About the Physical Therapy Profession

The profession of Physical Therapy promotes optimal human health and function through the application of scientific principles to prevent, identify, assess, correct and alleviate acute or prolonged movement dysfunction. The roles of the physical therapist practitioner in achieving this purpose are multidimensional; they encompass planning and implementing patient care and education, as well as providing consultative and administrative services in the delivery of physical therapy services. The professional also needs knowledge and expertise in directing clinical research and quality-improvement management.

Physical therapists, or PTs, are health care professionals who evaluate and treat people with health problems resulting from injury, disease, or biomechanical dysfunction. Physical therapists are integral members of the primary care team and are involved in the prevention of disability and promotion of positive health. They are also acting consultants in restorative care.

Physical Therapy practice today is based on a well-developed body of scientific and clinical knowledge. Physical therapists apply knowledge from the basic, behavioral, and social sciences. Physical therapists must also demonstrate effective communication skills. Insight and sensitivity to the unique needs of diverse populations are essential to effectively maximize the individual's functional potential in society.

The profession of Physical Therapy promotes optimal human health and function through application of scientific principles to prevent, identify, assess, correct and alleviate acute or prolonged movement dysfunction. The roles of the physical therapist practitioner in achieving this purpose are multidimensional; they encompass planning and implementing patient care and education, as well as providing consultative and administrative services in the delivery of physical therapy services. The professional also needs knowledge and expertise in directing clinical research and quality-improvement management.

Physical Therapy Education

The Department of Physical Therapy offers an entry-level Doctorate of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree. The student completes 3 years of study to complete the DPT degree that includes clinical experiences throughout the curriculum.

The DPT program has been approved by the university and by our regional accreditation body or WASC (Western Association of Schools and Colleges).

The entry-level Doctor of Physical Therapy program is a three-year (eight semesters) full-time course of study. Completion of graduate-level course of study leads to the granting of the DPT degree. This new education standard for physical therapy prepares graduates to practice autonomously in preparation for direct access. The DPT is the required degree to become a licensed physical therapist as of 2015. The DPT program focuses on critical thinking strategies that promote effective analysis and interpretation of data in the formulation of treatment alternatives that can achieve predictable functional outcomes in patient management.

Individuals must possess a baccalaureate degree and complete all prerequisite requirements prior to beginning the professional program. Following successful completion of the professional curriculum, the student receives the DPT degree. Completion of a postgraduate internship is required to be eligible to seek a license to practice Physical Therapy in the state of California.

If you are a prospective student, please refer to our Admissions Requirements.  

Click here to view DPT program curriculum matrix

Accreditation

The Doctor of Physical Therapy Program at California State University, Fresno is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), 1111 North Fairfax Street, Alexandria, Virginia 22314; telephone: 703-706-3245; email: accreditation@apta.org ; website: http://www.capteonline.org

 

 Student Outcomes
2020 Class Averages

Graduation Rate: 100%
Licensure Pass Rate: 100%
Employment Within 6 Months of Graduation: 100%

Student Outcomes
2019 Class Averages

Graduation Rate: 100%
Licensure Pass Rate: 100%
Employment Within 6 Months of Graduation: 100%

Student Outcomes
2017 & 2018 Class Averages:

Graduation Rate: 97%
Licensure Pass Rate: 100%
Employment Within 6 Months of Graduation: 100%