The DPT is the entry-level degree for people who want to become physical therapists. At the University of Illinois at Chicago, students complete eight terms (33 months) of didactic and clinical education that includes lecture courses, laboratory courses, seminars, and clinical internships.

UIC DPT graduates are ahead of the curve: The classes of 2006, 2007, and 2008 had an overall licensure exam pass rate of 100%, and our first-time test taker pass rates have been above the state and national averages every year since the start of the DPT program. The job market is strong. All graduates responding to a survey one year after graduation report they are working as physical therapists. Our three-year graduation rate is 84.5%.

Physical therapist education at UIC has been continuously accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) since 1973. Until 2001, the department offered a Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy. Our Doctor of Physical Therapy program was accredited in November 2000. CAPTE conducted a review of the program for accreditation in April 2007. The program was reaccredited and the next review was set for 2017.

We offer students

• unique opportunities to work with different patient populations such as pediatrics and geriatrics
• a diverse student body representing a myriad of cultures and economic backgrounds
• access to the University of Illinois Medical Center, including opportunities for clinical internships
• world-class faculty in all major physical therapy specialties, including researchers with labs on site
• an ever-increasing selection of elective courses in pediatrics, women's health, and urban health
• a prime location in the heart of Chicago
• a top-notch academic program that's highly ranked by U.S. News & World Report