Course variations

Course summary

The Doctor of Physical Therapy is a professional graduate program, which prepares individuals for licensure and entry into the physical therapy profession. As a graduate program, it includes theoretical, clinical practice, and research courses and experiences to prepare graduates to function in a variety of settings in physical therapy. Physical therapy is concerned with the prevention and treatment of acute and chronic conditions that cause disorders of movement. In order to provide appropriate treatment, physical therapists evaluate the musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, cardiopulmonary and associated systems, calling on the basic sciences and behavioral sciences in the interpretation of this evaluation. Patient programs are then developed to resolve movement dysfunctions. Physical therapists work in concert with all members of the health care team through a variety of referral relationships. The Doctor of Physical Therapy at Oakland University is designed to prepare clinicians with the evaluation and examination skills necessary to make physical therapy differential diagnoses of movement related impairments affecting the neuromusculoskeletal system. In addition, this degree will prepare graduates to provide effective care in the areas of prevention, screening, rehabilitation and community reintegration for their clients. Finally, graduates will be able to interpret and conduct research related to physical therapy. The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education.

Entry requirement for international students

Students must have completed a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution prior to admission to the program. Students will be considered for admission if they will be completing their baccalaureate degree and all prerequisite courses prior to the start of the program. An overall cumulative GPA of 3.00 or above is required. Applicants must have received a minimum grade of 2.0 in all prerequisite courses. Foreign-educated students must meet all university requirements for proficiency in English. In addition, they will be required to demonstrate an education level equivalent to a B.S. degree in the United States. All students will take the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). Additional requirements include computer literacy, satisfactory letters of recommendation, personal statement, and proof of successful completion of first aid and CPR. An applicant who is completing a bachelor’s degree and/or prerequisite courses can be considered for conditional admission status. Such an applicant will be required to complete the prerequisite courses before conditional status is removed. Applicants with an undergraduate GPA less than 3.00 with the appropriate academic background and strong letters of recommendation may be considered for conditional admission. Students who qualify for this status must complete the first semester of graduate coursework achieving a grade point of 3.0 or above in each course before the conditional status is removed.

Qualification

Doctoral

Awarding body

OAKLAND UNIVERSITY

Department name

School of Health Sciences