Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)

Dr. Christine McCallum, Program Director


Program Vision

Our vision is to expand access to physical therapy services that empower individuals and communities.

Program Mission

Our program’s mission is to develop physical therapy professionals who are leaders in service and contemporary care through the integration of scientific knowledge, mindful reflection, and humanistic values grounded in the Judeo-Christian tradition.

Program Philosophy

The philosophy of Walsh University's Physical Therapy Program believes that to be a steward within today's healthcare environment, one must cultivate reflective, collaborative practice and exemplary professional behaviors. We foster leadership, service, and advocacy through mentorship and altruistic endeavors. Our program prepares graduates to manage movement dysfunction across the lifespan in diverse community settings through integrative experiences that transform learners into autonomous practitioners.

Program Goals

Building upon a liberal arts foundation, this graduate program develops students into competent physical therapy providers by emphasizing core values and essential characteristics, consistent with the mission of the program. Our program goals are to:

1. Prepare physical therapists to optimize human movement among diverse populations, conditions and environments.

2. Cultivate ethical critical thinkers who prioritize patient-centered care.

3. Engage in service to support the needs of our profession, communities, and society.

4. Foster clinical excellence, professionalism, and innovations that improve healthcare outcomes.

5. Inspire physical therapy professionals to be leaders who transform healthcare.

Program Student Learning Outcomes

To achieve these goals, students must demonstrate comprehensive knowledge, clinical skills, and professional mindfulness expected of competent physical therapists while embodying Walsh University's Judeo-Christian values. The following outcomes reflect these expectations:

The Program Student Learning Outcomes (PSLOs) define essential capabilities that students must demonstrate for entry-level physical therapy practice. The following PSLOs establish the foundational expectations for all Walsh University Doctor of Physical Therapy students at the time of graduation:

1. Demonstrate entry-level competency in all components of the patient/client management model within the physical therapy scope of practice.

2. Apply competent critical thinking and ethical clinical reasoning skills consistent with professional physical therapy practice.

3. Serve the program, profession, local communities or broader society to improve health, wellness and/or professional practice.

4. Be proficient in analyzing, evaluating and synthesizing information to make sound clinical and professional practice decisions.

5. Use knowledge, skills and behaviors consistent with professional physical therapy practice to deliver quality clinical care.

6. Demonstrate effective oral, written and inter/ intra professional communication skills related to patient/client care, health care education and professional advancement.

ACCREDITATION

The Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) American Physical Therapy Association re-affirmed our program accreditation, with commendation, in November 2015 through 2026.

Academic Guidelines for Doctor of Physical Therapy

Registration Procedures

Students admitted to the program must register electronically through the Cavalier Center. Information about first-semester registration will be sent to students’ Walsh email accounts.

Academic Standards

The Physical Therapy Program has three primary academic standards:

1. Students must maintain a B (3.0) overall GPA throughout matriculation;

2. Student must receive a satisfactory/pass grade in the professional experience courses; and

3. Students must receive a grade of B- or higher in every class.

The Physical Therapy Program utilizes an ongoing assessment framework that combines formative and summative evaluations to support student success and maintain academic integrity. This comprehensive approach, detailed in the Program Student Handbook, ensures students receive regular feedback about their academic standing and progression.

As stewards of the physical therapy profession, our faculty are committed to both student development and public safety. This dual commitment requires upholding rigorous standards of academic achievement, clinical excellence, and professional conduct.

Students who fall below program standards in any area will enter a support process that may include:

· Performance improvement planning

· Academic advising

· Modified progression timelines

If performance standards are not met following appropriate support and intervention, students may face probation or dismissal from the program as outlined in the Program Student Handbook.

Appeals

The Physical Therapy Program adheres to the University guidelines for the appeal process as outlined in the Graduate Catalog.

Withdrawal

The Physical Therapy Program follows a structured, sequential curriculum where each course builds upon previous coursework. While Walsh University permits course-by-course withdrawal in other programs, the integrated nature of physical therapy education requires students to complete all courses in sequence.

Students may request a leave of absence from the program for medical or personal circumstances. These requests are handled according to the Graduate Academic Policies and Procedures, which provide detailed guidance on leaves of absence and program withdrawals.

Program dismissal is permanent and students who are dismissed are not eligible for readmission to the Physical Therapy Program.

Academic and Capstone Project Advising

Upon entry into the Physical Therapy Program, each student is assigned an academic advisor who provides guidance and support to help ensure academic success. Students are highly encouraged to meet regularly with their advisor to facilitate communication and progression through the curriculum.

For the Evidence-Based Capstone Project, students work in collaborative groups under the mentorship of a faculty member who may differ from their academic advisor. This arrangement ensures students receive specialized guidance aligned with their project focus. Projects culminate in various forms of professional dissemination, including peer-reviewed publications, presentations at professional conferences, or presentations to faculty and clinical site administrators.

If a change in academic or capstone advisor is needed, the student and current advisor should present their request to the Program Director.

Student Membership in Professional Organizations

The physical therapy profession is supported by national organizations that offer student memberships. Enrolled students are encouraged to visit the association websites for membership information.

The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) serves as the primary professional organization, establishing standards and guidelines for physical therapy practice. Through APTA membership, students gain access to essential professional resources, publications, and educational materials that enhance their learning experience and professional development. Students are encouraged to join and explore the many specialty Academies and Sections that complement the APTA.

The American Academy of Physical Therapy (AAPT) focuses on advancing diversity in the profession and supporting minority students pursuing careers in physical therapy. AAPT's mission emphasizes developing healthcare leaders who will provide innovative care to underserved communities.