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.

Career Ready

Prepares you with the skills, credentials or connections to step directly into your field after graduation.

In-Person Experience

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

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, 2027

Credits

106

Pacing

Full-Time

Format

Hybrid

Type of Program

Doctoral

Advance your expertise in Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)

The Pitt DPT curriculum is designed to emphasize early and intensive integration of students into the clinical environment throughout their time in the program. Immersions will be led by faculty, guest instructors and adjunct faculty who are experts in their field of practice, providing an 8:1 student-to-faculty ratio that allows for an optimal and engaging learning experience. Immersion sessions will also allow for open laboratory time where students can freely practice skills outside formal instruction, while still having access to faculty for questions. Pitt2Pitt Scholarship | Participating Program The Pitt2Pitt scholarship can help graduating University of Pittsburgh seniors or alumni complete a Pitt master’s or doctoral degree program. The hybrid DPT program is participating program. There is no application process for the Pitt2Pitt Scholarship! Learn more by visiting thePitt2Pitt website.

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. Fill out the request for information form below to learn more or start your application.

Application deadline

October 1, 2027

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

$15,396

Full-time, per Term