Doctoral

Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)

Start your physical therapy career by earning your Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) at Pitt through our hybrid option.

In-Person Experience

In-person projects or clinicals at non-campus sites required to complete your program.

On-Campus Immersion

Students are required to visit the Pitt campus to conduct hands-on classwork with faculty supervision.

Scheduled Live Courses

Synchronous class time with a professor online.

Top Ranked

Recognized among the best in its field by national rankings like U.S. News & World Report.

Next Application Date

October 1 for Fall Term

Credits

106

Pacing

Full-time

Format

Hybrid

Type of Program

Doctoral

Advance Your Expertise in Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)

Students will study with our world-renown faculty who are shaping the field of physical therapy practice. Become a confident clinician through 42-weeks of real-world experience. The Pitt DPT curriculum is designed to emphasize early and intensive integration of students into the clinical environment throughout their time in the program.

On-campus immersions are led by faculty, guest instructors and adjunct faculty who are experts in their field of practice, providing a low 8:1 student-to-faculty ratio that allows for an optimal and engaging learning experience. Immersion sessions offer open laboratory time where students can freely practice skills outside formal instruction, while still having access to faculty for questions.

Eligibility

A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. View all DPT admissions information on the SHRS website.

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On-Campus

Experience

Two immersions per term (lasting six to nine days) for the first five hybrid semesters.

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Licensure

Pathways

Graduates of the DPT program are eligible to sit for the national examination for physical therapists administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT), the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE). After successful completion of this exam, and meeting varying state-by-state requirements, the graduate can become licensed.

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Accreditation

Accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE).

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Important Application Dates 

The Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) has one application cycle per year.  You can start the program the following fall.

Application deadline

October 1

Class start

Fall Term

What to Expect in Your Classes 

This program offers online instruction and required in-person immersions in Pittsburgh, totaling 106 credits. All coursework is delivered in an online format, giving you the flexibility to study from anywhere. Classes run for 15 weeks (except summer terms), allowing you to complete the program in 2 years and 3 months (7 terms, including 2 summer terms). Students will study full-time.

  • Total Courses 34
  • Credit Hours 106
  • Format Hybrid
  • Class Lengths 15 weeks
  • Time to Completion 2.3 years
  • Pace Options Full-Time

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Plan Your Education With Confidence in Cost 

The Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) current tuition rates are listed for in-state and out-of-state students. To support students in financing their education, the University of Pittsburgh offers a range of financial aid options and payment plans, making it easier to manage tuition costs while completing your studies.

2026-27 tuition rates are pending approval by the Board of Trustees, expected in July 2026.

View additional fees and estimated expenses