Doctor of Physical Therapy | St. Ambrose University
Source: http://www.sau.edu/academic-programs/doctoral/health-sciences/dpt
Archived: 2026-04-23 17:09
Doctor of Physical Therapy | St. Ambrose University
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Apply Now
Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
Apply by December 1
Apply now
Request information
What is a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree?
Our Doctor of Physical Therapy program at St. Ambrose University prepares students to be skilled and compassionate physical therapists, focusing on evidence-based care and promoting movement and function for patients across all ages and conditions. Through a blend of coursework, clinical experiences, and research, students develop the expertise to excel in the field of physical therapy. In our rigorous full-time program, you’ll gain the skills to be a well-rounded physical therapist ready for your licensure examination and enter the workforce.
Complete our request form
to receive details about our program. If you have further questions, contact
Carrie Meador-Bliss
.
Our classes of 2024 and 2025 achieved an average ultimate licensure pass rate of 99%.
Program at a glance
On-campus classes
28-month program
6 clinical education experiences
Focus on service
Accelerated pathways
Application deadline Dec. 1
Our classes of 2024 and 2025 achieved an average ultimate licensure pass rate of 99%.
Why should I earn a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree?
In our DPT program, you’ll be trained in clinical decision-making and evidence-based practice that equips you with the skills to care for medically complex patients. Put your skills to the test in learning labs and clinicals and gain the confidence you need from caring and student-focused faculty.
Extensive clinicals
Start clinics in your first year, and complete six clinical education experiences over 35 weeks.
Accelerated pathways
Apply as a senior in high school or college freshman to begin the DPT program after your junior year of college.
Interprofessional experience
Practice interprofessional care in training and clinics with SAU students in OT, speech pathology, and social work.
Service learning
Our program requires you to complete 20 hours of service work, 10 hours related to the profession.
Student-centered program
With a class size of 40, you’ll receive personal attention and guidance from faculty at each step of your education.
Continuing education
Our Orthopaedic and Pediatric Residency Programs prepare licensed PTs to excel in two in-demand speciality areas.
What you’ll learn in your DPT program
You’ll move through a curriculum organized with progressive complexity to integrate basic, social, and clinical sciences. You’ll gain critical thinking skills, become a problem solver, and gain professionalism.
Preparation as a PT
Preparation for National Physical Therapy Exam
Strong professional identity
Person-centered approach to client care
Strong commitment to service and community
Impactful experience
“Few schools give you the opportunity to be in the clinic your first year, but at SAU, we have that unique opportunity after just one semester of classes."
-Colleen Persaud ‘19
Doctor of Physical Therapy
Start my degree
DPT Curriculum, Clinical Experience, and Residencies
St. Ambrose University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy
P
rogram combines rigorous coursework, early and extensive clinical experiences, and opportunities for advanced training after graduation. Our curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, interprofessional collaboration, and patient-centered care, ensuring
you’ll
be prepared for both licensure and long-term success in the field.
Explore course sequence
View all courses
How long does it take to complete the DPT program at St. Ambrose?
The Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program is
28 months
in length. Graduates complete a total of 114 credits, including clinical six clinical rotations that begin in the first year.
St. Ambrose also offers a
3+2.5 accelerated pathway
, allowing admitted high school seniors to start DPT courses during their senior year of undergrad and finish their degree sooner, saving both time and money.
Where do DPT students complete clinical education experiences?
St. Ambrose DPT students complete six clinical education internships totaling 35 weeks:
Year 1 – Inpatient care: Acute care/inpatient
Year 2 – Student Choice for Generalist Site or Specialty Areas: Pediatrics, pelvic health, sports, lymphedema, vestibular, and more
Year 3 – Long term clinical education experiences: Three 8–10 week rotations in acute care, neuromuscular rehabilitation, and outpatient orthopedic settings
Does St. Ambrose offer physical therapy residencies for DPT graduates?
Yes. St. Ambrose offers optional, one-year Pediatric and Orthopaedic Clinical Residencies for DPT graduates. These accredited programs provide advanced skills, hands-on experience, and personalized mentoring in your chosen specialization.
Explore our
Orthopaedic Physical Therapy Clinical Residency
and
Pediatric Physical Therapy Clinical Residency
.
What is the total cost of St. Ambrose’s DPT program?
For the 2026–2027 academic year, the total cost of St. Ambrose University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree is $108,462. This cost is fixed once you enroll. Tuition is billed in seven predictable payments across Fall, Spring, and Summer semesters. Additional expenses include required texts, lab fees, and other program costs (currently $2,375), as well as personal costs, loan fees, and cost of living expenses
See full cost details in our
DPT Financial Fact Sheet
.
Fall 2026 Cohort (28-month program)
Expense
Per Semester (Fall or Spring)
Per Summer Session
Total Program Cost**
Total tuition & fees*
$18,077
$9,039
$108,462
*Includes tuition and institutional fees. Based on 2026-2027 tuition and fees.
**DPT program requires a Fall start date. Total cost includes three Fall semesters, two Spring semesters, and two Summer sessions.
Is the St. Ambrose DPT program accredited?
St. Ambrose University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education.
The
Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)
is an accrediting agency that is recognized by the US Department of Education (USDE) and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). CAPTE grants specialized accreditation status to qualified entry-level education programs for physical therapists and physical therapist assistants.
Read more about our accreditation
What are the NPTE pass rates and graduation rates for St. Ambrose DPT graduates?
Graduates of St. Ambrose University’s DPT program consistently achieve strong outcomes, including a 99% ultimate pass rate on the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) for the classes of 2024 and 2025. The program also maintains solid graduation rates and competitive acceptance and matriculation rates, reflecting its effectiveness in preparing students for successful careers as licensed physical therapists.
Our class 2024 achieved a 1 year employment rate of 100%.
Class of 2024
Class of 2025
2-Year Average
Graduation Rate
95%
87%
91%
First Time Licensure Pass Rate
97%
97%
97%
Ultimate Licensure Pass Rate
100%
97%
99%
1 Year Employment Rate
100%
In progress
What student support and faculty resources are available in St. Ambrose’s DPT program?
St. Ambrose University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy faculty have expansive clinical practice and expertise in several areas of PT. Some remain practicing clinicians ensuring you’ll gain a deep understanding of current PT practice.
Doctor of Physical Therapy faculty
Amy Kueny, DPT
Carrie Meador-Bliss
Catherine Byrne, DHSc
Dana Dailey, PhD, PT
Jill Hipskind, DPT
Kari Miller, DPT, EdD
Kathleen Powers, DPT
Kristin Ryan, DPT
Laura McEachern, DPT
Michael Puthoff, PhD, PT
Nora Riley, PhD, PT
Robert Wiederien, DPT
Ryan Heuer, PT, DPT
Other support resources
Accessibility Resource Center
Whether you need classroom accommodations, alternative exam arrangements, or disability support strategies, our Accessibility Resource Center is here to help.
Learn about our resources
Career services
Our Academic and Career Planning Center is ready to help you polish your resume and land the job or internship that will launch your career.
Discover career support
Are there cost savings available for DPT?
At St. Ambrose University, we believe that education should be accessible to all. That's why we offer a variety of resources to help make college more affordable for our students.
Endowed Scholarship
DPT students can benefit from an endowed physical therapy scholarship.
Learn more about the Endowed PT Scholarship
.
Graduate assistantships
Graduate assistantships can reduce your total tuition cost or provide income as you pursue your degree. Check our
employment page
for open positions.
Military benefits
Veterans, service members, and their children and spouses may be eligible for education benefits through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
Learn about military benefits.
Campus resources for Doctor of Physical Therapy students
Provide healthcare services to underserved community members in St. Ambrose University’s Interprofessional Health Clinic. This student-led clinic is supervised by faculty and licensed professionals. You’ll enjoy the opportunity to gain hands-on experience alongside other healthcare disciplines.
Participate in professional activities, service work, and social events with the Student Physical Therapy Organization. Enrich your relationships with classmates and professors through SPTO.
Clinical education
DPT students complete six clinical rotations in a variety of settings and specialties during their degree program. Learn more about the clinical experiences and policies of our
Doctor of Physical Therapy Clinical Education program
.
Continuing education
St. Ambrose University's Department of Physical Therapy offers continuing education courses throughout the year. These are designed for physical therapists and physical therapist assistants in Illinois and Iowa.
View upcoming courses.
What are the admission requirements for the DPT program at St. Ambrose University?
There are three pathways into St. Ambrose University's DPT program. The first is a traditional pathway for college seniors and college graduates. High school seniors and college juniors can also apply for an accelerated pathway to the DPT. Each pathway has unique admissions requirements and instructions on how to apply.
Our application deadline for every track is December 1. If you have questions, reach out to our team at
pt@sau.edu
or 563-333-6403.
Admissions requirements for college seniors and college graduates (Track III)
Here are the admissions requirements for college graduates or seniors planning to enter our DPT program after graduation:
Submit all materials through the
Physical Therapist Centralized Application Service
(PTCAS). PTCAS charges a fee for the first program you apply to and an additional fee for each additional program. SAU does not have an additional supplemental fee.
Submit official transcripts from all institutions of higher education that you have attended through PTCAS. Do not send your transcripts to SAU.
Include documentation of a minimum of 50 hours of clinical observation in two or more physical therapy practice settings, with licensed physical therapists. The hours must be completed at the time of submission of the application.
Include two references with your application
Submit a personal essay (details are provided in PTCAS)
Send GRE scores to PTCAS (SAU code is #7742)
Complete a personal, on-site interview with DPT faculty
College seniors and college graduates apply here
Admissions requirements for high school seniors (Track I)
High school students accepted at St. Ambrose University can apply to reserve a spot in the DPT class that begins during their senior year of college. To be eligible, high school students must:
Have completed the equivalent of one year each of high school biology and chemistry; One yeagr of high school physics is strongly recommended
Anatomy and Physiology must be completed after high school
graduation
at a college or university. Anatomy and Physiology courses completed as dual enrollment during high school will not meet the prerequisite requirements for the SAU DPT Program.
Attain a minimum of 3.5/4.0 unweighted high school GPA
Complete and provide documentation using the
DPT Observation Hours Form
(.pdf) of at least 20 hours of observation with a licensed physical therapist in two or more physical therapy settings.
Complete an acceptable on-site personal interview with DPT faculty members
Complete and submit a
PT Department Track I Application
High school seniors apply here
Admissions requirements for college juniors (Track II)
College juniors enrolled at St. Ambrose, Loras College, Augustana College (IL), or Mt. Mercy University can begin taking classes toward their DPT degree during their senior year of college if the following requirements are met:
Complete an application through the PTCAS system
by December 1 (see additional details under Track III instructions above)
Students from institutions other than SAU will need a letter from their Registrar's Office indicating that the first year of DPT courses will be credited toward the bachelor's degree and that the bachelor's degree will be awarded prior to the start of the second year in the DPT Program.
College juniors apply here
Prerequisites for the DPT program
Applicants are not required to select a particular major in order to be eligible for admission to a physical therapy education program. Common undergraduate majors among DPT students at SAU are Exercise Science, Human Performance and Fitness, Sport Management, Psychology, and Biology.
Here are the prerequisites for all students entering St. Ambrose University’s DPT program.
Attain a minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale in all undergraduate coursework (cumulative and prerequisite). Alternatively, attain a minimum 3.25 GPA on a 4.0 scale for 18 or more semester hours in an approved graduate science degree program.
Completion of all prerequisite courses with a grade of C or higher:
General Biology (with labs), 8 credits
Human Anatomy & Physiology I & II (w/ labs), 8 credits
General Chemistry (with labs), 8 credits
College Physics (with labs), 8 credits
Statistics/Biostatistics, 3 credits
Introduction to Psychology, 3 credits
Upper Level Psychology/Sociology elective, 3 credits
Minimum 50 hours of PT observation required
Note: St. Ambrose University Physical Therapy Department will not accept online lab courses to satisfy prerequisite requirements. All lab courses must be taken on campus. Anatomy and Physiology must be completed after high school graduation at a college or university. Anatomy and Physiology courses completed as dual enrollment during high school will not meet the prerequisite requirements for the SAU DPT Program.
International student requirements
If you live outside of the U.S. there are additional admissions requirements. Here’s what you’ll need:
All international students are required to submit official results from the TOEFL exam and must score at least 600 (written), 250 (computerized) or 100 (internet).
International students are required to have their transcripts evaluated through the World Education Services (WES).
Copy of your passport and other documentation
What career opportunities are available after earning a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree?
Your education and degree can help you reach your professional goals, though St. Ambrose University cannot guarantee specific outcomes. Graduates may pursue careers as physical therapists, rehabilitation directors, clinic managers, or specialists in pediatric or orthopedic care, and work in hospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centers, sports medicine facilities, nursing homes, or fitness facilities. Successful physical therapists often demonstrate traits such as compassion, collaboration, adaptability, and evidence-based practice.
Potential job titles
Physical therapist
Rehabilitation director
Outpatient physical therapist
Pediatric physical therapist
Orthopedic physical therapist
Clinic manager
Potential employment settings
Hospitals and clinics
Rehabilitation centers
Sports medicine facilities
Nursing homes
Fitness facilities
Outpatient clinics
Traits of a PT
Compassionate
Client-centered
Collaborative
Evidence-based
Solution-oriented
Adaptability
Industry facts
Employment of physical therapists is projected to grow 11 percent by 2034.
The median annual wage for physical therapists was $101,020 in May 2024.
For more information on physical therapy employment and wages, visit the
Bureau of Labor Statistics' Physical Outlook Handbook
.
Physical therapy news
St. Ambrose creates unique path to orthopaedic specialization in physical therapy
St. Ambrose University is giving future physical therapists a rare opportunity to specialize early in their careers – without leaving the state.
Read more
From patient to practitioner: How Sara Haller found her path in physical therapy
As a young athlete recovering from knee surgeries, Sara Haller ’25, ’26 DPT still remembers the physical therapist who helped her return to sports.
Read more
Finding his path: How St. Ambrose’s physical therapy program is helping Oscar Mejia shape his future
When Oscar Mejia ’27 DPT started college, he knew he loved movement.
Read more
View all news and events
Become who you are meant to be
With more than 50 undergraduate and graduate programs, there’s something for everyone at St. Ambrose University! Explore our programs to find your place at SAU.
Call: 563-333-6000
Request Information
Apply Now
Skip to main content
Apply Now
Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
Apply by December 1
Apply now
Request information
What is a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree?
Our Doctor of Physical Therapy program at St. Ambrose University prepares students to be skilled and compassionate physical therapists, focusing on evidence-based care and promoting movement and function for patients across all ages and conditions. Through a blend of coursework, clinical experiences, and research, students develop the expertise to excel in the field of physical therapy. In our rigorous full-time program, you’ll gain the skills to be a well-rounded physical therapist ready for your licensure examination and enter the workforce.
Complete our request form
to receive details about our program. If you have further questions, contact
Carrie Meador-Bliss
.
Our classes of 2024 and 2025 achieved an average ultimate licensure pass rate of 99%.
Program at a glance
On-campus classes
28-month program
6 clinical education experiences
Focus on service
Accelerated pathways
Application deadline Dec. 1
Our classes of 2024 and 2025 achieved an average ultimate licensure pass rate of 99%.
Why should I earn a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree?
In our DPT program, you’ll be trained in clinical decision-making and evidence-based practice that equips you with the skills to care for medically complex patients. Put your skills to the test in learning labs and clinicals and gain the confidence you need from caring and student-focused faculty.
Extensive clinicals
Start clinics in your first year, and complete six clinical education experiences over 35 weeks.
Accelerated pathways
Apply as a senior in high school or college freshman to begin the DPT program after your junior year of college.
Interprofessional experience
Practice interprofessional care in training and clinics with SAU students in OT, speech pathology, and social work.
Service learning
Our program requires you to complete 20 hours of service work, 10 hours related to the profession.
Student-centered program
With a class size of 40, you’ll receive personal attention and guidance from faculty at each step of your education.
Continuing education
Our Orthopaedic and Pediatric Residency Programs prepare licensed PTs to excel in two in-demand speciality areas.
What you’ll learn in your DPT program
You’ll move through a curriculum organized with progressive complexity to integrate basic, social, and clinical sciences. You’ll gain critical thinking skills, become a problem solver, and gain professionalism.
Preparation as a PT
Preparation for National Physical Therapy Exam
Strong professional identity
Person-centered approach to client care
Strong commitment to service and community
Impactful experience
“Few schools give you the opportunity to be in the clinic your first year, but at SAU, we have that unique opportunity after just one semester of classes."
-Colleen Persaud ‘19
Doctor of Physical Therapy
Start my degree
DPT Curriculum, Clinical Experience, and Residencies
St. Ambrose University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy
P
rogram combines rigorous coursework, early and extensive clinical experiences, and opportunities for advanced training after graduation. Our curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, interprofessional collaboration, and patient-centered care, ensuring
you’ll
be prepared for both licensure and long-term success in the field.
Explore course sequence
View all courses
How long does it take to complete the DPT program at St. Ambrose?
The Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program is
28 months
in length. Graduates complete a total of 114 credits, including clinical six clinical rotations that begin in the first year.
St. Ambrose also offers a
3+2.5 accelerated pathway
, allowing admitted high school seniors to start DPT courses during their senior year of undergrad and finish their degree sooner, saving both time and money.
Where do DPT students complete clinical education experiences?
St. Ambrose DPT students complete six clinical education internships totaling 35 weeks:
Year 1 – Inpatient care: Acute care/inpatient
Year 2 – Student Choice for Generalist Site or Specialty Areas: Pediatrics, pelvic health, sports, lymphedema, vestibular, and more
Year 3 – Long term clinical education experiences: Three 8–10 week rotations in acute care, neuromuscular rehabilitation, and outpatient orthopedic settings
Does St. Ambrose offer physical therapy residencies for DPT graduates?
Yes. St. Ambrose offers optional, one-year Pediatric and Orthopaedic Clinical Residencies for DPT graduates. These accredited programs provide advanced skills, hands-on experience, and personalized mentoring in your chosen specialization.
Explore our
Orthopaedic Physical Therapy Clinical Residency
and
Pediatric Physical Therapy Clinical Residency
.
What is the total cost of St. Ambrose’s DPT program?
For the 2026–2027 academic year, the total cost of St. Ambrose University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree is $108,462. This cost is fixed once you enroll. Tuition is billed in seven predictable payments across Fall, Spring, and Summer semesters. Additional expenses include required texts, lab fees, and other program costs (currently $2,375), as well as personal costs, loan fees, and cost of living expenses
See full cost details in our
DPT Financial Fact Sheet
.
Fall 2026 Cohort (28-month program)
Expense
Per Semester (Fall or Spring)
Per Summer Session
Total Program Cost**
Total tuition & fees*
$18,077
$9,039
$108,462
*Includes tuition and institutional fees. Based on 2026-2027 tuition and fees.
**DPT program requires a Fall start date. Total cost includes three Fall semesters, two Spring semesters, and two Summer sessions.
Is the St. Ambrose DPT program accredited?
St. Ambrose University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education.
The
Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)
is an accrediting agency that is recognized by the US Department of Education (USDE) and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). CAPTE grants specialized accreditation status to qualified entry-level education programs for physical therapists and physical therapist assistants.
Read more about our accreditation
What are the NPTE pass rates and graduation rates for St. Ambrose DPT graduates?
Graduates of St. Ambrose University’s DPT program consistently achieve strong outcomes, including a 99% ultimate pass rate on the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) for the classes of 2024 and 2025. The program also maintains solid graduation rates and competitive acceptance and matriculation rates, reflecting its effectiveness in preparing students for successful careers as licensed physical therapists.
Our class 2024 achieved a 1 year employment rate of 100%.
Class of 2024
Class of 2025
2-Year Average
Graduation Rate
95%
87%
91%
First Time Licensure Pass Rate
97%
97%
97%
Ultimate Licensure Pass Rate
100%
97%
99%
1 Year Employment Rate
100%
In progress
What student support and faculty resources are available in St. Ambrose’s DPT program?
St. Ambrose University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy faculty have expansive clinical practice and expertise in several areas of PT. Some remain practicing clinicians ensuring you’ll gain a deep understanding of current PT practice.
Doctor of Physical Therapy faculty
Amy Kueny, DPT
Carrie Meador-Bliss
Catherine Byrne, DHSc
Dana Dailey, PhD, PT
Jill Hipskind, DPT
Kari Miller, DPT, EdD
Kathleen Powers, DPT
Kristin Ryan, DPT
Laura McEachern, DPT
Michael Puthoff, PhD, PT
Nora Riley, PhD, PT
Robert Wiederien, DPT
Ryan Heuer, PT, DPT
Other support resources
Accessibility Resource Center
Whether you need classroom accommodations, alternative exam arrangements, or disability support strategies, our Accessibility Resource Center is here to help.
Learn about our resources
Career services
Our Academic and Career Planning Center is ready to help you polish your resume and land the job or internship that will launch your career.
Discover career support
Are there cost savings available for DPT?
At St. Ambrose University, we believe that education should be accessible to all. That's why we offer a variety of resources to help make college more affordable for our students.
Endowed Scholarship
DPT students can benefit from an endowed physical therapy scholarship.
Learn more about the Endowed PT Scholarship
.
Graduate assistantships
Graduate assistantships can reduce your total tuition cost or provide income as you pursue your degree. Check our
employment page
for open positions.
Military benefits
Veterans, service members, and their children and spouses may be eligible for education benefits through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
Learn about military benefits.
Campus resources for Doctor of Physical Therapy students
Provide healthcare services to underserved community members in St. Ambrose University’s Interprofessional Health Clinic. This student-led clinic is supervised by faculty and licensed professionals. You’ll enjoy the opportunity to gain hands-on experience alongside other healthcare disciplines.
Participate in professional activities, service work, and social events with the Student Physical Therapy Organization. Enrich your relationships with classmates and professors through SPTO.
Clinical education
DPT students complete six clinical rotations in a variety of settings and specialties during their degree program. Learn more about the clinical experiences and policies of our
Doctor of Physical Therapy Clinical Education program
.
Continuing education
St. Ambrose University's Department of Physical Therapy offers continuing education courses throughout the year. These are designed for physical therapists and physical therapist assistants in Illinois and Iowa.
View upcoming courses.
What are the admission requirements for the DPT program at St. Ambrose University?
There are three pathways into St. Ambrose University's DPT program. The first is a traditional pathway for college seniors and college graduates. High school seniors and college juniors can also apply for an accelerated pathway to the DPT. Each pathway has unique admissions requirements and instructions on how to apply.
Our application deadline for every track is December 1. If you have questions, reach out to our team at
pt@sau.edu
or 563-333-6403.
Admissions requirements for college seniors and college graduates (Track III)
Here are the admissions requirements for college graduates or seniors planning to enter our DPT program after graduation:
Submit all materials through the
Physical Therapist Centralized Application Service
(PTCAS). PTCAS charges a fee for the first program you apply to and an additional fee for each additional program. SAU does not have an additional supplemental fee.
Submit official transcripts from all institutions of higher education that you have attended through PTCAS. Do not send your transcripts to SAU.
Include documentation of a minimum of 50 hours of clinical observation in two or more physical therapy practice settings, with licensed physical therapists. The hours must be completed at the time of submission of the application.
Include two references with your application
Submit a personal essay (details are provided in PTCAS)
Send GRE scores to PTCAS (SAU code is #7742)
Complete a personal, on-site interview with DPT faculty
College seniors and college graduates apply here
Admissions requirements for high school seniors (Track I)
High school students accepted at St. Ambrose University can apply to reserve a spot in the DPT class that begins during their senior year of college. To be eligible, high school students must:
Have completed the equivalent of one year each of high school biology and chemistry; One yeagr of high school physics is strongly recommended
Anatomy and Physiology must be completed after high school
graduation
at a college or university. Anatomy and Physiology courses completed as dual enrollment during high school will not meet the prerequisite requirements for the SAU DPT Program.
Attain a minimum of 3.5/4.0 unweighted high school GPA
Complete and provide documentation using the
DPT Observation Hours Form
(.pdf) of at least 20 hours of observation with a licensed physical therapist in two or more physical therapy settings.
Complete an acceptable on-site personal interview with DPT faculty members
Complete and submit a
PT Department Track I Application
High school seniors apply here
Admissions requirements for college juniors (Track II)
College juniors enrolled at St. Ambrose, Loras College, Augustana College (IL), or Mt. Mercy University can begin taking classes toward their DPT degree during their senior year of college if the following requirements are met:
Complete an application through the PTCAS system
by December 1 (see additional details under Track III instructions above)
Students from institutions other than SAU will need a letter from their Registrar's Office indicating that the first year of DPT courses will be credited toward the bachelor's degree and that the bachelor's degree will be awarded prior to the start of the second year in the DPT Program.
College juniors apply here
Prerequisites for the DPT program
Applicants are not required to select a particular major in order to be eligible for admission to a physical therapy education program. Common undergraduate majors among DPT students at SAU are Exercise Science, Human Performance and Fitness, Sport Management, Psychology, and Biology.
Here are the prerequisites for all students entering St. Ambrose University’s DPT program.
Attain a minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale in all undergraduate coursework (cumulative and prerequisite). Alternatively, attain a minimum 3.25 GPA on a 4.0 scale for 18 or more semester hours in an approved graduate science degree program.
Completion of all prerequisite courses with a grade of C or higher:
General Biology (with labs), 8 credits
Human Anatomy & Physiology I & II (w/ labs), 8 credits
General Chemistry (with labs), 8 credits
College Physics (with labs), 8 credits
Statistics/Biostatistics, 3 credits
Introduction to Psychology, 3 credits
Upper Level Psychology/Sociology elective, 3 credits
Minimum 50 hours of PT observation required
Note: St. Ambrose University Physical Therapy Department will not accept online lab courses to satisfy prerequisite requirements. All lab courses must be taken on campus. Anatomy and Physiology must be completed after high school graduation at a college or university. Anatomy and Physiology courses completed as dual enrollment during high school will not meet the prerequisite requirements for the SAU DPT Program.
International student requirements
If you live outside of the U.S. there are additional admissions requirements. Here’s what you’ll need:
All international students are required to submit official results from the TOEFL exam and must score at least 600 (written), 250 (computerized) or 100 (internet).
International students are required to have their transcripts evaluated through the World Education Services (WES).
Copy of your passport and other documentation
What career opportunities are available after earning a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree?
Your education and degree can help you reach your professional goals, though St. Ambrose University cannot guarantee specific outcomes. Graduates may pursue careers as physical therapists, rehabilitation directors, clinic managers, or specialists in pediatric or orthopedic care, and work in hospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centers, sports medicine facilities, nursing homes, or fitness facilities. Successful physical therapists often demonstrate traits such as compassion, collaboration, adaptability, and evidence-based practice.
Potential job titles
Physical therapist
Rehabilitation director
Outpatient physical therapist
Pediatric physical therapist
Orthopedic physical therapist
Clinic manager
Potential employment settings
Hospitals and clinics
Rehabilitation centers
Sports medicine facilities
Nursing homes
Fitness facilities
Outpatient clinics
Traits of a PT
Compassionate
Client-centered
Collaborative
Evidence-based
Solution-oriented
Adaptability
Industry facts
Employment of physical therapists is projected to grow 11 percent by 2034.
The median annual wage for physical therapists was $101,020 in May 2024.
For more information on physical therapy employment and wages, visit the
Bureau of Labor Statistics' Physical Outlook Handbook
.
Physical therapy news
St. Ambrose creates unique path to orthopaedic specialization in physical therapy
St. Ambrose University is giving future physical therapists a rare opportunity to specialize early in their careers – without leaving the state.
Read more
From patient to practitioner: How Sara Haller found her path in physical therapy
As a young athlete recovering from knee surgeries, Sara Haller ’25, ’26 DPT still remembers the physical therapist who helped her return to sports.
Read more
Finding his path: How St. Ambrose’s physical therapy program is helping Oscar Mejia shape his future
When Oscar Mejia ’27 DPT started college, he knew he loved movement.
Read more
View all news and events
Become who you are meant to be
With more than 50 undergraduate and graduate programs, there’s something for everyone at St. Ambrose University! Explore our programs to find your place at SAU.
Call: 563-333-6000
Request Information
Apply Now