefits. It offers an array of treatments such as strengthening, conditioning, manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, balance training, wellness services, and patient education. The center fosters collaboration among students and professors so they can learn how to become effective practitioners in providing quality care.
The service-oriented curriculum provides students with opportunities to gain experience by helping underserved communities. The Student Professional Involvement program plans service opportunities in the community and is involved in programs like Wheels on the James and the Special Olympics.
DPT students can opt to add an extra year of study at the end of their Doctor of Physical Therapy Program to pursue a Master of Science in Athletic Training. This program provides additional expertise in the fields of sports injury management, rehabilitation, and performance enhancement. This specialized dual degree prepares PTs for positions as clinicians in sports medicine clinics, universities, or professional teams. With such a dual certification, DPTs can be well-equipped to prevent and treat athlete injuries, as well as provide care for those suffering from disabilities or chronic diseases.
The University of Lynchburg DPT program allows students to access a variety of clinical sites, locally, regionally, and nationally. With more than 200 different clinical sites and partnerships, students have an extensive range of choices for their rotations. Each site provides varied learning experiences in physical therapy, allowing students to learn from experienced clinicians as they develop their skills and practice patient care. Clinical sites are carefully chosen based on the quality and scope of their services so that students can experience different settings and contexts in physical therapy.
Study abroad and service learning opportunities in the DPT program offer a unique opportunity for nontraditional learning. As a student in the University of Lynchburg’s DPT program, you’ll have the opportunity to study abroad in places like Italy, where you’ll experience the close connection between art and anatomy. You’ll also have several opportunities to travel to Central American or Caribbean nations to provide care to individuals who don’t have access to physical therapy.
