Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)

The Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine is an innovative 32-month curriculum designed to prepare students for careers as physical therapists and movement scientists. It integrates basic science and clinical coursework within a movement sciences framework, emphasizing clinical decision-making grounded in scientific principles, patient values, and evidence-based practice. The program utilizes a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, small-group discussions, anatomy and clinical skills labs, team-based learning, research projects, service learning, and interprofessional education. Faculty are dedicated to the scientific foundations of contemporary practice and the scholarship of teaching and learning. The curriculum is structured around the Motor Control Framework (MCF), developed by Northwestern faculty, to help students diagnose and treat movement dysfunction. Students learn to observe movement, integrate information about the person, task, and environment, and formulate hypotheses for examination and care plans, with evidence-based practice integrated throughout. The program includes extensive clinical experiences, comprising four full-time clinical rotations and part-time integrated experiences throughout the didactic training. These experiences allow students to apply their knowledge and skills under supervision in various practice settings across the lifespan. The department also fosters global health awareness and opportunities through partnerships, including international clinical rotations in Belize and Chile, and local community engagement initiatives.

Curriculum

The DPT program utilizes an innovative 32-month curriculum that includes lectures, small-group discussions, anatomy and clinical skills labs, team-based learning, synthesis research projects, community-based service learning, interprofessional education, integrated clinical experiences, and full-time clinical experiences. Students gain experience in both basic science and clinical coursework within a movement sciences framework, with a focus on developing clinical decision-making abilities based on scientific principles, patient values, clinical evidence, and collaborative practice. The curriculum is built around the Motor Control Framework (MCF) developed by Northwestern faculty.

1. Year 1
   • Anatomy I
   • Physiology I
   • Kinesiology I
   • Exam & Evaluation I
   • Intro to Clinical Decision Making
   • Psychosocial I
   • Clinical Practice Seminar I
   • Professional Advancement & Community Engagement (PACE)
   • Synthesis I
2. Year 2
   • Anatomy II
   • Physiology II
   • Kinesiology II
   • Exam & Evaluation II
   • Foundations of PT I
   • Professional Role Development I
   • Clinical Practice Seminar II
   • PACE
   • Synthesis II
3. Year 3
   • Neuroscience I
   • Clinical Management of Patients with: Neurological Dysfunction I
   • Clinical Management of Patients with: CVP Dysfunction I
   • Foundations of PT II
   • Professional Role Development II
   • Clinical Practice Seminar II
   • Synthesis III

Careers

The DPT program aims to prepare the next generation of physical therapists and movement scientists. Graduates will be equipped with the skills and knowledge for contemporary practice and scholarship. The program's emphasis on clinical decision-making, evidence-based practice, and professional development supports career readiness.

• Physical Therapist
• Movement Scientist

Frequently asked questions

What is the duration of the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program?

The DPT program at Northwestern University is an innovative 32-month curriculum designed to prepare students for careers as physical therapists and movement scientists.

What are the key components of the DPT curriculum?

The curriculum integrates basic science and clinical coursework within a movement sciences framework, emphasizing clinical decision-making. It includes lectures, labs, team-based learning, research projects, service learning, interprofessional education, and extensive clinical experiences with four full-time rotations.

What are the career outcomes for DPT graduates?

Graduates are prepared for roles as Physical Therapists and Movement Scientists, equipped with skills for contemporary practice and scholarship, with an emphasis on clinical decision-making and evidence-based practice.

When is the application deadline for the DPT program?

The application deadline for Fall 2027 admission is December 1, at 5 PM (CST). The application opening for Fall 2027 admission is September 2026.

What documents are required for the DPT application?

Applicants must submit an online application form, 2-3 letters of recommendation, original transcripts from all previously attended universities, a Resume/CV, and English proficiency certification if applicable.

Where can I find information about tuition and fees for the DPT program?

Questions about tuition, fees, or billing can be directed to Student Finance or their FAQ page. Specific tuition amounts are available on the Feinberg School of Medicine's Graduate Tuition page.